Travel With Cruises International Blog
Cruises International Spreads Holiday Cheer with Toys Collection for Local Children
Written by Scott Staffiery - WebmasterThis holiday season, Cruises International extended its commitment to community service by organizing a "Toys for Tots" collection, aimed at brightening the holiday season for local children. Throughout the month, clients and staff have generously dropped off toys at our storefront, embracing the spirit of giving and illustrating the power of community support.
Cruises International, a leader in travel planning for both land and sea vacations, is delighted to celebrate 46 wonderful years in business. As a locally established company, we are incredibly honored to contribute to the holiday joy of local children through this initiative. This annual event continues to foster a sense of togetherness among our clients and employees, highlighting the warmth of shared generosity.
"We are immensely grateful for the support of our clients and staff.
The overwhelming response to our toy collection efforts affirms our belief in
the strength of community and the impact we can have when we work together,"
said Shawna White, President of Cruises International. "Giving back to the
community that has supported us for nearly five decades is a privilege we cherish."
Located at 1721 Moon Lake Boulevard Suite 101, Hoffman Estates, IL, Cruises International invites everyone to join in our mission to give back and spread holiday cheer.
Happy Holidays from the Cruises International family to yours!
Cruises International’s pick for small ship luxury
Written by Shawna WhiteCruises International – Vacations Land & Sea understands that each guest wants a unique vacation experience. It is stated in our mission statement, which we live by. Listening with empathy is how together, we come to recommend the right vacation for you.
When our clients inquire about small, elegant ships, personalized service, and fine gourmet dining, Oceania Cruises® is one of our 1st recommendations to explore.
On board you will find the Finest Cuisine at Sea™. Relax in cabins that are sophisticated and designed in comfort. Enjoy curated travel experiences, with extended port stays, while feeding your mind with their well-designed Epicurean Enrichment Programs.
Small guest ratios will ensure you the very best personalized service, and the time you enjoy in port, will be just as memorable as your time on board.
Several of our staff had the privilege of sailing with Oceania Cruises, including our President, our Co-Founder, any myself. Sharing our first-hand experience with our staff and clients is just one benefit of working with us.
Cruises International’s Travel Advisors travel the world to bring back their stories, to help guide you to the perfect vacation--every time. Let’s stop dreaming. Make your travel wish list a reality by calling us today.
Experience the Best of Alaska by Land and by Sea!
Written by Bonnie GreenCruises International - Vacations Land & Sea takes pride in offering our clients the latest information in travel. Being in business for 46 years means we have solid partnerships with our cruise lines and travel companies. One of our favorites to recommend for Alaska is Celebrity Cruises.
Have you considered visiting Alaska? Celebrity Cruises offers cruise only or cruisetours through Alaska. An Alaska cruise is an awesome experience. We do encourage you, if you have the extra time, to really consider adding the “tour” to your cruise package. You will be able to take in extra sights and truly experience nature, and the wildlife that you won’t be able to see at sea. Denali National Park is over six million acres of pristine wild land, filled with bears, moose, caribou, Dall sheet, wolves, endangered birds, and more.
You will travel with Celebrity’s own local Tour Directors, who are passionate about sharing their Alaska with you. You will stay in the finest available lodges, and experience remote roads and railways in deluxe transportation. Every aspect of your journey has been carefully curated for you.
For the more adventurous, fly over the tallest mountain in North America. Soar 300 feet above the treetops on the world’s longest Zip Rider. There is so much more to see and do in Alaska. Call today because these dates will sell out quickly.
Remember to follow us on social media. There you will find our hosted monthly “Explorer Events”, where you can meet with our guest speakers, and mingle with like-minded guests. Some events held at our corporate headquarters in Hoffman Estates, Illinois, while others are held at various off-site restaurants and establishments. Recently added to the calendar, are virtual events, where you can learn about our trips and destinations from the comfort of your own home. We look forward to seeing you soon!
At Cruises International-Vacations Land & Sea, we do our very best to provide exceptional service before, during and after your travels.
It’s no wonder we have been serving our community for over 46 years. You can search online, but how will you know if you are dealing with an experienced and reputable company?
As your Regent Seven Seas Cruises connoisseurs, we will match your disconcerting taste to the perfect cruise. We are her to enhance your vacation from beginning to end. Let us help you discover all the hidden gems in the many ports of call you visit.
You have already traveled a long way to see your city/cities of choice, why not make it a truly immersive experience? Immersive Overnights are a unique series of voyages across Europe and Asia where each port of call features an overnight stay. This allows for deeper exploration, discovery, and engagement with much-loved destinations, including special shoreside experiences, crafted to make each overnight stop a memorable and unique part of your journey.
Discover ancient worlds and cultural springs of wonder and beauty. Savor the fresh catch of the day with a pristinely aged vintage as you experience each colorful coast, from the stunning and enchanting Amalfi to the captivating history of Ephesus. Visit ancient cities and UNESCO world heritage sites. There is much to experience, and a complimentary pre or post cruise stay allows for extra time for exploration in your favorite destination.
You will be amazed when you see all that is included. If you were to pay for this ala carte, you would end up paying much more.
Call us today. We will be your advocate before, during and after your travels.
Viking Cruises - Taking You to All Destinations of the World!
Written by Bonnie GreenWelcome to the three worlds of Viking, (Rivers, Oceans and Expeditions), visiting 7 continents, 85 countries, over 500 ports, 5 oceans, 21 rivers and 5 great lakes!
So much to explore! We all know that river cruises will take you into the heart of the charming villages they visit. Did you know Viking has much more to offer?
Onboard Viking ships, you will not find winding water slides, children, or casinos on board. If you like to experience more culture and enrichment this is the one for you.
Viking voyages are designed to help you explore and have more of a personal experience with the destinations you visit, through food, culture, and customs.
Onboard you can attend a lecture on history and art, a cooking demonstration of destination city favorites and menus that offer local cuisine and more.
Their expedition ships are specifically designed to explore the most remote places on the planet, while still having the elegance and service as their ocean liners.
Of course, you still have spaces for dining, relaxation and conversation, but you also have wonderful additions due to their commitment to science.
Guests can witness the launch of weather balloons from the top deck on the Viking Polaris’s NOAA/US National Weather Service Balloon Station.
The onboard Science Lab has partnered with various esteemed academic institutions. Their guest speakers not only provide lectures on board but conduct experiments and research while on group shore excursions.
The Hanger, an in-ship marina launches special operations boats and submarines, kayaks, and Zodiacs.
Cruises International hosted a Viking Evening Explorer Event, in June. Attendees were able to listen to guest speakers and mingle with like-minded travelers. Follow Cruises International on social media @cruisesinternational1978, or call to ask to be kept informed on other upcoming events.
Having been in business for over 45 years, many of our Advisors have traveled with Viking and can offer you firsthand knowledge using their own personal experiences. Call us today and let’s plan your next dream vacation.
Iceland, the scenery dreams are made of. From the oldest erupting geyser in the world, to iconic waterfalls, it is truly a nature photographer’s paradise.
No wonder it is one of our most requested destinations in Northern Europe.
Cruises International hosted a wonderful opportunity for our guests to experience a glimpse into a dream vacation. Our Afternoon Explorer Event Fire & Ice took place on June 11, 2024.
Our guest experts discussed the best ways to experience Iceland on a Norwegian Cruise Line ship.
NCL offers Freestyle Cruising--enjoy not having to be on a schedule and dine at a wide range of restaurants whenever you like. In addition to the main dining room, a variety of restaurants are available, some complimentary and others require a slight fee.
Cruises International’s advertised prices usually are shown with balcony cabins, because for a few extra dollars, most of our clients prefer a balcony or a suite over an interior cabin.
To experience a little more pampering and privacy, The Haven is ideal, especially for larger families and groups. It is home to the most luxurious, well-appointed and spacious rooms, up to 3 bedrooms. The Haven experience provides the use of a 24-hr. butler, and areas reserved exclusively for guests of the Haven, (The Haven Bar, Restaurant, Outdoor Bar and Sundeck with private pool).
There are many reasons to book directly with Cruises International. We always go that extra mile. We negotiate with our partners for the best value. We are your liaison and keep you up to date with the latest information as it pertains to you by asking the right questions, that you may not have even considered. Transfers, extended stays, excursion guidance? We have your back.
Advice, Guidance, Peace of Mind and Unique Experiences is what we offer and have been providing for over 45 years. Call us today.
Regent Seven Seas sets the benchmark in all-inclusive cruise vacations!
Written by Bonnie GreenHave you ever taken a cruise that you found at a low price and then found that your onboard tab at the end of the cruise topped the price you paid for the cruise itself? That’s a frustration none of us want to experience. Never having to reach into your pocket or worry about a mounting tab gives you true freedom to enjoy your vacation. This is what we love about Regent. A cruise on Regent gives you the freedom to truly get away from it all.
Guests aboard the six Regent Seven Seas vessels enjoy exquisite luxury accommodations. The Seven Seas Grandeur™ was introduced into service in November 2023. It is the sixth ship added to the World’s Most Luxurious Fleet™. She holds only 750 guests, providing among the highest space ratios and staff to guest ratios in the industry. Guests enjoy all-suite accommodations, nearly all with private balconies. The crown jewel is their Regent Suite at 4,443 square feet!
Choose from 17 voyages in the Caribbean and the Mediterranean, or select one of 2 transatlantic crossings. The itineraries range from 7 to 16 nights.
Enjoy four new theatrical experiences, with Grammy-winning musical talent. Dine in one of seven restaurants, with 130 new dishes created by top chefs.
Cruises International Advisors are experts in luxury cruises. If not on the Grandeur, perhaps another ship in Regent’s fleet offers the ideal itinerary for you. Using our connections and expert training, we are your advocate before, during and after your vacation.
Appointments are not necessary but welcomed. Fill us in on what you are thinking of, and we will be ready with some great choices for you when you stop in.
When we started in the business of specializing in cruises back in 1978 (something unheard of in the travel industry at the time), we made it our mission to educate our clients on the different “personality” of each ship and how important it was to choose your ship carefully. By asking the right questions, and listening carefully to your expectations, we could decide together on just the right cruise line or ship to fit your lifestyle.
In recent years we find ourselves paving the same ground with River Cruises, the fastest growing segment in travel. It’s no wonder. River Cruises slow down time and bring you to the heart of the country. As the number of River Cruises continues to grow, we once again caution you on the importance of choosing carefully. Not all river cruises are alike. Let’s take Avalon Waterways, for example.
Avalon is the most active of the River Cruises resulting in a broader range of ages on their ships. And if you are taking the family with teen-aged grandkids, this might be a great choice!
Onboard the Avalon ships you may choose from an array of “Discovery” excursions with hands on experiences like painting and cooking classes. Avalon offers “Active” excursions; biking, hiking, and kayaking, and even the “Avalon Go Ap”with an adventure host for individual active exploring. These are in addition to the classic sightseeing excursions you will find on other lines.
Avalon also has theme special interest cruises; Wine, Beer, Culinary, Garden, Nature Lovers, Jazz, Music, Photography, or World War II history. If you are looking for destinations besides Europe, try Egypt, Asia (Mekong & Vietnam), or the Galapagos.
Visit us at CruisesInternational.com and then stop in and see us soon. Planning carefully is the key to any great vacation! Our friendly and knowledgeable vacation advisors will make it easy and fun!
Safe Travels,
Avalon Waterways Explorer Event. Please mark your calendars for Tuesday, April 23rd, at 2:00 o’clock pm. Space is limited. Please call to reserve your spot! 847-303-2020.
It used to be that Alaska was a destination when you retired. Not anymore! We now have all ages including grandparents taking the kids and grandkids to The Last Frontier. Princess Cruises, one of our favorite cruise lines to Alaska, has special Discovery Family Tours for children ages 3 – 12. Experience the Animal Planet excursions bringing you up close and personal to whales, sled dogs, bears, bald eagles. Gain a deeper understanding of our earth’s animal inhabitants. Back on board you will experience “Puppies on the Piazza” where you can cuddle with dog sled puppies in training.
You can sail roundtrip from Seattle, Vancouver, San Francisco, or the Voyage of the Glaciers which takes you one way northbound from Vancouver to Whittier or in reverse. These two itineraries visit two glaciers which is the magnificent Glacier Bay and then either College Fjord or Hubbard Glacier. Park Rangers board the ship to paint the picture on what you are seeing during the Glacier experience. Princess has so many cruise options. You may decide to venture north to Denali National Park.
Princess, number one in Alaska, own their own lodges built specifically for the most spectacular views of the wilderness.
There are indeed many options when planning your Alaska adventure. What makes it difficult right now is that the 2024 Alaska Season (May through September) is almost Sold Out! We are planning Alaska vacations for our clients into 2025, and the 2026 Season will be opening soon. You may want to join us for one of our Alaska Planning Sessions. Here you will get hands on tips and information from Alaska Experts as they walk you through your infinite choices. You will have an opportunity to talk with knowledgeable travel advisors one on one. Remember that our advisors always have your best interest in mind, starting with understanding your lifestyle and budget, and offering the best rates available anywhere.
Cruises International has exclusive amenities on select Princess Cruise tours into the interior of Alaska, offering added value to your vacation. We believe that planning is half the fun! It is never too early to plan!
Safe Travels!
We know you’ve seen the Viking Cruises’ ads, either mailers coming into your home or on Downton Abbey, and now other series on WTTW. You’ve been wondering if this is a good vacation investment for you. You’ve been seeing their Founder, Tor Hagen, tell you how “Time is our most precious commodity”, and offering you a way of “exploring the world in comfort on a Viking ship”. I will tell you from experience that it is exactly that.
When Cruises International opened their doors 46 Years ago, River cruises were essentially unknown. Viking cruises came into the river cruise picture in 1997 and took the travel world by storm. They were able to show us the world beyond the coastline, into the interior of European countries and “In comfort” as we meandered past small villages and marveled at castles while dining out on deck. Walking through Vineyards and visiting châteaux are among my fondest memories. Our founder, Ines Turus, blended her own Cognac in France on a Viking excursion!
Viking does not stop with River Cruises, their Ocean ships are smaller and able to get into ports the big ships can’t. Viking’s Exploration ships to Antarctica are amazing, truly exploring in comfort.
But is it for you?
There is so much to tell which is why we invite a Viking executive to one of our Explorer Evenings to tell you all about it in an informal setting. This is an evening of mingling with other travelers who would like to consider a Viking cruise on the rivers, the oceans, the Great Lakes, Antarctica, and captivating China.
At this event in late February, enjoy refreshments and great company! Receive a discount and extra shipboard credits once you reserve your cabin within 2 weeks of the event. For more details, please call me or your Cruises International Travel Advisor today or call 847 -303-2020.
Safe Travels!
We live by our mission statement:
“To provide Advice, Guidance, Peace of Mind. We create amazing unique experiences for all our travelers, by listening with empathy and recommending what fits best with their expectations and lifestyle.”
With that in mind, now is the time to reserve your stateroom on that European adventure you’ve been longing for. Europe this spring, summer, or fall as seen from the comfort of your Celebrity ship is awesome, exciting, and relaxing. Awesome because the carefully planned itineraries deliver a truly “once in a lifetime” experience. Exciting because every evening’s entertainment is amazing and varied to each person’s tastes. Dance the night away, mix and mingle, or gamble and win! Relaxing because to me anyway, there is nothing more relaxing than watching the moon over the water from my infinite veranda, glass of wine in hand. Nothing is a one size fits all. But I will tell you that many of our clients choose Celebrity because these ships have it all.
The itineraries below are hand selected by me, not only because they are great ones, but also because the value is unbeatable. We pre-pay your gratuities on each of these sailings, and include the beverage package, Wi-Fi, plus extra savings.
Safe Travels!