presidents week cruises

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SOAKING IN THE SUNSHINE IN 2024

Join Celebrity Cruises President Laura Hodges Bethge on June 23 for the ultimate 6-night Caribbean escape aboard Celebrity Beyond SM . Sailing round-trip from Fort Lauderdale, you’ll visit Royal Caribbean’s private island destination Perfect Day at CocoCay, fun-filled Grand Cayman, and tranquil Bimini. You’ll also enjoy exclusive tours, events, and the chance to connect with fellow Captain’s Club members. We can’t wait to see you there.

A Destination Like No Other

For the first time ever, we’re taking you to one of the Caribbean’s most exclusive islands, Perfect Day at CocoCay. Royal Caribbean’s award-winning private island destination combines the best of beachside bliss and sun-soaked excitement. 

George Town, Grand Cayman

Bimini, Bahamas

Special Events

The countdown is officially on for President’s Cruise, and we can’t wait to share all the special events and surprises we have in store for you. You’ll enjoy an epic sail away party from sunny Fort Lauderdale, and visit Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean’s award-winning private island destination. One of the most exclusive islands in the Caribbean, Perfect Day at CocoCay is rolling out the red carpet for our arrival, so get ready for a wide variety of surprises. You’ll also spend a day on beautiful Grand Cayman, where you will have the opportunity to go on special curated tours. Then, get ready for amazing Bimini, and a one-of-a-kind island-wide party just for us and an epic farewell party, so make sure to pack your dancing shoes.

Curated Tours in Grand Cayman

Lunch with president of celebrity cruises, laura hodges bethge at the grand old house.

Join us to spend the afternoon Laura’s favorite way in Grand Cayman, with lunch and wine at Grand Old House.

Arrive at the historic Grand Old House restaurant, a long-time favorite for travelers and locals alike, where you'll be greeted by a local steel drum band. Sip on a welcome glass of champagne as you make your way through this one-of-a-kind venue.

Exclusive to Celebrity Cruises for the afternoon, take in breathtaking panoramic views from the oceanfront deck and indulge in authentic Caymanian bites. Mingle with our executives and other guests to share stories and memories over a curated menu and wine list, hand selected by Laura herself.

Catamaran Sailing with SVP of Hotel Operations Keith Lane

Join our Senior Vice President of Hotel Operations, Keith Lane as he hosts a group sightseeing tour aboard a Luxury 52ft catamaran. Enjoy the sights including a scenic sailing to the natural mangroves, Starfish Point, and the world-famous Stingray City Sandbar, where a crew member will provide a feeding demonstration, providing guests with a wonderful photo opportunity. All while enjoying a selection of alcoholic/non-alcoholic beverages and snacks.

Turtle Release with AVP of Community & Destination, Helen OConnell*

Join our Associate Vice President of Community & Destination, Helen OConnell as she takes the group on a private and behind the scenes tour of the Turtle Centre, Hatchery, and Predator Reef Aquarium.

Embark on a private narrated tour of the center, as you admire and even feed a few of the most majestic and long-lived animals in the world, with some turtles weighing as much as 500 pounds. Stop by the Predator Reef Aquarium, where the on-site marine specialist shares interesting facts about the sharks, tarpon and barracuda that live in the surrounding waters of the Cayman Islands. View the actual turtle hatchery, where you receive an up close and personal glimpse into the life cycle of a sea turtle.

After, you will proceed to a quiet stretch of beach for the release of a Turtle, for a once in a lifetime experience!!

*Host for Turtle Release tour is subject to change.

Last Year's President's Cruise

Get a glimpse of what a President’s Cruise is like with the President’s Cruise 2023 wrap-up video.

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I Sailed On Royal Caribbean’s President’s Cruise, And Here’s Why I Would Do It Again

Photo credit: Royal Caribbean International

[ BEYOND the 615 – Travel Feature]  What’s the President’s Cruise on Royal Caribbean ? It’s a special, annual cruise that the President & CEO of Royal Caribbean International , Michael Bayley , plans a fun-filled, week-long cruise onboard one of Royal Caribbean’s modern, innovative ships and travels on along with the  Executive Staff to celebrate all things Royal Caribbean with their most loyal cruisers.

Michael Bayley and the Executive Staff onboard Allure of the Seas for the President’s Cruise. July 2023 – Photo credit: Patrice Majors | BEYOND the 615 (part of FOCUS on the 615)

Anyone can book this cruise.  No invitation is needed to sail on it, but it depends on your tier level with Royal Caribbean’s loyalty program, the Crown & Anchor Society , as to what special events onboard for the week you’ll be invited to take part in.

http://focusonthe615.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/20230807_022605.mp4

There were plenty of fun activities for everyone onboard, regardless of loyalty tier level, to enjoy every day.  Plus, there were more intimate, exclusive events that week planned for the two highest tiers: Pinnacle Club and Diamond Plus that included cocktail parties, trivia with the Executive Staff & hosted by Super Mario, Common Ground meeting with the president, sharing memories & memorabilia from past Royal Caribbean cruises with the President and Executive Staff by individuals, and a fun pool party.  There were also daily activities reserved for only the highest and most loyal tier of the Crown & Anchor Society , Pinnacle Club , with daily meals shared together and exclusive surprises for them.

Pinnacle Club & Diamond Plus loyalty tier members enjoying a special Crown & Anchor Society Pool Party onboard Allure of the Seas in the Solarium during the 2023 President’s Cruise. July 2023 – Photo credit:  Joe Zicari

Loyalty gains you special privileges, perks, and recognition onboard every Royal Caribbean cruise throughout the year with their loyalty program, Crown & Anchor Society , but during the annual President’s Cruise , your loyalty is uniquely-rewarded in different ways and taken to a heightened level depending on your tier status with them.

Each day I received surprises and special theme memorabilia to take home with me. Pictured are a few of the fun gifts I was given onboard during the President’s Cruise. July 2023 – Photo credit: Patrice Majors | BEYOND the 615 (part of FOCUS on the 615)

Each day I was treated to a fun gift in my cabin or at an event that included a President’s Cruise-themed magnet on my cabin door to greet me on embarkment day along with my themed cowboy hat in the color of my choice at the cruise terminal, a bottle of champagne with a special note thanking me for my loyalty, a President’s Cruise-themed insulated bottle to take home, themed beach bag, a chocolate bar from Royal Day at Costa Maya, and a limited release 25th anniversary baseball hat.  It was so much fun to open my cabin door to find special treats left for me.  There were also daily drawings for luxe prizes that everyone onboard the cruise was entered in to at the largest events that week.

Watch a short video of highlights HERE .

Some of the managers of crew onboard Allure of the Seas during the President’s Cruise greeting passengers. July 2023 – Photo credit: Patrice Majors | BEYOND the 615 (part of FOCUS on the 615)

Now in its 6th year , this year’s President’s Cruise took place on the beautiful Allure of the Seas , part of Royal Caribbean’s oasis class of ships, from July 23-30, 2023 to the Western Caribbean ports of Roatan, Honduras, Costa Maya, Mexico and Cozumel, Mexico.

Allure of the Seas Photo credit: Royal Caribbean International

Sailing out of Royal Caribbean’s brand new cruise terminal in Galveston, Texas, this President’s Cruise promised to be bigger & bolder than previous President’s Cruises with the much-awarded cruiseline celebrating 25 years of the Crown & Anchor Society loyalty program, a new, state-of-the-art cruise terminal, and the most phenomenal comeback of all the cruiselines following the pandemic shut down back in 2020 as their stock prices continue to soar and prepare to launch 2 brand-new ships in 2024 (The highly-anticipated Icon of the Seas in January and Utopia of the Seas in July .)

Royal Caribbean’s brand new, state-of-the-art, multimillion dollar cruise terminal in Galveston, Texas that opened in November 2022. Photo credit: Royal Caribbean International

http://focusonthe615.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/20230807_023726.mp4 The oasis class is currently the largest class of ships in the world out of all the cruiselines, featuring: Wonder of the Seas (newest, launched March 2022), Symphony of the Seas , Harmony of the Seas , Allure of the Seas , and Oasis of the Seas .  With the final ship in this innovative class to be unveiled in July 2024 , Utopia of the Seas .

This was my first President’s Cruise to have the pleasure of sailing on, but it definitely won’t be my last if I can help it.  I can say without hesitation that this was my very favorite cruise I have ever been on in my 30 years of cruising .  Being a long-time fan of Royal Caribbean since my very first cruise ever onboard their then state-of-the-art Sovereign of the Seas back in 1993, I was sailing as a Diamond Plus tier member with their loyalty program, Crown & Anchor Society .  I have so many past cruises to compare this one to, so saying it was my favorite is no small feat.

As an added special treat, 10-time GRAMMY Award winner & musical icon, Chaka Khan , was onboard sailing all week with her family and band.  She performed an exclusive concert twice while sailing during the 7-night voyage.  Only a limited number of guests were able to see her perform in-person in the ship’s Amber Theater , but the concert was livestreamed all across the ship for special viewing parties in various venues onboard for all guests onboard to enjoy.  You can watch some clips from her performance onboard HERE .

I had access to most of the special events planned, including seeing Chaka Khan perform live onboard this mammoth vessel, which was one of the highlights of the cruise for me.  Hearing her iconic hit songs again and seeing her perform in-person brought back so many great memories for me as a teenager growing up in the 1980’s, which was during the heighth of Chaka Khan’s career.  She still has an incredibly-powerful voice after all these years and puts on a great show.  I couldn’t help myself as I stood and sang along to “I’m Every Woman”, and I was out of my seat dancing for most of the show, as well.  So much fun!

Super Mario having a little fun with the Executive Staff as he hosts a trivia game with them during the President’s Cruise. July 2023 – Photo credit: Patrice Majors | BEYOND the 615 (part of FOCUS on the 615)

This special cruise included a milestone silver anniversary celebration of 25 years since the creation of the Crown & Anchor Society , which offers the best perks for loyalty out of all the cruiselines, in my opinion.  Everyone onboard was able to enjoy this beautiful, silver-themed celebration in the ornate  Royal Promanade .

There was the fun day at the port of Costa Maya where Royal Caribbean took over the entire port to celebrate Royal Day with free food, drinks, and entertainment at every turn that all guests onboard got to enjoy.  You can see some of the highlights of the celebration HERE .

Royal Caribbean tookover the port of Costa Maya in Mexico for one day dubbing it Royal Day. July 2023 – Photo credit: Patrice Majors | BEYOND the 615 (part of FOCUS on the 615)

The Royal Roundup , a country music-themed party held in Studio B , was a big hit among guests as drinks were served and people took to the dance floor for some fun linedancing doning their complimentary President’s Cruise cowboy hats that we all received on embarkment day at the new cruise terminal in Galveston as we prepared to sail away later that day.  A great time had by all for some fabulous, boot-scootin’ fun!

http://focusonthe615.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/20230807_023602.mp4

Another highlight was the Garden Spritz party I got to enjoy along with other Diamond Plus tier members in the Central Park neighborhood of the ship, which was beautifully-decorated with touches of orange since sponsored by Chandon for this special occasion.

The Garden Spritz mixer sponsored by Chandon in the Central Park neighborhood onboard was beautifully-decorated and decked out in orange for Diamond Plus and Pinnacle Club tier members only to enjoy. July 2023 – Photo credit: Patrice Majors | BEYOND the 615 (part of FOCUS on the 615)

New Pinnacle Club members, Patrick and Janice Moan, enjoying the Garden Spritz mixer sponsored by Chandon in Central Park neighborhood onboard Allure of the Seas during the President’s Cruise 2023. July 2023 – Photo credit: Patrice Majors | BEYOND the 615 (part of FOCUS on the 615)

The Central Park neighborhood is always one of my favorite places to visit because it is so beautiful and a wonderful place of tranquility to escape to for a nice dinner at one of the specialty restaurants, a peaceful stroll, listen to some jazz music, or to enjoy a nightcap whenever sailing on one of Royal Caribbean’s oasis class ships only.

This is a view of the Central Park neighborhood onboard Allure of the Seas from a little-known, tucked away public balcony accessible from deck 9 by the elevators on both sides. July 2023 – Photo credit: Patrice Majors | BEYOND the 615 (part of FOCUS on the 615)

There is just so much I could write about, but I’m afraid this article would become a long novel if I go on about it much longer.  So, I’m going to wrap it up now! I would book this particular themed cruise again and again in a heartbeat.  It was a level of amped up fun that only Royal Caribbean International , its President and his  Executive Staff knows how to truly bring!

The Island Jam with Michael Bayley held at the beautiful Turquoise Bay Dive & Beach Resort in Roatan, Honduras for the President’s Cruise. July 2023 – Photo credit: Patrice Majors | BEYOND the 615 (part of FOCUS on the 615)

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This cruise had everything, even all-you-can-eat lobster tails with a full, fresh seafood spread available for all guests on the first day in the Windjammer Cafe along with specialty procured excursions filled with unique experiences designed for the President’s Cruise only, like the Island Jam with Michael Bayley , held at the beautiful Turquoise Bay Dive & Beach Resort in Roatan, Honduras featuring an all-you-can-eat, mouthwatering spread of local favorites, fresh coconut water served in handcrafted coconuts with the President’s Cruise logo emblazoned on it, local music, dancing, and tasty tropical drinks with little umbrellas served by an attentive staff on sugar white sand beaches overlooking clear, turquoise-colored water.  It was a slice of paradise for the day that I never wanted to leave!

If you are looking for an all-inclusive vacation that will appeal to the entire family, you can’t go wrong with a Royal Caribbean cruise onboard one of their 26 ships, but especially on an oasis class ship like Allure of the Seas .   From great food, included in the cruise ticket cost per person, full Broadway shows like “Mamma Mia” in the Amber Theater , an aerial, acrobatic, highdiving, water-themed spectacular show in the Aquatheater that is a must-see (on oasis class ships only), an ice skating rink by day turned into an entertaining ice skating show inside  Studio B featuring elite level ice skaters from around the world, comedy club featuring rotating featured comedians, highly-organized  by staff kids programs for all ages, a surfing simulator, pools, hot tubs, waterside, a zip-line, arcade, movies, shopping, live music in various nightclubs, dance classes, theme parties, parades through the Royal Promanade , trivia, bingo, full-access ship & kitchen tours with brunch, shipboard activities designed for athletes &

Enjoying breakfast in Coastal Kitchen on Allure of the Seas. Photo credit: Patrice Majors | BEYOND the 615 (part of FOCUS on the 615)

foodies, specialty dining, spa, health club, staff-led exercise classes, the adult-only fun of the Solarium featuring a pool & bar area and Casino Royale . (Don’t forget to insert your Seapass into the slot machines as you play or hand to the dealer at table games to become a member of Club Royale to earn points towards perks like free drinks, free cruises, onboard comps, invitations to special casino events, and more.)

Enjoying a cosmopolitan in the Diamond Lounge during Happy Hour onboard Royal Caribbean’s Allure of the Seas. July 2023 – Photo credit: Patrice Majors | BEYOND the 615 (part of FOCUS on the 615)

There is just SO much to experience and do onboard Royal Caribbean’s innovative fleet of ships that will appeal to all ages and you’ll never be bored.  I promise! So, what are you waiting for? Go to their site by clicking HERE to book a cruise now to see how fabulous a vacation at sea can be.  Whether you’re a solo traveler, celebrating your honeymoon, a family traveling together, or enjoying retirement in your golden years, there is something onboard for everyone on a Royal Caribbean ship to the Caribbean , Mexico , Hawaii , Alaska , Panama Canal , Europe , Greece , Asia , Australia , and more.

Want to find out when & where the next Royal Caribbean President’s Cruise is? Just watch the video below to find out!

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A Life On Nashville's Music Row , Allure of the Seas , BEYOND the 615 , Crown & Anchor Society , CRUISE , Michael Bayley , Music , President's Cruise , Royal Caribbean , travel , vacation

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Can’t Miss Presidents Day Cruise Deals

Happy birthday, George Washington! On this day way back in 1732, you came into this world and nothing would ever be the same. As Americans enjoy their Presidents Day with huge discounts on mattresses, big screen TVs and new cars, you can also snag a pretty sweet deal on a cruise vacation. We’ve compiled a list of the best Presidents Day cruise deals all in one place so you can compare, contrast and then spring for the balcony stateroom! 

Presidents Day Cruise Deals

Norwegian cruise line .

There have been 54 US Presidents, so how about 50% off deposits when you book with Norwegian? That’s on top of the 30% off the booking to begin with! Norwegian Cruise Line Presidents Day sale is being billed as the biggest sale of the decade and it also includes a number of special perks like free open bar, specialty dining (President Howard Taft-approved), free excursions, free wifi and free kids! The sale includes cruises all over the world from Alaska to the Caribbean and even Northern Europe so there’s definitely a cruise for you. 

Royal Caribbean International 

Despite having “Royal” in their name, this cruise line is sure glad we overthrew the monarchy so they could offer $100 on board credit to all Americans (and everyone else)! The credit can be used to book excursions or in the spa among other things so make sure you book by Tuesday! The cruise line is also offering 60% off your second guest so make sure you bring all your friends! 

MSC Cruises 

Presidents Day might only be the 17th, but MSC Cruises is extending their Presidents Day Sale for the whole week! You can book for just $249 per person to the Eastern or Western Caribbean on board one of the four ships MSC has sailing the region. That includes the newer MSC Seaside and MSC Meraviglia ships! Destinations include Belize, Honduras, Bahamas, Jamaica, Mexico and their private island: Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. 

Cunard Line 

There was a time when British ships in America would have been frowned upon, but times change and Cunard Line is offering a Presidents Day sale that Yanks and Brits alike will love. They’re offering 40% off launch fares as well as a deposit as low as $100. Cruises include transatlantic voyages, New England and Canada, Alaska, the Caribbean and more. The sale runs through the 21st so you have a couple of days to book! 

Celebrity Cruises

She might not have the nuclear codes, but Celebrity Cruises CEO Lisa Lutoff-Perlo is still pretty important in the industry. The cruise line is offering guests the chance to sail with the CEO on a 12-night cruise to Boston, Maine and Canada on board Celebrity Summit in June 2020. There will be exclusive shore excursions, commemorative gifts, and special events to celebrate Celebrity’s 30th anniversary. If you book in the next 2 days, you can save $800 instantly and get a free perk included! 

Did you find your own Presidents Day cruise deals? Let us know in the comments below!

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Why Travel Advisors Should Check Out a President's Cruise

Travel Market Report returned early last week from Royal Caribbean's sixth annual President's Cruise, this year on Allure of the Seas out of Galveston.

The one-week cruise brought together Royal Caribbean International president and CEO Michael Bayley, along with a smattering of other Royal Caribbean executives, to mingle and mix with the line's most loyal cruisers and travel advisors. While not all cruisers are at the highest level of the Crown & Anchor Society, the cruise did have the largest gathering of Pinnacle-level cruisers of any sailing in the line's history.

Onboard events included a sneak peek at Icon of the Seas and Utopia of the Seas from a senior vice president, a Q&A with Bayley, and a Royal Caribbean-themed trivia hosted by top Royal Caribbean cruiser "Super Mario" Salcedo and featuring Bayley, former cruise director Ken Rush, and one other executive. (Questions like which animal doesn't feature on the Oasis-class ships' carousels and who was the first female captain for Royal Caribbean had all three execs stumped.)

There were also multiple balloon drop parties, a Royal Caribbean takeover of the Costa Maya port, a variety of cocktail parties for various levels of Crown & Anchor Society members, two performances from Grammy Award winner Chaka Khan, and much more.

The Solarium restaurant even takes on a special theme for each year's President's Cruise, giving cruisers an extra for-fee dining option. (This year it was a barbeque joint; last year for the Alaska-based sailing it was Alaskan specialties like Elk burgers.)

"The extra entertainment that they provided. Granted it was so much that you had to pick and choose," said Josephine Glapion, a travel advisor at Chatman Destinations, who sailed with her teen daughters. "I really enjoyed having that and having multiple timings of the shows."

Just about everyone onboard had a blast, but for advisors onboard the President's Cruise is about more than just having fun.

"The first-hand experience, knowing what it is instead of reading about other people's experiences," said LeAnn Rigsby, MCC, owner of Cricket Cruise and Travel, a Travel Leaders Network affiliate agency, speaking of why she believes other travel advisors should do a President's Cruise.

"It's something they should experience for themselves, as well as promote to clients," said Glapion. "It was really worth it."

Both Glapion and Rigsby said having the first-hand knowledge of what cruisers will experience allows them to market these cruises better. Though next year's President's Cruise will be in Europe (something they both said was harder for their Texas-based clients), they plan to market it, and future President's Cruises more proactively.

Rigsby was pretty proactive about marketing this year's President's Cruise, building and leading a group of 75 people onboard. 

"This cruise, it's meant a lot to me because people did go to NextCruise and have booked. I have been slammed with NextCruise bookings and with people calling me this whole week, booking other cruises," she said. "It's been a benefit to my business. My sales production has increased significantly."

Though she has no plans to take out a group on next year's European President's sailing, she does hope to book interested clients into group space that Travel Leaders has taken out. She's also considering checking out Celebrity Cruises' 2024 President's Cruise.

Only for loyalists? Rigsby told TMR she doesn't believe a President's Cruise is only for loyalists. Though the vast majority of those onboard any President's Cruise tend to be higher tier members of a cruise line's loyalty program, the abundance of onboard activities can be enjoyed by anyone.

"All the events, the top name entertainment that you're not going to get on a regular cruise… They're going to enjoy it just as much," she said, adding her group had a handful of new-to-Royal cruisers, as well as Gold- and Platinum-level Crown & Anchor Society members.

When asked what advice they'd give to other travel advisors considering booking clients onto a President's Cruise – or going themselves – both Rigsby and Glapion recommended booking as early as possible.

"Prices will doing nothing but go up," Rigsby said.

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10 Ways to Celebrate Presidents’ Day Weekend in New York City

It’s mid-February, and NYC is awakening from its early winter slumber with a jam-packed line-up of Presidents’ Day activities and events across the boroughs. Take advantage of everything that’s happening around the city by exploring some of the events that New York City has to offer this three day weekend.  

No matter what you’re looking to do with the extra day off, whether it’s checking out a new exhibit or dressing up like George Washington, here are 11 activities that will spice up your Presidents’ Day Weekend.

New York Presidents’ Day Yacht Cruise Around Manhattan

February 16, 9:00-12:00 pm, prices start at $30  

Celebrate this Presidents’ Day Weekend by snagging a few selfies with the Statue of Liberty, dancing the night away and mingling with new people. Hornblower’s Yacht cruise is a great way to spend your Saturday night if you want to see New York from a whole new perspective.

Nearest subway: Take the 1 or 2 to the Houston Street Station.

Presidents’ Day Race

February 18, $22

If frigid temperatures have you holed-up inside until spring hits, then it may be time to get out of your funk by running a race! There isn’t a set course so participants choose from a 5k, 10k, 13.1-mile or 26.2-mile run or walk and simply submit their time once finished. The best part is you can choose your own route and run during Presidents’ Day or any time in February—so don’t worry about chasing a triathlete who doesn’t even break a sweat.

Presidents’ Day Brunch

February 18, 10:00AM – 3:00 PM, $10-$17

If your party days are behind you, consider waking up early to enjoy seasonal, local food at Loosie’s Kitchen & Cafe . The menu features an original cast of Asian and American fused comfort foods, with everything from avocado toast and tofu to fried tempura skate wing beignets, generously drizzled with nutella for that final mouth-watering touch. 

Nearest subway: Take the J/M train to Marcy Avenue and walk ten minutes

Presidents’ Day Family Bowl

February 18, 11:00 am – 6:00 pm

Grab your family and spend Presidents’ Day bowling! Take advantage of Brooklyn Bowl’s brunch and kid’s menu. Their brunch has classic comfort food with a spin like pancakes with fried chicken and shrimp and grits. After filling up on brunch, grab your bowling shoes and find out who’s lucky enough to get a strike. It’s a fun activity with hearty food that the whole family can join in on.

Nearest subway: Take the G to Nassau Avenue.

The Original Barbershop Comedy Show

February 15, 8:30-10:00 pm, $8

Start your weekend by laughing off your problems at a comedy show . It’s BYOB and takes place in a small barbershop where you can actually get your hair cut during the day. Every Friday it transforms into a room with mismatched chairs and a quaint stage where comedians take the stage in an intimate setting. It’s a great way to start off your weekend with a good laugh and maybe a joke or two about presidents.

Nearest subway: Take the F train to the Second Avenue Station in the East Village or take the F, J, M or Z to Delancey Street Station.

See a Couture Fashion Show

February 14-15, $50-$1500

This fashion show only happens twice a year in New York City, so prepare for an exciting and entertaining night of exquisite garments from up and coming international designers and sporadic shows from dancers and singers. Explore the world of high-end New York fashion by checking out the newest, hottest style of current fashion.

Nearest subway: Take the 7 train to the 5 Avenue-Bryant Park Station.

Lunar New Year Parade and Festival

February 17, 1:00 pm

This family-friendly parade and festival meanders its way through Chinatown and Little Italy, welcoming the Year of the Pig. According to Chinese horoscopes, each year belongs to a different animal and The Year of the Pig will bring luck to anyone born in a previous Year of the Pig and offer varying fortunes for the rest of the horoscopes. Walk the streets, enjoy performances and sample tasty street food.

Nearest subway: Take the F train to Second Avenue Station on the Lower East Side or take the J or Z train to Bowery Station.

Go to a Chinese Art Workshop

January 6- March 31, $120 per group

Explore the art of calligraphy in this festive workshop celebrating the Lunar New Year. The DCTA Chinese New Year Program offers a 30 minute lesson on the spring festival before teaching their students the proper brushstrokes that help to make up lucky new year decorations.

Nearest subway: Take the 4 or the 5 to Bowling Green.

Ripley’s Believe it or Not! Times Square

This “Pay With Presidents Week” comes just in time for those short on funds but still looking for a fun way to spend the holiday. Online purchased tickets save 30% when using the promo code PRESIDENTS19 at checkout, or pay with cash in person and mention “Pay With Presidents” to save $5 off adult tickets. This oddball exhibit’s bound to have something to make your jaw drop, whether it be the largest lock of George Washington’s hair or the massive portrait of Abraham Lincoln made entirely out of pennies. Grab your tickets while you can!

Nearest subway: Take the IRT Broadway–Seventh Avenue Line to 42 street 

The Butterfly Conservatory

Ongoing, $23 for Adult, $13 for Child, $18 for Senior and Student  

Pretend that it’s finally spring by exploring a conservatory filled with butterflies. While this exhibit goes until May 27th, there’s no better way to warm up than with an exhibit with hundreds of live butterflies in a tropical 80 degree environment.

Nearest subway: Take the B or C to 81st Street.

Casey studies Comparative Literature and Mathematics at NYU. In her free time, she is typically figure skating, hiking, trying new eclectic NYC foods, hanging out with her roommates or snuggling with her cat Aya.

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• Carnival Cruise Lines

President Week Cruises

By John&John , February 2, 2011 in Carnival Cruise Lines

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John&John

I was just looking at some of the pricing for President week cruises and the Conquest has resident rates for $359 as well as $369 for the Victory.

I am surprised to see such availability as I thought Presidents week was a popular week for families to cruise.

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We only celebrate Presidents day....not week...

CruisingLPN

Agree with PP. My kids only have Monday off school. They would still have to miss 4 days of school that week. Too many, IMO.

hywaybeachbum

We'll be on the Conquest that week.

Celebrating40

I was just looking at some of the pricing for President week cruises and the Conquest has resident rates for $359 as well as $369 for the Victory.   I am surprised to see such availability as I thought Presidents week was a popular week for families to cruise.

Students here in NYC have President's week off and that's when my daughter and I are traveling. They call it Mid Winter Recess here. We will be in the Triumph and the rates were fairly good for us too.

We will be on the Fascination that week. I was shocked at the low prices too. Here in GA we missed 8 days of school. Some counties took Presidents Day away and other winter vacation days as a snow make up day.

steveNcindy

There are 5 I really like so I make a week out of it :D

We're from NY so my kids have off the whole week.. we were surprised at how easily we could get the Fascination for 5 nights out of JAX. (Of course the airfares kill the deal so we are driving)

@ wdwjen come over and join our roll call. We have a great bunch of people going on this sailing. Here is the link http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1264154

Really??:confused:

When is it?

Aligator6182

Our kids get that week off, but we still leave them with the in-laws!

Really??:confused: When is it?

I think it is February 21st. That is when we get off school. We used to get a full week, now only 2 days.

you should see how NCL gouged New Yorkers for that week with an all access Nick cruise...really shameful..and I truly understand profit making and supply and demand.....

We are paying half of what they are paying President's Week and we are leaving on Easter Sunday...as my kids get the week after Easter off:D

They doubled the prices for the week before Easter/Passover as well

We live in Michigan and our kids our off the whole week. Schools call it Mid- Winter break as someone previously mentioned. We find it a great time to cruise because rates are lower , especially when compared to Easter break, and we found a good amount of families travel then.

Kids in mass have that week off, you usually can get a good price on the cruise, but the airfare could cost 500+ RT which kills the great price.

Thats why we're driving from NY- FLA !! Our airfare would have been more than double the cost of the cruise.

My parents are cruising that time on the Liberty. My mom is a school teacher in NY, so she can only go during school breaks. The cruise itself is not too expensive, but the flight from NY to Florida is almost as much as the cruise! They actually had to get airfare through Carnival because they were charging $600 for the airfare and my dad couldn't find anything for less than $800 that week that would get him to Florida in time. And believe me, he looked day and night for a vacation, not just a cruise. He looked at all inclusives, different cruises from different places. The flights are what kills it.

I'm in Michigan too..but they dropped my kids week off and changed it to a Friday/Monday long weekend..BOO!...the last time we had a full week off in Feb. was 2006...:( So we are sailing Easter week instead....:)

Up here in Ontario (Canada) your President's day is our "Family Day" so most of us have it off too. Not a whole week off but for those who are working its still one day less of vacation to cash in. And that's the week when I'd say 90% of our universities have our week off for reading week. That's why we're Victory-bound for Feb 20! I'll be busy "reading" menus, capers, drink recipes :D

reallyexcited

here we only have the monday and tuesday off.

we are sailing the week before easter which I think has turned out to be the most expensive week of the year :( but that's when DH has off ( he works in a school)

Down here it is Presidents DAY

1 day out of school

I love all the posts from Michigan People! Boo Snow!

Well, we used :( to sail President's Week - did so for four years, three years out of Florida and one from Galveston. Loved getting away from winter. Flying is a pain and an added expense, but we needed the break.

Now DH has gone back into teaching college, so his break and the kids' break no longer line up. They're off in February, he's not. He's off in March, they're not. They're off in April, he's not. You get the idea. So it's summer cruising for us again....

That is a big vacation week for the little darlings in the N. E. If you cruise that week I hope you like kids there will be tons on the cruise ships. However, the week before Easter, Easter week, and the week after Easter is worse kids every where.

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Presidents week 2010

By Nekochan , December 20, 2008 in Family Cruises

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Okay, so we're booked on RCCL explorer this Presidents week, and I started looking at 2010. It seems like the only ship leaving president's week in 2010 is the NCL Gem to florida and bahamas (ugh for the itinerary and the ship - I was not happy with my last cruise). The RCCL cruise is lasting for 12 days, and will get us back to school too late. Does anyone know if RCCL or anyone else is planning a President's week cruise that week out of the NY area? I'd hate to have to fly down to Florida.

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I am not aware of other lines that sail out of NY area year round. Carnival will have the Pride out of Baltimore year round starting in late April 2009. That is a driveable port from NY area but the itin is FL/Bahamas. Other than that I think you are looking at FL (or somewhere else by plane)

I had booked the NCL Dawn out of NYC one year to avoid the air thing and I actually wound up cancelling and sailing out of FL.....I did not like the idea of not starting my vacay in warm weather and the seas in the Atlantic can be rough.....those things combined meant a couple of sea days that were not the kind of cruise I was really looking for. That is a personal decision for me but just something worth thinking about.

crusinmama06

There are only 3 ships that leave the Northern East Coast for RCCL - Explorer out of Bayonne NJ

Grandeur out of Baltimore

Jewel out of Boston

Feb 5, Feb 26 - 9 Night on Explorer - Eastern Carib

Feb 14 - 12 night on Explorer - Southern Carib

Grandeur has no Winter sailings out of Baltimore.

Jewel has no Winter sailings out of Boston.

We've been sailing President's Week for several years now, all out of Florida, and we're looking at Carnival Pride out of Baltimore in 2010 just so we can drive. It's a 7-day leaving on Sunday, so we won't have to take the kids out of school. I'm not crazy about the itinerary (Port Canaveral, Freeport and Nassau), but I just like being on a ship and getting away from the miserable Upstate New York weather in February.

I know, but it looks like I'll have to sail out of florida. I don't like a Florida/bahamas itinerary at all.

Just be ready to search and search for airline deals in February!

We paid an arm and a leg for flights for this past February Vacation. We ended up on the Liberty 8 Day Southern Carribean, and we loved it! But flights were about $400.00 each from Providence to FLL.

Fortunately I live near both JFK and LaGuardia, so I have a wide choice of flights.

Thanks for the advice.

I still have to mull things over. I'm going to wait until after my RCCL cruise this february to decide. I might visit a friend in San Diego instead.

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Biden in NYC today: What to know about president's schedule, street closures

Clinton, obama in nyc for biden fundraiser.

President Joe Biden is expected to be in NYC today, and stay overnight, meaning traffic trouble for commuters. FOX 5 NY's Briella Tomassetti has the details.

NEW YORK CITY - President Joe Biden is in NYC, and is expected to stay overnight, meaning traffic trouble for commuters, as well as possible protests across the city.

JUMP TO: STREET CLOSURES l SCHEDULE l POSSIBLE PROTESTS

This evening, the president will join former Presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton at Radio City Music Hall for a Democratic fundraiser. 

Thousands of people are expected to flood Midtown Manhattan for the event moderated by late-night talk show host Stephen Colbert. Some celebrity guests include Mindy Kaling and Queen Latifah.

Biden visits NYC for interview, fundraiser

President Joe Biden is once again visiting New York City for a interview with late-night talk show host Seth Meyers and a fundraiser, causing travel headaches all across the city. FOX 5 NY's Sharon Crowley has the story.

Campaign officials haven't said how much money they expect to raise, but tickets range anywhere between 225 and $500,000. 

Street closures for Biden's visit

Check HERE for a map of NYC street closures. For real-time street closure updates, check 511 HERE .

Biden's March 28 schedule

Below is Biden's official schedule from the White House.

12:35 p.m.: The President arrives at John F. Kennedy International Airport.

12:45 p.m.: The President departs John F. Kennedy International Airport en route to the Wall Street Landing Zone.

President Joe Biden speaks about his economic plan at the Flex LTD manufacturing plant on July 6, 2023 in West Columbia, South Carolina. (Sean Rayford/Getty Images)

1:00 p.m.: The President arrives at the Wall Street Landing Zone.

8:05 p.m.: The President and the First Lady participate in a campaign reception at Radio City Music Hall.

Biden's previous visits

The president was in town twice last month, when he attended three campaign receptions in the city. His visit sparked pro-Palestinian protests in Columbus Circle.

Less than three weeks later, he made another trip to the Big Apple to tape a TV appearance on late night with Seth Meyers. Police shut down streets in and around Rockefeller Center.

Possible protests

A march and protest is scheduled for 4 p.m. at NYPL Bryant Park, according to The People's Forum, an Instagram account with over 77,000 followers.

Biden's NYC visit sparks pro-Palestinian protests in Columbus Circle

"Let Biden know he has got to go for carrying out the genocide in Gaza," organizers posted.

"Join us for a march and protest to say NO fundraising for the makers of genocide!" the account said in a post.

One of Biden's last visits in NYC sparked pro-Palestinian protests in Columbus Circle.

Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse: What to do if you booked cruise out of Baltimore

The collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore has crippled transportation around Baltimore and caused people to scramble to find alternatives.

After Tuesday's disaster, drivers have had to find alternate routes to get into Baltimore, and vessel traffic was suspended indefinitely from the Port of Baltimore, causing people who booked cruises to wonder what's next.

What happened to the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore?

A major span critical to East Coast shipping collapsed early Tuesday morning after it was struck by a large cargo ship.

The  cargo ship Dali  struck the Key bridge around 1:40 a.m. Tuesday after experiencing electrical problems, officials said. The  984-foot ship sailing  under the flag of Singapore was slated to arrive early next month in Sri Lanka, according to MarineTraffic, a global ship tracking service. The bridge then collapsed into the Patapsco River.

Which cruise lines dock at the Port of Baltimore?

According to the Cruise Lines International Association, the industry’s leading trade group, published itineraries in the 2024 calendar year include a dozen ships making 115 stops in Baltimore. Carnival Cruise Line, American Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean International have cruises scheduled to leave the port.

Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse: Cargo ship hits bridge in Baltimore, causing collapse. Here's what we know so far

What are cruise lines doing with the Port of Baltimore closed?

Carnival Cruise Line said Tuesday it's temporarily moving Carnival Legend's Baltimore operations to Norfolk, Virginia.

Carnival Legend is scheduled to return from its current voyage on Sunday, March 31. It will now return to Norfolk, Virginia, on Sunday. Passengers will be provided complimentary bus service back to Baltimore. Carnival Legend’s next seven-day itinerary on March 31 will then operate from and return to Norfolk. Guests on the current and upcoming cruises are being informed of this change. 

Carnival Pride has a trip scheduled for April 28. The cruise line has not yet shared plans for Carnival Pride.

“Our thoughts remain with the impacted families and first responders in Baltimore,” Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line, said in a release. “We appreciate the pledge made by President Biden today to dedicate all available resources to reopen Baltimore Harbor to marine traffic as soon as possible. As those plans are finalized, we will update our future cruise guests on when we will return home to Baltimore, but in the meantime, we appreciate the quick response and support from officials in Norfolk.” 

Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean’s  Vision of the Seas  has a roundtrip itinerary scheduled to depart Baltimore on April 12, according to the cruise line’s website. 

 “We are deeply saddened by the tragedy and collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge and extend our heartfelt prayers to all those impacted,” a spokesperson for the line said in an email to USA TODAY. “We are closely monitoring the situation, and our port logistics team is currently working on alternatives for Vision of the Seas’ ongoing and upcoming sailings.”

American Cruise Line

American Cruise Lines  has roundtrip sailings from Baltimore scheduled in May, according to its website.

“We will monitor the situation and make adjustments to future cruises if needed, but at present our schedules remain unaffected, and our thoughts remain with those affected by the immediate situation and rescue efforts underway,” an American Cruise Lines spokesperson told USA TODAY.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian doesn't have a booking out of Baltimore until September on Norwegian Sky . The cruise line is in contact with the port and will contact passengers and travel partners if changes are made.

Alternate driving routes for the Baltimore bridge

Drivers going from Wilmington to Baltimore or Washington should take I-95 (Fort McHenry Tunnel) or I-895 (Baltimore Harbor Tunnel) to avoid the collapsed bridge. However, the Maryland Transportation Authority notes there are  some exceptions .

Vehicles carrying hazardous materials, including more than 10 pounds of propane, are not allowed in the tunnels. Additionally, vehicles more than 13 feet and 6 inches high or 8 feet wide may not use the I-895 Baltimore Harbor Tunnel. Vehicles more than 14 feet and 6 inches high or 11 feet wide may not use the I-95 Fort McHenry Tunnel. 

Those vehicles should use the western portion of I-695 instead.

Anthony DiMattia, Eve Chen and Nathan Diller contributed to this story.

Vietnam president resigns amid scandal

Vietnam loses its second president in two years as Vo Van Thuong steps down

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What happened

Vietnamese President Vo Van Thuong abruptly stepped down amid a growing corruption scandal, the country's Communist Party announced on Wednesday. His resignation comes one year after his predecessor, Nguyen Xuan Phuc, resigned over allegations of misconduct in his administration.

Who said what

Thuong's "violations and flaws have negatively affected public perception as well as the reputation of the party and the state," Vietnam's Communist Party Central Committee said. 

The commentary

Thuong's departure is a "worrying sign for political stability" in Vietnam, The Associated Press said. It comes after the government "ramped up efforts to weed out wrongdoing among senior leadership," Bloomberg said. Investors are "becoming nervous as the corruption crackdown drags on and expands to private businesses," the Financial Times said.

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Vietnam's legislature on Thursday appointed Vice President Vo Thi Anh Xuan as acting president, and he will serve "until the party decides the next candidate," Reuters said.

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Peter has worked as a news and culture writer and editor at The Week since the site's launch in 2008. He covers politics, world affairs, religion and cultural currents. His journalism career began as a copy editor at a financial newswire and has included editorial positions at The New York Times Magazine, Facts on File, and Oregon State University.  

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Provost finalists visiting the week of April 1

Finalists in the process of interviewing for the position of provost and executive vice president will present to the public during their visits to Washington State University next week.

WSU faculty, staff, and students are invited to attend the candidates’ presentations detailing their vision for the university’s academic enterprise. The university community will have an opportunity to share feedback on each finalist after their presentation concludes via a survey created by Isaacson, Miller, the executive recruiting firm leading the search.

The presentation schedule and additional information, including physical location and the link to the live streams, will be shared on the Provost Search website in the days ahead. WSU Insider will share that information as it becomes available. Candidate materials will be posted on the website at 8 a.m. the day before their presentation.

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A Carnival cruise that left Baltimore last week will return to a different port and bus passengers home

• Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed Tuesday morning after a container ship crashed into it.
• Carnival Cruise Line  is temporarily relocating the Carnival Legend's homeport from Baltimore to Norfolk, Virginia.
• The company is providing guests on the ship, returning on Sunday, with a bus back to Baltimore.

On Sunday, travelers on Carnival Cruise Line's Legend ship will return home after a relaxing weeklong vacation in the Caribbean.

But instead of disembarking at the ship's homeport as planned, these cruisers will soon find themselves a four-hour bus ride away in Norfolk, Virginia, as the Port of Baltimore remains closed following the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in the early hours of Tuesday morning.

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Amid the disruption, Carnival said it had moved the Carnival Legend's March 31 disembarkation from Baltimore to Norfolk, Virginia, where it will temporarily remain homeported. The company will provide guests on the ship's Caribbean voyage a free bus back to Baltimore.

The Carnival Legend's next weeklong cruise, embarking the same day it returns, will sail roundtrip from Norfolk, about a four-hour drive from Baltimore. The cruise line said it will update future guests on its plans to return to Maryland.

Carnival's Carnival Pride and Legend, Royal Caribbean's Vision of the Sea, and American Cruise Line's American Glory are all scheduled to sail from the Port of Baltimore in April. The companies did not immediately respond to Business Insider's inquiry about potential itinerary changes.

Experts told Business Insider that the Port of Baltimore's ongoing closure could amount to a daily $15 million loss in economic activity .

While the port is vitally important for certain imports and exports, it represents a relatively small portion of US cruise departures, with smaller ships compared to hubs like Florida. More than 444,000 people embarked on cruises there in 2023, according to state officials.

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