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Check this list often as new tips, events and deals around Florida come in:
More than one Valentine in your life -- Elegant Hotels Group, a collection of five hotels in Barbados, understand that sometimes you can have more than one Valentine in your life. Instead of spending Valentine's Day weekend (Feb. 11-14) with just your husband or wife, you can show your whole family love by bringing them to Barbados to take advantage of the Winter Warm Up promotion, offering savings from up to 15 percent at The House to up to 40 percent at Tamarind Cove. Other savings include up to 30 percent at Turtle Beach Resort, up to 25 percent at Colony Club Hotel, and up to 20 percent at Crystal Cove. Booking through Feb. 28 for travel through Feb. 28. This promotion is valid for new reservations only, is subject to availability at time of booking and is not combinable with any other offer. Visit www.eleganthotels.com.
For last minute lovebirds -- The LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort in Naples is offering the All You Need Is Love package with rates starting at $659 and valid through March. The package includes a Coco Mango Couples Massage, half-day private cabana by the pool, dinner for two at BALEENnaples, and a Sunset Cruise. Visit www.laplayaresort.com.
Theme cruises out of Fort Lauderdale -- MSC Cruises is featuring baseball themed Caribbean cruises aboard the MSC Poesia departing from Fort Lauderdale. The Baseball Greats voyages that include free interactive guest/player activities, player-hosted trivia game, question-and-answer sessions with the players, autograph session, and a guest pitching contest. Players also host. Player lineup will be announced at a later date. Among the Baseball Greats cruises is a Nov. 14, seven-night Eastern Caribbean sailing to St. Thomas, St. Maarten and Nassau. MSC Cruises will also feature Big Band cruises that showcase the 16-piece Les DeMerle Big Band with vocalist Bonnie Eisele. In addition to performances, the band will present a Big Band Jazz Concert and DeMerle will give a lecture on the Big Band Era. The Big Band theme will be featured during a nine-night Canada/New England voyage from Quebec City to Fort Lauderdale on Oct. 23. Visit www.MSCCruisesUSA.com.
For young explorers -- National Geographic Children's Books' Voices of Ancient Egypt ($6.95) by Kay Winters welcomes young readers to the world of the Pyramid builder, scribe, goldsmith, weaver and other workers. The workers speak, telling their own story and each opening a window to their ancient world. Winters has visited Egypt twice as a language arts consultant in the American International Schools in Cairo and Alexandria, and is the author of a number of children's books. Voices of Ancient Egypt was illustrated by Barry Moser, whose art is in such prestigious collections as the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the British Museum. Moser has illustrated some 200 titles for children and adults. Visit www.ngchildrensbooks.com.
Water play on the water -- Disney Cruise Line has unveiled new details on its newest ship, the Disney Dream. In addition to the previously announced shipboard water coaster, the ship will have a themed interactive sports deck, whimsical water play area and relaxing poolside oasis for adults. On Goofy's Sports Deck, guests will find Goofy's Golf, a nine-hole themed miniature golf course; two digital sports simulators providing virtual game experiences such as soccer, tennis, basketball and golf; a full-court basketball that can be transformed into a mini soccer pitch or volleyball court and two mini-sized sports courts for children to enjoy soccer, basketball or group play. At Nemo's Reef, a 1,500-square feet water-play area shaded from the sun and featuring a soft wet-deck surface, kids find pop jets, bubblers and underwater friends like Nemo, Dory, Marlin and other characters from the Disney-Pixar film "Finding Nemo." And reserved for guests 18 and older, the Quiet Cove Pool and Cove Bar is a retreat for adults to sunbathe, swim, enjoy a cool beverage or a dip in a nearby hot tub. Visit www.disneycruise.com.
Winter fun in Miami -- Kimpton's EPIC Hotel in downtown Miami is offering the Spark Winter Fun Package including a $25 food and beverage credit per room per day and complimentary in-room movie and popcorn. The package is subject to availability and is valid through March 31. Room rates fluctuate depending on night of stay. The hotel is located at 270 Biscayne Boulevard Way, Visit www.epichotel.com.
Deals in Orlando -- Fresh off the distinction by Travel Leader's as the top domestic destination being booked for 2010, the Orlando/Orange County Convention & Visitors Bureau has launched a new program featuring rotating Super Deals for travel any time throughout the year. Only available through www.VisitOrlando.com/deals, Southwest Vacations kicks off the Super Deal program with an exclusive Orlando CVB offer starting at $34 a day for a seven day Orlando vacation. Offer details include three free nights from now until March 1 when visitors purchase a flight and seven-night hotel package at select Orlando hotels including locations like Loews Royal Pacific Resort at Universal Orlando and the Walt Disney World Dolphin. Travelers who book this offer on www.VisitOrlando.com/deals will save an extra $150. In addition, a seven-day Disney's Magic Your Way Ticket can be added to the package for the price of a four-day ticket. This Southwest Vacations Super Deal is available to book through March 1, but travel can take place anytime during 2010. A new limited-time Super Deal will be unveiled on March 2 and new Super Deals will continue to rotate through 2010. In addition to the Super Deals, the Orlando CBV unveiled its 2010 Orlando Magicard that provides year-round savings in more than 75 area attractions, accommodations, restaurants and more. The card is free and can be downloaded at www.VisitOrlando.com/deals. & nbsp;
The flavors of South Beach -- Visitors who wish to savor the flavor of the South Beach Wine & Food Festival (Feb. 25-28) may wish to check out the W South Beach Wonderful Weekend Package priced at $825 per night. Guests will enjoy three nights' accommodations, two cocktails, to tickets to Mischieve in the Garden of Agave, two tickets to Perrier Jouet BubbleQ, two tickets to Whole Food Market Grand Tasting Village. Visit www.starwoodhotels.com/Whotels.
The colors of Bradenton -- ArtCenter Manatee in Bradenton was chosen as one of six locations in the country to host the American Watercolor Society's (AWS) 142nd Annual Traveling Exhibition now through Feb. 28. Originally housed at the Salmagundi Gallery in New York City, the juried exhibition showcases 40 watercolor artists from throughout the U.S. and Canada. In conjunction with the exhibition, members of the Florida Suncoast Watercolor Society will present their work in adjacent galleries at ArtCenter Manatee. The AWS exhibit will kick off an entire season of arts and cultural events in downtown Bradenton, as well as a new VIP Passport program that will offer visitors discounts on accommodations, events and attractions including several Bradenton area arts and cultural events taking place through March, 2010. Visit www.realizebradenton.com/pass.
Panama City Beach special -- By the Sea Resorts on Panama City Beach is offering winter rates starting at $59 per couple, based on double occupancy through Feb. 26. Included are Gulf-front accommodations, free continental breakfast, free kids meals with every adult meal purchased, $10 off 18 holes or $5 off nine holes at nearby Holiday Golf Club. Rates are based on double occupancy and do not include tax; advance reservations required and golf discount applicable on morning rates only. Visit www.bythesearesorts.com.
Heroes, troops offer extended -- The Courtyard by Marriott Fort Lauderdale Beach is extending its Heroes/Troops Holiday offer through March 31. The program salutes the U.S. Armed Forces and First Responders (police, sheriff, fire and emergency medical services for their dedication, offering them guest rooms at 50 percent off the best available rate. To qualify for the discounted rate, guests must present a valid and current government identification card at booking. Military family members must present a "dependent" identification card if traveling separately. Visit http://www.ftlauderdaleoceanfront.com/. The Courtyard by Marriott Fort Lauderdale Beach is operated by Pyramid Hotel Group with its portfolio of managed properties including hotels from well-regarded brand names. To book a stay or to see a list of all of the hotels offering this promotion, visit http://www.pyramidhotelgroup.com.
Variety of cruise tours -- Holland America Line will highlight Canada's Yukon Territory in 2010. Of its 31 Alaska and the Yukon Cruise Tours, 13 include Yukon destinations such as Whitehorse, Dawson City Tombstone Territorial Park and Kluane National Park. New this year is the Best of the Yukon Cruise Tour, a just-introduced Expedition Cruise Tour. Cruise Tours featuring the Yukon range from 10 to 20 days and depart May 9-Aug. 28. All combine a three-, four- or seven-day Inside Passage cruise with a land tour of top destinations in Alaska and the Yukon. Cruise Tours featuring the Yukon start at $1,249 per person, double. Visit www.hollandamerica.com.
Valentine's Day packages at Discovery Cove -- Discovery Cove in Orlando is offering three Valentine's Day packages to add to a day of swimming with dolphins, snorkeling with rays and tropical fish and relaxing on the park's beaches. The packages are available through all of February. Among the offerings is the Valentine's Honey Package which includes a souvenir 6 x 8 photo and frame, boxed chocolates and a keepsake buoy with a personalized message delivered to your sweetheart by one of the park's Atlantic bottlenose dolphins. The package starts at $74.95. Package price is addition to park admission and require the purchase of at least one dolphin-swim package (starting at $199 per person, plus tax). Visit www.discoverycove.com.
Companion flies free -- American Airlines Vacations, in conjunction with American Airlines, is extending their companion flies free offer. In celebration of American Airlines service to Barbados with non-stop routes including from Miami, travelers can book their vacations exclusively on www.AAVacations.com from now until Feb. 12 and their companion flies free with the purchase of a package that includes the flight and a four-night hotel stay. Companion flies free on any fare to Barbadis for economy class travel on American Airlines, American Eagle or American Connection. Purchase of combined flight and four nights hotel is required. Limited-time offer is valid on new bookings made now until Feb. 12 for travel between now and May 31, depending on availability. See details and requirements at www.aavacations.com/Barbados.
Feel your heart racing in the Bahamas -- Marathon lovers who love to get their hearts racing can kick off Valentine's Day by participating in the First Bahamas Marathon of the Century at Nassau's Sheraton Nassau Beach Resort. The resort is offering runners and spectators a Special Marathon Bahamas 2010 rate with rooms starting at $199 per night. As an added treat, there will be a comedy performance in the resort's ballroom by comedian Cedric "The Entertainer" so guests can laugh with the ones they love on Feb. 14 (tickets start at $75 each). Marathon Bahamas 2010 brings together hundreds of local and international runners in support of local charities in Nassau on Feb. 14. It will be the first marathon on New Providence Island, where Nassau is located, since the turn of the century. The Marathon Bahamas 2010 Rate is available for guests who book and travel by Feb. 14. Visit www.SheratonNassau.com.
African-American film festival in West Palm Beach -- The African-American Film Festival at the Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts in West Palm Beach will shine the spotlight on a series of films for audiences of all ages and races on March 11, 18 and 25. This season the festival will be expanded to include a segment for the high school student population. Show times, at the Picower Foundation Arts Education Center in the Cohen Pavilion, are at 7 p.m. each day of the festival. Tickets are $10 per night or $25 for the entire festival. Visit www.kravis.org.
Mardi Gras at Universal Orlando -- It's that time of year again and Universal Orlando Resort is kicking off its 15th year of Mardi Gras on Feb. 6. Performers include Aretha Franklin, The Beach Boys, Akon, 3 Doors Down and Chicago. Visitors can sample Cajun flavors at Universal's "French Quarter" and enjoy floats commemorating past years. Concerts are slated for Saturdays and select nights Feb. 6-April 17 and are included in regular theme park admission ($79 for adults, $68 for children ages 3-9). Visit www.universalorlando.com.
Disney special package -- Walt Disney World Resort is offering a special "Magic Your Way" package including accommodations for five nights, a six-day Magic Your Way Base Ticket with admission to one of the four Walt Disney World theme parks valid each day of stay, and one of the following: at Disney Value Resorts, a free $300 Disney Gift Card for stays most nights Jan. 18-Feb. 9, Feb. 15-March 27 and April 11-June 3; at Disney Moderate Resorts, a free $500 Disney Gift Card for stays most nights Jan. 18-March 27 and April 11-June 3; at Disney Deluxe Resorts, a free $750 Disney Gift Card for stays most nights Jan. 19-March 27 and April 11-June 3. Visit www.disneyworld.com
Winter spa deals -- Ixtapan Spa Hotel & Golf Resort, in the foothills of the Sierra Madre Mountains in Mexico, is featuring winter spa deals available through March 27. A four-night Spa Classic deal is priced from $654.50 per person, double; a seven-night Spa Classic program is priced from $999 per person, double. Visit www.spamexico.com.
More than one Valentine in your life -- Elegant Hotels Group, a collection of five hotels in Barbados, understand that sometimes you can have more than one Valentine in your life. Instead of spending Valentine's Day weekend (Feb. 11-14) with just your husband or wife, you can show your whole family love by bringing them to Barbados to take advantage of the Winter Warm Up promotion, offering savings from up to 15 percent at The House to up to 40 percent at Tamarind Cove. Other savings include up to 30 percent at Turtle Beach Resort, up to 25 percent at Colony Club Hotel, and up to 20 percent at Crystal Cove. Booking through Feb. 28 for travel through Feb. 28. This promotion is valid for new reservations only, is subject to availability at time of booking and is not combinable with any other offer. Visit www.eleganthotels.com.
For last minute lovebirds -- The LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort in Naples is offering the All You Need Is Love package with rates starting at $659 and valid through March. The package includes a Coco Mango Couples Massage, half-day private cabana by the pool, dinner for two at BALEENnaples, and a Sunset Cruise. Visit www.laplayaresort.com.
Theme cruises out of Fort Lauderdale -- MSC Cruises is featuring baseball themed Caribbean cruises aboard the MSC Poesia departing from Fort Lauderdale. The Baseball Greats voyages that include free interactive guest/player activities, player-hosted trivia game, question-and-answer sessions with the players, autograph session, and a guest pitching contest. Players also host. Player lineup will be announced at a later date. Among the Baseball Greats cruises is a Nov. 14, seven-night Eastern Caribbean sailing to St. Thomas, St. Maarten and Nassau. MSC Cruises will also feature Big Band cruises that showcase the 16-piece Les DeMerle Big Band with vocalist Bonnie Eisele. In addition to performances, the band will present a Big Band Jazz Concert and DeMerle will give a lecture on the Big Band Era. The Big Band theme will be featured during a nine-night Canada/New England voyage from Quebec City to Fort Lauderdale on Oct. 23. Visit www.MSCCruisesUSA.com.
For young explorers -- National Geographic Children's Books' Voices of Ancient Egypt ($6.95) by Kay Winters welcomes young readers to the world of the Pyramid builder, scribe, goldsmith, weaver and other workers. The workers speak, telling their own story and each opening a window to their ancient world. Winters has visited Egypt twice as a language arts consultant in the American International Schools in Cairo and Alexandria, and is the author of a number of children's books. Voices of Ancient Egypt was illustrated by Barry Moser, whose art is in such prestigious collections as the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the British Museum. Moser has illustrated some 200 titles for children and adults. Visit www.ngchildrensbooks.com.
Water play on the water -- Disney Cruise Line has unveiled new details on its newest ship, the Disney Dream. In addition to the previously announced shipboard water coaster, the ship will have a themed interactive sports deck, whimsical water play area and relaxing poolside oasis for adults. On Goofy's Sports Deck, guests will find Goofy's Golf, a nine-hole themed miniature golf course; two digital sports simulators providing virtual game experiences such as soccer, tennis, basketball and golf; a full-court basketball that can be transformed into a mini soccer pitch or volleyball court and two mini-sized sports courts for children to enjoy soccer, basketball or group play. At Nemo's Reef, a 1,500-square feet water-play area shaded from the sun and featuring a soft wet-deck surface, kids find pop jets, bubblers and underwater friends like Nemo, Dory, Marlin and other characters from the Disney-Pixar film "Finding Nemo." And reserved for guests 18 and older, the Quiet Cove Pool and Cove Bar is a retreat for adults to sunbathe, swim, enjoy a cool beverage or a dip in a nearby hot tub. Visit www.disneycruise.com.
Winter fun in Miami -- Kimpton's EPIC Hotel in downtown Miami is offering the Spark Winter Fun Package including a $25 food and beverage credit per room per day and complimentary in-room movie and popcorn. The package is subject to availability and is valid through March 31. Room rates fluctuate depending on night of stay. The hotel is located at 270 Biscayne Boulevard Way, Visit www.epichotel.com.
Deals in Orlando -- Fresh off the distinction by Travel Leader's as the top domestic destination being booked for 2010, the Orlando/Orange County Convention & Visitors Bureau has launched a new program featuring rotating Super Deals for travel any time throughout the year. Only available through www.VisitOrlando.com/deals, Southwest Vacations kicks off the Super Deal program with an exclusive Orlando CVB offer starting at $34 a day for a seven day Orlando vacation. Offer details include three free nights from now until March 1 when visitors purchase a flight and seven-night hotel package at select Orlando hotels including locations like Loews Royal Pacific Resort at Universal Orlando and the Walt Disney World Dolphin. Travelers who book this offer on www.VisitOrlando.com/deals will save an extra $150. In addition, a seven-day Disney's Magic Your Way Ticket can be added to the package for the price of a four-day ticket. This Southwest Vacations Super Deal is available to book through March 1, but travel can take place anytime during 2010. A new limited-time Super Deal will be unveiled on March 2 and new Super Deals will continue to rotate through 2010. In addition to the Super Deals, the Orlando CBV unveiled its 2010 Orlando Magicard that provides year-round savings in more than 75 area attractions, accommodations, restaurants and more. The card is free and can be downloaded at www.VisitOrlando.com/deals. & nbsp;
The flavors of South Beach -- Visitors who wish to savor the flavor of the South Beach Wine & Food Festival (Feb. 25-28) may wish to check out the W South Beach Wonderful Weekend Package priced at $825 per night. Guests will enjoy three nights' accommodations, two cocktails, to tickets to Mischieve in the Garden of Agave, two tickets to Perrier Jouet BubbleQ, two tickets to Whole Food Market Grand Tasting Village. Visit www.starwoodhotels.com/Whotels.
The colors of Bradenton -- ArtCenter Manatee in Bradenton was chosen as one of six locations in the country to host the American Watercolor Society's (AWS) 142nd Annual Traveling Exhibition now through Feb. 28. Originally housed at the Salmagundi Gallery in New York City, the juried exhibition showcases 40 watercolor artists from throughout the U.S. and Canada. In conjunction with the exhibition, members of the Florida Suncoast Watercolor Society will present their work in adjacent galleries at ArtCenter Manatee. The AWS exhibit will kick off an entire season of arts and cultural events in downtown Bradenton, as well as a new VIP Passport program that will offer visitors discounts on accommodations, events and attractions including several Bradenton area arts and cultural events taking place through March, 2010. Visit www.realizebradenton.com/pass.
Panama City Beach special -- By the Sea Resorts on Panama City Beach is offering winter rates starting at $59 per couple, based on double occupancy through Feb. 26. Included are Gulf-front accommodations, free continental breakfast, free kids meals with every adult meal purchased, $10 off 18 holes or $5 off nine holes at nearby Holiday Golf Club. Rates are based on double occupancy and do not include tax; advance reservations required and golf discount applicable on morning rates only. Visit www.bythesearesorts.com.
Heroes, troops offer extended -- The Courtyard by Marriott Fort Lauderdale Beach is extending its Heroes/Troops Holiday offer through March 31. The program salutes the U.S. Armed Forces and First Responders (police, sheriff, fire and emergency medical services for their dedication, offering them guest rooms at 50 percent off the best available rate. To qualify for the discounted rate, guests must present a valid and current government identification card at booking. Military family members must present a "dependent" identification card if traveling separately. Visit http://www.ftlauderdaleoceanfront.com/. The Courtyard by Marriott Fort Lauderdale Beach is operated by Pyramid Hotel Group with its portfolio of managed properties including hotels from well-regarded brand names. To book a stay or to see a list of all of the hotels offering this promotion, visit http://www.pyramidhotelgroup.com.
Variety of cruise tours -- Holland America Line will highlight Canada's Yukon Territory in 2010. Of its 31 Alaska and the Yukon Cruise Tours, 13 include Yukon destinations such as Whitehorse, Dawson City Tombstone Territorial Park and Kluane National Park. New this year is the Best of the Yukon Cruise Tour, a just-introduced Expedition Cruise Tour. Cruise Tours featuring the Yukon range from 10 to 20 days and depart May 9-Aug. 28. All combine a three-, four- or seven-day Inside Passage cruise with a land tour of top destinations in Alaska and the Yukon. Cruise Tours featuring the Yukon start at $1,249 per person, double. Visit www.hollandamerica.com.
Valentine's Day packages at Discovery Cove -- Discovery Cove in Orlando is offering three Valentine's Day packages to add to a day of swimming with dolphins, snorkeling with rays and tropical fish and relaxing on the park's beaches. The packages are available through all of February. Among the offerings is the Valentine's Honey Package which includes a souvenir 6 x 8 photo and frame, boxed chocolates and a keepsake buoy with a personalized message delivered to your sweetheart by one of the park's Atlantic bottlenose dolphins. The package starts at $74.95. Package price is addition to park admission and require the purchase of at least one dolphin-swim package (starting at $199 per person, plus tax). Visit www.discoverycove.com.
Companion flies free -- American Airlines Vacations, in conjunction with American Airlines, is extending their companion flies free offer. In celebration of American Airlines service to Barbados with non-stop routes including from Miami, travelers can book their vacations exclusively on www.AAVacations.com from now until Feb. 12 and their companion flies free with the purchase of a package that includes the flight and a four-night hotel stay. Companion flies free on any fare to Barbadis for economy class travel on American Airlines, American Eagle or American Connection. Purchase of combined flight and four nights hotel is required. Limited-time offer is valid on new bookings made now until Feb. 12 for travel between now and May 31, depending on availability. See details and requirements at www.aavacations.com/Barbados.
Feel your heart racing in the Bahamas -- Marathon lovers who love to get their hearts racing can kick off Valentine's Day by participating in the First Bahamas Marathon of the Century at Nassau's Sheraton Nassau Beach Resort. The resort is offering runners and spectators a Special Marathon Bahamas 2010 rate with rooms starting at $199 per night. As an added treat, there will be a comedy performance in the resort's ballroom by comedian Cedric "The Entertainer" so guests can laugh with the ones they love on Feb. 14 (tickets start at $75 each). Marathon Bahamas 2010 brings together hundreds of local and international runners in support of local charities in Nassau on Feb. 14. It will be the first marathon on New Providence Island, where Nassau is located, since the turn of the century. The Marathon Bahamas 2010 Rate is available for guests who book and travel by Feb. 14. Visit www.SheratonNassau.com.
African-American film festival in West Palm Beach -- The African-American Film Festival at the Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts in West Palm Beach will shine the spotlight on a series of films for audiences of all ages and races on March 11, 18 and 25. This season the festival will be expanded to include a segment for the high school student population. Show times, at the Picower Foundation Arts Education Center in the Cohen Pavilion, are at 7 p.m. each day of the festival. Tickets are $10 per night or $25 for the entire festival. Visit www.kravis.org.
Mardi Gras at Universal Orlando -- It's that time of year again and Universal Orlando Resort is kicking off its 15th year of Mardi Gras on Feb. 6. Performers include Aretha Franklin, The Beach Boys, Akon, 3 Doors Down and Chicago. Visitors can sample Cajun flavors at Universal's "French Quarter" and enjoy floats commemorating past years. Concerts are slated for Saturdays and select nights Feb. 6-April 17 and are included in regular theme park admission ($79 for adults, $68 for children ages 3-9). Visit www.universalorlando.com.
Disney special package -- Walt Disney World Resort is offering a special "Magic Your Way" package including accommodations for five nights, a six-day Magic Your Way Base Ticket with admission to one of the four Walt Disney World theme parks valid each day of stay, and one of the following: at Disney Value Resorts, a free $300 Disney Gift Card for stays most nights Jan. 18-Feb. 9, Feb. 15-March 27 and April 11-June 3; at Disney Moderate Resorts, a free $500 Disney Gift Card for stays most nights Jan. 18-March 27 and April 11-June 3; at Disney Deluxe Resorts, a free $750 Disney Gift Card for stays most nights Jan. 19-March 27 and April 11-June 3. Visit www.disneyworld.com
Winter spa deals -- Ixtapan Spa Hotel & Golf Resort, in the foothills of the Sierra Madre Mountains in Mexico, is featuring winter spa deals available through March 27. A four-night Spa Classic deal is priced from $654.50 per person, double; a seven-night Spa Classic program is priced from $999 per person, double. Visit www.spamexico.com.
