Friday, December 21, 2012

What If You Lose Your Passport?

This information might be worth saving for future use if the unfortunate happens to you. This pertains to lost or damaged passports. Airports and cruise ports may deny you if there are any tears or imperfections. Please make sure your passport is available and in good condition before traveling (or booking your trip).

If you lose your passport before traveling, there are a few options. There are a few companies that will rush your passport to you for a fee. It varies depending on how quick you need it. You can also drive to one of the agencies and pick up it right away. Call ahead since you need to make an appointment. Chicago is the closest office to St Louis.

What happens if you are traveling? We always recommend taking a copy with you and also leave a copy with someone at home. This speeds up the process. You will need to contact the closest US consulate or embassy to report it. Identity theft is so common here and abroad. Find out the hours and visit them as soon as possible. There will be forms to complete so check out the website at travel.state.gov for more information. These agencies will do their best to assist you with a new passport or temporary one to get you home. Be sure to have any additional forms of identification and your itinerary. This is when a copy of your passport comes in handy.

http://www.travel.state.gov/passport/lost/lost_848.html

Thursday, December 20, 2012

Cruising 101

Did you know that there are over 15 cruise lines to choose from? Not all cruise lines cater to everyone. We have cruise specialists on hand to help you pick the one best for your trip. Clients often tell us of bad experiences they had because they traveled during spring break with a ship full of kids. There are cruise lines that cater more to adults or affluent travelers while some offer extensive kid programs. Some ships have adult only pools, relaxing areas and restaurants.

There are many destinations being offered. Alaska cruises are only offered from May to September. Often it is difficult to find ships in the Caribbean during the summer months. Europe has become very popular and there is an increase in the number of ships sailing the Mediterranean. River cruises are gaining more interest as they offer a more in-depth look at culture and areas that the larger ships can't reach. Although they may seem more expensive, the fares may include alcoholic beverages and excursions. Some have bikes that you can take off ship to explore more of the countryside.

I recently read about someone booking a Transatlantic cruise because of the low price. They didn't realize that it only included 2 stops during the 10 day cruise. There are reasons prices tend to be low. Part of the problem with transatlantic cruises are the airfare can be costly when flying one way from Europe. Our agents can help you figure in all costs to see if it really is a deal.

Southwest Airlines - Hike in fees that you need to know

One of our preferred airlines is Southwest. They currently don't charge change fees or baggage fees which is unique to the industry. Early Bird is a great option for better seat selection since they have 'open' seating. The other airlines can charge steep fees for seat assignments. If you are a frequent traveler, please read the article for more details.

Southwest to Hike Fees, Impose No-Show Penalties




Southwest Airlines, which touts its “Bags Fly Free” policy, will charge $75 for third and additional checked bags, up from $50, beginning Feb. 13. It also will raise the overweight/oversized bag fee to $75, up from $50.

In addition, it will boost the EarlyBird check-in fee from $10 to $12.50. It also is planning to sell prime A1 to A15 boarding positions.

Southwest also raised the first checked-bag fee on its AirTran Airways subsidiary to $25, a $5 increase. It raised the second checked-bag fee by $10, to $35.

Soft launch in January
The new fees were disclosed during a Southwest Airlines investor day.

Robert E. Jordan, chief commercial officer and executive vice president, said code-share flights between Southwest and AirTran will have a “soft launch” in January. Passengers will be subject to the baggage policy of the carrier they book.

Southwest also will add a penalty fee for no-show passengers who do not cancel their flights.

“This should add ancillary revenue and promote customer behavior that allows us to resell the open seat prior to departure, so you have a double win there,” Jordan said. “We’re still working through the change. It’s complicated and we’re working to the timing very carefully. But I'll tell you this: We have made the decision to do it, and this change will roll out in 2013. I'm just not ready to give you the exact date.”

Jordan said the new fees combined will contribute an additional $100 million in 2013.

Saturday, December 15, 2012

Universal Studios Orlando

Several of our agents have visited and enjoyed Universal Studios in Orlando. Based on feedback from agents and clients it isn't geared toward younger children as well as Disney. The rides, attractions and themes in general seem to appeal to the older kids. The new feature is Wizarding World of Harry Potter which has created alot of attention. A new attraction coming next summer is Transformers: The Ride 3D.

There are a few items to take notice of during your next visit. The express pass will get you ahead in line and can save you hours of waiting time for select rides. There is a limit unless you purchase the unlimited pass. For those staying at a participating Universal resort, you will receive the pass at no charge. If you are not staying on site, you can purchase one on the website. They are limited so we recommend purchasing in advance. Another recommendation is the meal deal that includes unlimited trips to the restaurants in the plan. There is a fine dining option if you want to enjoy some of the great restaurants offered. Character breakfasts are a hit with Harry Potter fans. They have a refillable mug that you can purchase once at the park. Let our agents help you with the details and selecting the right package for your next trip to Universal Studios!

Wednesday, December 5, 2012

Gift Certificates for the Holidays or Special Occasions

Can't think of the perfect gift for your spouse or parents because they seem to have everything? We offer gift certificates and can customize them to mark the occasion. Many of us appreciate time with our family more than anything. You can purchase gift certificates or plan a trip with the family. We are happy to help find the trip that suits your family needs best. Our clients love giving them for anniversaries, honeymoons and special birthday celebrations. Holiday travel books quickly but we are finding that many families, especially those with adult children and college kids are choosing vacation time over any Christmas gifts. We can present you with a certificate appropriately for giving in lieu of a standard gift that will out date in a few months. Often the holidays are more expensive but not always. The days before are the busiest but the actual day of the holiday can be a good deal. Call one of our agents today for more information! 636-625-8747.

Owner Profile - Harry Yeakey

Harry has been in the travel industry over 25 years. His expertise and knowledge has been an enormous asset to Classic Travel and Cruises. Harry is about to embark on his 54th cruise. He has cruised on several ships with many different cruise lines. The details that he remembers about each cruise and port are priceless. You will not get the specific information that he offers from any call center. Harry offers personalized and friendly service to his clients, agents and others in the industry. He is a true gem to everyone that knows him.

His favorite ships include Celebrity Equinox and favorite island is Bermuda. One of his most memorable destinations is the Mediterranean. Iberostar Rose Hall Suites is a preferred all inclusive resort that he has enjoyed. Places on his bucket list would be Santorini, Greece and Ephesus, Turkey.

Tuesday, November 27, 2012

Owner Profile - Shelly Lowry

Shelly Lowry has been in the travel business for over 25 years. She opened Classic Travel and Cruises with her partner Harry in 2010. Her experience in leisure and corporate have made her a key component in the industry. She offers a wealth of knowledge and expertise to most destinations including Hawaii and Europe. Her favorite destinations include Kauai (Hawaii), Italy, Ireland and Hong Kong. One of her favorite resorts would be Secrets Maroma because of the fabulous beach. Another favorite is Poipu Shores in Kauai. Some of her interests include movies, cooking, reading, her wine club and spending time with her grandchildren.

Wednesday, November 21, 2012

Holiday Travel - Some Handy Tips

1. Have a backup plan. Things can happen between weather and mechanical issues. Plan ahead and have reference numbers and flight options handy. If there is a delay or cancellation, grab your cell phone and start calling. Everyone will naturally head to the airline counter. By the time you get up in line, it will probably be too late. If you booked with a travel agent, try to contact them first. They may already be on top of rebooking your flight.

2. Select seats toward the back or middle of the plane. You will be boarded earlier than the front of the plane with the exception of first class/business seats. Overhead bin space goes quickly. Have luggage tags on your carryon just in case they have to check it.

3. Arrive at the airport early. TSA checkpoints may have longer lines for security. We normally recommend two hours prior to your flight. You may want to arrive a bit earlier during the busy season. Once you check in and get through security, you can relax and enjoy a meal since food is limited and almost non-existent on many flights. Pack snacks and reading material or puzzles to keep yourself or kids occupied.

4. Ship gifts and anything ahead that you can to eliminate the amount of items going through security. Don't wrap presents as they could be opened. Keep in mind the liquid rule and avoid these items when possible. Put them in your checked bag. Reduce security time by removing your jewelry, belts, change and jackets and placing in your carryon bags. This makes screening quicker and easier to keep the lines moving.

5. Be patient. Irate customers only delay the time of resolving issues. They take time away from agents trying to reschedule flights and assist travelers in need. Consider other alternatives when possible. It may be more convenient to rent a car to continue to your destination. Check bus or train schedules if your flight is delayed or cancelled and renting a car isn't a viable means. If you will be stranded with no other options, make hotel reservations as soon as possible. They will book quickly so make a call first thing. If you purchase travel insurance, they may be able to assist with making any necessary reservations for you.

Friday, November 16, 2012

New DIY Luggage Tag Kiosks - American Airlines

Many airlines already offer this service at various airports. American is expanding the program based on positive feedback. It should help reduce some of the lines and wait time for frequent travelers, especially business travelers. There are kiosks for printing boarding passes but now you can save some time checking luggage. Read the article for more details as they will be expanding into St Louis next year:

Passenger self-service continues to expand as American Airlines rolls out self-baggage tagging at Orlando International Airport.


American Airlines
Getty Images

Following a successful, service test in Austin Bergstrom International Airport earlier this year, American on Tuesday introduced do-it-yourself machines in Orlando, Fla. "due to overwhelming positive customer and employee feedback," says Paul Stumbo, American's managing director-customer contact planning.
In Austin, passengers were able to speed up check-in times by as much as 55 percent by using the machines, Stumbo said.
Passengers will still be able to have their bags checked and tagged by an agent if they don't choose the self-serve option.
Under the self-service option, passengers use kiosks to print checked baggage tags during the check-in process. Here's how it works:
  • When checking in at a kiosk, customers input their number of checked bags, pay any necessary charges, print the bag tag(s) and place the tag(s) on their luggage.
  • Customers then take their tagged bags to a designated agent to scan their boarding pass, verify IDs and take the bags for inspection and boarding.
  • Fliers are then free to head to their departure gate.
American plans to launch self-tag at additional airports in 2013, including Atlanta, Los Angeles, New York JFK, Miami, Boston, San Francisco, St. Louis and San Francisco. Other upcoming airports are Chicago O'Hare International Airport and Washington Reagan National Airport.

Wednesday, November 14, 2012

Small Business Saturday, November 24


Photo: Last year, over 100 million people came together to shop small in their communities on Small Business Saturday. LIKE if you are going to shop small this year!

We will be open from 10am - 2pm on November 24. There will be some specials available including free parking if you book an all-inclusive vacation of 4 days or longer. Stop by and see us! We ask that you visit other small businesses in your area. Support your community by shopping locally this day.

Weddings and Honeymoons

If you looking at a destination wedding or honeymoon for next year, this is the time to book. We have most prices for next year. Availability is limited if you are traveling during the busy time of the year. Many companies we work with offer price protection. If we catch the price going down, they will credit your account. It does protect you from the price going up and save your space.

Group space can be very limited so it is recommended that you book at least 6 - 9 months ahead. Generally a few months after air is available is the best time. We will help you pick the best location and resort for your wedding or group. Some resorts and hotels offer great group incentives. You may be entitled to a room, charter seat or free upgrades. Call one of our agents to help guide you in the right direction.

Our next e-newsletter will be highlighting weddings and honeymoons. Email: christy@classictravelstl.com if you would like to be added to our mailing list.

Tuesday, November 13, 2012

Agent Profile - Connie Byrne

Connie has been an agent with Classic Travel and Cruises since it opened in 2010. She has been a corporate and leisure agent during her career which has spanned 15 years. Her primary focus is corporate but she offers the same great service to her leisure clients. She really enjoys getting to know clients on a personal level. There is a special connection when assisting frequent travelers. Connie lives in the Kansas City area with her family. Technology allows her to service clients from all over the US. She brings a great deal of experience to our team.

Her favorite places are Hawaii, Dominican Republic and Riviera Maya. Places that she would like to visit one day include Italy, Englad and Australia. Connie loves to travel with family and friends.

Tuesday, November 6, 2012

Holiday Season - The Gift of Time

Not sure what you want to do this holiday season? What do you buy for someone that seems to have everything? Many of us don't want the standard gifts. What we really want is the gift of time with our friends and family. Several clients spend their time and money taking the family on a trip. We have seen some great prices for cruises during the week around Christmas and New Year's Day. No need to wait in lines on Black Friday although I know people that absolutely love it. The return lines after Christmas can be just as challenging. We can offer travel gift certificates or help plan a great trip for your family. Availability is filling up so don't wait too long. Call our office today at 636-625-8747 to get prices and start planning a memorable holiday season. 

Agent Profile - Hannah Lowry

Hannah is one of our corporate agents and she does invoicing along with other administrative duties involved with running an agency. She has worked with both large corporations and small local companies for the past 6 years. Her specialty is getting to know the client's preferences and make their travel as seamless as possible. She knows what airlines and hotels they prefer as well as seat assignments. They can call her with dates and destination and she will take care of the rest.

Her favorite destination is Hawaii. She loves Kauia because of its diversity in climates. It is a great place to explore and relax. There are many markets for shopping and spending some free time with family. She loves beaches and finds that Hawaii has something to offer for everyone.

Hannah's idea of a dream trip would be Ireland. She really enjoys seeing new landscapes. The castles and culture intrigue her from everything that she has read and seen through our client's travels.

Tuesday, October 30, 2012

Agent Spotlight - Jodi Rush

We have been fortunate to have Jodi as part of our team and family. She has been a great asset to our office. Her professionalism and knowledge of the travel industry have made her transition to our office seamless. Jodi enjoys domestic destinations such as New York and Las Vegas. She loves Disney and cruising. Her favorite resort is Grand Floridian and favorite port is Grand Cayman. Jodi's hobbies include reading, rooting for her home team the St Louis Cardinals and spending time with her family. She would love to help you with all of your leisure travel needs! Call her today at 636-625-8747.

Friday, October 26, 2012

Agent Profile - Laura Stumpe

Laura has been with Classic Travel and Cruises since its beginning. She loves meeting new people and making new friends whether in the office or while traveling. Laura takes the time to understand her clients' needs before planning their trip. It is important that she learn their expectations and any circumstances that could affect their vacation. She will be there not only before you travel but will follow up to make sure your trip went as expected.
Her specialty is romance vacations and she enjoys planning honeymoons and anniversaries. She has also focused on groups including family vacations and friend getaways. Her knowledge allows her to help you with any destination whether for 2 or 20 people. Laura's upbeat personality is an asset to the office and her clients.

Although she loves the beach, one of her favorite trips was Italy. The cathedrals were impressive and she truly enjoyed spending time with her sister. She would like to take a Meditteranean cruise or visit Ireland in the near future.

Wednesday, October 24, 2012

Airline Rules for Flight Delays and Cancellations

Don't count on airlines to compensate you for canceled flights or delays. They will often state they will take what they call "reasonable measures" to accommodate you. This doesn't always mean they will give you hotel or meal vouchers. You may receive a minimal amount that will not cover your expenses. We had a client recently receive $100 in vouchers during an issue in New York for hotel AND meals. That didn't cover the hotel much less anything else.

Airlines can change flights and don't have to keep your seat preferences. This happened recently to our honeymooners traveling to Hawaii. Their seats were confirmed and when the airline changed their flight without notifying us or the client, they lost their seats. We generally check when receiving flight change notices but they are not always sent. Be sure to periodically check your flight status or ask your agent.

Non-refundable fares mean non-refundable unless there is a weather delay or issue covered in the airline's policy. A no-show doesn't entitle you to compensation. Be sure to read all details when purchasing these discounted fares and consider travel insurance. It may be cheaper than booking the refundable fares and having a peace of mind when traveling during bad weather.

We always recommend travel insurance to help cover any incidentals that the airline doesn't cover for weather or medical reasons. Check with your travel agent for more details! We have great corporate reps to assist you when booking air only. They are familiar with the airline policies and can provide recommendations for your next flight.

Agent Profile - Christy Althage

Christy has been with Classic Travel and Cruises since it opened in 2010. Travel has been her passion for many years and she loves working in the industry. Her excitement shows when she plans fun trips for her clients. Her specialties include Disney, Florida, Mexico and the Caribbean. One of her favorite resorts is Beaches Turks and Caicos because it is amazing and wonderful for families. Disney remains a favorite because as your kids grow older, it is a new experience. Places that she would like to visit in the new future include Panama, Greece and Hawaii. She enjoys meeting new people, traveling to fun destinations, and spending time with her daughters.

Wednesday, September 19, 2012

New Expanded Corporate Division - CT World Trav

We are excited to launch our new corporate website, www.CTWorldTrav.com. Our services will be expanded to include online booking sites. You can choose to have experienced agents assist you with any travel needs or use the online booking engine. We give you the option to use both services also. This comes in handy when you are on the road and not have the time or internet service available. We have found this imperative for last minute changes. Clients are getting ready for a flight and have schedule changes that need immediate assistance. They are not able to handle on their own. We will contact the airline, hotel or rental car directly to better assist our client's needs. Our in-house corporate agents include Shelly, Connie and Hannah. They have many years of experience with corporate travel that include small businesses and large corporations. One important aspect of personalized service is that our agents will be familiar with YOUR travel preferences. They know the hotels you prefer, window or aisle seat and frequent flyer information. It is helpful when you don't have much time to make travel arrangements. Our clients tell us the dates and locations, we take care of the rest. CT World Trav will be using ResX to give you the option to book all of your own travel. You can access the system 24 hours to give you the convenience based on your schedule. Concur is available on request. Please contact one of our corporate reps for more information or a quote. There is no obligation so call today at 636-625-8747. Visit our new website at www.ctworldtrav.com.

Thursday, August 30, 2012

New Exciting Destination - Huatulco, Mexico

We just returned from a fantastic travel agent trip to Huatulco, Mexico. It is located on the southern side of Mexico. The views are unbelievable as the small town is located between the Sierra Madre mountains and Pacific ocean. Most resorts are built into the mountains so you have views of both. There are several bays that include beaches surrounded by cliffs and rocks. I found the backdrop to be very picturesque and wonderful for weddings. The sand is not the white Caribbean sand but still offers snorkeling and sea turtle hatchings during specific seasons. This small town is considered sub-tropical because it is wet and green during the summer months. In contrast, the winters are dry and less humid. If you want to see a new and unique destination, this may be the place for you. Biodiversity and being "green" is extremely important to this area of the country. They value safety and security to the highest level. Apple Vacations will be offering non-stop charter service for next year. Call for more information and pricing. Soon we will be posting pictures on Facebook, please visit our page at Classic Travel and Cruises.

Wednesday, August 15, 2012

Planning a Walt Disney World Vacation

Have you tried to plan a trip to Walt Disney World on your own? If you are not familiar with Disney, it can be overwhelming. There are so many options and they are constantly expanding the resorts and parks. Disney offers many types of tickets that can be expensive if you don't know what is best for your family. There are new resorts and room categories that give you many choices. Sometimes too many choices can be confusing. If you are a family of 5 or 6, there are some less expensive options than booking a deluxe villa or 2 rooms. A Disney specialist can walk you through the various resorts to find one that is best for your family. The new Art of Animation is offering family suites in addition to the ones at All Star Music. They can accommodate 5 or 6 in a family. The bedding configuration may not fit all families. My clients get a briefing after booking a Disney trip. We discuss the parks in detail and I help them in the dining selection. They will learn how to navigate the parks and understand the 'extras' that Disney offers. There are so many aspects to planning a Disney vacation. You can utilize all that Disney offers as many of the options are free. Many guests are not aware of them but I give my clients a sheet to help them prepare for their trip. You can register to customize maps for your family. The special events are additional but discounts are available when purchasing tickets online in advance. These include the Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween party and Mickey's Very Merry Christmas. Call us for more information!

Passports - Important Facts to Know Before Traveling

There are passport books and passport cards. The difference is significant. Although the cards are cheaper, they are limited to Mexico and Canada when traveling by land. You cannot use them to other countries or when flying outside of the US. Travelers that live near the border, like the cards if they are driving back and forth regularly. We highly recommend purchasing the passport books to allow travel more extensively. If you are 15 years or under, the passports are good for 5 years. Otherwise, they are good for 10 years. Be sure to check the expiration date. Many countries will not allow them if less than 6 months before they expire. They make travel easier when traveling with children in the US. The card can be swiped at the airline desk. TSA guidelines change constantly and there is question if children need identification. They generally only require for those 18 years and older. If a child appears to be of age, there could be some delay. The wait time for getting a passport is generally 4-6 weeks. We suggest you have one for last minute trips such as expected situations. If you have family abroad, you may need to travel on short notice. The cost to expedite a passport can be very expensive. See the website for more information: http://travel.state.gov/passport/passport_1738.html

Thursday, August 9, 2012

Spring Break Travel

It isn't too early to start planning for Spring Break Travel. Prices are available with most companies through the beginning of next summer. March and April are very busy times of the year for hotels and cruise lines. Many companies offer early booking incentives such as Carnival Cruiselines with their Early Saver prices. They are available up to 6 months before departure date on 7 day and longer sailings. Not only is price a reason to book early but the closer to time you will find a low amount of inventory. Not only will you find it harder to book the hotel of your choice, the price will escalate as fewer rooms are available. The same applies to airlines when they have the more expensive seats left such as exit rows. If you have a group, it is imperative that you book early. Many groups block rooms which reduces the amount of available rooms. This pertains to cabins on a cruise ship also. We can block a group of rooms or cabins up to 2 weeks for some packages. The deposits vary but generally run close to $200 per person depending on the trip. Some are as low as $50 per person but scheduled air will need to be paid in advance. Our experienced agents are happy to assist you. Call us today to discuss your trip and any travel needs. We can help plan leisure and groups such as family reunions, friend getaways or destination weddings. 636-625-8747

Tuesday, March 20, 2012

Want to Join our Mailing List?

The best way for us to communicate with our clients is through our e-mail newsletters. These messages contain exclusive deals, exciting news, and travel tips. So if you travel frequently for business, for pleasure, or are planning an upcoming vacation, you should sign up! Just click the link below to be entered into our private database.

\http://custapp.marketvolt.com/Signup.aspx?accountid=1266&AX=67432725

 For more information, call us at 636-625-8747.

Thursday, March 15, 2012

Mad March Travel Deals



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Apple Vacations SuperSale


Hi #First name or traveler7101#, we have some great deals to offer you including 50% off at select resorts. See below for other great deals from Classic Travel & Cruises!


This month, Classic Travel & Cruises has All-Inclusive resort deals from Apple Vacations for up to 50% off. Plus, at selected resorts kids eat, play, and stay FREE*!

Here's what you need to know about the Apple Vacations SuperSale:
  • 50% off applies to: the Iberostar Paraiso Del Mar in Cancun's Riviera Maya, the Grand Palladium Bavaro Resort & Spa in Punta Cana, and the Iberostar Dominicana in Punta Cana.
  • Prices includes No Hidden Fees! The taxes and fees are already factored into the price.
  • Receive other great deals to resorts in Riviera Maya, Cancun, Punta Cana, and other exotic locations in Mexico and the Caribbean, including Jamaica.
  • To receive this deal you must book by March 22, 2012.
  • This SuperSale will save you 100's of dollars



More Can't Miss Deals from Classic Travel
  • An incredible 10 day escorted tour of Ireland! Only $3099 when booking as a couple; includes flight, hotel transfers, 13 meals, and so much more. Click Here for more information.
Another great Apple Vacations Deal for
ONE WEEK ONLY!


-Where:
Now Jade Riviera Cancun
and
Now Sapphire Riviera Cancun

-When:
Book by March 21, 2012 for travel dates between April 15 and June 20, 2012.

-How Much*: Prices are per person and include accommodations, based on double occupancy.
3 Nights, $327 (was $426)
4 Nights, $428 (was $560)
7 Nights, $728 (was $959)


-What's Included: All of your meals (from a variety of specialty restaurants), snacks, unlimited drinks, land/water sports, liveentertainment, government taxes and fees, even gratuities, 24-hour concierge service, two kids 12 & under stay, play, and eat for only $35/week, FREE non-stop transfers, complimentary greens fees at Grand Coral Riviera Maya Golf Course (restrictions apply: mandatory cart fee not included), includes $200 total in Resort Coupons per room, per stay.


*"Land Only" prices are per person and include accommodations based on double occupancy (unless otherwise stated), hotel taxes and r/t airport/hotel transfers. Restricions, blackout dates, surcharges and holiday surcharges may apply. For bookings within 14 days of departure, add $10 per person. Prices are subject to availability and change. Transfers are not included in Puerto Rico. See the Fair Trade Contract on applevacations.com. CST2036061-40. F24573 L0 3/12.


Who to Contact for More Information
Laura Mains-Stumpe
Email: Laura@classictravelstl.com
Phone: 636-625-8747
By Appointment at:
1313 Lake St. Louis Boulevard,
Lake St. Louis, MO 63367
On the Web:
   


1313 Lake Saint Louis Boulevard,
Lake Saint Louis, MO 63367
636-625-8747
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Tuesday, March 13, 2012

Shades of Ireland



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Shades of Ireland
     Have you always wanted to visit Ireland?                       


Lake St. Louis and Dardenne Prairie Chambers of Commerce
and
Classic Travel & Cruises
 
are teaming up to offer you the trip of a lifetime,
for a price that can't be beat.


     This is a ten day escorted tour, spanning across eleven historic Ireland cities. Included in the trip are 13 meals, hotel transfers, round trip air from Lambert St. Louis International, air taxes and fees/surcharges of $100 (charges are subject to increase until balance of trip is paid in full)
.

Single Booking  Book as a Couple
 Triple Booking 
 $3,549      $3,099       $3,069 

   Book now to receive these rates of $150/person off of an already reduced rate!

Trip Highlights:
Dublin, Kilkenny, Waterford Crystal, Blarney Castle,
Jaunting Car Ride, Ring of Kerry, Killarney, Farm Visit, Limerick,
Cliffs of Moher, Galway, and an overnight stay at Cabra Castle!

To receive this special offer, you must book your trip by March 30th. The dates of this adventure are September 30th through October 9th 2012. You'll explore castles, visit cathedrals, kiss the Blarney Stone, shop for traditional Irish goods, taste Irish whiskey, view historic streets and buildings, see Ireland from high cliffs, and so much more. This is a tour trip, but you will have your own free time to experience the welcoming culture and excitement of Ireland.

Itinerary:

Day 1:  
 Overnight flight from St. Louis to Dublin, Ireland.


Day 2:    
 Let the fun begin! We'll provide you with dinner and traditional Irish entertainment while you get to know the rest of the group.


Day 3:             
 Start off your day with breakfast on us (breakfast will be provided for you days 3-10), then go on a sightseeing tour of Dublin. This tour includes St. Patrick's Cathedral, O'Connell Street, Grafton Street, Phoenix Park, and the scenery of Georgian town homes. After this tour you are free to explore the city on your own for the rest of the night.

Day 4:      
 Today your feet will land in three Irish cities. In the morning you'll travel from Dublin to the vibrant city of Kilkenny. Later in the day you'll go to Waterford. Here, you will go on a tour in the new House of Waterford Crystal factory, where there is a retail store with the largest collection of Waterford Crystal in the world. After this long day, we'll buy you dinner and take you on a walking tour of this city.

Day 5:        
 From Waterford you'll travel to the historic Blarney Castle, where the chance of a life time awaits. The chance to kiss the Blarney Stone. When everyone's had their chance to kiss the stone, you will head to the city of Killarney. Here, we'll treat you to the traditional Irish jaunting car ride and take you on a tour of Muckross House and Gardens, a Victorian style mansion. To top it off, we'll even buy you dinner. 


Day 6:  
 On Friday, you will be commuting on one of the most gorgeous coastal routes in the world, the Ring of Kerry. You will also have the opportunity to shop for Irish goods crafted by local artists. Then, after traveling into the mountains, we'll arrive at "Ladies View" where you can see the beautiful lakes of Killarney. Take the night to explore authentic Irish culture.


Day 7:  
 Be ready to rhyme and have a great time today, because you'll be visiting Limerick. Here you will experience the everyday life of an Irish family on Molanna Dairy Farm. Also at Limerick, enjoy a tour of King John's Castle and the Treaty Stone. 


Day 8:
 Possibly the best day yet. Traverse the incredible 700 foot high Cliffs of Moher for an unbelievable view of Ireland, the Aran Islands, and the Atlantic Ocean like you've never seen before. Also, in the rural area Galway, explore the limestone landscapes and receive a city tour about "The City of Tribes." Once again, we'll take care of dinner plans tonight before heading back for Limerick for the night.


Day 9:  
 Now it's time for a cross country trip to Tullamore. On the way, visit Tullamore Dew Heritage Centre to enjoy pure Irish whiskey and see how it's made. Then, spend your final evening in Ireland at the 500 year old, Cabra Castle. Here, we'll provide you with a farewell dinner. You even get the opportunity to stay overnight on the castle grounds to finish off your trip.


Day 10:   
 We'll serve you breakfast one last time before you prepare to board your flight back home. 


Please also note that this is a tour trip and you should be healthy enough to do a lot of walking (sometimes in rural areas and cobblestone streets).

        For more information or to book this limited time offer, contact Laura Mains-Stumpe at 636-625-8747, laura@classictravelstl.com, or come by our agency.

                                                                                             



Note: Some restrictions may apply, inquire an agent for more details.


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Lake St. Louis, MO 63367
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