Sunsets in Paradise

I received an interesting email from a member and would like to share it with you.

'Dear Mr. Lawrenzi,' the email begins. 'Some time ago you wrote an article about poker cruises in the Caribbean. I am newly married and my wife and I did not have the opportunity to take a honeymoon. Could you please let us know more about any upcoming cruises as I would like to surprise her with a honeymoon cruise? I like to play poker and she enjoys the slots. Thanks for any information you can give us.' Joe R., Beaumont, TX.

First, let me congratulate Joe on his new marriage. I hope it lasts 100 years.

As for the cruises, I would recommend the Card Player Magazine poker cruises as probably the best on the market. They are low-priced, averaging about $100 per day, and the price includes meals, entertainment, and a great view of the ocean while you are sailing to your destination.

A Card Player St. Maarten Maho Poker Cruise is scheduled to leave March 30. This is a land-based cruise, meaning you will have to pay for your lodging once you arrive in St. Maarten in the Eastern Caribbean.

You will be staying at the Sonesto Maho Beach Resort, which is a luxurious resort hotel and casino. I have played poker there and can give the highest recommendations on the quality of its service and food. Rates start at $155 a night and include food and beverages, including alcohol.

This cruise includes a $100,000 guaranteed main event. The cost of entertaining the tournament is $1,100, but you can play in 14 satellites to gain free entry into the event.

St. Maarten is half Dutch and half French with duty-free shopping. There are many excellent restaurants on the island where you can order anything from fresh seafood to French cuisine. You can even enjoy a touch of Paris with your new bride by visiting the French side of the island, about a 30-minute ride by taxi from the resort.

Card Player Magazine also offers a Caribbean cruise on the Royal Caribbean Liberty of the Seas April 30 through May 7. This ship leaves out of Galveston, Texas and ports of cll include Roatan, Honduras, Belize City, Belize, and Cozumel, Mexico. I have never been to that part of the world, but am sure it will please the two of you.

On Aug. 13 through April 20, a seven-night poker cruise will be made to Greece on the Royal Caribbean's Jewel of the Sea. I have not been to the Greek Isles but friends who have cruised there have nothing but praise for the travel accommodations and the beauty of the islands.

To get information on prices, you can call toll-free 888 999 4880 or 702 655 0919. I worked as a staff writer for Card Player Magazine and can assure you that you will be treated first-class. Enjoy your belated honeymoon and let the games begin.