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Themed Cruising Caters to Classic Country Fans

by Becky J. Beall

Carnival Cruise Line continues to create ways to encourage cruising, especially for first-timers, with special theme-oriented events such as the Classic Country Cruise set to sail February 8 – 14, 2009. Carnival teamed up with the Grand Ole Opry® to arrange this particular extravaganza which will be held onboard Carnival's Freedom Ship cruising the Caribbean with classic country favorites like Country Music Hall of Famer (and Grand Ole Opry star) Mel Tillis, John Conlee, Jeannie Seely, T.G. Sheppard, and Mandy Barnett.

What to expect

Fans of this musical genre will be treated to private shows by the artists where the country theme will prevail and include their own original hits, as well as timeless country classics. With music as the underlying theme for this cruise, karaoke (with celebrity judges, of course) is sure to be a hit, as are other special events such as: special screenings of classic country television performances, Q&A's with the artists, an exclusive cocktail party, and storytelling sessions. It's the chance of a lifetime for many fans to get close to some of their favorite entertainers.

In addition to the opportunity for country music lovers to unite, the Freedom ship also offers a full casino, numerous deck activities, dancing, movies, and more. As with all Carnival ships, the Freedom offers various dining treats from buffet-style to upscale gourmet, your taste buds will be delighted with culinary treasures.

Carnival's Freedom ship is one of the newest ships in Carnival's fleet with much to offer in terms of entertainment and pure relaxation. The pools are inviting and the spa is a must, but a new crowd favorite is the Seaside Theatre, a 12 foot X 22 foot LED screen located on the Lido deck. There's nothing more romantic than a movie under the stars. There's never a dull moment for the adventure seeker onboard, but there's also room for the quiet, sit-by-the-pool and read vacationer. Whatever your pleasure, you'll be able to appreciate this ship’s special ambiance!

Where you are going

The Freedom ship has a fun itinerary departing from Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, and visiting three ports of call: Key West, FL; Ocho Rios, Jamaica; and Grand Cayman. Each port has its own unique set of excursions that you can venture out with or just set out on your own. My favorite indulgences for each port of call are: Ernest Hemmingway's home in Key West, Dunn's River Falls in Ocho Rios, and shopping in Grand Cayman. You'll find your own favorites, but you might find an addiction to mine as well!

Prices for the Grand Ole Opry cruise begin at $899 per person based on double occupancy.  For more information on each artist on the cruise, cruise blogs, and more, visit www.oprycruise.com.  To book a cruise, contact Corporate Travel Service Inc. at (866) 653-OPRY (6779).

Country music fans will truly find a delightful vacation opportunity with the combination of a Carnival Cruise Ship and some of their favorite entertainers...have fun on the high seas!

IF YOU GO...

Carnival Cruise Lines, www.carnival.com

Grand Ole Opry, www.oprycruise.com

courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line.

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