Not so #WordlessWednesday Photo Tour of The New York Times #Travel Show! @NYTTravelShow #NYTTravelShow

I had no idea when I walked into the Media Day for The New York Times Travel Show this year what a mess there would be at the Airports later that weekend. (And let's not even discuss the weekend schedule into the city on public transpo, thanks MTA! NOT!)

After what was an amazing weekend of  'exploring the world in one place' and connecting with my tribe of fellow travelers, 'wanderlusters' and writers - Editor friends would have trouble getting home, when Airlines experienced computer problems, and our new President issued a Travel Ban that caused chaos.

It took me a few days to figure out how to approach sharing my recap of the show. Should I stay silent about what is going on around the world? Just focus on the exhibitors? Tidbits from the Panels and Learning Sessions from Media Day only?

There are fundamental things in life that have the ability to 'transport' you:

(1) Reading

(2) Music

(3) Education

and last but certainly not least

(4) TRAVEL

Travel at its best expands our horizons, shows us just how much we have in common - it makes the world that much 'bigger'.

And that is exactly what The New York Travel Show achieved for me, here are some photo highlights:

Above: All-Inclusive Travel Panel at The New York Times Travel Show - the all-inclusive travel market is facing a ton of competition - including cruising, improvements are being made but travel buyers still need to research and evaluate a prospective all-inclusive carefully to be sure you are getting the most bang for your buck based on the way YOU travel. When you travel, do you sleep in late most days? Then an all-inclusive that includes breakfast is probably not a necessary expense for you. Do you hate buffets? Make sure your all-inclusive includes more than a buffet dining option.

Above: Focus on Cruising Panel at The New York Times Travel Show -  Norwegian Cruises let us know that the Norwegian Sky is going to Cuba with an overnight in Havana

Above: Focus on Cruising Panel at The New York Times Travel Show - Celebrity Cruises will boast 61 overnight calls in Europe in 2017

Above: Focus on Cruising Panel at The New York Times Travel Show - MSC Cruises focus on wellness powered by Technogym definitely caught my eye, if I can get away but still focus on 'staying centered' that is my idea of vacation nirvana! I have never taken a cruise before, but MSC has definitely got me tempted. Ascending Butterfly has always taken a 'Mind, Body, and Soul' approach to wellness and wellbeing and this is certainly right up my alley!

VIDEO - While I did take photos I thought sharing this video I shot at the Mexico Tourism Exhibitor Booth of a live Mariachi Band would be way more fun!

Below: The Media Day was sponsored by the Costa Rica Tourism Board, they hosted a really nice networking break:

Above: Costa Rican Coffee, an assortment of chocolate, and dried fruit to take home and some delicious empanadas to nibble on between sessions was a great break in between panels during Media Day. Learning is hungry business!

Above: It snowed yesterday here in New York City, I actually wish I was on a beach 'wasting away in Margaritaville' right about now! #LicensetoChill

Below: But it was the Giant Flip Flop that drew visitor's to the booth!

Above: The India Tourism Board caught my eye especially after the special screening of Lion starring SAG nominee Dev Patel that I got to attend earlier in the month (I will share a full review on the movie soon) and I couldn't help but nab a close up of the eye catching elephant statues.

ABOVE: Indonesia also had a super eye catching booth!

Above: At the Indonesia Tourism Booth they offered the chance to customize a bookmark with your name in Javanese Characters which as an avid reader I thought was awesome and I definitely took advantage of this, it will be a very treasured bookmark!

Above: The interactive mailbox at Live the Language definitely caught my eye, I would love to learn a new language abroad! Yes Please!

Cultural Performances:

Above: 2017 New York Times Travel Show  - The New York Korean Performing Arts Center drum and dance in celebration of the Lunar New Year. Asia Stage Cultural Performance.

Above: Korean Martial Arts Group takes Asia Stage at The New York Times Travel Show (I have studied several forms of Martial Arts, seeing this was a great reminder I need to get back into it!)

Above: Cultural Dance Performance - The New York Times Travel Show 2017

Above: What is a tradeshow without a fun cocktail reception right? ManAboutWorld hosted a cocktail reception sponsored by the Tourism Boards of both Florida and Arizona, and they definitely get cool swag mentions for the McClendon's Select Organic Red Grapefruit Soaps! Not to mention the Tequila Glasses for the Margaritas were super cute too! LGBT travel was the focus of this party which I hopes become an annual one for the show.

MY TAKE:

The New York Times Travel Show does a great job of improving it's Media Day each year, I am there now as Press, but many moons ago I worked for an Airline (that is still very much in business) in the Caribbean Sales Division where I sold directly to the Agencies that sold to the end consumer. I will always have a strong interest in the 'business' side of travel and where it's headed, the technology that is always changing and adapting to suit the needs of the tech savvy traveler and finding unique travel ideas, products and experiences.

It also activates a fresh case of 'wanderlust-itis' - that won't go away until I board a plane again!

Readers Sound Off: What destination(s) is top on your travel bucket list this year?

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FTC Disclosure: I was granted Press Access to the New York Times Travel Show for Editorial Consideration and all thoughts and opinions are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure.

Things that lure Ascending Butterfly out of her butterfly cocoon of fabulosity: Electronics/Technology (yes I am a Gadget Geek first!), Fashion, Jewelry, Bubbly/Spirits, Foodie/Restaurants, Photography and Travel. And remember Ascending Butterfly does NOT have children, please do not pitch her toys (at least not those that are intended for children).

Unless it's charity related, If a campaign doesn't pay, this butterfly won't want to play.

Smile if you got this far, twirl around twice and sing Mariah Carey's Butterfly. Still here? Now go make someone happy today.

Recap of 2014 New York Times Travel Show - Top Takeaways and #Travel News!

By the time you read this I will be well underway to somewhere fun to celebrate my birthday this weekend! Perfect how it fell on a Friday this year!

I love to travel and jumped at the chance to take in the New York Times Travel Show this year (at what is beginning to feel like my second home this year, The Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City). I was born and raised in the North East US so I naturally gravitate to warmer climate travel options, but I also wanted to learn more about Destinations I haven't yet visited, and travel options like Cruising which I haven't yet tried.

It is super easy to get distracted with all the sights, sounds, color and excitement at the show that's for sure, so I highly suggest journalists (be it print or digital) take some time in the Press Area to get organized and solidify your plan of attack. If you have a general idea you can explore the Trade Show by zones and speaking to the representatives will give you a better idea of which destination and property are the best fit for you.

I wanted to recap the show both with Photos, as well as new news and top takeaways:

"Take 2" Shuttle Transfer Service

As someone who doesn't drive I was excited to learn about Universal Orlando's latest offering "Take 2" Shuttle Transfer Service. Vacationing in Central Florida and forgot to book a rental car or just don't even want to do all the driving? For only $39 per adult be sure to add on 'The Take 2 Shuttle Transfer Ticket' - then enjoy meet and greet transfer service provided by Quick Transportation from your Walt Disney World hotel to your Universal Orlando Resort on -site hotel and then to Orlando International Airport (MCO) via Taxi Sedan/Van.

Her skirt reads 'Dushi Hende'  which is an interesting initiative by the Curaçao Tourist Board 

Tropical rhythms from the folks representing Antigua and Barbuda!

Ceylon Enterprises Group of SRI LANKA provided a moment of Zen!

Now you know butterflies will always catch my eye! I have yet to visit the Dominican Republic, but would like to!

of course I had to get a close up, the Dominican Republic Booth had handcrafted items available for sale at their display booth during the New York Times Travel Show

Tourism Malaysia had such an eye-catching display I just had to stop!

Sea World had live animals in their display area so needless to say they drew quite a crowd! 

Sea World Display Area at 2014 New York Times Travel Show

I have to admit I have never visited Sea World!

Sea World Display Area at 2014 New York Times Travel Show

Everyone thought this little guy was some kind of animatronic robot but he is REAL! It was the smallest, cutest, sweetest bird ever! I so wanted to touch it.

Owl Above: In fact this sweet little guy is a rescue! Kudos to Sea World for taking care of him. His movements were slow and deliberate he really did look like a little robot, and it was only with trainer handling that the crowd was able to understand he is real. Those eyes were so soulful they drew everyone in!

I spent the most time speaking with 'Da Pineapple Guy' he truly embodied the 'Aloha Spirit'

Don't leave Hawaii without calling 'Da Pineapple Guy' so you can bring back the sweetest trip souvenir - Fresh Pineapple and Fresh Papayas!

I spent the most time speaking with 'Da Pineapple Guy', who offers an awesome Pineapple Delivery Service. I LOVE that! My most cherished memories of many of my warm weather vacations are actually fruit related in some way. In Puerto Rico it was eating Mangoes fresh from the tree from the Farm of a local while enjoying the view from the comfort of my Balcony for Breakfast one morning. On another trip it was the Breadfruit I ate in Barbados at The Round House Restaurant taking in the spectacular view of the rugged East Coast of Barbados. The Pineapple Guy can arrange to have the Tropical Gold variety of pineapples (which have been proven to be the sweetest and lowest acid pineapples available in Hawaii, grown on the north shore of Oahu) sent right to your door or your hotel the day before you leave. They are picked fresh daily, inspected & pre-certified making them airport ready and you can also arrange to have Papayas delivered as well. Out of all the vendors there he truly asked me genuine questions about what it is I do and the business side of blogging. He is a proud dad, and someone who showed me a taste of true Aloha Spirit. I have never visited Hawaii, but my time with him certainly bumped this beautiful destination up my travel wish list! There are even instructional videos on his site on how to cut a Pineapple. You can tell his heart is in his work, his family and his homeland. It was really cool to make a genuine connection with someone there that went beyond a sort of rote memory bullet points, someone who was just so in the moment, it brought me back into focus! I also left his booth with dark chocolate Macadamia Nuts, and Hershey's Macadamia covered kisses, both of which I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE and now I  need to arrange a trip to go get some more!

Zoetry - Paraiso De La Bonita - Riviera Maya

Zoetry also drew us in with the colorful and tropical displays.You can indulge yourself in The Art of Life at Zoetry Paraiso de la Bonita Riviera Maya, a luxurious, secluded retreat combining Endless Privileges with holistic wellness, tranquility, and romance. It is Perfectly situated along Cancun's famed Riviera Maya, this AAA Five Diamond resort offers magnificent ocean views, graciously appointed suites, gourmet dining, Bvlgari Bath Amenities (my personal faves!) and more. I love Mexico and I try to visit there as often as my schedule permits!

Grabbing those peaceful zen like moments wherever I could find them.

I wanted to sit there with the brochures on a cozy couch and day dream about these beautiful destinations. The Cruel, Cold Winter here in NYC has made me want to shake off that North East Cold and hop on a plane to somewhere super warm! Sunshine dear old friend, I MISS YOU!

Celebrity Cruises announced that their Black Car Service has been extended for Suite Guests until 04/30

Book a suite on any Bermuda or Europe cruise, 7 nights or longer and you'll receive round-trip black car service between your home and the port or Airport. Your modern, upscale vacation begins the moment you step out the door. Check out celebritycruises.com/blackcar for more information and additional details.

Just had to snap a shot of the cow at Cabot's cute display!

Cabot Creamery is a 1,200 farm family dairy cooperative with members in New England and upstate NY producing all natural, award-winning cheddar cheese.

My Take:

The Travel Show was a wonderful way to get more information about Destinations on my Travel Wishlist which includes Greece, Italy, Hawaii, Tahiti, New Zealand, Australia, Paris, Asia and many more! It sent my incurable case of Wanderlust right through the roof! And is making me curious about this whole cruising thing. I'm going to have to try it one of these and report back to you! (Have any of our butterflies traveled aboard a Singles Cruise before? If so, did you enjoy it?)

What is your favorite travel destination butterfly? Why is it your favorite?

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FTC Disclosure: The New York Times Travel Show provided us with passes to the Show/Seminars/panels for editorial consideration. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure. All opinions are 100% my own! No monetary compensation has been exchanged!

Win a VIP @SmoothJazzNY Angela Bofill Experience Concert Cruise with #dinner & drinks via @Ascending1 #Giveaway

#Sponsored: This giveaway has been sponsored by (see below for full disclosure):

I have been partnering with Smooth Jazz New York for a number of years now and it has become an annual tradition that I greatly look forward to! While it's fantastic in summer, it's the final sail that happens right after the beginning of Fall that is my favorite. It's always bitter sweet because I know the Boat Cruises are over for the season until next summer, but it also means a host of other fun events are on the way. 

I didn't get to take the final sail last year and most of you know why by now, so I am looking that much more forward to this year's final sail.

Angela Bofill

The Smooth Cruise season is coming to an end, and the last sail is: Smooth Cruise Encore: The Angela Bofill Experience!

Like me Angela is a Bronx Native and you may know her by her six albums that made the Top 40, (five of which made the Top 100 on the pop charts as well), her albums 'Angel of the Night' and 'Too Tough' made the top 10! With performances by Maysa and Kim Waters, this is going to be some sail folks!

Here is a picture of me and mama butterfly all smiles during our last sail this summer during the Spyro Gyra sail, if you missed my recap of that sail, you can check it out HERE:

Left: Tracy of Ascending Butterfly and Right: Mama Butterfly enjoying the smooth sounds of Spyro Gyra on the Smooth Jazz Cruise in New York City

My Take:

The Smooth Jazz Cruises are my favorite part of summer, and the final sail just gets me in the mood for Fall. Back in my recruiting days it was a favorite client gift. It is just a super relaxing evening with great music, food and people! I have met so many wonderful people throughout the years (I have actually been taking the sails well before my blogging days!)

Win It:

Our friends at Smooth Jazz New York want you to experience the same VIP experience I did! One lucky butterfly (and a guest) will win a pair of passes to the October 4th 2013, 9:30 Smooth Cruise Encore: The Angela Bofill Experience sail including dinner and drink tickets for two as well! This is a true New York Experience not to be missed! (Please do not enter if you cannot attend on 10/4 as this is a very fast turnaround and we won't have time to process a last minute cancellation)

Enter using the link to the Rafflecopter Widget below:

a Rafflecopter giveaway ˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙

FTC Disclosure: Smooth Jazz New York provided Ascending Butterfly with tickets to the upcoming Encore Sail for editorial consideration, all opinions are 100% my own, you may visit our full giveaway and disclosure page for complete policy information.

Win a VIP Experience @SmoothJazzNY Cruise to see Phil Perry w/dinner and drinks via @Ascending1 #Giveaway

#Sponsored: This giveaway has been sponsored by (see below for full disclosure):

One thing that's never been much of a secret is that I'm a born and raised New York City Girl, and like anyone living in a City that is a major tourist hub, there are sites you get sick of because of you have to take family and friends visiting town to these same sites/restaurants and experiences pretty much Ad Nausem, and yes, some of them tend to grow old.

Others however have become annual traditions whether or not someone is in town. That's how fun the experience is, that it never grows old or tired, and you never get that 'been there, done that' feeling afterwards. For me being an official Media Partner for Smooth Jazz Smooth Cruises has been an annual tradition that I greatly look forward to. 

Late 2011 on the night before my sail I fell into the hospital which started an over one year drama that forced me to miss the sail in 2011 I was slated for, and I also missed the sails in 2012 which truly made me sad. The smooth jazz cruises are the best part of my summer memories each year. It gives me dedicated time to connect with family and friends in a totally relaxed environment. No TV, No Distractions, just dinner, drinks, hot jazz on a cool night on the water with an expansive of view New York City all around you. And eventually great dinner, great drinks and great music with close proximity to other tables means you can always meet a new friend and have a great conversation with your table mates or those at tables in close proximity to you. 

You can stay in the lower level and have front seats to the concert, or one level up on the buffet level where you can look through directly to the stage from your seat, and eat your meal in comfort enjoying the smooth jazz sounds around you. And you can always head outside for a bit and take in the view, the night air, a cocktail on deck, and the smooth jazz music that is piped outside so you can hear the music both inside and outside the ship.

The Smooth Cruises are winding down for the season, but that doesn't mean the fun is over my butterflies, it's actually FAR from it, there is a full schedule ahead of other fun activities, as well as a rewind sail in October that we will be sharing with you all very soon! 

The Smooth Cruise season is coming to an end, and the last sail is: the smooth sounds of Phil Perry!

I got to enjoy a 6:30 sunset Sail on the Spyro Gyra Cruise and I had a blast! This was the first time I took a Smooth Jazz sail and stayed indoors the whole time. I normally spend some time on the buffet floor, then grab a drink and listen to the smooth jazz live downstairs for a few, then head upstairs to an upper deck overlooking the expanse of the water and the beautiful view, with the sound of the music dancing in my head and I put my feet up and lean back and feel the breeze that is coming off the water brush my hair back, and I take a sip of my drink and literally feel the stress of the week literally slide right off my back. It's like a meditation for me with music. My mind just goes into a relaxed, zen-like state, and I always leave smiling.

Here are some photos from my Sail, The Spyro Gyra Sail:

Spyro Gyra takes the stage at the Smooth Jazz Cruise in New York City

Spyro Gyra takes the stage at the Smooth Jazz Cruise in New York City

Lee Pearson takes a drum solo at The Smooth Jazz Spyro Gyra Sail in New York City

Ascending Butterfly filming the action at The Spyro Gyra Smooth Jazz NYC Sail

Left: Tracy of Ascending Butterfly and Right: Mama Butterfly enjoying the smooth sounds of Spyro Gyra on the Smooth Jazz Cruise in New York City

Emcee of the evening was none other than @LennyGreen Host of the Syndicated Radio Show #TheQuietStorm

Tracy of Ascending Butterfly at Pier 62 in Chelsea Piers, I'm wearing: Jacket: Wilsons Leather, Shirt: Covered Perfectly Shoes: Tika Sandals by Earthies

My Take:

The Smooth Jazz Cruises are my favorite part of summer, back in my recruiting days it was a favorite client gift. It is just a super relaxing evening with great music, food and people! Check out our Pinterest Page for additional photos that didn't make the post!

Win It:

Our friends at Smooth Jazz New York want you to experience the same VIP experience I did! One lucky butterfly will win a pair of passes to the 9:30 Phil Perry sail including dinner and drink tickets for two as well!

Enter using the link to the Rafflecopter Widget below:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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FTC Disclosure: Smooth Jazz New York provided Ascending Butterfly with tickets to the Spyro Gyra sail for editorial consideration, all opinions are 100% my own, you may visit our full giveaway and disclosure page for complete policy information.

{CLOSED} Win a Pair of Tickets to the Smooth Cruise Encore Double Bill sail with Phil Perry & Alex Bugnon! Giveaway with 2 winners! Ends 10/04

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This giveaway is now CLOSED. Thanks so much to our wonderful sponsor Smooth Jazz NY! We look forward to working with you again! The winner has been notified and upon confirmation, follower name will be posted both here and on our homepage. Remember: There are great giveaways active on the upper right hand side of the page!

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Does the idea of a cool night and warm Jazz sound good to you? New York’s premiere summer jazz series is coming to a close for the season! This is the Smooth Cruises’ 14th year aboard The Spirit of New York, located at Pier 61, Chelsea Piers (23rd St/West Side Hwy).

Experience this one-of-a-kind LIVE JAZZ concert series as you cruise down the Hudson River taking in fantastic views of the Statue of Liberty and the breathtaking Manhattan skyline. The Cruises feature the world’s greatest jazz acts in an intimate setting. This summer I picked a different sail from last year and got to see Najee in concert, here are the pictures from my last sail.

These cruises are the highlight of my summer, and this will be my first year taking the Encore Sail, and I'm looking forward to it, less humidity will make a for a cool night, with warm jazz! =)

Here's the Skinny:

Where: Departing from Chelsea Piers in Midtown Manhattan.

When: Encore Sail, Friday, October 7th, 2011, There will be two sails, as follows:

Smooth Sunset Cruise:: Board: 6:00pm • Sail: 6:30 – 8:30pm
Smooth Moonlight Cruise: Board: 9:00pm • Sail: 9:30 – 11:30pm

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - WIN IT! - Ascending Butterfly and our friends at Smooth Jazz New York would like to provide 2 lucky Ascending Butterfly Followers a pair of tickets to the smooth moonlight jazz cruise for the Friday, October 7th Encore Sail!  4 Tickets total, each winner receives 2 tickets so they can bring a guest! ('moonlight' sail only 21 years of age and older please.) These tickets are non-transferable, and do not include your transportation, lodging or any other expenses to or from New York City where the boat sails from.

Don't you just ♥ Smooth Jazz New York? I know I do

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - How to Win: (1) You must be a PUBLIC follower of Ascending Butterfly to be eligible for this and all giveaways. Indicate in your entry that you follow (if your 'comment name/user id' differs from your profile id, please let me know what name you follow under) and (2) Tell us Who you are bringing with you on the sail! (3) You must also leave your email address somewhere in your comment. (You can format it this way for security, example: ascendingbutterfly AT mail host DOT com). (If your email is clearly visible in your profile, you can just say so, that's OK!) Please follow the easy 1, 2, 3 steps to winning (or in this case, the A,B,C’s of winning!) This giveaway is open to USA who are 21 years of age or older. No PO Boxes. One entry per Household, see Ascending Butterfly Giveaway Rules and Disclosure Policy HERE.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Please follow directions or you will be disqualified! All comments are moderated, they may not appear on the site right away (comments like "I want this" or "I want to win" will not be entered). You have from Monday, September 26, 2011 until Tuesday, October 04, 2011 at 03:00 PM (EST) to comment and be entered for a chance to win. You will have 24 hours to confirm if we do not hear from you we will be forced to move on to an alternate. (We only notify winners DIRECTLY via email, so if your profile or your comment does not have an email your entry will not be processed)

Extra Credit:

 Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Paying attention extra credit: Visit Smooth Jazz and tell us one thing you learned about Alex Bugnon or Phil Perry

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Rate this blog on Alexa (Since we moved to a new domain this year, all our old ratings were lost and we have to start again)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - If you are on Klout, give us some Klout Love by giving @Tracy_Iglesias a +K

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Blog about this giveaway, linking to this giveaway post. Leave the URL in a comment

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Grab our NEW Button and put it on your Blog. Leave the URL where we can see it in a comment (if you have our old one, please swap it out, our URL address has changed!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow me @Tracy_Iglesias on Twitter (this is ascending butterfly’s editor) and give me your twitter ID in a comment

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow @Ascending1 on Twitter (this is Ascending Butterfly's new account, we will soon be hosting twitter parties which necessitates having a second account so we can make updates throughout the entire party!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Tweet this:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ @Ascending1 #Win a pair of tickets to the @SmoothJazzNY Cruise Double Bill Encore Sail! #Giveaway 2 Winners!  http://tinyurl.com/42o7nwb

(Leave a comment with the tweet’s url so you can get a valid entry (click on the time your tweet was sent to get the direct URL and then copy and paste it here). You can Tweet TWICE per DAY. If you Tweet more than that, that entry will be disqualified.)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ – ‘Like’ Smooth Jazz New York (and don't forget to write on their wall that Ascending Butterfly sent you! I'm sure they'd also love to know who your favorite Jazz artist is) on Facebook HERE

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow @SmoothJazzNY on Twitter HERE

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Digg about this giveaway and leave your digg username in your comment

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Fave this blog on Technorati and leave your Technorati user name in your comment

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - One Time Per Giveaway, Not Daily: Vote for Ascending Butterfly on: Fuel My Blog

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow/Like Ascending Butterfly on Facebook HERE

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow Ascending Butterfly on Networked Blogs HERE

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Join Ascending Butterfly's NEW Community/Real Time Chat, Group HERE

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Subscribe to receive Ascending Butterfly emails using our Feedburner widget on the upper right hand side of the page below the follower thumbnail pictures! (If you are already a subscriber you will still receive extra credit!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Have you entered another active giveaway on Ascending Butterfly? Let me know which one and you’ll get more extra credit!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Have you commented on a non-giveaway entry? Let me know which one here and you’ll get more extra credit!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Press the button below and join, you get an extra entry for this giveaway and a shot at more great prizes, lets win together! (one time extra credit, will be verified before entry can be accepted)

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FTC Disclosure Info for this Giveaway: This is not a paid insertion. This is a non-compensated post and all opinions regarding the products are expressly my own experiences. I was provided tickets to facilitate my review and for the giveaway. The sponsor is fulfilling directly to prize winner(s), this in no way influenced my opinion of the product. Once a winner is selected and their information has been forwarded to the sponsor, the responsibility of prize fulfillment rests with the sponsor.

Win a pair of tickets to a Smooth Jazz New York Cruise of YOUR Choice Giveaway! - 2 winners Ends 07/19

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This giveaway is now CLOSED. Thanks so much to our wonderful sponsor Smooth Jazz New York! We look forward to working with you again! The winners have been notified and upon confirmation, follower names will be posted both here and on our homepage. Remember: There are great giveaways active on the upper right hand side of the page!

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Does the idea of a warm night and cool, smooth Jazz sound good to you? New York’s premiere summer jazz series is back! This is the Smooth Cruises’ 14th year aboard The Spirit of New York, located at Pier 61, Chelsea Piers (23rd St/West Side Hwy).

Experience this one-of-a-kind LIVE JAZZ concert series as you cruise down the Hudson River taking in fantastic views of the Statue of Liberty and the breathtaking Manhattan skyline. The Cruises feature the world’s greatest jazz acts in an intimate setting, every Wednesday evening starting June 29th ending August 31st.

We are happy to be partnering with Smooth Cruises again this year, I greatly enjoyed last year's sail and can't wait to do it again this year!

Here's the Skinny:

Where: Departing from Chelsea Piers in Midtown Manhattan.

When: Wednesdays June 29 - August 31

Smooth Sunset Cruise: Board: 6:00pm • Cruise: 6:30 – 8:30pm

Smooth Moonlight Cruise Board: 9:00pm • Cruise: 9:30 – 11:30pm

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - WIN IT! - Ascending Butterfly and our friends at Smooth Jazz New York would like to provide 2 lucky Ascending Butterfly Followers a pair of tickets to the smooth moonlight jazz cruise of YOUR choice!  (You pick the date, just remember it will be for the 'moonlight' cruise only 21 years of age and older please.) Please Note: The July 20th Sail is SOLD OUT, so please do not select that cruise as your choice.

Don't you just ♥ Smooth Jazz New York? I know I do

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - How to Win: (1) You must be a PUBLIC follower of Ascending Butterfly to be eligible for this and all giveaways. Indicate in your entry that you follow (if your 'comment name/user id' differs from your profile id, please let me know what name you follow under) and (2) Visit Smooth Jazz New York and pick the cruise you would select if you won - You may select from any sail starting from July 27th all the way until August 31st. Leave us the name of the artist(s) in the comment field. (3) You must also leave your email address somewhere in your comment. (You can format it this way for security, example: ascendingbutterfly AT mail host DOT com). (If your email is clearly visible in your profile, you can just say so, that's OK!) Please follow the easy 1, 2, 3 steps to winning (or in this case, the A,B,C’s of winning!) This giveaway is open to USA who are 18 years of age or older. No PO Boxes. One entry per Household, see Ascending Butterfly Giveaway Rules and Disclosure Policy HERE.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Please follow directions or you will be disqualified! All comments are moderated, they may not appear on the site right away (comments like "I want this" or "I want to win" will not be entered). You have from Tuesday, July 12, 2011 until Tuesday, July 19, 2011 at 03:00 PM (EST) to comment and be entered for a chance to win. You will have 48 hours to confirm if we do not hear from you we will be forced to move on to an alternate. (We only notify winners DIRECTLY via email, so if your profile or your comment does not have an email your entry will not be processed)

Extra Credit:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - You know how much I love finding us both win/wins right? Here's another one: Visit the Degree Women MotionSENSE App on Facebook and enter GetMoving031 in 'Enter Codes' HERE (you'll get an extra 5 MotionSENSE Miles which you can trade in for great prizes including trips, gift certificates, electronics and more!) Enter, share on your wall, and let me know you entered by linking me to where you shared it on your wall, by the way sharing also buys you extra MotionSENSE miles, win/win right? :)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Blog about this giveaway, linking to this giveaway post. Leave the URL in a comment

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Grab our NEW Button and put it on your Blog. Leave the URL where we can see it in a comment (if you have our old one, please swap it out, our URL address has changed!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow me @Tracy_Iglesias on Twitter (this is ascending butterfly’s editor) and give me your twitter ID in a comment

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow @Ascending1 on Twitter (this is Ascending Butterfly's new account, we will soon be hosting twitter parties which necessitates having a second account so we can make updates throughout the entire party!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Tweet this:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ @Ascending1 + @SmoothJazzNY #Giveaway #Win a pair of tickets to a Smooth #Jazz Cruise of YOUR choice!  http://tinyurl.com/5wl4jqu

(Leave a comment with the tweet’s url so you can get a valid entry (click on the time your tweet was sent to get the direct URL and then copy and paste it here). You can Tweet TWICE per DAY. If you Tweet more than that, that entry will be disqualified.)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ – ‘Like’ (and don't forget to write on their wall that Ascending Butterfly sent you! I'm sure they'd also love to know what sail/cruise interests you most!) Smooth Jazz New York on Facebook HERE

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow @SmoothJazzNY on Twitter HERE

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Digg about this giveaway and leave your digg username in your comment

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Fave this blog on Technorati and leave your Technorati user name in your comment

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - One Time Per Giveaway, Not Daily: Vote for Ascending Butterfly on: Fuel My Blog

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow/Like Ascending Butterfly on Facebook HERE

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow Ascending Butterfly on Networked Blogs HERE

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Join Ascending Butterfly's NEW Community/Real Time Chat, Group HERE

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Subscribe to receive Ascending Butterfly emails using our Feedburner widget on the upper right hand side of the page below the follower thumbnail pictures! (If you are already a subscriber you will still receive extra credit!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Have you entered another active giveaway on Ascending Butterfly? Let me know which one and you’ll get more extra credit!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Have you commented on a non-giveaway entry? Let me know which one here and you’ll get more extra credit!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - NEW! Press the button below and join, you get an extra entry for this giveaway and a shot at more great prizes, lets win together! (one time extra credit, will be verified before entry can be accepted)

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FTC Disclosure Info for this Giveaway: This is not a paid insertion. This is a non-compensated post and all opinions regarding the products are expressly my own experiences. I was provided tickets to facilitate my review and for the giveaway. The sponsor is fulfilling directly to prize winner(s), this in no way influenced my opinion of the product. Once a winner is selected and their information has been forwarded to the sponsor, the responsibility of prize fulfillment rests with the sponsor.