Book a minimum three night stay and receive your first night at a rate of 7 shillings and 6 pence-37P!

Offer is valid July 3rd to September 4th, 2011, subject to availability.

Call Landings Travel at 800-299-1123 to book now!

Call 800-299-1123 for more details.

Crystal Symphony January 17th, 2012- 10 days – Miami to Caldera

Crystal Symphony June 16th, 2012 - 11 days – Hamburg to Stockholm

Crystal Symphony December 20th, 2012 - Auckland to Melbourne

In Addition Regent Seven Seas is offering:

2 for 1 fares plus additional bonus savings of up to $3,000 per person

Free Roundtrip Air (restrictions apply)

Free Unlimited Shore Excursions

Discounted Business Class Upgrades (restrictions apply)

Call Kathleen Sutter at 800-299-1123 for more details- space is limited.

Landings Travel is offering exclusive amenities on the following 2012 sailings:

Regent Navigator

April 3rd – 11 nights – roundtrip Ft. Lauderdale – Sun-Splashed Sea Brezzes

CRYSTAL SERENITY TO UNDERGO MAJOR REDESIGN IN MAY

LOS ANGELES, February 9, 2011 – While Crystal Cruises’ ocean resorts have racked up countless awards since entering service, the ultra-luxury line has never been one to rest on its laurels.  This spring, Crystal will be spending $25+ million dollars to keep its largest ship, Crystal Serenity, on the cutting edge of luxury style.

More than 400 expert technicians flown from around the world, working round the clock for just 14 days, are scheduled for the massive redesign of her 531 Deluxe Staterooms, Penthouses and Penthouses Suites; retail centers; expansive outdoor pool deck and other design projects during a May 8-22 dry dock at Hamburg’s Blohm + Voss shipyard.

“In the past two years, we have invested well over $50 million in our ships,” says Gregg Michel, president, Crystal Cruises.  “Our guests can look forward to dazzling new spaces, which will serve as a stunning  backdrop to the incomparable service and choices that always characterizes a Crystal vacation.”     

Interior designer, Keith Rushbrook, principal at the Toronto-based II BY IV Design Associates, summarizes the vision: “We wanted modern classic elegance.  We wanted Fifth Avenue – crème de la crème New York-inspired living and retail spaces that people love and look forward to spending time in.”

New Deluxe Stateroom and Penthouse Accommodation Décor

All of Crystal Serenity’s Deluxe Outside Staterooms, Penthouses, and Penthouse Suites will sport new, floor-to-ceiling tufted headboards, bedside cabinets, wallpaper, sofas, curtains, pillows, and custom carpets in contemporary lines and classic stone, silk, velvet, leather, and crisp linen textures.  New modern lighting features and electronic “do not disturb” and doorbell system will allow guests greater personalization of their home-away-from-home. 

New Shops

Serenity’s retail shops will receive a similar, sophisticated metamorphosis.  The Facets fine jewelry store will mirror a jewelry box, with mother-of-pearl feature wall, beveled chrome vitrines, and new, private sales area.  The Apropos boutique will become three-shops-in-one, with a flagship Christian Dior cosmetic/skincare area showcased amongst rich Zebrano wood and herringbone rosewood, arresting black-plum-magenta carpeting, and tufted leather seating.

New Chic Pool Deck

Inspired by Crystal Symphony’s recent transformation, the Seahorse Pool teak deck will be refashioned with circular pod beds, plush sofa groups, and lounge chairs in a kaleidoscope of lime green, azure, and mango.

New Lighting and Furniture

The corridors throughout the ship will be transformed with new, custom carpeting, inspiring artwork, and mood lighting.  Dramatic new lighting will also be installed in the Crystal Dining Room, as will new furniture on all stateroom verandahs.

Following the dry dock, Crystal Serenity will embark on a series of Baltic, North Cape and British Isles cruises before heading to the Mediterranean for late summer and fall cruise series, where guests cannot only enjoy the resort’s new look but exceptional value with verandah savings and a new fall fare sale.

Crystal Cruises’ ethos of warm and friendly attentiveness, proffered by top-trained service staff from around the world, has earned the line a reputation for elevating hospitality to an art form.  With no guest request left untended, Crystal Cruises has been the perfect choice for luxury travelers for over two decades.

For more information and Crystal reservations, contact Landings Travel at 800-299-1123

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NEW, EXCLUSIVE ADVENTURES FOR CRYSTAL’S 2011 ALASKA CRUISES

Complimentary Voluntourism Opportunity Supports Local Salmon Conservation

LOS ANGELES, February 14, 2011 – Crystal Cruises is marking its first season back in Alaska since 2005 with excursions that extend way beyond shore.  Think air, sea, and ice — with more than half its 100+ Crystal Adventures brand new.

Guests can explore the state’s waterways by safari boat, private catamaran, whitewater raft, canoe, kayak, or WWII duck vehicle.  View the breathtaking landscapes and wildlife by seaplane or helicopter, or stay planted on terra firma in a horse-drawn trolley, ATV, jeep, sled, motorcycle, old-fashioned railcar, private Hummer, or Unimog 4×4. 

Sitka Sound Science Center Volunteering—A new “You Care, We Care” excursion enables guests to assist with the operation/maintenance of a salmon hatchery or marine-life exhibits.

Champagne & Glaciers by Helicopter­—Cascade over mountain passes and alpine meadows before indulging in champagne and chocolate atop a centuries-old glacier.

White Pass Scenic Railway & Bike Ride—Ride 100-year-old parlor cars through vertical granite cliffs before biking down the Klondike Summit.

Extreme adventurists can rock climb, flyfish, or zipline over rainforest canopies.  Amateur Ansel Adamses can shutterbug away on custom photography excursions.  Families can pan for gold, create 24K gold glass-blown art, golf, or scout for killer whales, bald eagles, or bears.  History buffs will love adventures profiling bordellos and shoot-outs, native traditions, Alaska’s Russian past, and even Sarah Palin’s childhood home.

Gourmet, local cuisine like alderwood-smoked salmon, fresh halibut chowder, and all-you-can-eat crab will be showcased Crystal-style via cooking classes, wilderness camp dining, and a five-course, Alaskan Chef’s Table in Ketchikan.

Guests seeking an ultra-intimate, individualized travel experiences can sail through the island-studded waters of Sitka Sound on a private sightseeing/wildlife expedition via deluxe catamaran—just for you and your loved ones, with personal Captain and expert naturalist to guide you.

Crystal Symphony will make nine 12-day sailings round-trip from San Francisco from May through August to Victoria, Vancouver, Sitka, Juneau, Skagway/Haines, Ketchikan and either Hubbard Glacier or Glacier Bay. 

Per-person, Two-for-One fares begin at $4,650, including free air transportation from many U.S./Canadian gateways (or $400 air discount) plus $500 spending credits.  A Verandah and Penthouse sale, Crystal Family Memories group perks, and bonus Bring-a-Friend program offer additional savings. 

For more information and Crystal reservations, contact LANDINGS TRAVEL at 800-299-1123 

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We embarked the afternoon of Tuesday November  16th. Our home for the next two days Suite 728- a veranda suite. Once on board we toured the ship from port to starboard, bow to stern. We personally saw every category accommodations and all public rooms. After our lifeboat drill we enjoyed a sail away cocktail party out by the pool. We had dinner in The Restaurant at a table hosted by our Seabourn Regional Sales Director Joanne Oyen CTC, DS. After dinner we took in the show.

After breakfast the next morning we had a morning: “Learn About Sojourn and Seabourn” Pinnacle Club meeting with Pamela Conover, President of The Yachts of Seabourn. After the meeting it was time for lunch. We choose to dine at the Colonade Restaurant at one of the outdoor tables overlooking the ocean. It was a lovely buffet, although you could order from a limited menu as well if you prefer. Once lunch was over it was our personal time to enjoy the ship and all she had to offer. I highly recommend The Spa At Seabourn with its spacious thermal area. If you feel super indulgent or want to make your cruise extra special then book the exclusive Spa Villa. It will accommodate up to four people. You reserve it for 2 1/2 hours or more and it includes one hour outdoor massages for all guests and a special bathing ritual and time for relaxation. You can add any other treatments and can have a meal and beverages catered in. There is also a private jacuzzi just for the villa. We took advantage of the Bridge tour and the Galley tour and then some down time before dinner. Our suite was very spacious at 300 square feet and a veranda with additional 65 square feet. We enjoyed dinner in the Restaurant again. The staff could not have been more attentive and the meals delicious. After a little time in the casino, where there is blackjack, roulette and several video slot games, we shared an after dinner drink with some of our travel industry colleages also on board before saying good night.

The next morning we had breakfast delivered with cooked to order eggs Benedict. Then it was time to disembark.

Although our stay was short it was enough time to really experience The Yachts of Seabourn. Yachts of Seabourn was voted 2010 World’s Top Cruise Line by readers of Travel + Leisure- August, 2010 issue.

Landings Travel is proud to be the only Seabourn Pinnacle Club member on Florida’s West Coast from Tampa to Naples. We know the product inside and out and would be happy to assist you with all your travel needs-

Call Jon or Kathleen at 800-299-1123 for more information!

Kathleen and Jon Sutter of Landings Travel in Sarasota, Florida

HONORED AT CRYSTAL CRUISES’ 19^TH ANNUAL AWARDS GALA

           Sarasota, June 19, 2010 – Kathleen and  Jon Sutter  of Landings Travel in Sarasota, Florida were honored as a top luxury travel specialists by Crystal Cruises, one of the most highly rated luxury cruise lines in the world.  Of the thousands of travel agents who sell Crystal Cruises, only 75 qualifying worldwide travel agencies were recognized for their expertise selling luxury cruises.  Crystal executives hosted the travel advisors at its 20^th Annual Sales Achievement Gala aboard the ultra-luxury Crystal Symphony British Isles voyage June14-18.

Top-producing counselors from the U.S., Canada, as well as the cruise line’s international sales representatives from Australia, Brazil, Chile, England, Israel, Thailand, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Mexico, Germany, Singapore, Taiwan, South Africa were honored. 

            “These successful, trusted travel advisors are the best of the best,” says Bill Smith, Crystal’s senior vice president, sales and marketing.  “They achieve this status because they offer their customers unparalleled personal service and in-depth expertise.”

            Hosted by Crystal Cruises’ senior management, the gala provided a forum for the latest product updates and educational seminars capped off by exclusive parties honoring the award-winners. 

            “We are delighted to honor these travel agents and our worldwide representatives who continue to support Crystal Cruises by recommending us to their sophisticated clientele,” says Crystal President, Gregg L. Michel.  “Their customers appreciate it, too, as these discerning travelers consistently rate Crystal Cruises among the best luxury vacation experiences at sea or on land.”

            Crystal Cruises enjoys an unparalleled reputation for excellence, having been named “World’s Best Large-Ship Cruise Line” by the discerning readers of Travel + Leisure and Condé Nast Traveler magazines more than any cruise line, resort or hotel in history. 

            With a 1,070-guest capacity, Crystal Serenity and her sister ship, the 922-guest Crystal Symphony, are among the most luxurious vessels cruising the world, renowned for their exceptional service, space, quality and choices with generous amenities and elegant accommodations.

For additional information about Crystal Cruises and the line’s worldwide itineraries, please contact Landings Travel at 800-299-1123. A Crystal Platinum Alliance Agency for 19 consecutive years!

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We started with our arrival into Milan Malpensa airport where we were met and transferred to our home for the next four nights, Park Hyatt Milano which is centrally located. Upon our arrival we were met by Claudio Ceccherelli the General Manager. That evening were had welcome cocktails and dinner hosted by the Park Hyatt.

The next morning after breakfast we departed to explore Renaissance Milan. We had a tour of La Scala Opera Museum with a local expert. We ended our tour at the Gray Hotel met by Sabina Galdiolo, Director of Sales and Marketing. She gave us a site inspection. This hotel is the newest and truly modern luxury design hotel in the heart of Milan. We were then treated to lunch in the restaurant Le Noir. We had the rest of the afternoon to explore on our own. In the evening we walked to L’Ulmet Restaurant where we enjoyed risotto with saffron, pork fillets with puree potato and ginger and finished with lemon Bavarian cream with raspberry sauce. The wine was Le Moie 03 Faz Battaglia- Il Bruciato 02 Tenuta Guado al Tasso. The walk back to our hotel was welcome after such a meal.

After breakfast it was off to the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie where we had a private viewing of the Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci-what a rare treat! We then headed over to the fashion area of Milan and enjoyed exploring the famous “designer street” of Via della Spiga, Via Montenapoleone, Via Sant’Andrea and then worked our way down to the Grand Hotel Et De Milan. This hotel takes you a step back in time to the life and times of Guiseppe Verdi. After lunch and an afternoon on our own we headed for the Bulgari Hotel and Resort Milano for a site inspection and dinner.

We began our next day with a walking guided tour of the Canals Quarter of Milan. Our lunch was hosted by the Westin Palace Milan by Ciriaco Campus, Director of Sales who also gave us a site inspection of the property. After lunch we returned to the heart of historical Milan to visit the most recognized monument of the city, the Milan Duomo. Our guide was fabulous pointing out the history of this magnificent building. That evening we went to Hotel Principe Di Savoia for a tour and dinner hosted by Anna Gricini, Director of Sales. We had the top floor suite for an elegant reception which has been occupied by the likes of Michael Jackson and Madonna.

Mid morning the next day we were off to the Four Seasons Hotel for a site inspection and lunch. After lunch we were on our way to the Grand Hotel Tremezzo Palace. On the way we stopped to visit one of the top Silk Outlets in Como. Como is considered to be the centre of the silk industry in Europe. The Grand Hotel Tremezzo is a fascinating Palace dating back to the beginning of the last century overlooking Lake Como. A fantastic evening was had.

In the morning we met our guide and were off to enjoy a wonderful introductory tour to the Central Lake Area. We passed many beautiful villas lining the Lake Como shoreline. We stopped to enjoy the beautiful Villa Balbianello, considered by most to be the most beautiful villa of all. A frequent location for weddings. Our boat then took us to trattoria Tirlindana, opposite Comacina Island. On our way we passed by Villa Rosa, where Edward and Mrs. Simpson spent their honeymoon. At Tirlindana we feasted on Camembert Fritto con semi di sesamo, Cavatelli al pesto di nocciole, Marquise al cioccolato. Later in the afternoon we checked into Grand Hotel Serbelloni.

After breakfast we were met by our guide and taken to visit the offices of our educational host IC Bellagio. Here we had an aperitivo and welcome drink and presentation of their services. They have a lovely office and oh what a location. The  rest of  the day was ours to explore Bellagio or relax by the hotels indoor or outdoor pool.

Next stop, The Grand Hotel Villa D’Este for two nights. We were fortunate enough to get a room overlooking Lake Como with balcony where we enjoyed our morning coffee. On our way there we course cruise by the home of George Clooney. We dined at Larius Restaurant located in the heart of the historical center of Como.

After breakfast the next morning we departed for Lugano Switzerland, 30 minutes away. Don’t forget you passport to cross the border! We did a site inspection of Hotel Principe Leopoldo overlooking th Swiss lakeside town of Lugano.

That evening was our last night at Villa D’Este where we had farewell cocktails overlooking the lake and feasted on deep fried squash blossoms (to die for) and seafood risotto.

We returned to the US with a vast knowledge of what Milan and Lake Como has to offer our clients and we can’t wait to go back or send you there.

We have cleaned out our Delta frequent flyer accounts to treat ourselves to Business Elite class as the flight from Atlanta to Dubai is 15 hours.

Once we arrive we will be staying at the Fairmont Dubai. Kathleen is a Fairmont Famous agent, meaning she has taken extensive courses to educate herself on all of  Fairmont’s properties worldwide. She is also a member of Fairmont’s Presidents Club which is their frequent guest program. The Fairmont will be our home for three nights. We booked a Fairmont King room but because of Kathleen’s accomplishments with Fairmont they are graciously upgrading us to one of their newly refurbished Junior Suites. I am sure after our long flight and late night arrival into Dubai we will be ready for a good nights sleep.

When we travel we try to visit as many Virtuoso properties as possible,so the next day we have been invited by the Director of Sales and Marketing of the Park Hyatt Dubai for a site inspection and dinner. We are anxious to see it as it is perfectly located for Dubai stop-overs and pre-post cruise stays.

We have been invited by Joan Gibbs, Director of Global Sales of the Jumeirah Group for an unbeilivable adventure the next day.

We start our day with a site inspection followed by lunch at Madinat Jumeirah. Then, on to the Burj Al Arab. Jumeirah will transport us by buggy from the Madinat Jumeirah as the Burj is right next door. After our site inspection of the Burj Al Arab we are off to Jumeirah Beach Hotel. Once we finish this site inspection we are going to be transferred to Jumeirah Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa. It is a 45 minute ride out in the desert. We will begin with a site inspection followed by dinner at  Al Hadheerah Arabian Restaurant, under the stars while we watch Arabic entertainment. We will then be transferred back to Jumeirah Beach Hotel where we will then take a taxi back to The  Fairmont Dubai,  exhausted but well educated on the Jumeirah properties of Dubai.

The next morning we will depart Dubai to begin our next big adventure- a Micato Safari!