Holiday Travels

Before you leave to catch your flight (and you should leave early), It's worth remembering, that there are several steps you can take to minimize delays and stress at the airport.

Program important numbers on your phone as well as have a list written down in another place in case you loose your phone. This way, when a foot of snow is dumped on your holiday travel plans, you can react immediately and find an alternative. Also, pack your gifts wisely, and remember that wrapped gifts in your carry-on will likely be unwrapped by TSA officials (you can even ship your gifts directly to the recipiant). Be creative with other difficult to pack items (like skis) and weigh the cost of baggage fees versus shipping costs. And last but certainly not least, don't feel bad about shopping last minute at the airport.

It has been predicted there will be a slight drop in overall travel this Christmas. Only 8.1 million travelers out of 63.9 million are flying, that means a lot of people are driving—some 52 million people, to be exact.
For all the road warriors out there here are some tips for a safe drive.

• Getting caught in a storm is a nightmare, but you can feel safer by preparing a winter emergency kit for your car, which includes a sandbag, shovel, blanket, first-aid kit, flares, flashlight, waterproof matches, chains, food, and water.
  
• Be sure that your car is equipped with a spare tire and jumper cables.

• It's important that your vehicle is in tip-top shape before you hit the (possibly icy) roads. Make sure to get the oil changed, add snow tires, and have a complete run-through of brakes, ignition, and battery systems.
  
• Check the interstate weather forecast to avoid any possibly dangerous storms on your travel route.
  
• Check with your car insurance to see if you have roadside assistance for emergencies, and program the number into your cell phone. This way if you do require towing or a jumpstart, you have somewhere to turn.
  
• Slow down and be alert. Make sure that you are well rested and that you keep a steady pace, so you arrive at grandmother's house in one piece.

Stay safe and
Happy Holiday Travels!

Barbados Cruise

Mike and Carolyn Royce went on a Princess cruise starting from Barbados. Some of the stops included, Barbados, St. Lucia, Antigua, St. Kitts, Tortola, Montego Bay, Aruba, Bonaire, Grenada.

They loved renting a scooter and traveling around Tortola on their own.

They said they had a great time.

Mike's tip:
If you go to Grenada bring back spices for your loved ones.
They brought back spice necklaces.

They also said they loved Aruba and Bonaire.
They learned an important lesson on this trip, and I think they would agree with me when I say, Travel insurance is very important.Thank you for sharing your memories with us!

Best places to ring in the New Year

It's every city's favorite excuse for a party. Here are a few spectacular ways to ring in 2009.

1. Bangkok-

If Times Square's light show doesn't cut it for you, head to the capital of Thailand, where a 52-foot-high Greeting Ball Tower signals the arrival of midnight.
Outside of the giant CentralWorld shopping mall, about 500,000 revelers join hands to count down to the New Year.
Earlier in the evening, events include seven concert performances by Thai stars.

2. Berlin-

Despite temperatures of around the freezing point, Berliners host an open-air New Year's Eve bash, and the city claims that it is the largest such party in the world.
Roughly one million merrymakers pack the nearly mile-and-a-quarter-long stretch between the Victory Column and the Brandenburg Gate. Colorful lasers illuminate the sky while music, mostly pop and dance, blares from giant speakers.

3. Edinburgh-

The Scottish capital toasts every New Year with a four-day festival called Hogmanay (pronounced hog-muh-NAY).
On the Monday before New Years 2009, a torchlight procession along Princes Street whisks a giant wicker lion to Calton Hill, where it's torched.
Then on New Year's Eve, indie rockers like Glasvegas blast away in the streets, while more mainstream rockers like Paolo Nutini perform at the Princes Street Gardens.
Nearby, there's a ceilidh, a traditional Scottish party where locals dance gigs and reels to a piper's beat.

4. Las Vegas

Vegas lives up to its rep as a party town on December 31, with lunatic stunts, a massive light display, and performances by well known entertainers.
The Strip hosts the free portion of America's Party, an extravaganza with a fireworks display launching from various spots.
On Fremont Street, folks pay $20 a head to see Tribute-Palooza, a set of eight bands that imitate major acts like U2, Kiss, and Elton John.

5. New Orleans

As in years past, New Orleans puts its own twist on New York City's ball drop.
Its spotlit gumbo pot drops from the Jax Brewery at midnight. Its fall prompts a nightlong bar crawl in the historic French Quarter.
This year, is the 75th anniversary of the Sugar Bowl, and the football matchup takes place on January 2.
Expect a football theme for most of the weekend's events. For example, in Jackson Square after the gumbo pot drop, a light-and-sound display will synchronize the fight song of each team playing in the Bowl this year with the appearance of each team's colors in the sky.

6. Sydney

Because of its location, the Aussie capital is among the first major cities to greet the new year.
The city will synch up its pyrotechnics with colorful lighting effects on the arches of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Revelers gear up earlier in the day. Waterfront events attract crowds of Sydney siders in T-shirts and shorts.

Between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m., aircraft will run hourly flyovers above Sydney Harbour Bridge.
After 9 p.m., 55 illuminated ships circuit Sydney Harbour, foreshadowing the barrage of light and sound to come.

Mental Vacation

Let's just pretend that this little post is a real vacation...
Now close your eyes, Take a break from your hot cocoa, Ignore the snow outside your window, Imagine 8O degrees of warm sunshine and oh, don't forget your sunscreen!

On your little vacation, you will fly to Riviera Maya, Mexico

Upon arriving, there will be plenty of hammocks and white sand beaches.

Go ahead and relax here for a moment.

Now check in, put your luggage down, and put your feet up.

This is your view from your room.
Go sit on the Cabana, put your feet up, sip on your Mojito, and watch the waves crash over and over.
Spend some time reading a book by the pool.
Next up, Tulum.
Go ahead and jump in the water once your done checking out the ruins.
Now it's time to get adventurous and get on a Jet ski. I will race you to the coral!
After all the excitement of the wave runner, I think its time to go to Xel-Ha and float down a relaxing river while fish swim by our feet.
Instead of just floating past them...Why don't we join them and go snorkeling!
Since were still in Xel-Ha, (remember your not looking outside just yet) I think we should take advantage of a once in a life time excursion and swim with the Dolphins.
Okay that was a lot of activities for one day, I will meet you at the spa.
Once your spa treatment is finished, I want you to join me on the beach for a private dinner.
After dinner, We need to wait the recommended 15 minutes before swimming...
Lets just enjoy the sunset.

Ok- I feel more rested. What about you?
Do you have a dreamy place that you like to escape the daily hum-drum, please share with us.

Nobody loves a vacation like we do, even if it is just an imaginary one.
NEED A REAL VACATION?

Call us today.

We can tell you all the hot spots and where to go to get the most of your vacation.

Happy travels!

Travel Photo's

Send us your pictures

We want to see the world through your lens.

When were not traveling, we still want to see the world.

We love nothing more than to hear about your vacations once you return.

If you would like we will feature your vacation on our blog.

Running Utes are Bowl Bound!!

We did it!

12-0 and the Mt West Conference Champs and now we are off to a bowl game!

More information to be announced on SUNDAY, DEC 7 TH.

Please call us at 801-984-3379 or 800-491-6917 to hold your space now.
If your name is on the list you are guaranteed a spot on our package.
We are NOT requiring a deposit to put your name on our list.

Our Packages will include:
-Round trip air from Salt Lake City -optional
-3 nights hotel
-Game and Tailgate tickets-optional
-Land transfers to and from game and airport of air is included in your package
-Hospitality desk during tour and MORE!!
Call today to hold you seat!

Happy Thanksgiving!!

November is all about, Giving Thanks, Football, Traveling and those who are crazy enough to fight the crowds, Shopping!

No need to fight the crowds to get a great deal!

December 1-7 will be our After Thanksgiving Sale highlighting Princess Balcony Bonanza which includes FREE balcony upgrades on 2009 Alaska and Europe sailings.

There is also a $50 off Trip Tailor promotion on November 28.

Enter for a chance to win a Nintendo Wii.

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving with your loved ones and travel safely!

"FEEDING THE WORLD" Food Drive

Help us, Help Utah!

Drop off canned goods at our Morris Murdock Draper Office.

As a company we have partnered with the Food Bank to collect a goal of 1,150 pounds of food. That's not a hard goal. We can work together and put food in hungry mouths!

The Utah Food Bank has recently faced a huge reduction in its inventory due to families who are struggling financially. Let's help feed Utahn's one can at a time!

The food drive will run from Nov 5th-Dec 4th.

Help spread the word and let's make a difference in someone's life!

Take a deep breath in...ready…Exhale!

We know talking about the holidays raises your blood pressure. Wouldn’t it be better to get an early start on it now and not stress about it later when you should be spending quality time with your families?

Have you considered giving the person who has "everything" or "nothing" the gift of travel?

Morris Murdock Draper Office has Gift Cards for everyone!!!

Have you been looking for gift ideas for your friends or loved ones?

Well my friends……Look no further than Morris Murdock Travel, Draper Office with a Gift Card. Give someone who really deserves a vacation the gift of travel.
Morris Murdock’s Gift Cards are completely hassle free and will save you time.

Call the Draper Office today to get your Gift Cards.

801-984-3379

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!

Free Admission on Your Birthday!

Start your birthday off right with the most magical birthday present of all

free admission on your birthday during 2009 to one of the Theme Parks of Walt Disney World® or Disneyland® Resort*!

Register your birthday--and other household members' birthdays too, if you want.

You will also receive an email reminder two weeks prior to your birthday, which you can also use to redeem your free admission on your birthday.

Bring proper ID and your confirmation message to the gate at one of the Theme Parks at the Walt Disney World® Resort or Disneyland Resort on your birthday in 2009.

If you are a Passholder or already have a Multi-Day ticket you will use on your birthday, go ahead and register and bring the free admission on Your Birthday confirmation and proper ID to the gate so you can choose from one of our other exciting birthday gifts instead.

The magic begins when you visit disneybirthdaytreat.com and register your birthday.

Oasis of the Seas Final Neighborhood Reveal

We are excited to announce that American Express Travel is partnering with Royal Caribbean as the exclusive travel partner for the final neighborhood reveal of their revolutionary new ship, Oasis of the Seas!

The final reveal of their revolutionary new ship Oasis of the Seas. The final reveal will take place next Tuesday evening, October 21 at 6:30pm via a live web event.

To register for this even click on any agent on the right and we will sign you up for this amazing event.

Following the webinar there will be a 2-day Royal Caribbean Sales event. (October 22nd, and 23rd)

When she launches in late 2009, Oasis of the Seas will be the largest and most revolutionary cruise ship in the world. She will span 16 decks, encompass 220,000 gross registered tons (GRT), carry 5,400 guests at double occupancy, and feature 2,700 staterooms. Oasis of the Seas will be the first ship to tout the cruise line’s new neighborhood concept of seven distinct themed areas. These include Central Park, Boardwalk, the Royal Promenade, the Pool and Sports Zone, Vitality at Sea Spa and Fitness Center and Entertainment Place and we will be revealing the final neighborhood at this event.
To learn more about Oasis of the Seas, visit http://www.oasisoftheseas.com/.

Alaska Cruise Sept 2008

Well I'm back!!!

I never though I would enjoy Alaska as much as I did. I don't usually enjoy the cold but I was suprised that we were blessed to have such great weather in September.

The scenery was breathtaking and a vacation that I will never forget. I posted some pictures below of our incredible trip any questions just click on my name, Ashlee Schwartz on the right side and send me an email, I will be happy to answer any questions!This is Hubbard Glacier. I could have watched the pieces fall off all day. It was an incredible experiance.

Is there something behing me?


Ashlee Schwartz and her husband

Light house just a after we departed Vancouver
Icy straight point
There is our ship in all her glory! Serenade of the Seas. Very pretty ship. It has alot of glass so where ever you are on the ship you get a great view.
Skagway
Juneau



Skagway boats
Our ship form the top of tram
We took this tram to the top of the mountain in Juneau. Worth every penny. Just wish we would have thought of it earlier. Once we got to the top there was a gift shop, a resturant and very nice hiking trails. We hiked 1.8 miles up and we saw a black bear. It was far enough away we didn't have to worry.

Hunt Mysteries cruise

Announcing an exciting partnership between Morris Murdock and Hunt Mysteries on a Mexican Riviera Cruise, Carnival Pride March 15th 2009. It will be a fun new experience.

Click here for more details

Alaska Princess Cruise

Azzat and Massoud Parvar left for their Alaska Cruise August 30th. They sailed on the Saphire Princess. there was a total of twelve in their group. I hope all of you had a wonderful time.

Thank you for sharing your photo's.

Rose Parade 2009

JOIN US!!

The 120th Rose parade themed Hats Off To Entertainment, will take place on Thursday, January 1, 2009 at 8:00 a.m. (PST) featuring spirited marching bands from throughout the nation, majestic floral floats, and high-stepping equestrian units.

Come and join Morris Murdock Travel on an exclusive tour to the Rose Parade filled with unforgettable experiences! You'll be dazzled by the sights and sounds of the 120th Tournament of Roses Parade. Our exciting tour includes a performance of The Glory of Christmas at the Crystal Cathedral, admission to Aquarium of the Pacific, a visit to the Reagan Library and much more. Plan to ring in the New Year in Sunny California!
This Morris Murdock exclusive tour includes a performance of The Glory of Christmas at the Crystal Cathedral, admission to Aquarium of the Pacific, a visit to the Reagan Library, dinner and show at Medieval Times, tour of Huntington Estate & Botanical Gardens and much more.
Tour Details:Dates: Dec 29, ‘08 – Jan 02, ‘09

Duration: 5 days

From: $1199 pp/dbl occupancy

$1399 pp/single

Round-trip air from Salt Lake City Included

Call for pricing from your City!Includes:

•Roundtrip air from Salt Lake City

• 4 nights hotel accommodations at The Hampton Inn

• Reserved grandstand seating at the Rose Parade

• Performance of The Glory of Christmas at the Crystal Cathedral

• Post-parade float viewing excursion

• Dinner and show at Medieval Times

• Tour of Huntington Estate & Botanical Gardens

• Admission to Ronald Reagan Library & Museum

• Meals as listed in itinerary

• Admission to the Aquarium of the Pacific

Click here for more details

Swim with the Dolphins

Charles Hone and his grandma, Vanessa Nelson went swimming with the dolphins and sea lions in July 2008

Ireland 25th wedding anniversary

I know I posted this before but I had to re- do it due to technical difficulties.

Congratulations to Kim and Brad Denham for celebrating their 25 wedding anniversary in Ireland!!

Around the World Cruise Night

SAVE THE DATE!

Presented by

Join us for an Around the World Princess Cruise Night.
Cruise discounts, shipboard credits, reduced deposits, last minute specials, great prizes, light refreshments, and 2009 itineraries will be offered.

Date: Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Time: 6:30pm
Location: Draper Office
404 East 12300 South, Draper Ut 84020
RSVP BY CALLING 801-984-3379 or 800-491-6197 by September 8th