Cruising Question SOS-What About My Diet Coke?

Growing up I never acquired a taste for coffee.  Maybe because my parents drank so much of it, maybe because I am just a bit wierd, but for whatever reason, I just can't stand the taste.  So needing to get my "jolt" from somewhere, I turned to diet coke.  I drink it for breakfast and need a couple to get the neurons firing in the morning.  It's like you probably are with your coffee--I don't prefer it--I need it!  Funny but two or my three sisters are the same way.  You should see us at family gatherings, each packing a 12 pack of diet coke under each arm, trust me I have pictures!

So when clients ask me about the availability of their favorite (and necessary) soda on board their cruise ship vacation, I completely understand.  After all, it's not as if you can pop by the 7-11 and stock up in the open sea.  So let's address this question and  see what's available, what's free, and what's for sale.  Here we go:

• Coffee, tea, iced tea, water, are free all day
• Milk and juice are free during the breakfast hours
• Soda is available by the glass at the bars, dining room, pool, and theatre for $2-3 each,
• Alcholic drinks are available at any bar, in the dining room, pool, and theatre $5 and up
• "Drink of the Day" are daily specials and can be made virgin if requested
• Fountain soda cards can be purchased on most cruise lines for $6 per day adults, $4 children (approximate)

The soda fountain card is what I always get--first thing--at the "sail away" party!  (I always get a fruity ptooty sail away drink too, but that's another story).  Considering I drink at least 3 sodas every morning and a gingerale with my evening routine, it's well worth it.  Plus I just like to relax with my diet coke while reading out on the pool deck or having popcorn with the movie out by the pool.  So the soda fountain card saves me a good bit of money. 

A couple of things to remember!  All prices are for example and not a contract.  Prices change, usually going up, these are the latest I found today and vary a bit by the particular cruise line.  Secondly, drinks whether sodas or alcholol brought to you by waiters are subject to a 15% gratuitiy.  Lastly, not all lines may have the soda fountain card, so you will want to check with your travel professional or check the line's web site.  Fortunately for me, most do!

Now sit back, kick off your shoes, and enjoy your favorite drink!

Until next time, keep the questions coming!  Email me here with your question: sandy@cgta.com

Sandy

Sandy, the divacruiser, is in reality, Sandy Wheeler, an independent contractor with Connie George Travel Associates.  Follow her adventures on Twitter @thedivacruiser or on her web site www.SandyWheelerTravel.com.  Have a question about cruising or one of our trips?  Email Sandy  at: sandy@cgta.com. 

Reading Labels Can Save You Money!

Label reading has become a passion of mine while trying to eat more healthy food, lose weight, and keep my blood sugar under control.  It's amazing the things you can learn about processed foods, they almost all contain too many chemicals, too much salt, and too many carbs.  A real reality check--if you haven't started reading labels, I recommend you do it, you will be surprised!

These however, are not the labels this blog is about.  Recently, I took a gander at the ingredients list of my cosmetics line.  It's a great line and I enjoy using it BUT the ingredients list on my toner said "witch hazel".  Witch hazel was the only active ingredient.  Everything else was inactive--fragrance, etc. I say again, the only active ingredient was witch hazel!  Worse than that, I was paying $39.50 for witch hazel!  Good smelling witch hazel; in a pretty bottle; but none the less, plain witch hazel.  Geez!

I immediately hit the web and found that witch hazel was an active ingredient in several toners, some costly, some not.  I then went to my local Walgreens and looked at the witch hazel selections.  The kind I chose was Dickinsons.  It cost me $5.95 for a net savings of $33.85 per bottle.  As I probably use 3-4 bottles a year--well we are looking in a savings in at least $100 a year! WOW!

Now I am known for being an advocate for women pampering themselves.  In fact, I insist on it.  But, there's a difference between pampering ourselves with a superior products and spending money for no good reason.  Go into your cosmetics storage area right now.  Examine the labels and do some research.  Throw away any items that are over the expiration date; particularly eye items like mascara and shadows which can harbor germs.  See if you, like me, are overpaying on any items.

Need a suggestion for the extra money you can save?  How about using that extra as your downpayment for our October, 2010 Chicks at Sea ladies cruise?  Visit my web site or email me for more information.

Now go read some labels!

All the best! Sandy

Sandy, the diva cruiser, is actually Sandy Wheeler an independent contractor for Connie George Travel Associates.  Follow her adventures on Twitter @thedivacruiser and on her website www.SandyWheelerTravel.com.  Email me for more information about our Chicks at Sea ladies cruise. 

One Step At a Time OR Plodding is a Good Thing!

One day last summer a new  woman showed up in my pool aerobics class and seemed to be working very hard for a newbie.  Being the busy body I am (I like to refer to it as "friendly") I asked about her and we were all told that she was indeed new to the Y, and was scheduled to get married soon and wanted to shape up.  Since most brides feel this way, I thought nothing of it until she further replied her wedding was only 2 weeks away!  I was floored as were the other members of the class as she mentioned her dress was too tight and she needed to lose 20 pounds in these two weeks to fit into it.  And that she intended to take at least 5 classes that DAY!  Since she was at least my age, I thought "she's going to kill her fool self"  but her enthusiasm was not to be shaken, even though our instructor tried to make her see that fitness and weight loss was achieved slowly over time.  I don't think I ever saw her again, but the lesson has stayed with me.  Some things don't happen overnight and are best done a bit at the time OR plodding along.

One thing I think fits this same principle well is spending money on travel.  Some people enjoy the thrill of finding a last minute trip and plunking down their cash and heading out! That's super and if you are of that mindset, call me, I always have last minute trips and cruises ready to book.  But for me and a lot of people, well we may not have a lot to cash to plunk.  Or enough leave from our employment, or quick-as-a-flash childcare available.  But with the right planning--especially financial planning, almost anyone can take the trip of their dreams.

So to help all those planners and plotters, Connie, (our esteemed leader) came up with the idea of a "payment plan" for our trips and cruises.  Two such trips where this would work well are my New Orleans at Christmas escorted bus tour or the Chicks at Sea cruise.  Pay $200 down this month and $100 a month (or more you decide) and pay until you are all paid up! With New Orleans coming in at $879 and Chicks at Sea 5 day ladies cruise prices starting at $500, it won't take long to make your trip a reality.  Plus to me, part of the fun of a vacation is the anticipation--you will have a few months to savour your trip--all paid for without taking too much out of the budget at one time.  I will be happy to work for you on a payment plan that suits your needs.  I will be delighted to help you join the ranks of the planners and the plodders--it's a good thing!

Happy travels AND happy budgeting,

Sandy

PS Just IN!  We have an absolutely fabulous value on board Holland America Line cruise ships.  Book during our Cruise Sale and receive an exclusive Onboard Value Booklet valued at $354.  Sail anywhere--these onboard services will enhance your voyage!   

PSS  Sail on our Chicks at Sea voyage and have dinner every night with Sandy the Diva Cruiser herself.  Have your picture taken for free!  Chances like this to mingle with celebrities don't come along every day!

Sandy, the divacruiser, is actually Sandy Wheeler, Independent Contractor for Connie George Travel Associates.  Follow her adventures on Twitter @thedivacruiser or on her web site: www.SandyWheelerTravel.com

My Trip to the Sanderling, Part II--The Massage!

Hello again, it's Sandy here with more information about my great visit to the Sanderling Resort and Spa.  Be sure to read the first installment which describes the property and our room.  Now it's time for my favorite thing--a massage. Since I have been experiencing some shoulder spasms and a really tight neck, I had asked for a "deep tissue" massage, which is a bit more ($10) but in my case well worth it.  I had asked for a 50 minute massage and was impressed the massage therapist didn't spend much of my alloted time talking--actually spending 50 minutes working on my pain.  But let me back up and take it through the experience.

The Spa is located across the street and has very nice views of the Currituck Sound.  The building also houses the indoor heated pool and hot tub, so I knew I would spend a good bit of time there.  Upon entering the building, I was greeted by Ashley, the spa manager at the front desk.  To the left of the reception desk is built in space for bath and spa products, candels, spa clothing and other gal friendly items to purchase and enjoy.  To the right was the manicure, pedicure, and hair salon areas which although seemed busy, were very quiet and serene.  The Sanderling has 9 treatment rooms and once inside one you feel as if you are the only one there.  I was welcomed and led into the ladies dressing room area where I was given a key for my locker which contained a thirsty robe and sandals for my feet.  I appreciated the material of the footware, noticing it could be easily sanitized, which always makes me feel better.  I was then shown the "quiet room" with relaxing couches and chairs as well as a glass container of water with cucumber slices floating in it.  There was a short form to fill out, and I was really getting into the relaxation mode thumbing through a ladies magazine and sipping this theraputic water.

In approximately 8-10 minutes (watches are left in the locker of course) I met my therapist, Jackie.  After asking a few questions, she immediately got to work.  She assured me that she would give my neck and shoulder adequate pressure to relieve my problem, but that I was to immediately tell her if the pressure became too much.  I use massage therapy routinely to manage stress and fibromyalgia, so I know my stuff when I tell you this was a great massage. 

I did not mention the room, so let me back track a bit--it was above standard, well ventilated, and best of all had a view of the Currituck Sound.  The Resort has rooms for couples massage and a screened gazebo for water front massage when the weather permits.  This I definitely have put on my "bucket list" girls, what a super indulgent way to relax away the stress!  They have a complete line of facials and jetted tubs for scented, relaxing soaks.  The only thing I could say negative about the experience was the price is a bit high, considering it was the winter season. 

After the massage, I reversed the process and went back to the quiet room and enjoyed another glass of water and gave myself a few minutes to just breathe.  After checking out at the front desk, I wandered around out back of the spa, checking out the pier, gazebo, and more.  It was warm enough for a leisurely stroll and as usual, these unplanned moments were some of the most relaxing of my visit.  I finally wandered back to my room for a quick nap and when my husband returned from his tennis outing, (Pine Island Tennis Center) we made way back to the spa to use the pool.

The indoor heated pool was an absolute joy.  Glass enclosed, with a gorgeous view,  we really enjoyed working out swimming laps and in my case, treading water.  After about 30-40 minutes in the pool, we made our way to the indoor spa.  What a great way to end a relaxing, but busy day.  Everything in the pool area was immaculate, well stocked, and  "cozy" I guess is the best word to describe what I felt.  I did not see an attendant during our swim and soak, which left me feeling a bit disconcerted.  Somehow I thought someone would be near by, allowing for a point of contact should an accident arise or a problem--maybe that's just my own insecurity speaking?  Since we live only an hour or so from the Outer Banks, we ate dinner at one of our favorite spots and came back to our room exhausted but refreshed too.  A great massage and swim--a wonderful afternoon!

Check back for Part III in my series--having breakfast at the award winning LifeSaving Station Restaurant on property and being given a  personal tour by the Sanderling's Exective Chef, Joshua Hollinger.

More to come!

Remember gals, Relax, Refresh, and Realize Your Worth!

Sandy

Sandy, the diva cruiser, is actually Sandy Wheeler, independent agent for Connie George Travel Associates.  Follow her adventure on Twitter @thedivacruiser or on her website www.SandyWheelerTravel.com

Chicks at Sea 2010

Chicks at Sea

It’s one of my favorite times of the year, when I start booking our annual Chicks at Sea Girl’s Getaway Cruise, and this year is no different. I get jazzed up when I remember the fun and deep relaxation I get when on a cruise and the idea of sharing that with other women—well I get excited—I really do. I love, love, love the idea that I am a tiny part of giving women something positive to help them restore, relax, and rejuvenate. Having been a working mom while raising two kids; I know how hectic and tiring it all can become. My mentor and friend told me to be successful one must find their “bliss” and I think I have. Helping women feel better about themselves, to become nourished and renewed so they can go back to their family, friends, and career ready to take on the world.

This year’s Chicks at Sea is a five day cruise departing from Tampa, FL on February 20th, 2010. We will be making port stops at Key West (can you say fun) and Cozumel, Mexico. We also have 2 sea days for visiting the spa, taking in the entertainment, making new friends, and enjoying the many other activities of the ship. Or maybe just lounging by the pool doing something special—absolutely nothing! How long since you did nothing?

We have a range of rooms reserved for our group ranging in price from $574 to $924 per person based on double occupancy. Your price includes everything including your prepaid gratuities. Also included is a swag bag with spa goodies, a pretty journal, and other goodies just for the gals. We do recommend you add Travel Insurance. Deposits of $100 per person or $200 per cabin are due November 19th. Final payment date is December 12th, 09. Find a roommate and get your deposit in. I feel pretty good about saying you will so glad you did.

Chicks at Sea is near and dear to my heart and I so look forward to talking to you more about this special gals getaway. Feel free to visit my web site: www.SandyWheelerTravel.com fore more information or just give me a call 252-339-9614. You can also email me for more information.

Love and peace, Sandy


Sandy Wheeler, the diva cruiser, is actually Sandy Wheeler an Independent Contractor for Connie George Travel Associates. Follow her adventures at www.SandyWheelerTravel.com or on Twitter @thedivacruiser

Facebook Fun and Games

I admit it, I absolutely love Facebook! I check it every morning just after I check my business and personal email. I update it most every morning, sometimes several times a day. I check it before I go to sleep at night--I confess I love Facebook! To my friends and family, this comes as no surprise, to those of you who don't know me--well don't judge until you try.

Why do I love FB? Several reasons divided into two different categories. First personal reasons. Did you know I hardly ever miss a friend or family member's birthday now? And, I have reconnected with a friend I started elementary school with. In fact, more than one. Several people I went to high school with, people I knew from 25 years ago; it's amazing how many people I am finding. I found a lost cousin, people I love that I used to work with, and about a hundred kids I taught while they were in high school who are now raising kids of their own. I see what my own kids are doing even when they don't take the time to call their mom, and can take pride in my nieces and nephews as they enter their high school years. It's wonderful--I LOVE Facebook.

The second reason I love it is for business. I use it to introduce cruise specials, connect with clients and post my blogs, tweets, and pictures. I met my business coach and have received help, advice, and a chance to mentor from several like minded industry leaders and new friends. I have found suppliers and resources as well as inspiration from other small business owners working their way through the joys and problems of business ownership. I LOVE Facebook.

Some people maintain you really need to have two separate accounts, and they may be right. I tried it and didn't like doing it that way. I wound up mixing the two parts of my life by accident or lack of time anyway; plus I feel a person is the sum of their parts, so there you go.

However, I have a little advice that I would like to pass along.

• If you are like me and use FB as a personal and professional tool, be careful that you keep a decent balance. Too much info either way may be aggravating.
• Don't use your FB as a political, moral, or economic platform. Think before you expect other adults to change their minds about any of the before mentioned, no matter how eloquent your debate.
• Be careful the information you list in your updates. I freely give my business phone, but almost never give out my home phone or home address.
• Remember your Facebook page may be indexed by Yahoo and Google. Often my FB page will come up higher than my actual web page. And while most of the info is protected, any entry level hacker can figure out a way around the safeguards, so again discretion is advised.

Just some friendly advice, some unfortunately I learned the hard way. I am certainly no expert, but then that's another one of the beauties of Facebook--anyone can learn to use it and enjoy the product for personal and professional benefit. Just another reason I LOVE Facebook!

Keep on posting,

Sandy

Sandy, the diva cruiser, is in reality Sandy Wheeler, an Independent Contractor for Connie George Travel Associates. Follow her adventures on www.SandyWheelerTravel.com and on Twitter @thedivacruiser