Hello, Michiganders! I just wanted to let you know that tickets for Dr. Seuss' How The Grinch Stole Christmas The Musical are on sale! This looks like another great opportunity to take your family to the theater and I'll be sure to share this fun night with mine!

I've included the press release to give you all the details you need about the show, where it is, when it is, and how to get tickets.

Hope to see you there!!

~~

Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical

To Play The Detroit Opera House Dec. 18 – 30, 2012

Tickets on sale October 28!

(Detroit, MI, October 23, 2012) – Broadway In Detroit is bringing the holiday classic DR. SEUSS’ HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS! THE MUSICAL to the Detroit Opera House, December 18 – 30, 2012 with a special Kids Night on December 19 (more details to follow).  Tickets for the Detroit performance of DR. SEUSS’ HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS! THE MUSICAL will go on sale Sunday, October 28 at 10 a.m. at the Detroit Opera House box office, all Ticketmaster locations, by phone at 1-800-982-2787, online at www.ticketmaster.com or www.broadwayindetroit.com and at 12 Noon at the Fisher Theatre box office.

The critically acclaimed, Broadway record-breaking production DR. SEUSS’ HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS! THE MUSICAL features the hit songs "You're A Mean One, Mr. Grinch" and "Welcome Christmas” (written by Albert Hague and Dr. Seuss) from the original animated series. Max the Dog narrates this classic holiday tale that will entertain the whole family as the mean and scheming Grinch, whose heart is "two sizes too small," decides to steal Christmas away from the Whos, an endlessly cheerful bunch bursting with holiday spirit.

DR. SEUSS’ HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS! THE MUSICAL broke box office records for two consecutive years on Broadway during its holiday engagements at the St. James (2007) and Hilton (2006) theatres in New York. Since then, thousands of families across America have been delighted by this heart-warming holiday musical, which The New York Times praised as “100 times better than any bedside story” and the Gannett papers hailed as “A genius of a show! A total delight for both kids and adults.”

Magnificent sets (John Lee Beatty) and costumes (Robert Morgan) inspired by Dr. Seuss’ original illustrations help transport audiences to the whimsical world of Whoville, while the Music and Book of Mel Marvin and Timothy Mason breathe new life into this timeless story of the true meaning of Christmas. The 2012 production is directed by Matt August and choreographed by Bob Richard based on the original choreography by John DeLuca and originally created by three-time Tony Award® winning director Jack O’Brien.

DR. SEUSS’ HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS! THE MUSICAL stars Stefan Karl, donning  the green fur as the Grinch for his fifth holiday season. Karl is also the star of Nickelodeon's hit show, “LazyTown” where he delights as the evil Robbie Rotten.

Performance times for DR. SEUSS’ HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS! THE MUSICAL, appearing Dec. 18 - 30, 2012 at the Detroit Opera House, located at 1526 Broadway St., in Detroit, are:

-          Tuesday through Saturday performances at 7:30 p.m. No performance December 25.

-          Sunday evening performances at 6:00 p.m.

-          Saturday matinees at 11 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.

-          Sunday matinees at 2:00 p.m.

     

Ticket prices for the Detroit engagement of DR. SEUSS’ HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS! THE MUSICAL range from $29-$62 and go on sale Sunday, October 28 at 10 a.m. at the Detroit Opera House box office and all Ticketmaster locations and at 12 Noon at the Fisher Theatre box office. Tickets will also be available for purchase online at www.ticketmaster.com or www.BroadwayinDetroit.com, and by calling Ticketmaster at 1-800-982-2787.  For group sales (12 or more) please email groups@broadwayindetroit.com or call (313) 871-1132. For additional information, call (313) 872-1000 or visit www.BroadwayinDetroit.com.

For more information visit www.broadwayindetroit.com and http://www.grinchmusical.com.

The 2012-2013 Broadway In Detroit Season is sponsored by Chrysler.

Follow Broadway In Detroit on Facebook and on Twitter @BroadwayDetroit.

**Thanks to the PR firm who provided this press release to share. I'm receiving complimentary passes to press night at the theater in exchange for this promotion and my honest review following the show. Stay tuned!

Dr. Seuss' How The Grinch Stole Christmas The Musical Tickets On Sale {press release}

• Broadway in Detroit Dr. Seuss' How The Grinch Stole Christmas The Musical fisher theater press release
• Leave a Comment

Read More

I was just sent this press release about how you and I can see a free movie at MJR theaters! I'm sure you're just as interested as I am in this. Please read the release for details.

~~~


Canned Film Festival to benefit Gleaner’s Food Bank

Oak Park based MJR Digital Cinemas announced today that they, in conjunction with 93.1 Doug FM and
96.3 WDVD, will host the Canned Film Festival on Wednesday November 14th 2012. Just bring 5 cans of food to any MJR Digital Cinema (excluding their Adrian location) and see a movie for free, that day only any time from 4:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m. All food donations will benefit Gleaners Community Food Bank.
96.3 WDVD’s Jesse will be broadcasting live from the MJR Westland Digital Cinema 16 from 3:00 until 7:00 p.m.

WESTLAND GRAND DIGITAL CINEMA ● 16
6800 N. Wayne Rd.
Westland, MI 48185

MARKETPLACE STERLING HEIGHTS DIGITAL
CINEMA • 20
35400 Van Dyke
Sterling Heights, MI 48312

PARTRIDGE CREEK DIGITAL CINEMA ▪14
17400 Hall Rd.
Clinton Twp., 48038

SOUTHGATE DIGITAL CINEMA • 20
15651 Trenton Rd.
Southgate, MI 48195

WATERFORD DIGITAL CINEMA • 16
7501 Highland Rd.
Waterford, MI 48327

BRIGHTON TOWNE SQUARE DIGITAL
CINEMA • 20
8200 Murphy Dr.
Brighton, MI 48116

CHESTERFIELD CROSSING DIGITAL
CINEMA • 16
50675 Gratiot Ave.
Chesterfield, MI 48051

MJR's Canned Film Festival = Free Movies! {press release}

• eye spy free movie mjr digital cinemas mjr theaters press release
• Leave a Comment

Read More

I'm still smiling at the memories my family and I made during our stay at the Grand Traverse Resort and Spa. This is a wonderful resort full of lots of options for any kind of visitor.

Deer hunting season is near and I have a great idea for the "Deer Widows" this year. Group up and head out to the Grand Traverse for an amazing time of relaxation, good food, shopping, a wine tour, and more!

I was sent the following press release and wanted to share it with you. Make sure to take advantage of this!

~~

As men set out for a late fall or early winter weekend of male bonding, hunting and storytelling by the campfire, women can delight in a no deer widow left behind weekend at Grand Traverse Resort and Spa.

Deer widow is a term referred to someone who is abandoned when groups of people flock to the forests during the annual deer hunting season. With plenty of amenities on-site, as well as plenty to do nearby, deer widows can revel in a weekend of pampering, shopping, fine dining, and outdoor beauty while staying at the 900-acre Grand Traverse Resort and Spa.

Some of the fantastic on-property amenities include:

Spa Grand Traverse: Be treated like a queen at the resort’s full-service spa. The tranquil environment immerses guests in deep relaxation while revitalizing the body and mind. Make a selection from the extensive menu, in particular their signature cherry infused treatments, and prepare for the ultimate experience in pampering.

The Gallery of Shops: Shopping till you drop is no problem here since home is just an elevator ride away. Offering a dozen amazing shops including Dylan’s Candy Bar, there’s always something for everyone.

Restaurants and lounges: Guests can release their inner foodie at one of the several restaurants and lounges located on-site. Whether taking in panoramic views on the 16^th floor at Aerie Restaurant & Lounge, or biting into a hearty sandwich at Sweetwater American Bistro, there’s food available for every gal’s preferences.

Located near Traverse City, Mich., the area offers plenty of activities and attractions including:

Turtle Creek Casino: Feeling lucky? Come roll the dice at this 56,000 square foot casino, open 24/7 and located less than 10 minutes from the Resort. Complete with several different table games with minimum bids as low as $5, as well as 1,300 of the latest slot games, ranging from penny slots all the way up to $100 denomination slots. Many video casino games are also available. Take the free resort shuttle here day or night. www.turtlecreekcasino.com

A great way to enjoy this getaway is with Grand Traverse Resort and Spa’s Shopping and Wine Tasting package, offered to groups of eight or more including:

• 2 Nights Accommodations
• $99 Spa Treatment (gratuity included)
• Wine Tour and Private Transportation (gratuity and tasting fees included)
• 20 percent off Shopping pass to Gallery of Shops
• $10 casino voucher to nearby Turtle Creek Casino & Hotel

Available Nov. 5 to Dec. 30, 2012. Pricing starts at $249 per person, quad occupancy.

The above pricing includes 11% tax and $14.95 nightly resort fee.  Rooms at this rate are limited. Available only to groups of 8 persons or more, quad occupancy. Not available to other groups. May not be combined with other offers. Certain other restrictions may apply.

To book this package, please call Golf & Spa Sales Manager Katie Reas at 231-534-6178.

ABOUT GRAND TRAVERSE RESORT AND SPA:

Located on 900 acres near Lake Michigan’s Grand Traverse Bay, Grand Traverse Resort and Spa is one of the Midwest’s finest, full-service, year-round resorts featuring nearly 600 rooms, suites and condominiums, 86,500 square feet of flexible meeting and outdoor venue space, 54 holes of championship golf including courses designed by legends Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player, a full-service spa, and upscale dining and shopping. Call 800-748-0303 or visit www.grandtraverseresort.com . Join Grand Traverse Resort and Spa’s online community on Facebook and Twitter.

Deer Widows Are Pampered At Grand Traverse Resort And Spa {press release}

• deer widows grand traverse resort and spa press release travel
• Leave a Comment

Read More

The hubster keeps teasing me about planning a looooooooooooong road trip from our home on the east side of the country to California. I keep reminding him that I'll fly alone and meet him there. ;)

I recently received the following press release and thought it sounded dreamy enough to share with you. There's a discount and a $25 credit that comes with this too!!

If only I had money for a trip to Cali...

~~

Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa Celebrates 25th Year Anniversary

DANA POINT, CALIFORNIA (August 21, 2012) – Celebrating twenty-five years of oceanside vacation getaways, September marks the silver anniversary of Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa. The quintessential Southern California resort located in beautiful Dana Point on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the resort has been charming guests since September 15, 1987. To commemorate this anniversary, Laguna Cliffs is offering a room rate savings of 25% per night with a $25 resort credit, per stay, to be used toward dining or spa services during the month of September. Blackout dates may apply. Package elements are nontransferable, and package does not include any taxes or gratuities. To learn more about the Silver Anniversary Package or book the special rate using booking code W06, guests may visit www.lagunacliffs.com or call(949) 661-5000. Opened on September 15, 1987 the resort was originally called the Dana Point Resort and was constructed with iconic Victorian-style architecture and striking red-roofed turrets visible from miles away. The resort is located on an elevated bluff with sweeping vistas of the Pacific Ocean in a coastline region rich with surfing history. That surfing history has influenced the spirit of Laguna Cliffs Marriott with its "California casual" attitude, sophisticated yet accessible resort offerings, and even an authentic 1940 "Woodie" automobile, complete with surf boards on the roof, displayed in the main valet of the resort. Some fun facts from September 1987 include: The #1 movie at the box office was the thriller "Fatal Attraction" Kylie Minogue's hit single "Locomotion" was top of the pop charts The Motorola 8000X cell phone was "state of the art" and cost more than $3,000 The Ford Escort was the #1 selling car in America The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed at 2,613 A prominent member of the local community, Laguna Cliffs was named Business of the Year by the City of Dana Point in 2011. It is interesting to note that the City of Dana Point was incorporated in June 1989, making the resort two years older than the city in which it is located. In 2010 the resort experienced a dramatic reinvention with all public areas, rooms and pool areas undergoing an extensive renovation, refurbishment and redesign. The breath taking results created an unparalleled resort experience and a feeling of an all-new resort that was steeped in community and tradition. About Laguna Cliffs Marriot Resort & Spa: Set high on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the AAA Four Diamond Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa makes the most of its ocean view location, overlooking the California Coastline, Doheny State Beach parkland and Dana Point Harbor, offering 2,500 yacht slips. The picturesque red-roofed Victorian-style resort appeals to both business and leisure travelers who enjoy commanding views of vast white beaches, glorious sunsets and the area's quaint seaport village. Featuring 378 beautifully appointed guest rooms, including 15 deluxe suites; the pristine accommodations at the Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa comfortably blend coastal elegance and a sunny décor that reflects the spirit of Dana Point. Guests visiting for leisure can enjoy the two heated swimming pools with ocean views along with the 14,000-square-foot Spa at Laguna Cliffs that embraces the relaxed essence of Orange County with specialty massages, facials and body treatments in its beautifully appointed ten treatment rooms. While on business, guests can sneak in a round of golf at one of five local courses in between meetings in the more than 50,000 square feet of indoor/outdoor meeting space. Follow Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa on Facebook and Twitter. **I've received no compensation for sharing this information with you. I just want you to know more about  the location(s) and website so you can possibly enjoy it or gift it to someone else. Thanks to the PR firm who  forwarded this information to me.**

Visiting California? Get A Discount In September! {Travel}

• california discount marriot press release travel
• Leave a Comment

Read More

Detroit, get ready to purchase your tickets on July 29th because MARY POPPINS will be at the Fisher Theatre for a short time in October. I know! I just read about this in my email and had to share it with you right away.

Perhaps you remember my review? If not, be sure to check it out. I have nothing but good things to say about this production and highly, HIGHLY recommend seeing it.

I'm sure you'd like the details on what to expect and when. Please see the press release below as shared with me by Broadway In Detroit.
~~

Coming to Detroit’s Fisher Theatre for a limited Return engagement

 

 october 23 - 28

Tickets on sale Sunday, July 29!

Detroit, MI, July 19, 2012 – Broadway In Detroit and producers Thomas Schumacher of Disney Theatrical Productions and Cameron Mackintosh announced today that tickets for the Detroit return engagement of MARY POPPINS, at the Fisher Theatre October 23–28, will go on sale to the public on Sunday, July 29 at 10 a.m. at all Ticketmaster locations, by phone at 1-800-982-2787, and online at www.ticketmaster.com or www.broadwayindetroit.com.  On Monday, July 30, tickets will also be available starting at 10 a.m. at the Fisher Theatre box office.    

With four productions currently running on three continents, MARY POPPINS is one of the biggest stage musical successes to emerge from London or New York in recent years.  Worldwide to date, the show has grossed over $731 million and welcomed more than 10 million guests. The musical is the winner of 44 major theatre awards around the globe, including Tony®, Olivier, Helpmann and Evening Standard awards.   

The entire original creative team has reunited to bring this magical story of the world’s most famous nanny to audiences around North America.  The MARY POPPINS North American Tour began performances on March 25, 2009 and has played to more than two and a half million delighted theatergoers in over 40 cities to date.

MARY POPPINS, a co-production of Disney and Cameron Mackintosh, opened on Broadway on November 16, 2006.  Based on P.L. Travers' cherished stories and the classic 1964 Walt Disney film, MARY POPPINS the stage play features the Academy Award®-winning music and lyrics of Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman.  The stage production has been created, in collaboration with Cameron Mackintosh, by Academy Award®-winning screenwriter Julian Fellowes, who has written the book, and the Olivier Award-winning team of George Stiles and Anthony Drewe, who have composed new songs and additional music and lyrics.

Olivier Award-winning director Richard Eyre leads the award-winning creative team, with co-direction and choreography by Tony® and Olivier Award winner Matthew Bourne.  MARY POPPINSfeatures set and costume design by TonyÒ Award winner Bob Crowley, co-choreography by Olivier Award winner Stephen Mear, lighting design by Howard Harrison, orchestrations by William David Brohn, and music supervision by David Caddick.  The tour’s creative team includes Tour Director Anthony Lyn, Associate Choreographer Geoffrey Garrett, and Music Director Daniel Bowling. 

ABOUT MARY POPPINS WORLDWIDE

MARY POPPINS received its worldwide premiere at the Prince Edward Theatre in the West End in December 2004.  Following its successful three-year London run, the production launched an acclaimed U.K. tour. 

The Broadway production of MARY POPPINS officially opened at the New Amsterdam Theatre on November 16, 2006, recouping its initial Broadway investment within 52 weeks of its premiere in 2006.  MARY POPPINS is the only show from the 2006-2007 theatrical season still in performance. 

The MARY POPPINS North American tour has garnered continuous critical praise and achieved box office success since its launch in Chicago in March 2009. 

The Australian production of MARY POPPINS opened to critical acclaim in Melbourne in July 2010 where it achieved an unprecedented 100% of Gross Box Office.  For its seasons in Perth and Brisbanethe advance sales smashed all previous theatrical records.

In addition to Broadway and the North American tour, MARY POPPINS will soon be seen in Auckland,New Zealand.  Productions of MARY POPPINS have also been mounted in Finland, Netherlands,Denmark and the Czech Republic.   

Performance times for MARY POPPINS, appearing October 23–28, 2012 at the Fisher Theatre, located at 3011 W. Grand Blvd., in Detroit, are:

-         Tuesday through Saturday performances at 7:30 p.m.

-         Sunday evening performance at 6:30 p.m.

-         Saturday matinee at 2:00 p.m.

-         Sunday matinee at 1:30 p.m.

                                          

Ticket prices for the Detroit engagement of MARY POPPINS start at $34 (includes parking and facility fees) andwill go on sale to the public on Sunday, July 29 at 10 a.m. at all Ticketmaster locations, by phone at 1-800-982-2787, and online at www.ticketmaster.com or www.broadwayindetroit.com.  On Monday, July 30, tickets will also be available starting at 10 a.m. at the Fisher Theatre box office. A limited number of premium seats will also be available through Ticketmaster and the Fisher Theatre box office.  For group sales (12 or more), please email groups@broadwayindetroit.com or call (313) 871-1132.  For additional information, call (313) 872-1000 or visit www.BroadwayinDetroit.com.

The Detroit engagement of MARY POPPINS is sponsored by Chrysler.

For additional information, visit www. MaryPoppins.com or www.BroadwayInDetroit.com.

Follow Broadway In Detroit on Facebook and on Twitter @BroadwayDetroit.     

**Thanks to the PR firm who provided complimentary tickets to view the show in exchange for me sharing this press release and my review following the show. I received no other compensation. The thoughts and opinions shared are mine and mine alone. Others may disagree.

It's A Jolly Holiday. MARY POPPINS Returns to Detroit!

• Broadway in Detroit mary poppins press release
• Leave a Comment

Read More

I'm so excited for this next season of shows with Broadway in Detroit. To kick things off, Billy Elliot the Musical will be swinging into Detroit from September 4th-16th.

Though I've not yet had the chance to see this production, I've heard and read some great things about it. It's not one that I want to miss!

Please read the press release below for more details on its tour stop in Detroit and get ready to buy tickets June 10th!

~~

“BILLY’S THE BEST. IT’S GOT HEART, PASSION
AND THE BEST ELTON JOHN SCORE EVER.”

NEW YORK POST

THE TONY AWARD-WINNING BEST MUSICAL ELECTRIFIES DETROIT’S FISHER THEATRE

FROM SEPTEMBER 4-16, 2012

Tickets on sale June 10!

(Detroit, MI, May 30, 2012) —Universal Pictures Stage Productions, Working Title Films, Old Vic Productions and NETworks Presentations, LLC bring the multi-award-winning Billy Elliot the Musical to Detroit’s Fisher Theatre from September 4 - 16.  Based on the international smash-hit film and featuring music by Elton John, book and lyrics by Lee Hall, choreography by Peter Darling and direction by Stephen Daldry, Billy Elliot the Musical has earned critical acclaim around the world and was the winner of ten Tony Awards including Best Musical. Tickets for the Detroit performance of Billy Elliot the Musical will go on sale Sunday, June 10 at 10 a.m. at the Fisher Theatre box office, all Ticketmaster locations, by phone at 1-800-982-2787, and online atwww.ticketmaster.com or www.broadwayindetroit.com.

Billy Elliot the Musical is the joyous celebration of one boy’s journey to make his dreams come true. Set in a small town, the story follows Billy as he stumbles out of the boxing ring and into a ballet class, discovering a surprising talent that inspires his family and his whole community and changes his life forever.

In addition to the Tony Award for Best Musical, Billy Elliot the Musical received the award for Best Direction of a Musical (Stephen Daldry); Best Book of a Musical (Lee Hall); Best Choreography (Peter Darling); Best Orchestrations (Martin Koch); Best Scenic Design of a Musical (Ian MacNeil); Best Lighting Design of a Musical (Rick Fisher); Best Sound Design of a Musical (Paul Arditti); Best Performance by a Leading Actor in a Musical (David Alvarez, Trent Kowalik, Kiril Kulish); Best Performance by a Featured Actor in a Musical (Gregory Jbara). 

The production has been awarded 81 national and international awards including ten Tony Awards, Best Musical by the New York Drama Critics Circle, Drama Desk, Drama League and Outer Critics Circle.

Ben Brantley of the New York Times says that Billy Elliot “Sends audiences into a mass swoon!”  Time Outsays it’s “The most electric and passionate show in years.”  The Daily News calls Billy “So exhilarating that you feel like leaping!” Liz Smith calls the show “Absolutely awesome,” The New York Observer raves thatBilly is “The best thing to happen to Broadway in a long while,” and WOR’s Dave Richardson cheers, “All I can say is WOW!”

The show is produced by Universal Pictures Stage Productions, Working Title Films, Old Vic Productions and NETworks Presentations, LLC. The production features scenic design by Ian MacNeil, associate direction byJulian Webber, costume design by Nicky Gillibrand, lighting design by Rick Fisher and sound design by Paul Arditti. Musical supervision and orchestrations are by Martin Koch.  Touring production direction is by Justin Martin and choreography by Kathryn Dunn.

Performance times for Billy Elliot the Musical, appearing Sep. 4 -16, 2012 at the Fisher Theatre, located at 3011 W. Grand Blvd., in Detroit, are:

-          Tuesday through Saturday performances at 8:00 p.m.

-          Sunday evening performances at 7:30 p.m.

-          Saturday and Sunday matinees at 2:00 p.m.

For more information visit www.BillyElliotTour.com or www.broadwayindetroit.com.

                                                     

Ticket prices for the Detroit engagement of Billy Elliot the Musical range from $39-$89 (includes parking and facility fees) and go on sale June 10, 2012 at the Fisher Theatre box office and all Ticketmaster locations. Tickets will also be available for purchase online at www.ticketmaster.com or www.BroadwayinDetroit.com, and by calling Ticketmaster at 1-800-982-2787.  Limited premium seats will be available at the box office only. For group sales (12 or more) please email groups@broadwayindetroit.com or call (313) 871-1132. For additional information, call(313) 872-1000 or visit www.BroadwayinDetroit.com.

The 2012-2013 Broadway In Detroit Season is sponsored by Chrysler.

Follow Broadway In Detroit on Facebook and on Twitter @BroadwayDetroit.

**I've been invited to Press Night at the theater to review this show and have been given 2 complimentary passes. I've received no other compensation for posting this press release. I just want you to know more about it so you can go and enjoy it while it's in town. ** 

Billy Elliot Tickets To Go On Sale ~ Broadway In Detroit

• Billy Elliot the Musical broadway Broadway in Detroit press release
• Leave a Comment

Read More

I've never been on a cruise. Have you? I'm so afraid I'd get sea sick but people have told me that it's probably unlikely since I would barely feel the boat moving. {Perhaps you have some helpful advice on this?}

If I did take a cruise, however, I would definitely want it to be a family event and bring the kiddos along. While I would be looking for something specifically tailored to them, I would also be looking for a cruise that would allow the hubster and I some alone time.

Where would I even begin with a search like that?

The following press release shares a few ideas as well as a website that can help you in your search for the perfect, family cruise as listed by Steven Fischer, a travel expert.

What kind of cruise would you be looking forward to if you were planning one?

~~

A BETTER WAY TO TRAVEL WITH FAMILY

Lastminutecruises.com Highlights the Best Family Cruise Ships

Orlando, Fla. – March 27, 2012 – Cruise lines reported more than a 50% increase in families setting sail with children under the age of 3 in tow. To accommodate families with small kids, many cruise ships offer kids-friendly pools, children’s menus and 24-hour room service for things like milk, finger foods and extra towels.

Many cruise lines guarantee a balance of family togetherness filled with fun, adventure and playtime with adult-only relaxation and downtime. Parents looking to book their next family vacation should know that the advantages to cruising for families are endless, and planning a cruise vacation can be more simple and easy-going than you’ve ever imagined.

“Tired from a day of exploration?” asks Steven Fischer, vice president of cruise development at Travel Holdings, Inc. “No need to stress about where to eat or how much dinner will cost. Your ship is an all-inclusive floating hotel with all-you-can-eat meals, abundant entertainment and best of all a place to keep your belonging as you venture on excursions and trips. As many parents know, being able to visit different destinations without packing, unpacking and lugging around suitcases is a golden plus.”

Since there are so many ships out there promising a kid-friendly experience, finding one that’s right for your family can take some time. Luckily for you, we’ve laid out the best-suited cruise lines for the most memorable family vacation.

“Disney’s Cruise Line is great for families with younger children,” Fischer says. “Flounder’s Reef Nursery on the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder is well equipped for babies under 3. The Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy ships’ It’s a Small World Nursery cares for children 3 months old to 3 years old allowing parents to enjoy a more adult-oriented adventure while their little one is watched over by trained caretakers.”

It has a nursery filled with toys, bottle warmers, snacks and cribs. There are two rooms to separate active and sleepy babies. With great supervision for both rooms, parents are able to enjoy a romantic dinner knowing their little one is well taken care of.

Royal Caribbean International’s babysitting program is open for in-cabin sitting from 8 a.m. to 2 a.m. for children 12 months and over. This gives parents the relief they need to take in a night of dancing or an hour to relax and read by the pool. If mom and dad want to join in on the fun, the ship’s Aqua Tots and Aqua Babies setup allow them to partake in 45-minute staff-led music and storytelling play sessions.

Both Carnival and Norwegian Cruise Lines offer a kids camp for children 2 to 5 years old. “But one strategic difference may make you prefer Carnival just little bit more,” Fischer says. “Carnival changes diapers.”

While Norwegian has great entertainment like Nickelodeon at Sea and character breakfasts with SpongeBob and Dora the Explorer, its counselors will page you when your little one needs a fresh change.

For more information on destinations, ports, availability and booking your next cruise, visit www.lastminutecruises.com. 

About LastMinuteCruises.com:

LastMinuteCruises.com ® (www.LastMinuteCruises.com) is the leading online website for cruise travel featuring unbelievable deals on cruise itineraries to more than 29 destinations worldwide. By harnessing the fluctuating cruise inventory with proprietary technology, LastMinuteCruises.com allows travelers to find the best deals whether at the last possible moment or months in advance all while saving up to 73 percent. With over 2,000 unique itineraries, Last Minute Cruisers can utilize the sites revolutionary technology to take full control of their cruise vacation. Consumers have the ability to view and book available cabins on a deck plan for a specific cruise in real time.

**I've received no compensation for sharing this information with you. I just want you to know more about the location(s) and website so you can possibly enjoy it or gift it to someone else. Thanks to the PR firm who forwarded this information to me.** 

Family Friendly Cruise Lines {Press Release}

• carnival Disney Cruise family cruise lastminutecruises.com Norwegian Cruise press release Royal Caribbean International travel
• Leave a Comment

Read More

I know a few moms who own Bumbleride strollers and I'm sure you do too. If that's the case, you may want to know about this recall!

Here's the press release for you.

~

Bumbleride Recalls Indie & Indie Twin Strollers Due to Fall Hazard

WASHINGTON, Feb. 3, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and Health Canada, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.  It is illegal to resell or attempt to resell a recalled consumer product.

Name of Product:  Bumbleride Indie & Indie Twin Strollers

Units:  About 28,000 (an additional 2,700 were sold in Canada)

Importer: Bumbleride Inc., of San Diego, Calif.

Hazard: The front wheel can break at the axle hub, causing the stroller to tip and posing a fall hazard.

Incidents/Injuries: There have been 36 incidents of the front wheel cracking, including two reports of the stroller tipping over resulting in minor injuries.

Description:  The recalled Bumbleride Indie strollers are model numbers I-107, I-110 and I-205 with a DOM (Date of Manufacture) from January 2009 through August 2011 sold in multiple colors.  The DOM (Date of Manufacture) can be found on a white rectangular sticker affixed to the side of the seat frame. The recalled Bumbleride Indie Twin strollers are model numbers IT-108, IT-111, and IT-305 with a DOM (Date of Manufacture) from January 2009 through August 2011 sold in multiple colors. The DOM (Date of Manufacture) can be found on a white rectangular sticker affixed to the underside of the handle.

Sold at: Buy Buy Baby and other baby product stores nationwide, online at Bumbleride.com, and other online retailers between January 2009 and January 2012 for between $500 and $700.

Manufactured in: Taiwan

Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled strollers and contact Bumbleride to receive a free front wheel retrofit kit.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, visit the firm's website at www.support.bumbleride.com or contact Bumbleride at support@bumbleride.com or at (800) 530-3930 between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. PT Monday through Friday.

Photos available at http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml12/12104.html

Consumer Alert: To avoid the risk of strangulation to children, owners of Indie models (I-110, I-205) and Indie Twin models (IT-111, IT-305) with an adjustable bumper bar should never set the bar in the intermediate (car seat) position when a child is seated in the stroller. For more information, visithttp://www.bumbleride.com/updates/?p=2175 or call (800) 530-3930.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is still interested in receiving incident or injury reports that are either directly related to this product recall or involve a different hazard with the same product. Please tell us about your experience with the product on SaferProducts.gov

Firm's Recall Hotline: (800) 530-3930
CPSC Recall Hotline: (800) 638-2772CPSC Media Contact: (301) 504-7908HC Media Contact: ( 613) 957-2983

SOURCE U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission

**I was not compensated in any way for this post. My "finds" are selected and posted by my own choosing while I receive nothing in return. This is simply something from an email that I wanted to share.(is it that hard to believe a blogger would post something without gaining anything? lol)**

Eye Spy ~ A Bumbleride Recall! {Heads Up, Moms!}

• bumbleride eye spy press release recall
• Leave a Comment

Read More

Yes, I would certainly love to take Eliana on a vacation with her American Girl doll someday and give them both a VIP treatment. Doesn't that sound like fun?

I recently received information on how this can happen in Washington DC and thought it would be fun to share it with you in case this appealed to you as well. But hurry! This package is only available from now through December.

~~

photo credit: Fairmont.com

 THE FAIRMONT WASHINGTON, D.C. DEBUTS
“AMERICAN GIRL” PACKAGE
Enhancing your American Girl Experience in the Nation’s Capital

WASHINGTON, DC – August 4, 2011 - The Fairmont Washington, D.C. has joined forces with the new American Girl Store in Tysons Corner to bring you a “Capital” American Girl experience.
Prior to arrival, young ladies and their American Girl Doll receive a questionnaire that will customize the American Girl experience.   In addition to all of The Fairmont’s luxurious amenities, the American Girl package includes:
•       A personalized welcome note for both the young lady and her doll upon arrival
•       An American Girl travel bed for the American Girl Doll – to keep.
•       Complimentary use of a DVD player and access to the on-site American Girl DVD lending library - available for    use during the length of stay.
•       One complimentary buffet breakfast for the young lady in Juniper with purchase of one adult buffet breakfast.
•       Turn down service for the young lady and her American Girl Doll, including star-shaped cookies and milk.
•       2 all-day metro passes for the young lady and one family member for sight seeing and to visit the exhibits at the   Smithsonian Museum of American History
•       Luxurious accommodations at The Fairmont Washington, D.C.
        The “American Girl” package starts from $289 per night, and is based on availability and double occupancy, and is available August 4, 2011 through December 31, 2011. For more information or reservations please call 1-800-441-1414 or visitwww.fairmont.com/washington.
       Fairmont Gold offers travelers an upgraded travel experience, including a Gold Floor Lounge!  Inquire about rates for The Fairmont Gold American Girl package or slumber parties.
The American Girl Store is located in Tysons Corner Center in McLean, Virginia.  For more information, visithttp://www.americangirl.com/stores/location_wdc.php.

The Fairmont Washington, D.C., located at 2401 M Street, N.W., is convenient to the finest museums, theaters (including the Kennedy Center), shopping and dining.  Close to two metro stations, it is five miles from Reagan National Airport and 33 miles from Dulles International Airport.  At 415 rooms and luxury suites, The Fairmont Washington, D.C. offers a wealth of facilities while maintaining an air of tranquility insured through the design of intimate spaces, plenty of natural daylight, and a cascade of plants both inside and out.

ABOUT FAIRMONT HOTELS & RESORTS
Located in world-class destinations around the globe, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts is a celebrated collection of hotels that includes landmark locations like London’s The Savoy, New York’s The Plaza, and Shanghai’s Fairmont Peace Hotel. With more than 60 hotels, Fairmont is known as much for its warm, engaging service and culturally rich experiences, as its classic hotels that imbue a sense of heritage, sophistication and social importance and are often considered destinations in their own right. A community and environmental leader, Fairmont is also regarded for its responsible tourism practices and award-winning Green Partnership program. Fairmont is owned by FRHI Holdings Limited, a leading global hotel company with over 100 hotels under the Fairmont, Raffles, and Swissôtel brands. The company also manages Fairmont and Raffles branded estates and luxury private residence club properties. For more information or reservations, please call 1-800-441-1414 or visit www.fairmont.com.
Become a fan of Fairmont. Join our online communities at www.everyonesanoriginal.com, www.twitter.com/fairmonthotels, andwww.facebook.com/fairmonthotels. For career opportunities, visit www.facebook.com/fairmontcareers.


**I've received no compensation for sharing this information with you. I just want you to know more about the location(s) and website so you can possibly enjoy it or gift it to someone else. Thanks to the PR firm who forwarded this information to me.**

American Girl Trip, Anyone? {press release}

• American Girl fairmont press release travel
• Leave a Comment

Read More