About a year ago I was reading a book titled Cruise Confidential by Brian David Bruns. I found the book very interesting as it was a glimpse into the cruise industry as a crew member onboard a few Carnival ships. I found Brian David Bruns Facebook page and friended him to be able to read updates if he ever really snagged Bianca. He is now listed as married and I am fairly certain he did marry her.
The other day he commented on a picture of mine from the Majesty of the Seas. I went to his website and found the working title to his sequel- Ship for Brains. This book will document his experience as an art auctioneer onboard Carnival and Royal Caribbean ships. He mentioned in his blog that he spent some time on the Majesty. I read one of the sample chapters and it seems just as interesting as his first book thuis far.
His first book is being tossed about as a TV series. They are working on pitching it to TBS right now I believe. I am interested in how TV will change the story line and direction of it all.
and now, I am anxiously awaiting the release of both!
Sunday, January 9, 2011
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
Tourism Taxes: Thumbs Down
Being that I live in the State of Florida, I understand that tourism is a major part of the economy down here. We have beautiful beaches, fabulous night life, and many delicious restaurants. I've heard talk about creating taxes on tourism to help generate money for our suffering economy. I have no issue with a few small taxes on things.
So, today I am researching information for a trip to Dallas, TX. I found flight information okay, but when I got to the car rental bit my jaw dropped. Renting a car for 4 days will incur over $90 in taxes & fees!!! Really? Is that necessary? No, it isn't. I understand taxing and needs of people, but seriously? The taxes are more than the cost of the rental itself.
I was in Houston in March of 2010 and I was able to rent a car for 1 day for less than $18, taxes included. So it isn't the state, it must be Dallas.
This scares me because there are so many times that people rent cars and the quotes are always before tax. Now I am going to be very cautious when booking trips for people and a car rental is involved. I don't want to come across as the agent that doesn't know her stuff!
Rant Over! Lesson Learned!
So, today I am researching information for a trip to Dallas, TX. I found flight information okay, but when I got to the car rental bit my jaw dropped. Renting a car for 4 days will incur over $90 in taxes & fees!!! Really? Is that necessary? No, it isn't. I understand taxing and needs of people, but seriously? The taxes are more than the cost of the rental itself.
I was in Houston in March of 2010 and I was able to rent a car for 1 day for less than $18, taxes included. So it isn't the state, it must be Dallas.
This scares me because there are so many times that people rent cars and the quotes are always before tax. Now I am going to be very cautious when booking trips for people and a car rental is involved. I don't want to come across as the agent that doesn't know her stuff!
Rant Over! Lesson Learned!
Monday, January 3, 2011
Undercover Boss
I have always been interested in the inner workings of the cruise industry. So much of it is a secret. I once read Cruise Confidential- Brian David Bruns. He was a waiter for Carnival, supposedly the only American to complete a full contract without quitting or being fired. It gave me a lot of background in to crew life. I also read Devils on the Deep Blue Sea- a detailed history of the Big 3 in the cruise industry- Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian Cruise Line. Another great read and chock full of interesting and shocking information. One of the above was scammed to create another one of the above. I won't reveal who though! Read the book if you want to know ;)
So last night I tuned in to Undercover Boss on CBS to watch Kevin Sheehan, CEO of NCL, go in disguise on both the EPIC and Pride of America. I had heard of the show, but never watched it before. It was interesting to watch him work as a regular joe on these ships. One lady, in the dining room, recognized him. He had to quickly speak to her and ensure his cover wasn't going to be blown. There were moments that seemed awkward, and I wasn't sure if some parts were set up or just were awkward moments.
Kevin Sheehan seems like a fairly shy and reserved guy for the CEO of the 3rd largest cruise line. It was nice to hear his background and family story. I couldn't imagine living thousands of miles away from them for most of the year.
And so... I was privy to a little bit more about the cruise industry!
So last night I tuned in to Undercover Boss on CBS to watch Kevin Sheehan, CEO of NCL, go in disguise on both the EPIC and Pride of America. I had heard of the show, but never watched it before. It was interesting to watch him work as a regular joe on these ships. One lady, in the dining room, recognized him. He had to quickly speak to her and ensure his cover wasn't going to be blown. There were moments that seemed awkward, and I wasn't sure if some parts were set up or just were awkward moments.
Kevin Sheehan seems like a fairly shy and reserved guy for the CEO of the 3rd largest cruise line. It was nice to hear his background and family story. I couldn't imagine living thousands of miles away from them for most of the year.
And so... I was privy to a little bit more about the cruise industry!
Sunday, January 2, 2011
Welcome!
I would like to welcome each and every person who has stumbled upon this blog. This will be my first attempt at a blog. I thought that focusing on travel would probably be the best bet. I am Nicole, and I am currently a teacher and travel agent. I have been teaching for 6 years and just recently started off on my own in the travel industry. My reason for this side venture is that I first of all love to share what I know with others and secondly would love to be able to build my business to a point that I can stay home with my children... when I decide to have them!
Growing up my parents took me to many places and I learned a lot from those experiences. I think it is important for people to travel the country and world to discover other cultures and other regions of the U.S. I will speak from both experience and inquiry throughout my blog, hoping to help others experience the world as I have.
Enjoy!
Growing up my parents took me to many places and I learned a lot from those experiences. I think it is important for people to travel the country and world to discover other cultures and other regions of the U.S. I will speak from both experience and inquiry throughout my blog, hoping to help others experience the world as I have.
Enjoy!
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