posted by admin on Aug 21
The Master of Design: Joe Farcus, Carnival Cruise Line's Ship Architect
by Roy Witman © 2006, All Rights Reserved
Who in the world came up with these ideas? Aboard the Carnival Celebration you’ll find yourself transported into the heyday of New Orleans Mardi Gras. On Fascination and Hollywood, you can step back into the golden era of ocean liners with vintage designs throughout the ships. But who thinks up and executes these amazing design plans? Joe Farcus, that’s who!
Joe Farcus is the ship architect for Carnival Cruise Lines. It is his vision passengers see each time they step foot onto a Fun Ship . Raised in Miami Beach, Florida, Farcus always fantasized about ships. His constant sketching of ocean liners was no doubt part of the reason he pursued an architectural degree. After graduation from the University of Florida in 1967, Farcus landed his first Carnival project - the redesign of the Carnivale - while employed for a local architectural firm.
Described as bold, daring and sometimes even brash, Farcus creates interior designs from his heart and his imagination. Working from an initial central concept, Farcus expands from idea to application, as his vision touches every part of the ship. From atriums to restaurants to staterooms, full control of the aesthetics of the ship is placed in the hands of this one man, as he gives each ship its own distinct personality.
Miracle is whimsical with an array of fictional characters splashed about throughout her common areas. Spirit is refined, featuring a Louis XIV-inspired casino and Chippendale Internet Caf . Destiny is dazzling and bright with a towering mirrored atrium elevator that stretches nine-decks high.
Where do the ideas come from? The Amber Palace show lounge (on Glory) was fashioned after the Amber Room in Russia while the Starry Night Jazz Club (aboard Pride) was inspired by Vincent Van Gogh’s painting of the same name.
What lies ahead for future ships? Freedom, set to debut in 2007, will carry a central theme of Decades Through the Centuries. From ancient Babylonia to the Victorian era to 1970s disco and beyond, passengers will walk through time, as they sail the sea. When asked about the concept, Farcus replied, “I thought it would be interesting to go back in time to find inspiration for the various public rooms. As always, I tried to use the function of the room to suggest how the room will reflect the central design idea.”
And other ships? What does Farcus hold in store for them? Splendor is slated to enter service in the fall of 2008, and Carnival has a super liner (yet to be named) under construction and scheduled for delivery in fall 2009. “I design each ship to tell a story, and it gives me great joy to be able to share these stories with guests.” So much so, in fact, that Carnival will soon be broadcasting videos aboard ship highlighting Joe Farcus and his design process.
With a seemingly never-ending supply of brilliant design concepts, Joe Farcus will surely continue to contribute to the fun that the Carnival Fun Ships have become so famous for.
Roy Witman is Vice-President of Cruise Vacation Center. Visit them online today at <a href="http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com">http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com</a> for the best deals including <a href="http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com/hawaii_cruises.htm"> Hawaii cruises</a> from <a href="http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com/carnival_cruise_line.htm">Carnival Cruise Line</a> and others.
Alaska Cruises Are The Ideal Way To Visit Alaska And Experience The Unique Alaskan Cruise Wonders.
Have you ever wanted to go to Alaska and explore the unique beauty of this state? Try planning your vacation by taking an Alaska Cruise. An Alaskan cruise can take you to the great wonders of this majestic place.
Most of you have not experience the Alaskan cruise experience. This is because when someone talks about cruises, people tend to think about beautiful and exotic beaches of the tropical paradises of the Caribbean. Cruise vacations in Alaska also exist, and anyone can enjoy a relaxing Alaskan cruise with all the amenities and services you would get on a cruise vacation in the Caribbean.
Alaska cruises offer a lot of things to vacationers or tourists different from what you would usually find on a regular cruise in a tropical paradise. If you want something different for your vacation, why not consider taking a vacation cruise in Alaska.
One great feature of Alaska cruises is that most cruises to Alaska give you the chance to experience pleasurable things onboard and also view the incredible glaciers and varied wildlife unique to Alaska. This type of vacation is perfect for the whole family.
Alaska is the 49th state in the U.S. It is known for being cold. There are so many things that someone can enjoy and witness in this state. Most people feel that Alaska is incomparable especially for cruising and discovering. It is the largest state of the United States of America with lands reaching up to 586,000 square miles. Just imagine the many things that you will enjoy on an Alaskan cruise.
Here are some of the attractions available that will fill you with fun and awe.
Wildlife
Helicopter trip
Train rides
Bus trip to Denali State Park
King Salmon fishing
Most people would say that it would take two lifetimes to experience all of these things. But on an Alaska Cruise, you will experience them in a week or two.
With the Alaska s huge wilderness, it will give you the chance to viewing nature from up close or from a distance. For instance, cruisers will have the chance to witness the large eagle population in this part of the world. It will definitely amaze you, whether you re a nature lover or just a curious person who wants to see these wonderful birds in flight. Alaskan cruises offer a view of huge glaciers and snow capped mountains.
This incomparable trip on an Alaskan Cruise will be a memory that you will cherish. Witness the glacier formations and the remarkable waterfront towns. An Alaskan cruise will certainly invite you to discover and observe Alaska s unique beauty and magnificence.
One of the best means to view this incredible state is by cruising the Inner Passage. Being on one of Alaska cruise ships is the best and easiest ways to discover the wonders of Alaska in comfort and style.
In addition, on an Alaskan cruise all the basic needs such as the meals, transportation and accommodation have already been handled and cruisers have the choice of selecting any events and activities in which to participate.
You will also have the opportunity to go whale watching or have a helicopter ride that lands on a glacier. It all depends on which town you drop by. Another fun excursion is to take a ride on the amazing White Pass Railroad. Or you could experience a jeep trip on different roads and off road trails.
Each town you visit will have their own unique culture and beauty with many historical events. Museums are also available where you can find out all about Alaska s history and culture.
Visiting Alaska in fall will let you experience the fantastic light display of the Aurora Borealis.
Many people believe that Alaska got all the wonders that the nature can give, from the world s most popular parks and volcanoes to the mighty glaciers and Fjords.
Because of Alaska s unique beauty it is expected that Alaska will soon become one of the most famous and favorite cruise vacation destination of every cruiser. Make Alaska a destination that you have visited and enjoyed.
What are you waiting for?
Happy Cruising!
Copyright © Mary Hanna, All Rights Reserved.
This article may be distributed freely on your website and in your ezines, as long as this entire article, copyright notice, links and the resource box are unchanged.
About the Author Mary Hanna is an aspiring herbalist who lives in Central Florida which allows her to grow gardens inside and outside year round. She has published other articles on Gardening, Cruising and Cooking. Visit her websites at http://www.GardeningHerb.com http://www.CruiseGold.com, and http://www.CruiseTravelDirectory.com
5 Things To Consider When Planning Your Cruise
A cruise vacation is one of the most exciting activities for adventurous people. They prefer to explore different regions of the world rather than spending their time at home doing boring hobbies.
Going on a cruise vacation is more than a lifetime experience for them. Every time they go they get that satisfying feeling of experiencing different parts of the world.
Going on a cruise vacation will take your breath away! It is both a fascinating and engaging event for vacationers.
There is a lot of competition amongst the cruise ships. You will hear many things about what services they will offer to you. Because of this competition, the cruise ships have to present you with the best possible amenities.
Before going on your cruise vacation there are many things you need to consider. The primary things you need to figure out are the expenses, the cruise destination and the packaging.
As long as everything goes smoothly a cruise will always bring you enjoyment. You should have a plan. Planning out everything in advance will save you from all the hassles. Besides, a cruise it meant to be a relaxing and rewarding experience.
Planning is very important. Here are some things to help you out to ensure that your cruise will be a satisfying experience:
1. Find a package that will meet your needs - There are packages for single travelers as well as group travelers. Depending on the package, rates will vary.
If you are interested in a group package, be sure and make some inquiries into what’s available. Depending on your preference, many of the cruise lines offer several discounts.
2. Length of the cruise - This is a very important thing to include in your planning. Decide on how long your cruise vacation will be. Will it be for just a couple days or a couple weeks?
For a more thorough experience, look for a cruise that lasts a month or longer.
3. Itineraries - A cruise vacation is more exciting if you get to visit your most favored places in the world. Whether you want to spend your time alone or with your family, be sure to decide on which destination will fulfill your desires.
If you want to take your children along, choose a cruise destination that will enchant and excite them. Also, be sure to choose a cruise line that accommodates children.
Then again, if you have been going on cruises for several years, choose a destination that you have not visited before.
4. Cruise line - To learn about the amazing services that a particular cruise line offers, do your research and find out more. The easiest way to go about doing this is by surfing the net and visiting the websites of the different cruise lines.
What you need to be looking for in a cruise line is the fare (if it’s affordable) and the services and amenities it offers.
5. Ports - Make sure you plan your budget depending on which ports you plan to visit. To avoiding spending extra amounts of money make sure that the ports are accessible.
By getting yourself organized and planning your cruise vacation in advance your trip will be a much more rewarding experience. Cruising requires careful planning so that you can do everything you want to do without the headache when you it comes time to book your cruise.
If a cruise vacation is in your yearly plans, don’t visit the same destinations year after year. For instance, take your next cruise by visiting one of the more unconventional destinations. Have an open mind.
Do not limit yourself by booking the same package every year. When going on yearly cruises, one of your goals should be to experience different cultures and destinations.
Your cruise vacation can be a remarkable one. Proper planning will ensure that your cruise will be an unforgettable journey for you and your family as well as those who may come along with you.
Have fun,
Christian Baligad
Christian Baligad shows you how and where to find the best cruise deals, dealing with travel agents, the best times of year to travel, plus much more. Check it out now: <a href="http://cruisetravelinsights.theboneszone.com">Cruise Travel Resources</a>