Shows such as “Strictly Come Dancing”‘ and “Come Dine With Me” have led to a renewed surge in demand for themed holidays, according to a leading UK travel company.

Costa Cruises has gained high-level market recognition in China after receiving two awards in quick succession. World Traveler Media’s ‘Top Cruise Lines of Popularity’ Award 2008 came shortly after Costa was awarded ‘Best Brand Campaign’ at Travel Weekly’s China Industry Awards 2008.

The good news for the U.S. Virgin Islands is that cruise ships are coming back to St. Croix after years of little to no cruise ship activity.

Azamara Cruises, Celebrity Cruises and Royal Caribbean International will no longer accept credit card information through email sources. Starting Dec. 15, incoming emails containing credit card information will be blocked, and the sender will receive the following return message: “Your email was not delivered because it contains credit card information.”

MSC Cruises have been recognized for their efforts to implement sustainable environmental programs while maintaining habitual operations by becoming the recipient of a special prize for recycling city councils, an initiative promoted every year by CIAL.

The rule in cruising seems to be that the more upscale the cruise, the older the passenger. It takes time for most people to be able to afford what is often a five-digit price tag.