"The Pearls of the Caribbean"
Speaker: Norman Betts, D.D.S., M.S.
When: April 4-11, 2009
Where: San Juan, Puerto Rico; Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; St. Johns, Antigua; Castries, St. Lucia; and Bridgetown, Barbados
Cost: Deluxe stateroom with veranda is $1,692 per person based on double occupancy, and $857 per person, third and fourth person. Standard stateroom: $1,272 per person based on double occupancy. A $250 deposit to hold your space due at the time of booking ($50 nonrefundable). CE course fee: $599 ($699/nonmembers).
CE Credits: 12
Deadline: Jan. 16, 2009
Register: Call Classic Travel's Joy Thrun or Jean Southwick at (800) 643-3449 or download the registration form.
It’s the vacation everybody wants, with first-class accommodations, gorgeous scenery, 12 credits of continuing education, plus plenty of free time to enjoy an unforgettable Caribbean vacation!
About the Cruise
You’ll depart San Juan, Puerto Rico aboard the Royal Caribbean Cruise ship Serenade of the Seas. Choose from a regular ocean view stateroom or go deluxe and enjoy the ocean views on your private veranda. While onboard enjoy:
- Beautiful indoor solarium
- Rock-climbing wall
- Indoor/outdoor country club with golf simulator
- Day spa and fitness center
- Sports court with basketball/volleyball court
- Adventure Ocean® youth facilities
- Portofino Italian restaurant
- Chops Grille
- Latté-tudes,SM a specialty coffee house featuring Seattle’s Best® coffee
- Seaview Cafe
- Casino RoyaleSM
- The Colony Club, a unique British colonial-style lounge with self-leveling pool tables
Rates
Deluxe ocean view staterooms with private verandas are $1,692 per person based on double occupancy. Rate for third and fourth person is $857 per person. Standard ocean view staterooms are $1,272 per person based on double occupancy.
Above prices do not include airfare. The MDA has secured a discounted rate of $587 per person on Northwest non-stop from Detroit to San Juan. Call (800) 643-3449 for reservations or to arrange flights from a different location.
A $250 deposit to hold your space due at the time of booking ($50 nonrefundable).
CE course fee: $599 ($699/nonmembers).
Continuing Education Program
Earn 12 credits of continuing education with Norman Betts, D.D.S., M.S. The CE course fee is $599. Topics include:
"Management of the Medically Compromised Dental Patient"
Modifying contemporary dental care while avoiding medical emergencies. This includes an update on antibiotic prophylaxis, what you need to know about herbal medicines, and more.
"Management of the Medically Compromised Dental Patient"
Testing your skills.
"Bisphosphonate-Related Osteonecrosis of the Jaws"
What you need to know.
"Update on Pain Management"
Local anesthesia tricks for the patient who is difficult to get numb, plus pharmacologic review of pain medications, and a medication regimen that works.
Cruise Itinerary
Day One: San Juan, Puerto Rico
One of the largest islands in the Eastern Caribbean, Puerto Rico's landscape encompasses mountains, underground caves, coral reefs, white-sand beaches and an incredibly massive rain forest that supplies fresh water to most of the island. At the same time San Juan, the capital of the commonwealth, is a big city with a bustling business district, glitzy resorts and casinos, as well as one of the most stunning examples of colonial life in the Western world. When you're in San Juan, don't miss the opportunity to witness the pinnacle of natural beauty by exploring Puerto Rico's El Yunque Rain Forest. It features more than 240 species of trees, hundreds of miniature orchids, and what was once believed to be the Fountain of Youth.
Depart at 10 p.m.
Day Two: Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas
St. Thomas is known as an idyllic vacation spot today, but its history is not so peaceful. In the 18th century, the island was at the center of a bustling pirate culture, as swashbuckling pirates such as Blackbeard and Drake traded stolen wares in the port of Charlotte Amalie. This world-renowned Caribbean island is home to amazing beaches, gorgeous sea and landscapes and unbelievable duty-free shopping. While the beaches and ocean are beautiful, there is one thing that really sets St. Thomas apart - shopping. Browse through the shop-lined streets of Charlotte Amalie and find out why St. Thomas is called the "duty-free shopping capital of the world." Shop for duty-free trinkets and bargains on everything from liquor to imported china and crystal. Visitors can bring home $1,200 in merchandise without paying duty -- twice the limit of most of the Caribbean.
Arrive at 7 a.m. Depart at 5:30 p.m.
Day Three: Philipsburg, St. Maarten
When the Spanish closed their colonial fort on St. Maarten in 1648, a few Dutch and French soldiers hid on the island and decided to share it. Soon after, the Netherlands and France signed a formal agreement to split St. Maarten in half, as it is today. Philipsburg displays its Dutch heritage in its architecture and landscaping. The island offers endless stretches of beach, beautiful landscapes and great shopping. Compete in an actual race on an America's Cup shortened course. Grind a winch, trim a sail or just sit back and enjoy. Professional sailors will give you a quick lesson, then you're off to compete on Stars and Stripes, one of the most famous sailboats in the world.
Arrive at 7 a.m. Depart at 5:30 p.m.
Day Four: St. Johns, Antiqua
The first settlement on the island we now know as Antigua was not established until the 1600s, when English settlers arrived. Antigua remained a part of the British Commonwealth until its independence in 1981. Today, Antigua is a popular vacation destination, attracting tourists with its ideal climate, 366 beautiful beaches, amazing landscape and leisurely lifestyle. Discover Antigua's past at Nelson's Dockyard, a restored working dockyard. In this tropical Colonial Williamsburg, you can visit many of the original colonial buildings and get a real feel for the history of the place.
Arrive at 7 a.m. Depart at 5:30 p.m.
Day Five: Castries, St. Lucia
St. Lucia has been a part of the British Commonwealth since 1803. But prior to that, it was often occupied by the French, which is evident in much of the island's culture. Castries offers a colorful local market and great shopping. And the surrounding areas offer lush rain forests, striking waterfalls, beautiful beaches and Sulfur Springs - the world's only drive-through volcano. See the beautiful coastline of St. Lucia from the deck of a catamaran. You'll have an unbeatable view of the scenery and get an exhilarating ride, too.
Arrive at 7 a.m. Depart at 5 p.m.
Day Six: Bridgetown, Barbados
Though Barbados gained its independence from the British in 1966, the island maintains a distinctly English flavor. From British products such as chocolate and china to the national pastime, cricket, the British influence is evident throughout this gorgeous Caribbean destination. For the ultimate day of fun-in-the-sun Barbados-style, cruise on the MV Harbour to a spectacular sandy beach. Snorkel on reefs teeming with tropical fish. Enjoy the rope swing, sun tanning or walking on the beach. Cruise back along the scenic coast while dancing the calypso or limbo, or just relax on deck.
Arrive at 7 a.m. Depart at 5:30 p.m.
Day Seven: Cruising on the Caribbean
Enjoy a restful day at sea.
Day Eight: San Juan, Puerto Rico
Arrive at 7 a.m.
Who to Contact
Joy Thrun at Classic Travel
(517) 349-6200
(800) 643-3449
"Scenic Ireland"
Speaker: John Molinary, Ph.D.
When: July 1-9, 2009
Where: Dublin, Killarney and Ennis, Ireland
Cost: $2,196 per person, double occupancy, land only.* A $250 deposit to hold your space at the time of booking The CE course fee is $599 ($699 for non-ADA members).
CE Credits: 12
Deadline: Feb. 21, 2009
Register: Call Classic Travel's Joy Thrun or Jean Southwick at (800) 643-3449 or download the registration form.
*The above prices do not include airfare. The MDA has secured block space. Call (800) 643-3449 for reservations and to lock in a rate.
It’s the vacation of a lifetime with first-class accommodations, gorgeous scenery, 12 credits of continuing education, plus plenty of free time to enjoy an unforgettable vacation to the Emerald Isle!
About the Tour
You’ll be treated to and escorted sightseeing adventure by luxury motor coach with professional driver/guide. The tour includes seven nights at first-class hotels that includes three nights in Dublin, three nights in Killarney, and one night in Shannonside/Ennis. Sightseeing trips include Dublin Castle, Kilmainham Jail, Guinness Storehouse, Blarney Castle, Killarney, Ring of Kerry, Cliffs of Moher, and much more! You’ll also be treated to a full Irish breakfast daily (except the morning of arrival) and four dinners, including two with entertainment.
Rate Information
Cost is $2,196 per person, double occupancy, land only.* A $250 deposit to hold your space is required at the time of booking ($50 nonrefundable). The CE course fee is $599. Rate includes tips for baggage handling, taxes and hotel gratuities (except gratuity to your tour director).
The above prices do not include airfare. The MDA has secured block space. Call (800) 643-3449 for reservations and to lock in a rate.
Continuing Education Program
Earn 12 credits of continuing education with John Molinari, Ph.D.! The CE course fee is $599. Topics include:
- Emerging Infectious Diseases
- Update on Vaccine Recommendations
- Allergic Patients and Dental Care Providers: Practice Implications
- Infections in Immune Compromised Persons
John A. Molinari, Ph.D., received a B.A. in Biology from St. Vincent College and a Ph.D. in Microbiology from the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine. He is currently professor and chair of the Department of Biomedical Sciences at the University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry. He has published more than 300 scientific articles, text chapters and abstracts in the areas of microbiology and immunology, and lectures nationally and internationally on topics dealing with infectious diseases and infection control. Dr. Molinari is also co-author of the text Practical Infection Control in Dentistry, with the third edition scheduled for publication in 2009.
Tour Itinerary
Day One: Depart USA Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Your trip begins with an overnight transatlantic flight to Dublin. Relax and enjoy the in-flight meal service and onboard entertainment.
Day Two: Dublin Thursday, July 2
Upon arrival at Dublin airport, collect your luggage and proceed to the arrivals hall. A representative will be there to meet you and arrange a transfer to your first hotel. At 2 p.m., embark on a panoramic tour of the city and a visit to the Guinness Storehouse, the birthplace of this famous beer, where we will sample their product. Later, enjoy a welcome dinner with your fellow colleagues.
Day Three: Dublin Friday July 3
After breakfast, the morning is dedicated to continuing education. After a break for lunch on your own, you’ll head out to visit Dublin Castle and the State Apartments. Kilmainham Gael is your next stop, where you’ll learn about the heroes of the 1916 Easter Uprising. At night, kick up your heels and enjoy dinner and an evening of traditional music, song, and dance at the famous Abbey Tavern.
Day Four: Dublin Saturday, July 4
After your included breakfast, the morning will be dedicated to continuing education. In the afternoon you are free to enjoy the city on your own. Perhaps you’ll visit Christchurch Cathedral, founded in 1030 and one of Dublin’s oldest and most recognized landmarks. Or, visit the Dublin Writers Museum to enjoy its collection of artifacts from writers over the past 300 years. Or, perhaps the James Joyce Centre might be to your liking. Trinity College and the old Library, which houses the Book of Kells, an illuminated manuscript from the ninth century, is on many a visitor’s list. A stroll through St. Stephens Green and then onto Grafton Street for some fine shopping is always a delightful way to spend an afternoon. Dinner is on your own. Be sure to visit the famous Temple Bar area of the city while you’re out!
Day Five: Dublin to Killarney Sunday, July 5
After our included breakfast, it will be time to check out of the hotel and depart for Killarney. We’ll make a stop at the Waterford crystal factory to see the craftsman create these exquisite works of art. Later, you’ll check into the hotel in Killarney and enjoy dinner at the hotel.
Day Six: Killarney Monday, July 6
After the included breakfast, the morning will be dedicated to continuing education. You’ll be on your own for lunch. This afternoon it’s your choice -– come along with us as we drive to the Ring of Kerry and enjoy the most spectacular scenery of Ireland. Or perhaps you’ll decide to enjoy the town on your own, or even sneak away for an afternoon of golf. Tonight you’re on your own,too, to enjoy the many fine restaurants and pubs that Killarney has to offer.
Day Seven: Killarney Tuesday, July 7
After the included breakfast, you’re off to Blarney Castle for a visit and a chance to kiss the famed Blarney Stone and get the gift of Irish gab. Then we’ll visit the area of Cobh and Cork to learn about the history of Irish emigration. Cobh was also the last port of call of the ill-fated Titanic. The evening in Killarney is yours to enjoy.
Day Eight: Killarney to Ennis Wednesday, July 8
After the included breakfast we’ll travel north and take a ferry across the Shannon River Estuary to the might Cliffs of Moher. The Cliffs are a 700-foot drop at the highest point and range for five miles above the Atlantic Ocean. Then it’s on to our hotel in the Shannonside area, where a visit to Durty Nellie’s Pub is in order. In the evening we’ll join the lords and ladies of Bunratty Castle for our farewell Medieval Banquet, a night filled with songs, merriment, and a touch of the unexpected.
Day Nine: Ennis to Shannon Airport Thursday, July 9
After the included breakfast, we’ll head to Shannon airport and our flight home, filled with memories of this delightful land.
Who to Contact
Joy Thrun at Classic Travel
(517) 349-6200
(800) 643-3449
This vacation is being co-sponsored by MDA Insurance.