Do the size of Cuban cigars matter?

Filed Under (Cruises) by Trevor Wallace on 26-10-2008

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by Trevor Wallace

Cuban cigars come in various shapes and sizes. Most people think about Cuban cigars as one standard five to six inch cigar but they come in all kinds of sizes. Yes the majority is in a cylinder shape but they range in thickness and length. The thickness is the ring gauge size and the length is pretty self explanatory.

So I told my friend John that it doesn’t matter. Needless to say, he was surprised because it’s just one of those things right? Cuban cigars shape don’t matter at all. What matters though is what you like. What I truly mean here is what kind of shape is the one that you prefer. Do you like the longer ones or shorter ones? Since they range, everyone can get the size that they can truly relate to.

I like long Cuban cigars and short Cuban cigars. They both do it for me. However, I’ll tell you how I select the sizes sometimes. For me, it all depends on the time I have these days. If I have lots of time and over sixty five minutes or so, I will open up a box of Cohiba Esplendios and take it easy for that moment. If I have a business meeting, than I’ll grab a Cohiba Siglo and go from there.

So besides the length, one other major thing that separates Cuban cigars is the thickness of the cigar. Everyone here has their own pick and sometimes it’s not the length that matters, but the actual ring gauge. The ring gauge is the term used to describe the thickness of each Cuban cigar. In fact, their is a whole rating system behind it.

So there you have it folks. It’s not the Cuban cigar size, shape or length that matters. It’s how much time you have to enjoy them. I say just try them all and see what works when you do find the time. However, I can guarantee you that you will find the one that you are looking for. After all, with so many excellent choices, you are bound to find something that works.

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Private and Corporate Boat Cruises in Toronto

Filed Under (Cruises) by Amy Nutt on 22-10-2008

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by Amy Nutt

Able to accommodate 50 to 600 people, a Toronto boat cruise is a luxurious venue that can be the perfect backdrop for any special occasion. Fantastic Toronto Harbor views are absolutely captivating and can set a wonderful mood that you and your guest will recall for a lifetime.

What may come as a surprise to most is that Toronto cruises is no more or less expensive than most traditional venues - in some cases, it can cost much less.

Even so, people may shy away from renting a yacht believing that only the rich and famous can afford to do so.

Nothing can be further from the truth.

Who rents Toronto Yachts?

An individual or a business can rent a yacht any time during the boat cruise season. Toronto based boat cruises are rented either by locals, visiting businessmen or tourists who enjoy the serene beauty of the Toronto harbor.

When planning a dinner cruise event, the primary organizer meets with the ship’s event planners to go over the details. During this time every minute aspect, from the food, to the entertainment, is discussed.

Party Affairs on a rented Yacht

Nearly any special occasion can be celebrated on a dinner cruise with the most popular events being birthdays, graduations, retirement and Holiday parties, Bar/bat mitzvahs, wedding receptions, anniversaries, business parties and corporate events.

Some have even celebrated baby showers or product launches onboard a Toronto cruise.

Toronto yacht Entertainment and amenities

Lake Ontario and the Toronto Islands are just few of the glorious natural amenities that can be enjoyed by guests of a boat cruise. Others include a wonderful dining hall, dance floors and amazing dinners that are sure to please any palette.

Lake Ontario and the Toronto Islands are just few of the glorious natural amenities that can be enjoyed by guests of a boat cruise. Others include a wonderful dining hall, dance floors and amazing dinners that are sure to please any palette.

Themed Toronto cruises

Private yacht events can be customized to the wants and needs of party-goers.

Of course, Holiday events have a set theme, but aside from those, one can let their imaginations run wild.

Some popular theme idea’s could include: - Hawaiian Cruises - Mexican Cruises - Era and decade themes ( i.e. 60, 70. 80) - Pirates - Disco - Circus - Parisian - Mystery

Of course, you can come up with something that is all new and all you - just be sure you discuss the details with the boats event planner so that you get precisely what you want.

Costs of Toronto cruises

The costs can depend on whether you are renting the entire yacht or sharing the yacht with the public. Fares for Public cruises can cost anywhere from $20-80 dollars per head depending on the boat and time of day. Children may cost around 15-40 dollars with kids under 4 riding along for free on most ships.

As for private rentals - the costs can depend on the size of the boat, the number of attendees and the charter company used.

Just keep in mind that any nice event venue will cost you. In many cases, a Toronto cruise service will provide many things, like caterers and entertainment for you. These package deals may end up saving you money in the long run.

Now, most Toronto boat cruises are seasonal, usually starting from April to October. It’s always best to book they ate months in advance as certain times may be taken if you delay.

Private, corporate and holiday affairs can be celebrated a number of ways, but none can be as memorable as an elegant dinner cruise aboard a luxurious Toronto yacht.

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Lord Jim” Rebuilding a part of History

Filed Under (Cruises) by John Jackson on 19-10-2008

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by John Jackson

When as a yacht Captain I returned home to Australia from the USA for the past eight years, I found work at an Australian Ship Yard working on a large boat.

I was approached by a young English Captain of a British Flag yacht called “Lord Jim”, who was leaving after three years, He joined as an unpaid deck hand and ended up being the only one left on board after crossing the Pacific.

The Boat was at Able Point Marina. Whitsundays, Queensland. It needed a available Yacht Captain to go to Phuket Thailand via Cape York, Bali ,Indonesian. Singapore and Malaysia. It had a brochure that looked fantastic.

It was an old Camper & Nicholson made in 1977 it had a steel hull with aluminum sub structure which was riveted together.

A CV was submitted and forgotten about but then I received a call from the owner who consequently was a psychologist in the motivational business .Of course I was very quickly convinced and took the job.

Arrived at the marina I saw the boat, an quickly realized I was Conned It was very badly looked after, which presented some problems.

As It turned out every thing about the boat was expired from the cruise permit to the ships regulation. Even the safety equipment was way past its used by date and sad to say needing to be replaced. This was very upsetting because I wanted to go.

The captain of the ship quickly left unfortunately for him the owners were disputing his return ticket home.

The Boat was desperately in need of repairs and I as the relief captain Phuket started on my own. I wanted to save face and get going but had no boat money or cards.

About 19 month later I arrived at the Yacht Haven Marina in Phuket . I even continued restoring the vessel to her former glory with all systems up and running within a limited budget.

Being Part of the nautical history of this magnificent boat has given me a great sense of pride and I am glad that I finished the Job.

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Dinner Cruises in Toronto

Filed Under (Cruises) by Amy Nutt on 15-10-2008

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by Amy Nutt

Whether setting out from Queens Quay West or heading towards the Toronto Islands, fantabulous Toronto dinner cruises can be great places to hold any event. Waterfront based Toronto boat cruises can also offer wonderful picturesque peeks of famed harbor views that are unparalleled and second to none.

If you or someone you know is interested in embarking on a Toronto cruise, then you can look into the various types of yachts and the themes available for your special event.

Types of Toronto dinner cruises

Boat cruises are generally seasonal, but you can rent a yacht of any size during this time. Some of the main type of Toronto cruise include but are not limited to:

1. Holiday cruises

Holiday parties and events can be held on Toronto based yachts. While public cruises are cheaper, a private holiday cruise will cater to the needs of you and your guests. Check with the charter company to see what date is available and what you need to secure the yacht for the holiday in question. Some yachts require a hefty deposit before making any firm plans.

2. Themes cruises

A water front venue is made even better when accompanied by a specified theme. Fun ideas like Grecian Gods and Goddesses, Eighteenth Century Lords and Ladies or vintage sock hops can be actualized on Toronto Cruises.

Event planners will work hard to realize your theme and bring it to life. Corresponding decorations and entertainment can be arranged and handled for you as well, making the planning aspect a virtual breeze.

3. Wedding cruises

Weddings are romantic occasions and nothing can make it more wondrous than a aquatic setting along the Toronto Harbor waterfront. This is perhaps why wedding themed cruises have begun to grow in popularity. Many Toronto cruises offer special package deals for betrothed couples that can include entertainment, food and limo rides to the docks. Wedding receptions can also be held on ceremonial dinner cruises at special rates. Even the honeymoon can be celebrated aboard a beautiful yacht, delighting newlyweds as it glides upon the crystalline waters of the Toronto harbor.

3. Private cruises

Public cruises, while fun for a day or evening excursion, are not as structured or as customized as a private cruise. Another obvious advantage of private Toronto cruises is that the boat won’t be crowded. Also, when you have the run of the ship, you and your guest will feel free to mingle. Renting a boat for one day may not be as expensive as one would think, an some basic rental packages can start as $3,000 (of course, the price goes up with the size of the group and things like entertainment and food costs factored in).

4. Discount cruises

Discount cruises are available for people who desire to experience a nice relaxing dinner cruise but can’t pay for a customized theme cruise. This usually means however, that the person has a few limitations, which may or may not include times when they can board the ship, or duration of stay. Still, some discounts offer the opportunity to take in the opulence and splendor of a noteworthy Toronto harbour cruise, which can be worth any purchase price.

Indeed, there are many different cruises available to fit any budget. The type of cruise you choose depends on what your individual or corporate needs are at the time.

Prices can vary depending on the size of the group, the theme and live entertainment. Extra cost may be incurred for the use of specific caterers and gratuities will be including in the price as well. With the aid of a seasoned event planner, a themed dinner cruise can be just the thing to make a lasting impression on the people you want to celebrate your special occasion with.

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Holding the Ultimate Retirement Party: A Chartered Cruise

Filed Under (Cruises) by Amy Nutt on 07-10-2008

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by Amy Nutt

Retirement is something that comes around once in a lifetime and you should definitely enjoy it. The best way to say adios to your career is to put on the celebration of a lifetime and what better way to do this than hold your retirement party on a chartered Toronto cruise?

Chartered cruises are usually far more affordable than most people think and they provide the ability to enjoy amazing scenery and luxury settings while celebrating. It’s a good idea to check with various chartered cruise companies in your area to find the best one, with a price you can afford and a boat of the appropriate size for your guests.

Bring on the Food

The retirement dinner is a definite must-have. Some cruises include a meal, but for true luxury, you’ll want to bring your own chef or caterer aboard and hand-pick the menu. Seafood is always a good option for a chartered cruise and is appropriately elegant for your retirement send off.

Find chefs by looking at the different caterers available in your area. Most of them will be more than willing to cook aboard, they will just need time to load their ingredients and equipment on the boat before your guests arrive. Make sure you schedule everything so that the catering crew and anyone else, including servers, can board early enough that they won’t be loading stuff on the boat as your guests are arriving.

You will want to make sure that there is adequate space for dining on your chartered cruise. Depending on the cruise ship, there could be anything from a cozy dining room to a proper banquet hall. Choose the chartered cruise option that fits the number of people you will be inviting. There’s no point in trying to cram 100 guests onto a cruise meant for 50. Most cruise lines will also limit the number of guests according to the size of the vessel.

Decoration of the Chartered Cruise

What would a retirement party be without a few decorations? There’s no need to be cheesy, with paper signs and such. You can request silver and gold streamers, decorated tables, etc. to suit the theme and still be elegant. It’s often nice to include a little favor for each guest at their place on the table. Find out ahead of time if decorating is included and if you will need to bring your own table linens etc. Most cruise lines will have their own table settings, but if you aren’t happy with them, you should be able to rent something more appropriate, or speak to the caterer about the possibility of having the tables done to your specifications.

Choosing the Chartered Cruise

Not all cruises are the same. There are a variety of sizes available, from intimate dinners for a dozen all the way up to ships that can accommodate hundreds of guests. It’s completely up to you as to how many people you want.

Some cruise lines require that you use their particular caterer. While this is often fine, it could mean extra cost to you, so make sure you double check prices and find out if there is an option to bring in your own caterer and serving staff, which could save you money in the long run.

A retirement dinner aboard a chartered personal Toronto cruise is the perfect way to say goodbye to a lifetime of loyal work. It can be a lot of fun to kick off your retirement with a party on a boat and is a good sign of the fun times yet to come.

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Formal Night on a Cruise: What to Wear

Filed Under (Cruises) by Amy Nutt on 02-10-2008

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by Amy Nutt

Cruises are typically a laid back affair, but despite being a way to relax and take a vacation, it’s fun to dress up nicely from time to time. If you’ve never been on a dinner cruise before, you’ll probably want to ensure that you know what to wear for formal attire.

Formal Night on a Cruise: What to Wear

Cruises are typically a laid back affair, but despite being a way to relax and take a vacation, it’s fun to dress up nicely from time to time. Formal nights allow just that. If you’ve never been on a dinner cruise ship before, you’ll probably want to ensure that you know what to bring for formal night.

Dressing Up on a Dinner Cruise

It’s normal to dress semi-formally for dinner on a cruise, particularly if you are eating in the nicer dining room, as opposed to ordering in or eating at a more informal area. A nice dress or slacks and a blouse for women are appropriate for these dinners, a suit or slacks and a tucked in button-down shirt work well for men.

Another opportunity to dress up a bit would be when you hit the dance floor on the cruise ship. Many people prefer to wear nice clothes and shorts are generally frowned upon in this case. These are the normal situations that you would find yourself dressing up for on a cruise. Nothing terribly formal and the atmosphere is still relatively casual. Not so on Formal Night.

What to Pack for Formal Night on a Cruise

The formal night on a cruise is meant to be one of a kind and it shows. While a nice suit can be acceptable for a man, tuxedos are now the norm on many cruises. Just think of what you would wear to a nice wedding . . . if it would pass there, then you’re probably good to go.

Women have far more choice in what to wear. Formal ballgowns are definitely an option, but your most elegant “little black dress” can also be very appropriate. Again, imagine wearing it to a wedding and you’ll know if it’s formal enough. Women may choose to wear brighter colors, like red or emerald green, but when in doubt, stick to black or white to be sure you’ll fit in.

For women, matching shoes and jewelry is a must. If you have an elegant gold chain or something more formal such as a string of pearls, that will dress up any outfit. Matching earrings add an extra touch of elegance to the outfit, too. Add a touch of more formal makeup and do your hair up for the ultimate in elegant looks.

Can You Rent?

Often cruise ships will have a tuxedo and dress rental where you can pick up something for the evening that will be appropriate. However, these rentals are usually booked very early, so make sure to book as soon as you board, or even earlier, if possible. This requires that you be aware of the option, of course, so you’ll need to talk to your cruise ship representative about the Formal Night.

If you find that you are just really stressing out about the dinner cruise event, just make it easy on yourself. Call up the cruise line ahead of time to find out just what is required. Are they offering rentals? Will there be a theme to the Formal Night? Preparing yourself for this event will keep the stress levels to a minimum and allow you to truly enjoy the Toronto Harbour cruise.

Formal Night is a night meant to be super romantic and beautiful. While not everyone enjoys dressing up, it is still a wonderful occasion to enjoy your partner and have fun in a more upscale environment where you can be the belle of the ball or the prince of the hour for a short while. Just be prepared and arrange everything ahead of time to make sure you won’t be thinking about the event the whole time.

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Cruise Ships: The Common Advantages and Disadvantages

Filed Under (Cruises) by sammy maseko on 26-09-2008

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by Sammy Maseko

When it comes to vacationing aboard a cruise ship, many individuals consider preparation to be the luggage that they plan to bring with them. Packing for your cruise ship vacation is important; however, it is not the only preparation that should occur. Preparation shouldn’t wait until the week before your trip. Rather, it should begin as soon as you book your cruise ship reservation.

To pay for onboard and port activities, you will need to bring along extra money. Vacationing aboard a cruise ship is similar to vacationing anywhere else in the world. You are encouraged not to carry large sums of cash with you. If you must bring cash along, you are encouraged to divide your money up and place it in safe locations. Almost all cruise ships and popular cruise ship ports accept credit cards, cashiers checks, money orders, or traveler’s checks. These forms of payments are great alternatives to carrying cash.

Once you have made the above mentioned preparations, you can begin focusing on other preparations, such as packing your luggage. When packing, you are urged to keep the climate of your cruise in mind. At the same time, you should be prepared for unexpected weather. Making the proper cruise ship preparations will ensure that your vacation will be a success.

Advantages and disadvantages of all-inclusive cruise ships

Vacationing is a pastime that is enjoyed by many. While vacations are nice, needed, and important, they can become costly. This cost is often associated with additional expenses such as food, beverages, and entertainment. If you are interested in vacationing aboard a cruise ship, but you are worried about the cost, you don’t necessarily have to be.

The biggest advantage of all-inclusive cruise ships is that most of your needs are taken care of. As previously mentioned, most all-inclusive cruises cover food, drinks, and entertainment. If you are interested in drinking a large amount of alcohol or feasting on the amazing onboard food, you may be able to do so free of charge. You may also be granted exclusive admittance into movie theatres and video arcades.

When it comes to the cost of an all-inclusive cruise, there are many travelers who get confused. The cost of an all-inclusive cruise may seem high, but it is often that way to cover the cruise line’s expenses. For many individuals, the cost of an all-inclusive cruise is a great value. To determine whether or not you will save money aboard an all-inclusive cruise, you need to estimate your cost of food, drinks, and entertainment aboard a traditional cruise. Simply by comparing the two, you can easily determine which cruise package offers the better deal.

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The Beauty of Bare Boat Charter to Croatia

Filed Under (Cruises) by David Swanson on 13-09-2008

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by Mary Swanson

Is Bare Boat Charter to Croatia For You

A bare boat charter Croatia gives you the freedom to view the beauty of the Republic of Croatia, known as the land of a thousand islands and a haven for boaters. Yacht charter and all other significant segments of nautical tourism have been brought together under the Croatian Association of Nautical Tourism. This association was established as a professional organization within the Croatian Chamber of Commerce.

Before you sign up to take a Bare Boat Charter Croatia, we suggest you determine what you are hoping to get from the vacation. A great example is if you and a loved one have had a hard time getting some much-needed alone time, then you could take a romantic chartered yacht, sailing the seas during the day, dancing on deck at sunset, dining on fine cuisine, and creating a wonderful memory.

Exploring Bare Boat Charter Tortola

Your adventure aboard a bare boat charter Tortola will begin just minutes after casting off from the docks, as you find yourself cruising towards an abundance of quiet and protected anchorages. You will discover breathtaking islands and pristine beaches and perhaps find yourself swaying to the rhythm of steel drums at an open air beach bar!

Bare Boat Charter BVI

Bare boat charter BVI, will have an excellent selection of monohulls and catamarans available for charter for those familiar with boats that want the freedom of a bare boat charter. A bare boat charter is a flexible way to sail as well as private and is far less expensive than a fully crewed charter yacht.

Planning your bare boat charter BVI and choosing the type of yacht would best accommodate your group is a fun process. Most companies will have photos of their yachts with floor plans and specs to make your decision a bit easier. You do want to see what you will be getting for the money.

If you are an experienced sailor who loves the feel of the wind in your face as the yacht heals over the crystal clear Caribbean seas you can save by doing a bare boat charter BVI. A bare boat charter BVI is a spacious, air-conditioned yacht with a large cockpit in which to sunbathe and drink a cocktail and a yacht that is fully equipped, clean and professionally maintained.

If you want to have a great cruise vacation you will have many incredible choices to choose from. This type of vacation is well suited for the entire family.

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Snap Up a Cruise Special

Filed Under (Cruises) by Jeff Glasser on 07-09-2008

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by Jeff Glasser

Years ago taking a cruise was only for the very well to do, but today simply by checking want ads and websites, you can find a cruise special that fits your budget. There are many cruise specials available, whether it’s a three-day voyage, five-day, nine-day or even longer.

Many times though you will have to plan your vacation around the dates of a cruise. They are varied and numerous, but they are not flexible. You leave when the boat leaves and returns when it does. Following that simple rule you should find a cruise special available when you are ready.

Vacationstogo.com is a source of last-minute cruise offerings from a variety of cruise lines. Many discounts are available over a 90-day booking range. However, if you’re looking to sail on a particular ship or with a certain company, you will usually need to book even farther in advance.

The Quicker You Go, the Lower the Cost

The best cruise specials may be available when there’s a shorter time between booking and sailing, but your choices may be limited. Cruise lines often lower prices to fill staterooms and agencies may lower their price to meet their quota of the number of passengers they are responsible for booking, as the sail date approaches.

For example, an agency may get a set price per person, and so pre-purchases a set number of rooms. If it doesn’t sell that number of rooms, the price for what they did sell may go up and the agency will be paying the difference, not the travelers with whom they have a signed deal. It behooves them to sell all the trips even if that involves offering some cruise specials, which means their profit margin will only be a little lower.

Depending on the importance you place on the type of room you stay in, you may find a cruise special on a suite instead of an inside room or just the opposite. If you’re the type planning to party and spend the majority of your time on deck, then the type of room you sleep in probably won’t be that important and some of the best cruise special deals can be found for some of the least expensive rooms. But the bottom line is that if you’re looking for a cruise special and can be flexible in your travel dates, there are many to take advantage of.

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Royal Caribbean International Cruise

Filed Under (Cruises) by sammy maseko on 06-09-2008

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by Sammy Maseko

If you are looking for a vacation with a difference then you really need to book a Caribbean cruise because it will be one you never forget. There is fantastic scenery, beautiful beaches, and exotic Caribbean island locations; on the cruise liner itself you will have entertainment and a full program of activities at anytime of the day or night. How long you sail for really is up to your budget and what standard of cabin you want but these tours can be add-ons for other vacations or as long as fourteen or more days.

Vacations like this are about enjoyment and it what these companies do best irrespective of weather or environment, it is your choice; enjoy the on board entertainment or that at each destination. Never worry that there will not be enough to keep you occupied as cruise liners are past masters at ensuring their travelers have everything they need.

Planning is the key to vacationing and with the number of packages now available it will be well worth your time to have a chat with your tour operator’s agent. Caribbean cruises travel to most parts of the world, but with different price packages for each itinerary together with the duration and the number of places visited.

If your ideal cruise vacation includes partying by the beach or the deck pool, even at a disco well then choose a cruise with plenty of activities. Don’t forget that more and more information is put online these days and while the travel agent will be helpful, there is every chance you can take a virtual tour of the Caribbean cruise ships if you visit the website directly.

Besides the usual, you need to pack suitable attire for many occasions like formal evening wear as well as beach, deck and other casual wear. These are the sort of times when you will need to have a tuxedo for men and evening gown for women as part of your attire.

Don’t worry if you are uncertain about taking your children along on a cruise vacations because there will be plenty for them to do without you needing to be close at hand, watching over them. There is always something for them to do and people to take care of them if you need a few hours of adult time.

Couples can take a romantic Caribbean cruise vacation and you will have the holiday you look forward to on a vacation vessel that is for adults only. There is no end to what you can actually request on your cruise liner vacation so if you have just got married or are celebrating your fiftieth wedding anniversary, something special can be arranged.

The whole idea of a Caribbean cruise vacation is that you enjoy yourself and just let go for however long you are on board because it may be some time before you go again!

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