Cruise-n-Views December 09, 2003 Newsletter

Q & A

Q. When you hear someone refer to the "Port" side of the ship, that is left, correct? Tina M., OH

A. Yes, port is the left side of the ship. The right side is referred to as starboard. These are nautical terms and also have specific light colors to go with each side. Red is the color used to denote the port or left side and green is the color used to designate the right or starboard side.

People have many different ways to remember which is which. I will reveal the one that I think is the easiest to help you remember. As for left, red, port versus right, green, starboard, if you notice the first group, the answers are always shorter than the matching answer in the second group.

Simply, if you can not remember which is left, port or starboard, the word left is shorter than the word right and port is shorter than the word starboard! So port is the left side and starboard is the right side. Same for the color of lights, the word red is shorter than the word green, so therefore, red is left, or port, and green is right or starboard.

Thanks for the question Tina. If you have a question or would like something explained dealing with cruising or the cruise industry, simply send an email to:
Editor@Cruise-n-Views.com
and we will be glad to provide an answer for you in an upcoming newsletter. The more you participate, the more you get out of it!

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

"Off The Track Fact"
by Judy

Arica Chile is listed as the driest spot on earth. In fact, Arica has NEVER in history received a recordable rainfall. Surprisingly, the area is not as dusty as one would expect. In fact, it has a lower amount of dust than many other regions visited.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Windstar Spending 7 Million On Upgrades

Windstar Cruises has just completed massive upgrades to the entire fleet. Actually two of the three ships have been completed and the third is currently in drydock being completed.

After losing the fourth ship in the fleet last year, Wind Song, to a major on board fire, this shows a huge vote of confidence in the companies product from the parent company Holland America Line.

The ships will look new after these massive renovations. All carpeting has been replaced, every inch of teak decking has been sanded and restained, all pool decks have new furnishings, all staterooms are fully refurbished with new soft goods, wall treatments, redone bathrooms, and new entertainment centers. All main lounges have been redone with new audio and visual equipment. The main lobbies have been completely redone.

With these renovations completed and an almost completely looking new fleet, WindStar Cruises is looking forward to a very bright future as cruise volumes continue to increase.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

"Family" Cruising Growing Rapidly

According to Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) families are one of the fastest growing segments of the cruise market.

Is was estimated that nearly 1 million children cruised in 2002, a figure that has doubled in the past five years. With a sharp eye on the surge in family cruising, the industry has responded with new accommodations, dining, entertainment and itineraries planned to suit all ages.

One large segment involves family reunions. Gatherings of 30 to 50 multi-generational family relatives are becoming common. It allows the family to come together to enjoy family time as well as provide plenty of other activities for all age groups during other free time.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

"Predict The Date"
Contest
Now Awaits A Winner!

We hit and exceeded 20,000 subscribers this week. So as announced, the contest entry was closed and we now await the exact date we will hit 25,000 OPT IN subscribers.

This will most likely occur in the next 7 to 10 days. Winners will be posted in the following newsletter.

Hope you got your entry submitted! If not, then next contest, you know you need to act quickly.

The three winners of this contest will receive a FREE ONE YEAR MEMBERSHIP in DYNAMIC DREAM CRUISE CLUB! (Value $74)

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Country Flags and Facts

Numbers presented based on 2000 available data. GDP Income/Capita is Gross Domestic Product Income divided by total population. For comparison purposes, USA GDP Income/Capita in 2000 was $30,200

Chile

Total Pop.-- 15,600,000
Total Area-- 473,094 sq. miles
Capital City-- Santiago
City Pop.-- 5,500,000
Metro Pop.-- 5,500,000
Literacy Rate-- 96.2%
Language-- Spanish
GDP Income/Capita-- $11,600
Currency-- Chilean Peso

Fact: Chile's Coast stretches for 2,650 miles.
Chile has 4,021 miles of actual coastline.
Their flag is red, white & blue-- looks somewhat like a Texas flag

Cruise-n-Views Newsletter For Complete Up-To-Date Information On The Cruise Industry Issue #011 December 09 , 2003
FOR OUR NEW SUBSCRIBERS Welcome to another issue of Cruise-n-Views Newsletter. If you are new to our newsletter, welcome. We are glad to have you as a subscriber and hope you enjoy the information this weekly newsletter provides you to stay up-to-date on all the exciting happenings in the cruise industry. We also hope you take part in this newsletter, by submitting questions you want answered, providing feedback to help us improve the newsletter to make it even more enjoyable, and even participating in occasional surveys and then reading the results of our readers once posted. The more participation from the readers, the better the newsletter will be. Editor: Daniel A. Hoffman, MCC This newsletter contains current news and information on the "Cruise" industry. It will also contain the "Views" of the editor on different issues within the industry. The editor owns and operates a cruise oriented travel agency located in Pennsylvania. This newsletter's main purpose IS NOT AND WILL NOT BE for the purpose of selling cruises. It will at times contain ads from different sources. All ads will be cruise or travel related. It will list cruise specials from time to time in the ad section, but as stated, this is not the primary purpose of this newsletter.
"Predict The Date" Entry is now closed. We hit the closing mark of 20,000 this week so now we await the exact date we hit 25,000 to see which of you win: ONE YEAR FREE MEMBERSHIP in DYNAMIC DREAM CRUISE CLUB
	In This Issue #1 Arica, Chile #2 Coquimbo, Chile #3 Valparaiso, Chile PLUS -Q & A- -"Off The Track Fact"- -Windstar Spending $7 Million On Upgrades- -"Family" Cruising Growing Rapidly- -Country Flags and Facts-	Contact Info: You can email us at the following: Feedback@Cruise-n-Views.com for input about the newsletter Editor@Cruise-n-Views.com for submitting questions to have answered Reply@Cruise-n-Views.com for general replies or responses to articles in the newsletter
***Serving Over 21,650 Opt-In Subscribers Weekly!***
#1 ARICA, CHILE Port-Of-Call # 6 Here we are near the driest spot on the face of the earth, Arica Chile. Arica is just 30 miles south of Peru and lies at the mouth of the Azapa Valley, a green Oasis in the middle of the Atacama Desert. The mild climate encourages its being called "The City of Eternal Spring". With only 4 1/2 hours allotted, we take the challenge to see how much touring we can cram into that time frame. Again, interviewing a taxi driver is critical, and again our luck holds. Juan Luis, speaks little English, but has a great sense of what is important. We’re off--first stop is a metal church, "Church of San Marcos" designed by A. Gustave Eiffel. Yes, A. Gustave Eiffel is the "Eiffel" of Eiffel Tower. It’s all metal except for the beautiful wooden doors. Although the church appears high up the hill it replaces one which was destroyed by an earthquake-caused tidal wave earlier. Arica lies at the base of a desert mountain, adjacent to the Pacific. There is no vegetation except were irrigated. The city is made up mostly of low rise structures. Streets are clean, people are patient, pleasant, and unhurried. Many planted plazas and roadside areas help to add to the city’s pleasant atmosphere. Many buildings, built into the mountain side offer variety in design. Atop the arid mountain overlooking the sea and the city, is El Morro . Here the Chileans defeated the Peruvians and won Arica, in a decisive battle. The small military museum located here is quite interesting and what a view! Our visit to the Museo Arqueologico San Miguel de Azapa is truly a visit to the indigenous Pre-Inca Indians who inhabited this land thousands of years ago. Some are still with us as mummies. The climate and customs have combined to preserve many. We saw near perfect remains of all age groups. Many were over 6,000 years old while the oldest was approximately 13,000 years old. Clothing and other artifacts are not faded remnants as in some museums. Many are so well preserved as to appear nearly new. After this close-up view of Pre-Inca Culture, we look "long range"-- to the mountains. On the slopes are Petroglyphs and Geoglyphs. The images of men, llamas, other animals, and symbols are visible on the steep slopes. Some we estimate to exceed 200 feet in height. Not only "why"…but "how" this ancient art was accomplished remains a mystery. On the way back into town, we pass vast Olive Groves interspersed with fruit and vegetable farms--all irrigated. Our driver knows and stops for us to visit a family grove--no buses here. It is the "Three Marias", (Tres Marias). One of the three shows us around. She cuts us the sweetest banana ever tasted by us, from her tree and opens an olive barrel for us to sample. We purchase some fresh olives and olive oil and make another friend along our way! A note…change money in El centro upon arrival. US dollars are readily accepted but small bills are required and the rate varies significantly. We saw 475 to 640 Chilean Pesos to the dollar--museums give the worst exchange rate. Also be advised that cash is king, few places accept credit cards. We stopped at an "EKON" store. It was nearly as big as a Wal-Mart Superstore and had clothes, groceries, liquor, drugs and many other items. Arica the port is busy. Alot of cargo traffic today. We are the only cruise ship in this rather small protected harbor. Arica is the only access to Ocean traffic and markets for the landlocked Bolivia. The train from Arica to La Paz, Bolivia is its lifeline. Our introduction to Chile is a satisfying one. We look forward to the other ports on our itinerary, now that we have had such a great experience. Anchors aweigh, onward to Coquimbo! The preceding article was written and contributed by: Capt. Lou Hoffman *** * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * #2 COQUIMBO, CHILE Port-Of-Call # 7 Coquimbo, Chile will forever be associated with Roses…yes, Roses! And with the incredible Cruz del Tercer Milenio memorial. The Monument celebrates 3,000 years of Chilean History and 2,000 years of Christianity. Although not totally complete until 2007, it already dominates this city’s landscape from all directions. (Photo provided in masthead, but no photo can do it justice). On our way by taxi from the Dock to the top of the Mount (157 meters above sea level (515 feet)) we stopped on a narrow street to admire the small houses clinging to the steep rocks on which they are built. Judy takes the trouble to climb down a little path for a better view of a rose garden that takes up the entire back deck of a home overlooking the town and the sea. The housekeeper was instructed to cut several large blooms. They were graciously presented by the distinguished owner of the home. Alas, the roses did not survive the sun which later came out. The beauty of the gesture lives on. From atop the Cross’ viewing room which soars another 70 meters above the site (230 feet), we admire the arid, rocky escarpments on which the city spreads its’ wings. When totally complete another 23 meters will be added (75 feet). Other vistas are provided by a stop at the Sir Francis Drake Memorial to the Navigantes del Mundo. Then we go to a small seaside resort- La Herradora, a beautiful side trip. The sophistication of the world class beach front extending over five miles between the City and La Serena is a real eye opener. The "Circus" atmosphere associated with some resort areas is completely missing here. The excellent road along the seas’ edge boasts sidewalks, bike paths, benches, lights and landscaping. A string of "Pubs", restaurants, and resort condos line both sides in an alternating pattern and an un-crowded tasteful manner. Each appears more charming and beautiful than the one just passed. Every sailor loves lighthouses and I am anxious to visit "El Faro" at the end of the beach. It is impressive, but like many, in danger of being lost to the sea and surf. Our driver, Erlyen is far more polished, educated and well dressed than some. His manner goes beyond politeness to genuine graciousness. Erylen is such a knowledgeable guide that the "shopping spree" he leads for Gayle and Judy proves to be a real highlight of this Port-of-Call. The area is La Serena…somewhat modern and upscale. It’s very proud of the Historic Spanish Colonial Buildings and Churches. Some date to the mid 1600s’. Dan is not tied to the computer plug-in. For once, he accompanies Erlyen and the ladies to La Recova, a very large "Mercado", featuring handcrafted Chilean items, jewelry, and clothing. Captain Lou opts to visit the nearby museum which he believes to house items and statues from Easter Island--i.e., a Moai. It does!!! We group again after a quick trip through a large supermarket to buy fresh baked bread and Chilean cheese. The driver insists on carrying "everything" himself. On the return trip to the dock, Erlyen, stops to show us another metal church, again designed by Eiffel. Although smaller and more modest than the one in Arica, it is a must on your trip through Coquimbo. Back at the ship, (barely on time again) Erlyen goes well beyond anything expected. He pulls from the trunk of his taxi-- a single Red Rose for each of the ladies--before being paid or tipped. During taxi negotiations with a union taxi who wanted $20 per hour, that driver disgusted with me, asked Erlyen if he would take the fare for the $15 per hour offered. He graciously accepted and performed well beyond our expectations since we offered less money. Not once did we stop that he didn’t open all doors and rush to help us out and back in. The difference was more than made up for with our tip, and he was "very thankful". Already impressed with the Country of Chile, our group places a big gold star on the map for Coquimbo--- We will return! The preceding article was written and contributed by: Capt. Lou Hoffman * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *** #3 VALPARAISO, CHILE Port-Of-Call #8 Valparaiso…the journey’s beginning for some, the completion for others, and happily, the "continuation" for us! There’s a lot to be said for "back to back" cruises. It allows us to experience a leisure trip from Florida (see earlier issues) to Valparaiso for little more than the price of an airline ticket and a fast trip. We disembark- leisurely- for the day, planning to re-board later and a lot more easily than those just joining the ship. Where to go? Again, the most that can be seen in the least amount of time and as inexpensively as possible. Following the advice of a friend, Capt Bob Harrison--a retired South African Naval Officer currently living in South Florida, we’re off toward Viña del Mar. Capt. Bob has an extensive knowledge of a number of South American ports of call from his Navy days, and, he was certainly right about this one! Viña del Mar is a 6 mile taxi ride to the North from Valparaiso. "The City of Flowers"-- it’s aptly named! There is a huge clock made of flowers and permanently "planted" that welcomes visitors to this beautiful beachside resort. It’s definitely an upscale area. The 1930’s Casino is world famous for its Classic Design. The President’s Summer Palace dominates a hill overlooking us and the Harbor. The Naval/Maritime Museum Complex is impressive. We have the sea and park walkways on one side and very fine hotels and condos on the other. Continuing around a grand curve along the sea, we enter Renaca--a somewhat smaller and more "artsy" area. A real highlight for us here is the appearance of a large colony of "Sea Wolves". They are resting on the jagged and massive volcanic rocks close-in and just below us. They’re waiting for some sun-- none will appear through the dense cloud cover of overcast skies today! The appearance of a seaside antique flea market draws us in, and we bid our driver for the last hour good-bye. Dan buys his wife a lovely piece of jewelry--very practical. Capt. Lou being more intrigued by Easter Island, buys a heavy wooden "Moai" statue carved from an Easter Island-- guallacan tree. How’s that for practical? The captain did also find two superb pen and ink drawings of several local landmarks-- and at a very reasonable price. After a delicious lunch and a short walk through the seaside park area, we grab another taxi for our dash to the "Baron" section of Valparaiso where the ship awaits. Again, barely on time. It’s dejaveu for the next leg of our adventure! The preceding article was written and contributed by: Capt. Lou Hoffman			Q & A Q. When you hear someone refer to the "Port" side of the ship, that is left, correct? Tina M., OH A. Yes, port is the left side of the ship. The right side is referred to as starboard. These are nautical terms and also have specific light colors to go with each side. Red is the color used to denote the port or left side and green is the color used to designate the right or starboard side. People have many different ways to remember which is which. I will reveal the one that I think is the easiest to help you remember. As for left, red, port versus right, green, starboard, if you notice the first group, the answers are always shorter than the matching answer in the second group. Simply, if you can not remember which is left, port or starboard, the word left is shorter than the word right and port is shorter than the word starboard! So port is the left side and starboard is the right side. Same for the color of lights, the word red is shorter than the word green, so therefore, red is left, or port, and green is right or starboard. Thanks for the question Tina. If you have a question or would like something explained dealing with cruising or the cruise industry, simply send an email to: Editor@Cruise-n-Views.com and we will be glad to provide an answer for you in an upcoming newsletter. The more you participate, the more you get out of it! *** * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * "Off The Track Fact" by Judy Arica Chile is listed as the driest spot on earth. In fact, Arica has NEVER in history received a recordable rainfall. Surprisingly, the area is not as dusty as one would expect. In fact, it has a lower amount of dust than many other regions visited. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Windstar Spending 7 Million On Upgrades Windstar Cruises has just completed massive upgrades to the entire fleet. Actually two of the three ships have been completed and the third is currently in drydock being completed. After losing the fourth ship in the fleet last year, Wind Song, to a major on board fire, this shows a huge vote of confidence in the companies product from the parent company Holland America Line. The ships will look new after these massive renovations. All carpeting has been replaced, every inch of teak decking has been sanded and restained, all pool decks have new furnishings, all staterooms are fully refurbished with new soft goods, wall treatments, redone bathrooms, and new entertainment centers. All main lounges have been redone with new audio and visual equipment. The main lobbies have been completely redone. With these renovations completed and an almost completely looking new fleet, WindStar Cruises is looking forward to a very bright future as cruise volumes continue to increase. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * "Family" Cruising Growing Rapidly According to Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) families are one of the fastest growing segments of the cruise market. Is was estimated that nearly 1 million children cruised in 2002, a figure that has doubled in the past five years. With a sharp eye on the surge in family cruising, the industry has responded with new accommodations, dining, entertainment and itineraries planned to suit all ages. One large segment involves family reunions. Gatherings of 30 to 50 multi-generational family relatives are becoming common. It allows the family to come together to enjoy family time as well as provide plenty of other activities for all age groups during other free time. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * "Predict The Date" Contest Now Awaits A Winner! We hit and exceeded 20,000 subscribers this week. So as announced, the contest entry was closed and we now await the exact date we will hit 25,000 OPT IN subscribers. This will most likely occur in the next 7 to 10 days. Winners will be posted in the following newsletter. Hope you got your entry submitted! If not, then next contest, you know you need to act quickly. The three winners of this contest will receive a FREE ONE YEAR MEMBERSHIP in DYNAMIC DREAM CRUISE CLUB! (Value $74) * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Country Flags and Facts Numbers presented based on 2000 available data. GDP Income/Capita is Gross Domestic Product Income divided by total population. For comparison purposes, USA GDP Income/Capita in 2000 was $30,200 Chile** Total Pop.-- 15,600,000 Total Area-- 473,094 sq. miles Capital City-- Santiago City Pop.-- 5,500,000 Metro Pop.-- 5,500,000 Literacy Rate-- 96.2% Language-- Spanish GDP Income/Capita-- $11,600 Currency-- Chilean Peso Fact: Chile's Coast stretches for 2,650 miles. Chile has 4,021 miles of actual coastline. Their flag is red, white & blue-- looks somewhat like a Texas flag

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