By Judy Newell

Mexico News

Club Med Offering 45 percent off (plus Perks) 

With Club Med’s ‘Spring into Summer Sale’ enjoy up to 45 percent off, plus perks, on all-inclusive summer escapes at Club Med’s top resorts throughout Canada, Mexico, Florida, and the Caribbean. 

The pioneer of the all-inclusive concept, Club Med’s promotional perks include free stays for kids under 4, a free room upgrade, no single room supplement, and flexible cancellations—ideal for those looking to book upcoming value-driven summer family travel. 

Each Club Med resort boasts expansive outdoor areas, comfortable accommodations, unlimited culinary experiences, and a variety of land and water sports. 

International News

Auckland and Queenstown Bonanza

Independent vacation; 10 days, 7 nights; Dates July 24-September 17, 2022

Price from US$2,099 per person, based on double occupancy.

Auckland is the ‘City of Sails’ and offers pretty much every activity that you could wish for, from high-speed America’s Cup racing yachts to a casual cruise on the harbor. Beyond the city you will find islands like Waiheke, known for their local artists and wineries.

Magnificent vistas and vast mountain ranges dominate the cosmopolitan resort town of Queenstown. ‘Something for everyone’ has true meaning in Queenstown, where scenery inspires amateur photographers; the twang of the Bungy cord speaks volumes to adrenaline devotees; a lively downtown buzz attracts the urban soul; and wine buffs are drawn to world-renowned vineyards.

Inclusions

• Round-trip airfare on Air New Zealand from Los Angeles to Auckland and Queenstown
• Three nights Auckland, choice of hotel grade
• Four nights Queenstown, choice of hotel grade
• US and foreign taxes and fees including September 11 Security Fee

Paris and Amsterdam by Rail Special with Flights

Visit the city of lights and Amsterdam at an unmatched price – US$1119 now $899

Lead price travel dates: Feb. 2 and 9, 2023
Valid for departures: Sep.–Oct. 2022, Nov. 2022–Feb. 2023

Package includes:

• Flights New York-Paris, Amsterdam-New York
  Other departure cities available. 
• Airline taxes and fuel surcharges
• 6 nights accommodations 
  • 3 nights Paris
  • 3 nights Amsterdam
• Transportation between cities via Standard Class high-speed rail with reserved seats
• Breakfast daily

Cruise News

Crystal Cruises Ships Sold at Auction 

Two Crystal Cruises ships up for auction have been sold. The sale of Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity raised US$128 million.

Symphony was sold for $25 million and Serenity for $103 million, according to officials in the Bahamas. The ships were held in the Bahamas following the collapse of Crystal owner Genting Hong Kong.

No details about the buyers were disclosed. Both ships exceeded their appraised value.

Meanwhile, Silversea Cruises is reportedly set to become the new owner of Crystal Endeavor. Silversea filed a trademark application for the name Silver Endeavor with the United States Patent and Trademark Office. 

Deal of the Week

Majestic India 

Experience the richness of Indian culture with this fascinating 10-day small-group tour to India. 

Begin your journey in Delhi and discover the breathtaking palaces and lively markets of Old and New Delhi. Travel to Agra to visit the Taj Mahal, the most famous tourist attraction in India. Continue your journey to Jaipur, the Pink City with vibrant buildings and palaces proving its nickname. 

Explore Amber Fort and drive to Pushkar, a sacred city for Hindus, home to the famous camel and cattle-trading fair. Marvel over the eighth-century Brahma Temple dedicated to Lord Brahma and Pushkar Lake. 

Next, you will travel to Udaipur to discover the city of lakes and palaces with scenic views of the Aravalli Mountains. Make your way back to Delhi where you will end your tour of India.

Style: Small Group Tour with Guaranteed Departure 

Inclusions: 

• 8 nights accommodation on a twin sharing basis at listed deluxe hotels or similar
• Daily breakfast
• Arrival and departure airport transfers
• All transportation in an AC deluxe vehicle
• Services of an English-speaking tour director
• All sightseeing and entrance fees as per the itinerary
• Guided visit of Taj Mahal
• Demonstration of marble craftsmanship in Agra
• Excursion to Amber fort
• Visit to Pushkar lake and Brahma temple
• International round-trip airfare from various gateways
• Domestic airfare: Udaipur–Delhi (included for land only option)
• All local applicable taxes, air taxes, and fuel surcharges

Prices for this tour are per person, based on a twin/double sharing basis. Single supplement is available, starting at US$399 per person

Judy Newell, an international travel consultant for over 50 years, heads Perfect Journeys and specializes in unique travel experiences to destinations around the world. She custom designs journeys that are tailored to suit client’s interests, physical abilities, and budgets. Please contact Judy for further information on Ttrave News topics, Mexico, and international travel. Cell phone 415 111 8765; Vonage 949 300 3682; email at judynewell@perfectjourneys.net. Her office is in Rancho Los Labradores on the highway to Dolores Hidalgo.

Sources: Travel Mole, Down Under Answers, Gate 1 Travel, Indus Travel