Friday, October 24, 2014

Honeymooners Are Opting for the Romance, Adventure of Cruises

(NewsUSA) – There are 2.5 million weddings in the United States each year, and the weddings business is a $40 billion annual industry, including the ceremony, reception, bachelor(-ette) parties and honeymoon.


Increasingly, newlyweds are opting for a cruise for a cost-effective and carefree honeymoon. About 5,000 weddings and vow renewals happen on cruises every year, and cruises now account for 15 percent of all honeymoons.


The inclusive nature of a cruise is a leading factor in the decision. A cruise provides a week of great food, pampering and entertainment for about $2,500 or less per person.


Most newlyweds say they prefer a week in a fun-and-sun destination. That makes cruises doubly attractive, since they visit several ports and offer a selection of shore tours.


Though the Hawaiian Islands remain the all-time favorite honeymoon destination, many newlyweds are choosing cruises in the Mediterranean and the Caribbean.


And there’s no more romantic way to experience the wonders of the Med or Caribbean than a weeklong voyage aboard a tall ship. Star Clippers’ three sailing ships only carry up to 170 or 227 guests, and visit some of the world’s most exotic destinations.


Aboard Star Clippers, newlyweds can experience the luxury of a private yacht while sailing to smaller, lesser-known destinations big cruise ships can’t visit.


Star Clippers’ relaxed yet elegant shipboard atmosphere is the perfect antidote to months of wedding planning. Yet, the emphasis on beach time and water sports, and the array of soft-adventure excursions offered provide opportunities for couples to share new experiences as they start their life together.


Whether it’s a fabulous honeymoon sailing through the Greek Isles, a barefoot wedding set on a Caribbean beach or a sunset vow-renewal ceremony performed by a ship’s captain, Star Clippers offers the romance of a true sailing experience.


For more about Star Clippers, visit www.starclippers.com.



Honeymooners Are Opting for the Romance, Adventure of Cruises

Wednesday, October 8, 2014

Is Faith Really a Good Thing?

Is Faith Really a Good Thing?


(NewsUSA) – Turn on the TV, go online or stream music, and it may seem like there is no place for faith in our culture. People — especially young people — will share just about any detail of their personal lives, except when it comes to their faith. Many are reluctant or even embarrassed to share how their faith makes them who they are.


Despite this trend, there are tens of millions of Americans who still value their faith tremendously, and they want to make faith more visible. Thanks to a fast-growing social media movement (www.FaithCounts.net) people, regardless of their religion, are openly celebrating their faith — because they believe faith is a very good thing. How is faith good? Let us count the ways.



  1. Faith inspires, empowers and comforts billions of people the world over. And that makes people of faith happier.


  2. People and organizations are motivated by their faith to help millions of people every single day, in soup kitchens, hospitals, schools and homeless shelters.




  3. People of faith live longer.




  4. People of faith are more engaged in civic life.




  5. People of faith are more likely to be law-abiding citizens.




  6. People of faith are more generous and charitable.




  7. Faith has the power to add deep spiritual meaning and help people survive the most challenging times.




And last but not least, a basic teaching of every major world religion asks that we treat others as we ourselves would want to be treated. If more people followed this Golden Rule, that alone would be a positive influence on society. And that’s reason enough to promote the value of faith.


What does the future hold for faith in America? Nobody knows for sure, but those who value their faith can help push back against current trends by visiting www.FaithCounts.net and sharing with friends. FaithCounts.net showcases compelling stories about faith through videos, uplifting quotes, articles and images. Hopefully, more people will feel inspired, and ultimately feel good about expressing how their faith makes them who they are.


These are small steps, but they are making a big difference, and FaithCounts.net can help restore the value of faith in America.



Is Faith Really a Good Thing?

You are more than fortunate




You are more than fortunate