I hope everyone is enjoying the 4TH of July week. While the holiday falls during the week, many people will be enjoying a week long holiday. I wish you well as you celebrate with family and friends.

With July 1 being the date in which travel companies must disclose their fees, the rollout has gone well and I for one like seeing the total price immediately and if optional services are desired, it is easy to see how much they cost. I know in looking at some invoices it took a lot of time to figure them out. I am fist pumping this change!

As a travel advisor you may not be aware that I sell all types of vactions, not just cruises. From the far reaches of the globe our company, Cruise Brother's Inc. has many connections to provide you with a destination.

Cruise prices and last minute sailings. Our company contracts group space on many cruise ships. Our group pricing is always lower than what you would find on a cruise line website. The group prices are available until about 3 months before sailing. However, some of the group prices sell out before hand.

How to get the best deals? Book a group space fare well in advance. I have seen clients book 12 - 18 months out and have snagged some awesome fares. I have seen some fares be several hundred dollars higher when booked 4 - 6 months in advance. Planning is important.

Cost of cruises. Since the pandemic, demand has been very very high. With that demand has come higher pricing. For most Caribbean sailings 7/8 nights, you are looking at about $3500 for 2 people in a balcony that includes gratuities, beverage packages and wifi. Does not matter which ship or company, that is about the starting point for a cruise.

Are there deals? Yes, but it is usually inside or oceanview cabins. Sometimes a balcony could be available, but the location is not the best. Most of the time they are non refundable fares. If you are looking for short notice cruises, I can help. However, you have to know your destination and dates. I don't have a ticker tape running across my screen as if it were Wall Street. Also, you need to give me a budget as to what is a deal for you. When I see a deal, I will send it out in an email, just like I have the past few newsletters.

Finally, if you have friends or family or interest group that want to travel together I can set up a group for you. Traveling together makes fabulous memories. Feel free to pass along my newsletter to those who want to travel, I am always willing to help.

Enjoy the Fourth of July!

Kathy Hays