Nubian Dreams producers trip to San Juan & St. Thomas for Sun Pass prep

FAQ for Nubian Dreams Cruise

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical Atlantis guest like?

What are the typical Nubian Dreams guests like?
There is no such thing as a typical guest on the Nubian Dreams Cruise, which will make the experience so much fun. Our guests range from their 30s to retirement age and beyond. They will come from all over the US and the world. Their interests and experiences are as varied as the gay & lesbian community overall. Some guests are bringing their children and straight friends. Community is what it's all about at Nubian Dreams, so wherever you are, you'll feel at home. Remember this is not an exclusive LGBT cruise. Nubian Dreams will reserve a number of high quality cabins on the ship. That being said the opportunities are endless in meeting all types of people.

Do I have to have a great body to fit in on a Nubian Dreams Cruise?
Very funny. Seriously, while we have some great bodies in our brochure and website (remember it IS marketing!), Nubian Dreams is really all about being yourself and feeling great about who you are. Whatever shape you're in, you're going to feel right at home on Nubian Dreams. We promise.

Are women welcome on Nubian Dreams vacations?
Absolutely. Women have been an integral part of all of the JS Marketing Group & Zenbizness events for the last six years. We expect that women will represent about 40% of our guests. We have planned some separate events for men & ones for women. See the Sun Pass Page.

Is there a minimum age?
At this time, the minimum age for our guests is 18. Guests between 18 and 21 must travel with a companion over the age of 25, staying in the same stateroom. Drinking age is 21.

Is it easy to connect with others on a Nubian Dreams Cruise?
Meeting new people is the most valued part of the Nubian Dreams experience for most of our guests. The Nubian Dreams “Sun Pass” will be full of parties, events and gatherings that make it easy for you to introduce yourself to other guests. In addition, if you are in NYC please check out our networking parties entitled “Nubian Dreams Lounge” to meet people in person.

I'll be traveling alone. How does that work?
Some of our guests will travel on their own, so we make it easy and affordable with our roommate share program. If you would like to share a room, we will attempt to find a roommate for you at no additional charge. Roommates are assigned by smoking preference; share rooms are available in the categories listed on each program and are subject to availability. Cruise staterooms are subject to a 100% surcharge for single occupancy. Availability of single rooms is limited.

Are the staff members of the cruise lines or resorts gay-friendly?
Yes. We work very closely with the cruise and tour companies to insure that their staff members welcome Nubian Dreams guests just as they do everyone else. Actually, most staff members request to work our weeks because the group is so much fun. You can rest easy.

What is included in my Nubian Dreams Basic Package?
Virtually everything is included in our cruise: meals, Carnival’s entertainment, most sports with instruction and activities.

What is not included in my Nubian Dreams Basic Package?
Drinks, Tips and Land Excursions, Airport Transfers and the optional “Sun Pass.” Our Nubian Dreams “Sun Pass” will be an additional charge. It will include special events onboard the ship as well as some activities in some Port’s of Call. The details of the events tailored to the needs of our “Sun Pass” holders.

What is not included in my Nubian Dreams Cruise?
The things that are not included in the Nubian Dreams vacation are few and far between. Optional excursions, optional specialty restaurants, some sports, bar charges, spa services, telephone calls, and shop purchases can usually be charged to your room and settled upon departure.

Why is the “Sun Pass” not available now?
After doing several trips and International events we have learned a lot. Nubian Dreams is very conscious of keeping the price down for its guests. Depending on how many guests book the cruise through the Nubian Dreams the Sun Pass will be tailored to fit the group. Although the “Sun Pass” is optional and non-Sun Pass holders will be welcome to attend some events the cost will be much more expensive per person. Once we have finalized our contracts with the outside vendors we will post the price online. We want it to be affordable for all.

Why is it important that we book through Nubian Dreams and not direct with the ship?
You have heard the saying that “there is strength in numbers” well it is so true. The Nubian Dreams team will be available to answer questions, offer excellent customer service, plan and execute details of your vacation. If you choose to purchase directly from Carnival you will respectfully not be offered the services that Nubian Dreams will provide to their guests. In comparing Nubian Dreams to other cruises please keep in mind that we advertise prices which include taxes and port charges. The price will also vary by the length of the cruise and ports of call. Be sure to add on any taxes and other fees to the prices you see advertised on other sites as well as check out the type and level of cabins. If you calculate the prices correctly you will be assured that Nubian Cruise package is an excellent package.

How does Nubian Dreams assign rooms/cabins to guests?
Reserving early gets you the best selection of rooms. Cruise staterooms are assigned at the time of receipt of second deposit or $400.00. We make every effort to honor special requests, subject to availability and prior requests. The initial deposit locks in your price and cabin category.

What are the accommodations like?
Nubian Dreams uses only the high standards for rooms throughout. You can learn more about the specific accommodations in each price range by checking out the descriptions on the website, viewing the promo video or in our brochure.

Can Nubian Dreams help me save on airfare?
Our travel agent will make every attempt to help you secure low fares to and from NYC. Be sure to inquire when making your reservation. An additional fee may apply.

Is smoking permitted on Nubian Dreams vacations?
Smoking is permitted only in designated areas on Nubian Dreams Cruise. Most of our restaurants are designated non-smoking.

Can Nubian Dreams handle special dietary needs?
Our cruise lines and resorts will make every attempt to accommodate dietary needs and restrictions. Please advise us of special needs at least two weeks prior to departure.

Do I need a visa or passport?
A valid passport is required for all travel. Citizens of other countries may require a visa. For UK and other European passport holders please check for visa requirements with your embassy. Your passport should be valid for several months following your trip to avoid any potential problems. All documentation is your responsibility so please make sure that everything is in order before your departure..

When will I receive my travel documents after booking?
Your travel documents will be mailed to you approximately three weeks prior to departure. Once final payment is received you also will have the option to download your documents direct from Carnival online. In addition, we make as much of the pre-departure information available on the Nubian Dreams website several weeks prior to departure. If you provide an e-mail address to us at the time of booking, we'll send your documents and other information to you electronically (when possible).

What are my payment options?
A deposit must accompany all reservation forms, with an additional payment due April 1, 2008 of $400.00. Full payment is due by July 1, 2008. We accept checks, Visa, MasterCard, American Express and Discover cards.

Does Nubian Dreams have a monthly installment payment plan?
Yes. Nubian Dreams also offers a flexible payment options that lets you pay for your vacation in easy affordable way. The initial non-refundable yet transferable deposit is $100.00 for double occupancy non suite cabins. Suites, triples & quads require a $400.00 of which $100.00 is non-refundable yet transferable. All guests are required to make an additional payment of $400.00 prior to April 1, 2008 and the final payment by July 1, 2008. You may mail in additional payments as you wish. You will be sent a receipt of payment and balance due once check has cleared.

What is your cancellation policy?
Our cancellation policy is detailed in our terms and conditions.

Should I buy trip insurance?
Yes. You're spending hundreds of dollars for your vacation and a few extra dollars will protect you from emergencies. Most policies offer a waiver of all pre-existing medical conditions, and cover most unexpected occurrences. There are many types of travel insurance, AIG Travel Guard , Carnival Cruise Protection Plan or Travelex. Check with your own medical insurance company to see what they will cover outside of the USA.

New York City Hotel Options?
For out of town guests coming to NYC before departure we have negotiated special group rates for Nubian Dream Guests. View blog or website for details.

Nubian Dreams Hotels Ready 4 U

Nubian Dreams Cruise Host Hotels in NYC
As many of you know the hotels in Manhattan are very pricey. James and Laurence have negotiated group rates for Cruise guests. Please read instructions carefully for the rates to apply. Nubian Dreams receives no compensation for this service. The purpose is to offer guests a safe and clean hotel to stay the evening before the Cruise.

OPTION #1
Milford Plaza Hotel - 270 W. 45th Street, NYC
Group Rate: $269.00 per night (2 people)
$294.00 per night (3 people)
13.375% NYC tax & $3.50 per room occupany tax not included

*** To Get Discount & reservation contact TZELL TRAVEL (vjimenez@tzell.com) or
call Veronica - 212-944-2121 x 2233 - Fill out credit authorization form.

OPTION #2


Hotel Walcott New York - 4 West 31 St., NYC
www.wolcott.com or 212-268-2900

Call Reservations 212-268-2900or Book online using booking code 2598
Group Rate: $252.93 per night (2 People) includes tax

Happy New Year

Here is what is in store for you in 08.

• The Nubian Dreams Lounge Blog is up and running. Please check out the ND Blog for upcoming events in NYC, and from our partners all over the world. Find out what's happening with parties, events and artists. It would be great to meet you at our next Nubian Dreams Lounge on Jan. 27, 2008 at the beautiful Taj Lounge.
  


• Nubian Dreams presents "Return to Paradise." An Unforgettable Tribute to the Paradise Garage NYC @Winter Explosion 2008 / Hudson Valley Resort & Spa (Empire Lounge/Manhattan Theater). Experience the magic of the legendary Paradise Garage. The club that started it all and launched many new stars. For those who were there it will be a walk down memory lane, and for those who missed it, here is your chance. Cost: $75 in Advance / $95 at the Door includes:* 4-Hours PREMIUM Open Bar* Admission to Dance Party w/ DJ's spinning on 2 floors (Exclusive House in the Empire Lounge)* Admission to live concert featuring House Music Diva Rochelle Fleming & "First Choice"("Dr. Love", "Let No Man Put Asunder"/ "It's Not Over", "Love Thang", Armed & Extremely Dangerous")
  

• The Sun Pass initial schedule has been posted on the Nubian Dreams website. Stay tuned! We will be traveling to St. Thomas and San Juan this month to finalize our offshore events for the Sun Pass. The Sun Pass will be on sale soon after we return.
  We are in final negotiations with a host hotel in NYC for those that need a hotel. The ship will depart at 4pm on Wednesday, October 8th.
  


• The promotional Nubian Dreams video is on YouTube for your review.
  The cabins are selling very well. The best seller to date is the Ocean Balcony. We encourage you to get your $100.00 in soon so that you can lock in your price and cabin category. The price will increase, so don't wait.
  


• Thanks goes out to our wonderful media sponsors. The Nubian Dreams ad has appeared in Go Magazine, Bleu Magazine , GBM News and this month we will also appear in Next Magazine, Clik Magazine . PLEASE check out all of these media sponsors websites. They have consistently shown their support to us. It is so important that we show our appreciation as well, so that Corporate America will start seeing the African American Gay & Lesbian Market as a viable community that deserves to be supported and represented. Every letter, website hit, subscription and email counts. If you can subscribe please do. This is the way the African American LGBT market gets counted. Thank you in advance.


• Clik Magazine featured the Nubian Dreams Cruise and the launch of the Nubian Dreams Lounge on their current website. Thank you Dwight.
  
  Thank you for your support and spreading the word about this event. The buzz is incredible. We promise you the best cruise experience. Laurence & James