Single White Female 42

Another holiday season

2010-12-05T14:27:00.000-08:00

Yes I know I haven't blogged all that much this year. 2010 hasn't been kind to me on many levels, and, I'll be glad to see it go. I hope 2011 holds much better times for me in all areas of my life. Maybe I should just go back to my own version of Mr Big, and, take it from there.

It's funny, I watched "Sex and the City" last night - the movie (the first one), and, my own Mr. Big and I are very much like Carrie and Big... Even the on again, off again thing for the past ten years. Alas, it is me who has the commitment issues. (And, I'm not thrilled that he has baggage... Never have been thrilled with that part since I'm always being put in last place. And, I do mean always.) And, this has made me extremely gun shy about dating any guy who has kids at at this point - even if the "kids" are now college age.

I'd love to find a guy who is 45 - 50 (since I'm now actually 44, I just kept the title of SWF42 because that is when I started writing this saga)... Anyhow, I'd like to find a guy who is 45 to 50 who doesn't have any kids - and I know you're out there - who loves to travel and likes the finer things in life and can afford to do them with me.

Somehow, I do believe my Mr. Big is planning on making yet another come-back into my life. Once again, the flowers, the dinner invitations, and, everything that he can do to romance me have once again started, but, I'm older and wiser - and I'm not going to fall for it so readily this time. I have to see that I get some type of priority once in a while and for once let work, his kids, his mother and his ex-wife take a back seat to me. If he would do that just once... Then and only then might I start taking him seriously again.

In the meantime, any other takers out there? Email me... I'll even give you a hint, somewhere on this website you'll find my email....

Checking in

2010-11-11T11:39:00.000-08:00

Yes I know it's been forever since I posted. I've had lots going on in my personal life, and, it hasn't been the best. Everything from an ailing Father to dealing with an ongoing problem with a tooth - the dentist finally decided the best solution is to yank it. Gee, lucky me.

I'll be back to posting regularly soon... I hope.

Over size 14? Wait a minute - I'll give you the tablecloth from my dining room table - chances are it will fit better than what's out there to buy!

2010-09-16T12:02:00.000-07:00

Today I had one of the most disheartening experiences of my life. I took a friend shopping for a rather special event and it ended up with her in near hysterical tears. No it was nothing I said or did. No the saleswoman wasn't rude. No there were no ill words between her and husband or her and her children. The reason you ask? The clothes themselves.

My friend is a beautiful woman who just happens to be overweight. No I don't mean overweight by fashion world status - anyone above a size 4 is considered to be an elephant by the fashion world scale. But, truly over weight - a size 24 - for any man reading this - this roughly translates into XXL in your world.

I know some designers read this blog and so I will put the challenge directly to you...
Any designer, even the bad ones, can make a size 2 and 5'10 woman look great. As often quoted saying among the fashion industry "models are nothing more than mere hangers" - and to a very large part this true. My challenge is for designers to make clothing that flatters real women - ones who aren't size 2 or even size 16 and ones without perfect legs up to their necks and standing 5'9.

I can't remember who it was off hand but the best fashion designer cop-out of why that particular designer didn't make clothing over size 12 or 14 was because she (I'm 99% sure it was a she) said being "larger was unhealthy and she didn't want to be part of it."

I say that is pure bull!!

Any designer - who actually knows how to design - should be able to make flattering clothes for ANY sized woman. And, not just these God awful frumpy clothes that even though are brand new in stores (such as Saks Fifth Avenue and Bergdorf Goodman) with tags - look like something that was grabbed out of Grandma's closet without regard to garments being stylish, fashionable and God-forbid - flattering for a fuller figured woman.

And so with that I must give a standing ovation to Marc Jacobs - the first designer to realize there is an entirely overlooked market of women who are size 14 and over - who are fashion conscious and have the money to make purchases for designer items - if they could just be found! Unfortunately, these plans are still "in the works" and we might not have these items available until 2011, but, at least someone is waking up!

Now how about the rest of you following or should we just look forward to more Moos Moos and Toga-type dresses from you in 2011? If that's the case, I'll give my friend the tablecloth from my dining room table - chances are it will fit better and flatter more than the crap you are presently pushing down the plus sized woman's throat.

Posh says "no" to size zero and other fashion week updates

2010-09-11T14:39:00.000-07:00

"Posh" aka Victoria Beckham has banned super skinny size zero models from her runway show. Whether it was a spur of the moment decision or something that has been planned for a while - Posh has taken the (brave) stand that size zero is too thin for almost all adult women and has turned away no less than 12 models that were size zero from appearing in her Fashion Week runway show. I say "Bravo!" and "Well done Posh!"

Jessica Simpson was the guest judge for the season finale of Project Runway. No leaks from this writer who is the winner of season 8 - you'll just have to keep watching to find out!

Friday night's "Fashion's Night Out" was a blur of stars, models, designers and event attendees. Unlike past Fashion's Night Out events the sidewalks seems jammed with on-lookers. I'm not sure I get it - tickets were made public so why people had to cram-jam the sidewalks to catch a glimpse of the rich and famous is a bit beyond me...

Stay tuned for more Fashion Week updates

Another Fall

2010-09-07T11:19:00.000-07:00

I've been trying to be good and work today, but, I'm finding it hard to kick into gear after the long weekend. It's a bit too warm and my mind is wandering a little too off the beaten path to be productive, so, I'm allowing myself a rare "goof-off" day and hopefully the motivation will return to work later this evening or first thing in the morning. I've found that - at least for me - when I am experiencing one of these days, it means my mind is in overdrive and I need to just chill and let things fall into place. I have lots on my plate this Fall including Fashion's Night Out on Friday night.

I also have a very special friend coming to visit at the end of October, and, I'm trying to figure out a great weekend for us. I want enough to do without running ourselves ragged and not having time to talk about things and events that have transpired this year.

Yes, per usual, my Fall social schedule is heavy, and, as always it is self-imposed. I keep myself busy because I find the Fall a bit depressing - like the end of things. Another year has passed - my New Year's resolutions and things to do list is only about half done (par for the course) and I face another birthday in November.

This year will be tougher than some recent past years. No, I don't have a milestone birthday or anything like that taking place, but, I did have a friend betray me in every possible sense. I saw it coming from a mile away and he certainly wasn't the guy I was going to marry or have any type of long term relationship other than friend with - but - it was still a blow to find out he was the cause of my of personal troubles this past year. I'm am still struggling whether or not I want to press legal charges against him - that's how serious this was - but, that is why this Fall will be harder than past Falls in recent years.

So, with that I am going to head outside and enjoy the weather, and, with any luck, I will kick into gear and get working this evening...

Pardon me - I have one anger feline waiting for me

2010-09-02T15:18:00.000-07:00

Yes, I've been bad - the last time I blogged was back in July and here it is September 2, 2010. Sorry things in my life have been in turmoil - I've been the victim of ID theft and getting my life back in order has been nothing short of a nightmare.

Anyhow, since I'm getting back to normal or as normal as one can get after having their life invaded and stolen from them... Here is what I found absolutely interesting today...

I signed into my Twitter account for the first time in God knows when and it turns out I have nearly 300 followers. Strangely enough most are women, well, I guess it isn't so strange, after all - when you hit a certain age there are always more single women than single men - even with the high divorce rate.

Anyhow, if you'd like to follow my Tweets - be forewarned, I don't use Twitter often, my link is: http://twitter.com/swf42

So if you have been kind enough to follow me - you will now find that I am following you. Thank you for your loyalty and readership.

Of course I have other things happening in my life but for now this is all I will blog. I'm actually on my way out to the food store. I am out of cat food and I'm dealing with one very impatient feline at the moment!

Stay tuned... I'll be blogging more as Fall and Winter set in

Project Runway Season 8: And Sew It Begins - tonight at 9pm Eastern on Lifetime

2010-07-29T07:00:00.000-07:00

I probably shouldn't have to tell you this but tonight begins Season 8 for Project Runway. It looks like it might be a fun and promising season, and, if you click the following link you can get a sneak peak at this season's designers (a rather large group this time): http://www.mylifetime.com/shows/project-runway

And if you've been living under a rock, Fashion Week will be September 9 - 16 this Fall. If you don't have your press pass by now, you're out of luck - just remember to register earlier next time.

But, I digress and return to Project Runway. What is it about this show that makes it so much fun? Is it trying to predict the winner based on the first night's competition? Watching the designers each week and slowly learning their ideas and personalities like last year's very memorable Anthony Williams? You can see Anthony's current collection on his website at: http://www.anthonylwilliams.com

Did you have Seth Aaron Henderson selected as the Project Runway season 7 winner? Seth Aaron also has a website where you can see his collection (which is outstanding): http://sethaarondesigns.com/home.html

I don't know about you but I'll be in front of the television watching the fun tonight!

World Cruise 2012 - I'm booked!

2010-07-25T12:57:00.000-07:00

Well here I am - officially booked on the full 2012 World Cruise on Queen Mary 2 which includes the full circumnavigation of Australia. Funny how a two or three people didn't believe I was actually going but hey it's their loss. I invited people who turned me down and I'm not even going to give them a second thought beyond this short blog entry.

There is too much to look forward to than to dwell on people who didn't have enough trust in me to believe this would actually come to pass. I've been meeting fellow shipmates via Facebook and anyone booked on the 2012 World Cruise or any of it's segments are invited to join the Facebook group: http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=108081605886749

It is indeed an exciting itinerary, if I didn't release before now, here it is:

January, 2012

Jan 10 Southampton, England Embark PM
11-12 W-TH Cruising the Atlantic Ocean
13 F Madeira (Funchal), Portugal Full Day
14 S Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Canary Islands Full Day
15-21 SU-S Cruising the Atlantic Ocean (cross the Equator)
22 SU Swakopmund (Walvis Bay), Namibia Maiden Call Full Day
23 M Cruising the Atlantic Ocean
24 T Cape Town, South Africa (Overnight) Full Day & Overnight
25 W Cape Town, South Africa (Overnight) Full Day & Overnight
26 TH Cape Town, South Africa Full Day
27 F Cruising the Indian Ocean
28 S Durban, South Africa Full Day
29-31 SU-T Cruising the Indian Ocean

February, 2012

Feb 1 W Port Louis, Mauritius Full Day
2-7 TH-T Cruising the Indian Ocean
8 W Perth (Fremantle), Australia Full Day
9-10 TH-F Cruising the Great Australian Bight
11 S Adelaide, Australia Full Day
12-13 SU-M Cruising the Great Australian Basin & Tasman Sea
14 T Sydney, Australia Full Day & Evening
15 W Cruising the Tasman Sea
16 TH Brisbane, Australia Full Day
17 F Cruising the Coral Sea
18 S Whitsunday Islands (for the Great Barrier
Reef), Australia
Full Day
19 SU Cairns (Yorkeys Knob), Australia Full Day
20-21 M-T Cruising the Arafura Sea
22 W Darwin, Australia Maiden Call Full Day
23 TH Cruising the Timor Sea
24 F Bali (Padang Bay), Indonesia Full Day
25-27 S-M Cruising the Indian Ocean
28 T Perth (Fremantle), Australia Full Day
Feb 29 W Cruising the Indian Ocean

March, 2012
Mar 1-2 TH-F Cruising the Great Australian Basin
3 S Adelaide, Australia Full Day
4 SU Cruising the Great Australian Basin
5 M Melbourne, Australia Full Day
6 T Cruising the Tasman Sea
7 W Sydney, Australia Full Day & Evening
8-11 TH-SU Cruising the Tasman Sea & the Solomon Sea
12 M Rabaul, Papua New Guinea Full Day
13-14 T-W Cruising the Pacific Ocean
15 TH Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands Full Day
16-17 F-S Cruising the Pacific Ocean
18 SU Osaka, Japan (for Kyoto) Full Day & Evening
19 M Cruising the Pacific Ocean
20 T Hiroshima, Japan Maiden Call Full Day
21 W Nagasaki, Japan Full Day
22 TH Cruising the East China Sea
23 F Shanghai, China Full Day
24 S Cruising the East China Sea
25 SU Hong Kong (Overnight) Half Day - Afternoon &
Overnight
26 M Hong Kong Full Day & Evening
27-28 T-W Cruising the South China Sea
29 TH Ho Chi Minh City (Phu My), Vietnam Full Day
30 F Cruising Gulf of Thailand
31 S Bangkok (Laem Chabang), Thailand Full Day

April, 2012
Apr 1 SU Cruising South China Sea
2 M Singapore Full Day
3 T Cruising the Andaman Sea
4 W Phuket, Thailand Full Day
5-6 TH-F Cruising the Bay of Bengal
7 S Cochin, India Full Day
8-10 SU-T Cruising the Arabian Sea
11 W Dubai, United Arab Emirates (Overnight) Full Day & Overnight
12 TH Dubai, United Arab Emirates Full Day
13 F Muscat (Mina Qaboos), Oman Full Day
14-17 S-T Cruising the Arabian Sea & Red Sea
18 W Sokhna, Egypt (for Cairo & Giza) Full Day
19 TH Transit the Suez Canal
20 F Cruising the Mediterranean Sea
21 S Athens (Piraeus), Greece Full Day
22-24 SU-T Cruising the Mediterranean Sea
25 W Lisbon, Portugal Full Day
26 TH Cruising the Atlantic Ocean
27 F Southampton, England Disembark AM

SINGLE OCCUPANCY PRICING

Single Occupancy

●The following is based upon single occupancy (one person in one cabin)

●Pricing includes port charges and taxes

●Pricing includes insurance as indicated

With Insurance from Cunard

Category	Deposit Required	On-Board Credit	Total** including deposit
D5 Inside	$5,485.00	$650	$40,672.11
C2 Outside	$6,607.00	$650	$48,825.65
B2 In- Hull Balcony	$7,480.00	$1,050	$55,167.78
B1 In- Hull Balcony	$7,729.00	$1,050	$56,979.19
A4 - Balcony	$7.729.00	$1,050	$56,979.19
A2 - Balcony	$8,802.00	$1,050	$64,770.89
P2 - Princess Grill	$15,674.00	$1,300	$114,882.48
Q6 - Queen's Grill	$21,374.00	$1,800	$157,818.68

Without Insurance from Cunard

Category	Deposit Required	On-Board Credit	Total** including deposit
D5 Inside	$5,485.00	$650	$37,384.83
C2 Outside	$6,607.00	$650	$44,865.83
B2 In- Hull Balcony	$7,480.00	$1,050	$50,684.83
B1 In- Hull Balcony	$7,729.00	$1,050	$52,346.83
A4 - Balcony	$7.729.00	$1,050	$52,346.83
A2 - Balcony	$8,802.00	$1,050	$59,495.83
P2 - Princess Grill	$15,674.00	$1,300	$105308.83
Q6 - Queen's Grill	$21,374.00	$1,800	$143308.83

DOUBLE OCCUPANCY PRICING

Double Occupancy

●The following is based upon double occupancy (two people in one cabin)

●Pricing includes port charges and taxes

●Pricing includes insurance as indicated

With Insurance from Cunard

Category	Deposit Required	On-Board Credit	Total** including deposit
D5 Inside	$6,268.00	$1,150.00	$47,183.08
C2 Outside	$7,551.00	$1,150.00	$56,502.96
B2 In- Hull Balcony	$8,548.00	$1,800.00	$63,750.74
B1 In- Hull Balcony	$8,833.00	$1,800.00	$65,820.62
A4 - Balcony	$8,833.00	$1,800.00	$65,820.62
A2 - Balcony	$10,059.00	$1,800.00	$74,726.50
P2 - Princess Grill	$15,673.00	$2,300.00	$115,520.34
Q6 - Queen's Grill	$21,373.00	$3,300.00	$156,937.02

Without Insurance from Cunard

Category	Deposit Required	On-Board Credit	Total** including deposit
D5 Inside	$6,268.00	$1,150.00	$43,426.30
C2 Outside	$7,551.00	$1,150.00	$51,977.42
B2 In- Hull Balcony	$8,548.00	$1,800.00	$58,627.38
B1 In- Hull Balcony	$8,833.00	$1,800.00	$60,526.52
A4 - Balcony	$8,833.00	$1,800.00	$60,526.52
A2 - Balcony	$10,059.00	$1,800.00	$68,697.80
P2 - Princess Grill	$15,673.00	$2,300.00	$106,126.78
Q6 - Queen's Grill	$21,373.00	$3,300.00	$144,127.22

I simply cannot wait!

QM2 World Cruise 2012 Booking Instructions

2010-06-29T09:44:00.000-07:00

Hello Fellow World Cruisers!

World Cruise 2012 opens in just a few short weeks and at this time I'd like to go over booking instructions and procedures with you.

We are accepting BOOKING FORMS as of TODAY Tuesday, June 29, 2010. You will be booked in order received beginning July 15, 2010.

We are only have the following sailings available with GROUP pricing and amenities

Full World Cruise on QM2 Southampton to Southampton

Full World Cruise with EASTBOUND Transatlantic on January 3, 2012

Full World Cruise with WESTBOUND Transatlantic on April 27, 2012

Full World Cruise with BOTH Transatlantic (Offering a full world cruise New York to New York)

Circumnavigation of Australia (28 Days in Australia)

As you may realize, we've been promoting this cruise for over a year and our opt-in list is massive. In order to book everyone in a timely fashion, we have developed a booking form and credit card authorization form. This is the only way we are accepting bookings due to the sheer size of the interest this sailing has generated.

Booking forms will be processed in order received. If you are booking the Australia segment please get a booking form sent to us by 5pm Eastern Time on July 14, 2010. The Australia segment is expected to sell out rapidly!

Booking Procedure

The booking procedure is simple. Fill out the booking form located on our website. Here is the link:

Booking Form:
http://www.qm2worldcruise2012.com/3/custom_form.htm

On July 15, 2010 we will pull group space based on booking forms received by July 14, 2010, and, we will begin booking reservations in order received.

Once you are booked, we will forward BOTH a booking number AND a confirmation directly from Cunard. You will then have 72 hours from receipt of your booking number to send us a credit card authorization form. This form will be sent to you along with your booking confirmation.

Your credit card or debit card will be charged DIRECTLY BY CUNARD. You will not see any additional charges from us - ever.

Group Amenities

EASTBOUND TRANSATLANTIC
January 3, 2012
SPECIAL AMENITIES (included at no additional charge to you)

* Complimentary Hotel and Dining Charges per person
* "Welcome Aboard" door decorations (balloons and streamers)
* Cunard Travel Mugs (two per stateroom)

FULL WORLD CRUISE 2012
January 10 - April 27, 2012
SPECIAL AMENITIES (included at no additional charge to you)

Full World Voyage Benefits from Cunard:

· On-Board Credit of up to $3,000 per stateroom (expires 28 February 2011)
· Savings of up to 10% off Early Booking Fares (expires 28 February 2011)
· Complimentary hotel and dining charges
· Gala World Voyage Dinner
· Special commemorative gifts
· Welcome Aboard Reception & Senior Officer Dinner
· World Voyage cocktail parties
· Services of a World Voyage Concierge

Special Note: Additional 5% savings on Bonus Early Booking Fares for World Club Members applies to reservations made by 28 February 2011.

Office EXCLUSIVE Amenities

· A signed copy of the World Cruise book being written by blogger "Around the World 2012" The book will contain the history of world cruises, the 2012 QM2 itinerary, and, tons of photos from the cruise. It promises to be a great keepsake. It will be sent to you in late 2012.
· ADDITIONAL On-Board Credit $75 USD per person (Inside & Outside) $150 maximum per cabin; $150 USD per person (Balcony & Grill) $300 maximum per cabin
· Welcome Aboard" door decorations (balloons and streamers)
· Special in-cabin gift upon boarding
· Special in-cabin gift on Valentine's Day (February 14, 2012)

WESTBOUND TRANSATLANTIC AND AUSTRALIA SEGMENT AMENITIES WILL BE ANNOUNCED ON JULY 15, 2010

Contact Information and About Us

Our Fax Number is:
800-519-8834

Our Email:
JackieThresten@yahoo.com

Please refrain from calling the office during the July 15 - July 18 booking period. Phone calls only slow us down and we need to get everyone booked ASAP. If you need to speak with us, leave a voice-mail and we will get back to you.

About Us

Jackie Thresten began her career as a flight attendant after graduating college with a BS in English. After a number of years with the airlines, marriage and family came along and, Jackie became a professional travel agent. She is currently a luxury travel agent and holds an MCC certificate from CLIA and is also a graduate of the Travel Institute has earned the title of Certified Travel Counselor (CTC).

Jackie Thresten is a home-based travel agent and independent contractor in association with Vacation Central, 560 Sylvan Ave , Englewood Cliffs, NJ, 07632 , USA, Phone: 201-567-8500, Fax: 201-490-1721

IATAN/ARC/CLIA: 31823643

CST # 2057620 FLA. Seller of Travel-Reg. No. ST36832 NV Seller of Travel-Reg. No. 2004-0111.

Please note I will be unavailable from Wednesday June 30, 2010 through Wednesday, July 7, 2010. However, booking forms will still be forwarded to my email account and again you will be booked in order received.

Sincerely,

Jackie Thresten
World Cruise 2012

QM2 World Cruise 2012 Itinerary and Lead-In Pricing

2010-06-18T10:27:00.000-07:00

FULL WORLD CRUISE

January, 2012

Jan 10 Southampton, England Embark PM
11-12 W-TH Cruising the Atlantic Ocean
13 F Madeira (Funchal), Portugal Full Day
14 S Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Canary Islands Full Day
15-21 SU-S Cruising the Atlantic Ocean (cross the Equator)
22 SU Swakopmund (Walvis Bay), Namibia Maiden Call Full Day
23 M Cruising the Atlantic Ocean
24 T Cape Town, South Africa (Overnight) Full Day & Overnight
25 W Cape Town, South Africa (Overnight) Full Day & Overnight
26 TH Cape Town, South Africa Full Day
27 F Cruising the Indian Ocean
28 S Durban, South Africa Full Day
29-31 SU-T Cruising the Indian Ocean

February, 2012

Feb 1 W Port Louis, Mauritius Full Day
2-7 TH-T Cruising the Indian Ocean
8 W Perth (Fremantle), Australia Full Day
9-10 TH-F Cruising the Great Australian Bight
11 S Adelaide, Australia Full Day
12-13 SU-M Cruising the Great Australian Basin & Tasman Sea
14 T Sydney, Australia Full Day & Evening
15 W Cruising the Tasman Sea
16 TH Brisbane, Australia Full Day
17 F Cruising the Coral Sea
18 S Whitsunday Islands (for the Great Barrier
Reef), Australia
Full Day
19 SU Cairns (Yorkeys Knob), Australia Full Day
20-21 M-T Cruising the Arafura Sea
22 W Darwin, Australia Maiden Call Full Day
23 TH Cruising the Timor Sea
24 F Bali (Padang Bay), Indonesia Full Day
25-27 S-M Cruising the Indian Ocean
28 T Perth (Fremantle), Australia Full Day
Feb 29 W Cruising the Indian Ocean

March, 2012
Mar 1-2 TH-F Cruising the Great Australian Basin
3 S Adelaide, Australia Full Day
4 SU Cruising the Great Australian Basin
5 M Melbourne, Australia Full Day
6 T Cruising the Tasman Sea
7 W Sydney, Australia Full Day & Evening
8-11 TH-SU Cruising the Tasman Sea & the Solomon Sea
12 M Rabaul, Papua New Guinea Full Day
13-14 T-W Cruising the Pacific Ocean
15 TH Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands Full Day
16-17 F-S Cruising the Pacific Ocean
18 SU Osaka, Japan (for Kyoto) Full Day & Evening
19 M Cruising the Pacific Ocean
20 T Hiroshima, Japan Maiden Call Full Day
21 W Nagasaki, Japan Full Day
22 TH Cruising the East China Sea
23 F Shanghai, China Full Day
24 S Cruising the East China Sea
25 SU Hong Kong (Overnight) Half Day - Afternoon &
Overnight
26 M Hong Kong Full Day & Evening
27-28 T-W Cruising the South China Sea
29 TH Ho Chi Minh City (Phu My), Vietnam Full Day
30 F Cruising Gulf of Thailand
31 S Bangkok (Laem Chabang), Thailand Full Day

April, 2012
Apr 1 SU Cruising South China Sea
2 M Singapore Full Day
3 T Cruising the Andaman Sea
4 W Phuket, Thailand Full Day
5-6 TH-F Cruising the Bay of Bengal
7 S Cochin, India Full Day
8-10 SU-T Cruising the Arabian Sea
11 W Dubai, United Arab Emirates (Overnight) Full Day & Overnight
12 TH Dubai, United Arab Emirates Full Day
13 F Muscat (Mina Qaboos), Oman Full Day
14-17 S-T Cruising the Arabian Sea & Red Sea
18 W Sokhna, Egypt (for Cairo & Giza) Full Day
19 TH Transit the Suez Canal
20 F Cruising the Mediterranean Sea
21 S Athens (Piraeus), Greece Full Day
22-24 SU-T Cruising the Mediterranean Sea
25 W Lisbon, Portugal Full Day
26 TH Cruising the Atlantic Ocean
27 F Southampton, England Disembark AM

Lead-In Pricing
D5 Inside Cabin $20,895
C2 Outside Cabin $25,170
B3 Balcony $27,545
D4 Balcony $29,335
P2 Princess Grill $52,245
Q6 Queen's Grill $71,245

3rd and 4th from $10,497

**Third and Fourth guest fares shown are applicable to categories D1-D8. Rates for other categories will vary.
Government Fees & Taxes are based on itinerary, are subject to change without prior notice and may vary for residents of Canada, Mexico and Puerto Rico

Amenities from Cunard

Up to 10% off Early Booking Fares*
(expires 28 February 2011)
On-Board Credit of up to $3,000 per stateroom^
(expires 28 February 2011)
Up to 5% Group Discounts – equivalent to up to $1,875
per person in Balcony staterooms and up to $4,250
per person in Grills*
8 Group Amenity Points
Double Amenity point values for Balcony and Grill bookings

QM2 World Cruise 2012 unconfirmed announcement date is in July, 2010

2010-06-07T05:35:00.000-07:00

It's been a busy weekend, and, I just received unconfirmed information that Cunard will be releasing full itineraries and information for the 2012 World Cruise of QM2 on July 16, 2010. Of course, right now this is second hand information but circle that date and stay tuned. The minute I get confirmation this information is true, I will announce it again on here.

18 Months to World Cruise 2012

2010-05-31T06:22:00.000-07:00

Reality is just beginning to set in... In approximately 18 months time I will begin the journey of a lifetime, a world cruise. I've received a variety of reactions from friends, family and people I meet about this trip, but, I think my own reaction has been the biggest surprise. I haven't allowed myself to really enjoy the anticipation - I've been so busy dealing with other things - from finally eliminating a truly odd duck from my life to trying to figure out my adventures in real estate... I haven't allowed myself to enjoy what lies ahead of me.

I'm actually going to get to see a good chunk of the world, and, visit places I could only hope to visit without the aid of this world cruise. Oh sure, I still don't have a clue about the itinerary (other than QM2 is confirmed for 28 days in Australia in 2012) and I'm sure there will be a few ports here and there I wouldn't care to see in the first place, but, really - this is something most people only dream about experiencing and here I am getting to go and I'm still in my 40s.

I realized my good fortune this morning when I was awaken by my best friend that the clock is ticking and that we should use the time to go shopping. Ok, so, it's an excuse to go shopping, but, the reality of it is that I have to have clothing for a variety of climates and everything from ballgowns and accessories to go with it to jeans and shorts... 3 months worth!

Why do I have a feeling I'm about to get on a first name basis with the entire staff of both Saks and Bergdorf's?? Damn the tourists, it's off to Fifth Avenue and a serious shop-a-thon today!

Meet me on Meetup

2010-05-30T13:49:00.000-07:00

Welcome!

Luxury and Upscale Cruises Group for Singles NYC

I was approached about joining this Meetup club and what the heck? I'm single and I love luxury and upscale cruises. Sounds like a perfect match! Why not join the group with me? Here's the link: http://www.meetup.com/Luxury-and-Upscale-Cruises-Group/

Fashion's Night Out is September 10 2010

2010-05-29T05:33:00.000-07:00

Ok girls (and the occasional guy) circle your calendars for the evening of Friday, September 10, 2010 from 6pm to 11pm. It's Fashion's Night Out.

What is it?
Fashion's Night Out is the kick-off event for New York Fashion Week which is co-produced by Vogue and SPEC Entertainment. According to Vogue this year will boast 200 top models showing trends for Fall 2010.

The 2009 FNO (Fashion's Night Out) had more than 800 participating stores across the five boroughs of New York and brought out thousands of shoppers who supported the fashion and retail industries.

The 2010 event is expected to be bigger and better than 2009, and, you should register now to receive information first. If you are a retailer who wants to participate click the following link: http://www.fashionsnightout.com/register/ and if you are a consumer/fan/shopper then please click this link: http://www.fashionsnightout.com/ and scroll down to the bottom of the page and click where is it says "Attention Shoppers". A pop-up box will allow you to register.

A percentage of the sales from the Fashion’s Night Out T-shirt will be donated to the NYC AIDS Fund. Be sure to check back in August for retailer information and locations.

I'll be there and I hope you'll join me.

Photo provided by nitrolicious.com

Positano anyone?

2010-05-26T10:55:00.001-07:00

Funny, I was just discussing the Amalfi coast with a friend yesterday, and, today I find out that I am heading to Positano sometime next year. And, while it's a tough, I'll be staying at Le Sirenuse.

I just have to figure out how to extend the stay! Who wants to go with me? (As if I already don't know)

Now, as I was just discussing with a friend, if you want to see a fun movie that has a lot of great Italian scenery, do yourself a favor and rent "Only You" with Marisa Tomei and Robert Downey Jr. This movie didn't win any awards and most critics tore it to shreds, but, it's a nice movie - a fun movie on many levels. Not a lot of laughs but a light hearted film. Here's a trailer if you're at all interested: http://www.videodetective.com/titledetails.aspx?PublishedID=5346

Now that you've seen the trailer, who wants to go to Italy with me in 2011?

Speculation: Cunard Royal Rendezvous 2012

2010-05-25T12:53:00.000-07:00

I could be wrong, but, I'm beginning to wonder if Cunard is planning a Royal Rendezvous in Fort Lauderdale on January 19, 2012. Here is how I am jumping to this thought:

1. QM2 is making an Eastbound Transatlantic crossing on January 3, 2012. If they schedule her for a turnaround for a Westbound Transatlantic and the start of World Cruise 2012 on January 10, 2012, she would be back in New York on January 17, 2012. Add on two days to get to Fort Lauderdale to bring the date up to January 19, 2012.

2. QV is going to be in Fort Lauderdale on January 19, 2012 for an 11 night Caribbean sailing. This is fact, not speculation.

3. QE's early January sailing in 2012 for 5 nights has now been removed from the reservations system. One can assume (and assume big) that it is because Cunard will use QE for a World Cruise in 2012 since nothing is in the reservation system beyond QE's holiday sailing which returns to Southampton on January 5, 2010 giving ample time to get to Fort Lauderdale on January 19, 2012.

Of course this is my own personal speculation based upon facts I have researched the past few hours. Personally, I am hoping for a Royal Rendezvous in Fort Lauderdale and I do believe it would be extremely festive and fun. However, with a 2011 Royal Rendezvous in place for January 13, 2011 my 2012 theory seems less likely, but, all we can do is wait and see...

Bermuda on my mind

2010-05-24T12:27:00.001-07:00

I know I've been bad about posting in here and I'm trying to do my best to keep up, and, so today I'll simply state that I have Bermuda on my mind. I don't know what it is about Bermuda, but, I happen to love it. I've checked and double checked the strict rules for foreigners buying property in Bermuda, and, unfortunately, I don't think I will able to afford to buy there - ever. It won't keep me from visiting - I do love it so.

I see Elbow Beach just got a major face lift - it's such a nice resort! Of course, if you're a golfer, Southampton Princess is good too.

Yes... I foresee a trip to Bermuda for me in the not so distant future...

World Cruise 2012 Cunard QM2 - Who's with me?

2010-05-23T08:26:00.000-07:00

I know I haven't really written in this blog in a while - sure I've cut and pasted information, but, as far as an actual entry, it's been a while.

I have started a journal on TravelPod for World Cruise 2012 in case anyone is interested. And, I hope I find a few people truly interested in joining me on this journey. I have one faithful friend who is going to attempt to travel with me but given his line of work, it might be tough for him to take off 3 months - hopefully he can join me for part of the voyage if not the full voyage.

I'm waiting for another friend to respond to me, he kind of drifts in and out of my life. I've have traveled with him before and he does make an excellent travel companion. However, I have not received any commitment at this point, but, it's still early in the game.

As I wrote in my Travelpod entry for today, I'm currently trying to second guess Cunard. I do know and have had it confirmed that QM2's last voyage currently in the reservations system is for a Transatlantic crossing on January 3, 2012. Now given other information such as the Royal Circumnavigation of Australia which begin February 8, 2012, logic dictates that the itinerary will be similar to that of the QM2 2011 World Cruise.

Now I just have to wait and see if I'm right!

Those interested in joining me on World Cruise 2012 should visit the following websites:

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=108081605886749

Opt-in Email List: http://visitor.constantcontact.com/manage/optin/ea?v=001pj6W7ke0zfty3BLwOyFm-Q%3D%3D

2010-05-19T12:53:00.001-07:00

World Cruise 2012: Updates Volume 3

Hello!

You are receiving this email update because you or someone you know added your email address to our opt-in list. If you no longer wish to receive updates you may remove your name from our list by using the unsubscribe link below.

What's new?
We are expecting pricing and itineraries in mid-year 2010 - which isn't far away!

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28 Days in Australia!

The largest ship ever to visit Australia, Queen Mary 2 will call at eight Australian ports during her time Down Under including Sydney, Fremantle, Adelaide and the Whitsundays, as well as maiden visits to Cairns (Yorkey's Knob), Darwin, Melbourne and Brisbane. Her circumnavigation will also include a call at Bali.

There will be three circumnavigation options - a 22-night voyage departing Sydney on 14 February 2012, a 20-night voyage departing Fremantle on 8 February 2012 and a 21-night voyage departing Adelaide on 11 February 2012.

Visit our photos of these ports of call at:
http://www.qm2worldcruise2012.com/photoalbum/6-6.htm

In addition to the full world cruise. We will be offering group pricing and amenities for this exciting Australia segment of World Cruise 2012 aboard Queen Mary 2.

Pricing is expected to be available in mid-year 2010.
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Booking Form is now available!

For your convenience, a booking form as been added to the 2012 World Cruise website. This will help speed the booking process and will prove very handy for those living in time zones outside of the East coast of the United States.

Take a sneak peak at the booking form:
http://www.qm2worldcruise2012.com/3/custom_form.htm

We respectfully ask that you use the Booking Form for the purpose of an actual booking. If you have questions please use the Contact Us form on the website: http://www.qm2worldcruise2012.com/3/contactus.htm or email us at JackieThresten@yahoo.com
________________________________________________________
Have your visited?

2012 QM2 World Cruise website:
http://www.qm2worldcruise2012.com/

We are currently waiting for pricing and itinerary. In the meantime, please browse this website.

We're sure you'll agree it is one of the most - if not the most - comprehensive websites for this sailing on the Internet!

Don't forget to check out our photo albums and please feel free to join our message board (even if you don't book with us)
________________________________________________________
Your travel agent

For those who have just signed up, I'd like to introduce myself, my name is Jackie Thresten, and, I will be your travel agent for World Cruise 2012. A website has been made for this group and you'll be able to everything from photos to requesting a price quote on it. I'm sure you find it very useful in the months to come! Please visit the website at: http://www.qm2worldcruise2012.com/

________________________________________________________
Your fellow cruiser and book author

As you may or may not know, I am forming this group for World Cruise 2012 in association with a blogger (who wishes to remain anonymous since this blogger will be writing a book on the World Cruise experience.) If you wish to get familiar with this blogger please visit: http://aroundtheworld2011.typepad.com/worldcruiser/

Everyone who books with me will receive a copy of World Cruisers book about World Cruising including 100s of photos from the 2012 World Cruise on Queen Mary 2. This is an office exclusive!!

2012 World Cruise Itinerary - Coming Soon!

We are currently waiting for pricing and itinerary. In the meantime, please browse this website.

We're sure you'll agree it is one of the most - if not the most - comprehensive websites for this sailing on the Internet!

Don't forget to check out our photo albums and please feel free to join our message board (even if you don't book with us)

2012 World Cruise Website

A website specifically for World Cruise 2012 aboard Queen Mary 2 has been made and designed especially for this group. On it you will find:

Photos of the ship and ports of call
Pricing and Amenities for this group
2012 Booking Incentives
Royal Balls Information
Quote Request Form and more

Please visit at:
http://www.qm2worldcruise2012.com/

Deposits

As we begin gearing up for World Cruise 2012, questions are sure to arise for example what type of deposit requirements will be necessary. Keep in mind that I will be unable to give exact information until pricing comes out later this year, however, based on World Cruise 2011, deposits will be approximately:

* D5 Inside cabin $5515
* A4 Balcony cabin $8258
* P2 Princess Grill cabin $14,799

Deposits are based upon double occupancy (two people sharing one cabin)

Again, the prices above are just ball park figures, but, many find it helpful as they begin to chart-out their finances for the long voyage.

Q&A

Question: What is the purpose of forming a group for a World Cruise?

Answer: To help obtain the lowest possible price for everyone who is interested in being part of the group.
_____________________
Question: Does this mean we eat together and have activities together?

Answer: No, it isn't that type of group. This group is for pricing and amenities purposes only. You will not be forced into socializing, dining or any other "group" type activities.
_____________________
Question: Can I make payment arrangements with you?

Answer: Absolutely! A world cruise is very expensive, and, I can tailor payments to your special needs and requests. The only requirements are that you make the full deposit as determined by Cunard Cruise Lines and that you make your final payment by the deadline as determined by Cunard Cruise Lines
_____________________
Question: What type of amenities will you be offering?

Answer: As you may or may not know, a world cruise (usually) comes with a variety of amenities, especially aboard a Cunard World Cruise. In the past the following have been included by Cunard as amenities:

* On-board Credit of up to $2,000 per stateroom
* Savings of up to 10% off Early Booking Fares
* Complimentary Hotel & Dining Charges
* Up to $400 per person in Shore Excursion Credits for Grill guests
* Gala World Voyage Dinner
* Special Commemorative Gifts
* Welcome Aboard Reception & Senior Officer Dinner
* World Voyage Cocktail Parties
* Services of a World Voyage Concierge

And, I do believe these same amenities will be included in World Cruise 2012. In addition, I will be offering special amenities to this group as an office exclusive, and, more information will be provided later this year.

Join us on Facebook!

Booking World Cruise 2012 on Queen Mary 2? Join us on Facebook and meet your shipmates! Simply click the link to go to our page: http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=108081605886749

I will update you as more information becomes available, and, I will do my best not to email you unnecessarily. The next email update will contain the pricing and itineraries we've all been waiting to receive.

I look forward to working with you and to help your World Cruise in 2012 a wonderful, exciting experience!

Warmest regards,
Jackie Thresten

World Cruise 2012 news

2010-05-16T09:46:00.001-07:00

Yes it's been a while since I've posted, I've been very busy working, but, I now have information for World Cruise 2012 I'd like to share.

For those who are sincerely interested in Queen Mary 2 World Cruise in 2012, I have received word from travel agent Jackie Thresten that Cunard plans to release information mid-year 2010. That means in the next several weeks, the information we've all been waiting for will finally be given to us.

If you haven't done so already, place your email address on the opt-in list. People on the opt-in list will receive information first. Travel agent Jackie Thresten has been working hard making a full and comprehensive website for the sailing and you can enter your email on the first page: http://www.qm2worldcruise2012.com

Keep in mind that our travel agent Jackie Thresten is going to have group space for the full world cruise as well as the 28 day segment for Australia. If you are interested in either you should sign up on the opt-in email list. I will be on the full World Cruise in 2012 aboard Queen Mary 2.

Additionally, as a reminder, those that book the full world cruise or a segment of world cruise 2012 with Jackie Thresten will receive a signed copy of the World Cruise book when it comes out in late 2012. The book will feature the history of world cruises, a day by day travel journal of the 2012 voyage, and, hundreds of photos to help you remember the voyage!

Questions? Email travel agent Jackie Thresten at JackieThresten@yahoo.com

World Cruise 2012 Care to Join Me?

2010-04-23T10:13:00.000-07:00

Well it is confirmed, I am going on the full World Cruise on Queen Mary 2 in 2012. This cruise is featuring 28 days in Australia, and, I invite you to join me on this voyage! Book the full cruise or only a segment. For more information visit the website: http://www.qm2worldcruise2012.com/

------------------------------------------------------
We are currently waiting for pricing and itinerary. In the meantime, please browse this website.

We're sure you'll agree it is one of the most - if not the most - comprehensive websites for this sailing on the Internet!

Don't forget to check out our photo albums and please feel free to join our message board (even if you don't book with us)

Want a quote as soon as pricing is available?
Fill out a quote form!
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Congratulations to Seth Aaron for winning Project Runway!

Meet SWF42 in person on Caribbean Princess

2010-04-09T05:36:00.000-07:00

If you've been curious about who has been writing this blog and would like to meet me in person, then pack your bags and be ready to go on a 7 night Caribbean cruise aboard Caribbean Princess departing on Sunday, February 20, 2011 and returning on Sunday, February 27, 2011. This seven night sailing departs from San Juan, Puerto Rico and ports of call include: St Thomas, Tortola, Antigua, St. Lucia and Barbados.

Deposits are just $100 per person through the end of April so book today!

For more information about this sailing please visit:
http://www.www.caribbeanprincessfebruary202012.com

Or join the Facebook group Caribbean Princess February 20, 2011
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=115275608489304&ref=mf

World Cruise 2012

2010-03-30T06:53:00.001-07:00

Essssh, I've been a bad girl, I haven't written in here since November. Sorry about that but my life has been turned upside down. I was suppose to go on a World Cruise in 2011, but, due to scheduling conflicts - make that MAJOR scheduling conflicts - I will be going in 2012.

Interested in going too? Here is what I can tell you so far:

Opt-in Email to receive information about World Cruise 2012: http://visitor.constantcontact.com/manage/optin/ea?v=001pj6W7ke0zfty3BLwOyFm-Q%3D%3D

Facebook Group for those thinking about going or who book:
http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/group.php?gid=108081605886749

See you on Facebook!

Happy Halloween

2009-10-31T13:05:00.001-07:00

Well this weekend turned out a bit differently than I expected, I'm sitting in the Bryant Park Hotel right now waiting for a friend to arrive from out of town. This is an old friend whom I've traveled all around the world with from the pink sand beaches of Bermuda to "Old Town" Dubrovnik in Croatia. We're going to do a few fun things this evening including the Halloween Parade in the Village - provided the rain holds off and right now that doesn't look too promising. So I hopped online to see what movies are playing but kind of slim pickings...maybe Amelia but we shall see. Sometime the best thing to do is just wing it - something tells me we'll end up just going to dinner and talking until we're blue in the face. It's been over 3 years since we last saw each other.

And my friend just appeared so I am signing off and going to great him.

Oppps - haven't posted in a while

2009-10-28T15:30:00.000-07:00

There was personal drama, work - more work - the end of a friendship - more work. So that's where I've been the past few weeks. Fall is a hard time of year for me, very depressing. I find it sad to see the end of yet another year coming to a close, and, it does make me depressed. I often find myself thinking about the things I didn't get accomplished and the goals I failed to meet. I also think of lost friends and family who will no longer be celebrating the holidays with me. So, instead of allowing myself to wallow in the sadness for any length of time, I keep myself busy - super busy during the Fall so that's why I haven't had time to blog.

Fact of the matter is that it's 6:30 and I'm still at work and have been here since 7:30 am. And, I've been doing this for 6 days a week for the past few weeks and, it will not let up until after New Year's Day.

On the bright side of things, I've made a great new friend, and, if he's reading this - you know who you are and I look forward to cruising with you this summer (wink). And, addition to the cruise with my friend I have several other great trips lined up for 2010 including one I will reveal later in the year. I'm holding off because once it goes public I am sure it will book up fast and I am waiting for answers from family and friends before announcing what it is that is planned. All I will say is that involved travel, a well known chef and tv personality, and, it will be taking place in Europe.

Intrigued? Stay tuned!