October 14, 2004

TIMES TRAVELS

Say ‘I do’ all over again: Carnival adds wedding vow renewal packages

Whether it’s to mark a special anniversary or simply celebrate the joy of marriage, Carnival Cruise Lines is offering two new packages for guests wishing to renew their wedding vows on a “Fun Ship” cruise. The renewal ceremonies, performed by the ship captains, are available fleet wide and held in a public lounge or the wedding chapel (Spirit-class ships). “Our wedding vows renewal packages, along with the romantic atmosphere aboard our ships, provide a unique experience for couples to express their love for each other all over again,” said Bob Dickinson, Carnival president and CEO.

A discount rate is available for a special Valentine’s eight-day cruise leaving San Diego for Acapulco. Balconies and ocean-view cabins are available on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information and reservations, call the Travel Desk in Almaden at (408) 723-0283, or visit their Web site at www.traveldeskonline.com.

Cruises may now renew their wedding vows in chapel on the Carnival Spirit

Isabella Rosellini selected as new ambassador for Silversea

Silversea Cruises has selected internationally renowned actress, model and author Isabella Rosellini to be its first-ever ambassador. The announcement was made last Friday at a special event and gala luncheon held aboard Silver Whisper. Docked at the New York Passenger Terminal, the elegant, 382-guest ship hosted members of the travel industry and media, as well as local business and society leaders.

Celebrated for her timeless beauty, Rosellini will soon appear in Silversea’s print ads and brochures, as seen through the lens of Fabrizio Ferri, acclaimed photographer of Vanity Fair and Vogue. Rossellini will collaborate with Ferri aboard Silversea ships, and in exotic destinations, to create a photographic journal of her travels, giving particular expression to the unique sensations and emotions associated with the line’s award-winning concept of ultra-luxury cruising.

For more information and reservations, call the Travel Desk in Almaden at (408) 723-0283, or visit their Web site at www.traveldeskonline.com.

Omni Orlando Resort opens with preview rate through Jan. 16

Omni Hotels announced the opening of the new Omni Orlando Resort, only a 10-minute drive from the Walt Disney World Resort. The property will cater to golfers, spa enthusiasts and meetings groups. Managing Director Andy Papoutsis said opening the hotel on time was a “Herculean effort,” because its funding came up for approval shortly after 9/11. The property features 70,000 square feet of meetings space, a 10,000-square-foot European-style spa and two 18-hole golf courses designed by Greg Norman. The hotel is offering a nightly preview rate of $146 per room for bookings of three nights or more through Jan. 16. For more information and reservations, call the Travel Desk in Almaden at (408) 723-0283, or visit their Web site at www.traveldesk online.com.

—By Sean Eastwood