posted by admin on May 7
Cruise Ports of Call From Close To Home Are What Cruise Passengers Want Now
Cruise ports of call from close to home are what cruise passengers are choosing on a more frequent basis. It has been a steadily increasing trend according to CLIA, the cruise lines official organization. Cruise ports of call close to home gives the cruise passenger many more choices and eliminates the hassle of heightened airport security.
Cruise lines have caught on to this trend of cruise passengers using cruise ports of call close to home and are positioning their ships up and down the East Coast, the West Coast and the Gulf of Mexico. This allows cruise passengers the option of traveling to their cruise port of call by car, train or bus. It will also save you some money since you will not be buying expensive airline tickets. With the money saved on airline tickets it allows the cruise traveler the choice of picking a pricier cabin, a more luxurious cruise line, or more cash to spend at their destinations.
Following are description of the various cruise ports of call that are now offered to the cruise passenger on the East Coast. We will start in Florida since that is by far the most popular port of embarkation for the cruise traveler.
Miami is the busiest of all ports on the Eastern Seaboard. Miami is a world class attraction offering incredible beaches, the Art Deco section of Miami Beach, a widely diverse culture and marvelous food. Having left this port on numerous occasions, it is one of the most efficiently run ports.
Next is Fort Lauderdale which many cruise travelers choose as a departure port. It has miles of beautiful beaches, the trendy Los Olas district, and many chic restaurants. On Saturdays and Sundays there can be more that eight cruise ships departing Port Everglades. If you have time before your cruise adventure, go out to the Everglades and take an airboat tour over this spectacular nature preserve.
Up the coast is Port Canaveral. It is called the Space Coast and has many attractions including all of Orlando’s theme parks. If you can, visit the fascinating Space center along with the Astronaut Hall of Fame. This port does not have as many cruise lines as the previous ports but it is a viable option for people all over Florida and adjacent states who wish to take a Port of Canaveral cruise.
Further north is the Port of Jacksonville. They only offer one cruise ship but is very convenient for anyone living in that area. They have a very mild climate so all sports are available. There is also Gardens and the Crummer Museum.
Across the state of Florida is the Port of Tampa. There are many attractions here, too, including Ybor City, the cigar capital of the world, Busch Gardens and towards the center of the state Cypress Gardens. Having revamped its terminal to the tune of $6.5 million dollars it has more than doubled its size. The Port of Tampa cruises are centrally located on the West coast of Florida
Let’s keep going up the East Coast to Charleston, South Carolina. There are two cruise lines in the Port of Charleston that take cruise passengers to Bermuda or the Caribbean. Nothing can beat the Southern charm and flavor of the city of Charleston located conveniently close to tour for you, prior to your Port of Charleston cruise. Tour the beautiful streets and estates like Boone Hall or Magnolia plantation. If you have time go out to Fort Sumter National Monument for an interesting tour of a Civil War memorial.
In the fall of 2006 the port in Norfolk, Virginia will offer several cruise lines for the cruise traveler to choose from. Norfolk is loaded with all things to do with the Navy. If you take a stroll down Cannonball Trail, you willview in depth the history of Norfolk’s history. The cruise lines offer the cruise passenger itineraries to Bermuda, the Bahamas and the Caribbean.
Now, further north to Baltimore, Maryland’s Inner Harbor. They have a dedicated cruise terminal for any cruise passenger that lives around this area. The beauty of the Chesapeake Bay is renowned, and some of the most delicious seafood can be found in this port. Don’t miss the aquarium with over 10,000 sharks, stingrays, dolphins and tropical fish.
Just up the road is the Philadelphia Port for cruise travelers. Currently there are two cruise lines offering cruise passengers trips to Bermuda. Philadelphia is where the Constitution was signed so don’t miss Independence Hall and, of course, the Liberty Bell. South Street has lots of funky shops and cafes. There is the 9th street market which is always very colorful. And don’t leave on your cruise until you have had a cheese steak and an Italian hoagie.
We are still going north, this time to Bayonne, New Jersey to Bayonne Cape Liberty Cruise Port. This is the newest cruise terminal and is good choice if you do not want the hassle of New York. Bayonne used to be the home of oil refineries but now it is the place for Port of Bayonne cruises. There is only one cruise line departing from this port but in a way that is a good thing, since there will be less congestion. And it is only 7 miles from New York and three miles from Newark. You will see stunning views of Lady Liberty and the Manhattan skyline.
Cross the George Washington Bridge and you are in lower Manhattan. There are a couple of cruise lines offering cruises from this port including the Queen Mary II. You can do a Broadway show, visit some of the excellent museums or visit the Empire State Building. Nothing is as dazzling as sailing our out of this port past Lady Liberty.
Our last stop is Boston, Massachusett’s Black Fountain Cruise Terminal located in the industrial center. Cruise travelers are offered cruises to New England and Canada. Luckily downtown Boston is only a few miles away. This city is so rich in history. Take a tour on the Freedom Trail to see many of the important historical sites. Don’t miss Faneuil Hall Marketplace and do a little pub hopping, Bostonians favorite pastime.
Well, now you can choose your cruise from a close to home port, and this is only the East Coast. Next we ll explore the Gulf of Mexico.
Happy Cruising!
Copyright © Mary Hanna, All Rights Reserved.
This article may be distributed freely on your website and in your ezines, as long as this entire article, copyright notice, links and the resource box are unchanged.
Mary Hanna has traveled the world by Air and Ship while writing eBooks, Software Reviews and Practical Articles on Internet Marketing, Cruising, Gardening and Cooking. Visit her websites at: http://www.CruiseGold.com http://www.CruiseTravelDirectory.com and http://www.CruisingTips.com
Destination Spotlight: Fun, Sun and Elation in San Diego
by Roy Witman © 2007, All Rights Reserved
West coast vacationers hoping to hop a slow boat to a tropical paradise are in luck! Effective June 2007, Carnival “Elation” will move her homeport to San Diego, California. Not only does this mean an additional departure destination for cruisers, it also provides the opportunity for pre- and post-cruise getaways in an exciting city.
The 2,052-passenger “Elation” will offer four- and five-night voyages to Baja Mexico calling on Cabo San Lucas and Ensenada.
Visiting San Diego and the Surrounding Area
What can you do while in San Diego? Everything from wild animal encounters to cultural events. And it’s all in or near the port.
The San Diego Zoo
Absolutely one of the most well-known zoos in all the U.S., the San Diego Zoo consists of a 100-acre zoological park that houses 4,000 rare and endangered animals in their natural habitats. In addition, you’ll also find the Wildlife Animal Park encompassing over 1,800 acres. Home to 3,500 animals, the Wildlife Animal Park is an incredibly interesting exhibit, where you can get nose to nose with a lion or elephant: literally! Separated by a glass barrier, safety is ensured: and so is the fun! You’ll find this an exhilarating experience for you and your family.
The Zoo offers creative adventures including a Roar & Snore that allows after-hours tours and viewing of exhibits at night and Balloon Safaris that offer sky-high views of the park. Between the Zoo and Wildlife Park, you could spend an entire day getting lost in the wild!
Balboa Park
If your idea of fun is more sophisticated than wild, venture over to Balboa Park. The country’s largest urban cultural park offers 15 museums of varying sorts, performance arts, stunning gardens, talented musicians, hands-on classes and more.
Theme Parks Galore!
With just a short road trip, you can find several outstanding theme parks that deliver a wide range of excitement. Six Flags Hurricane Harbor and Six Flags Magic Mountain are located in Los Angeles. For a wet, wild escapade, Hurricane Harbor is just the ticket with every type of water ride imaginable (and many you’d never think of in your wildest dreams!).
Six Flags Magic Mountain may keep you dry, but your pulse rate will race just as fast. With 15 world-class roller coasters, you’ll have a scream a minute. Twists and turns, right side up, upside down: you’ll turn every which way but loose.
Quail Botanical Gardens
For those who enjoy beauty and tranquility, Quail Botanical Gardens is both educational and breathtaking. Thirty-five acres of exhibits, including those from several different countries, surround you with magnificence and instill you with tranquility and peace.
Beaches
Of course, San Diego has some of the most exceptional beaches in the world. If water sports or soaking up the sun is on your agenda, visit the world-famous Mission Beach. Upscale homes line the waterfront near the boardwalk that is a favorite people-watching spot for locals. After all, this is the place to see and be seen. With both land and water activities, you can spend the day surfing, swimming, rollerblading, bicycling or playing volleyball.
Pacific Beach has a more relaxed, eccentric feel with taco stands, tattoo shops and Frisbees. Described by the City of San Diego as “ultra-casual, zero attitude,” Pacific Beach is a down-to-earth, but more crowded, alternative to high-fashion Mission Beach.
When it’s time to book your next cruise, consider the advantages of departing from San Diego. With so many fun and interesting activities, combining a shore retreat with a short three- or four-night cruise makes for the perfect vacation.
Roy Witman is Vice-President of Cruise Vacation Center at <a href="http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com">http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com</a> offering the best deals including <a href="http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com/mediterranean_cruises.htm"> Mediterranean cruises</a>.
Christmas Party Cruise
If Christmas is not far away, you’re sure to be thinking of enjoying a white Christmas, filled with white, soft sand and a shiny, white cruise liner.
Take Your Cruise Vacation From The Philadelphia Cruise Port
There are now cruise lines that depart the Philadelphia cruise port from early spring to late fall. All of the cruise lines are now making cruise travel a close to home event. The Philadelphia cruise port has undergone a $15 million dollar upgrade to enable it to handle cruising using state of the art facilities. Normally if you mentioned cruising, the Port of Philadelphia would never come to mind, but thanks to the new cruise lines marketing of close to home cruise travel, the Philadelphia cruise port has become very popular. Since this new concept of cruise travel, thousands more people have chosen a cruise vacation.
The Philadelphia cruise lines include Norwegian Cruises and Royal Caribbean Cruises, both offering cruise vacations to Bermuda. The Philadelphia cruise port is uniquely situated; 62 million people live within a five mile drive. And Philly has so much to offer. There are first class hotels, good transportation, colorful neighborhoods and lots of history. All of it is within walking distance. As the tourism board says when it is touting the Philadelphia Cruise Port, it is Americas “Berthplace”.
The United States Constitution was written in Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell lies directly across from it. In Independence Hall the chair that George Washington sat in and Thomas Jefferson’s walking stick are on view. A short distance away is the house where Betsey Ross sewed the American flag. At Penn’s Landing is the Independence Seaport Museum, a delight for people who love the sea. There is also the Reading Market, the oldest continually running marketplace in the US. The Amish people bring their homemade items to sell Wednesdays through Saturdays. Don’t forget to eat a Philly Cheese steak then run up the famous steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art just like Rocky.
For people who choose to take their cruise vacation from here, the Philadelphia cruise port is five minutes from interstate 95. Parking is plentiful and will run you about $10.00 per day. If you fly in to take your cruise vacation, taxis are a flat rate of $20.00 from the airport to Philadelphia’s Cruise Terminal.
After boarding one of the cruise lines, you will most likely leave the Philadelphia cruise port at 3:00 PM. Use this time to explore your cruise ship and to unpack and settle in. Make any appointments you want on this day as spa and beauty appointments go fast. Tonight will be a causal night for dinner. The next day you will have a leisurely day at sea to do what ever you want. This night will probably be formal night and will be billed as the Captain’s Welcome Dinner.
The next day is exciting because you will land at St. George Island at two o’clock. Head to St. Catherine’s Fort, built in the 1600’s, it has spectacular views of the ocean. Go inside to view a replica of the British Crown Jewels and various military paraphernalia. St. Catherine’s Beach is at the foot of the Fort and is one of the nicest beaches around.
Bermudas oldest church, St. Peter’s, contains many relics. You will have to climb many steps but it is worth it. Don’t forget to visit King’s Square where you can view pillories, stocks and whipping posts the favored form of punishment in the 16th and 17th centuries.
You will overnight on your cruise ship at St. George Island, departing the next day at 7:00 AM for Hamilton, Bermuda, arriving there at 9:00 AM. You have the whole day and night to explore the historic Churches, Forts, Lighthouses and Museums. You may just want to go to their beautiful blue water beaches. Wonder over to the Royal Naval Dockyard or opt to experience swimming with the dolphins. Once again you will overnight on the cruise ship and depart the next morning at 8:00 AM.
You will have another day at see before returning to the Port of Philadelphia
Now that you know about the Philadelphia cruise port and their cruise lines, call your travel agent and book a cruise vacation.
Happy Cruising!
Copyright © Mary Hanna, All Rights Reserved.
This article may be distributed freely on your website and in your ezines, as long as this entire article, copyright notice, links and the resource box are unchanged.
Mary Hanna has traveled the world by Air and Ship while writing eBooks, Software Reviews and Practical Articles on Internet Marketing, Cruising, Gardening and Cooking. Visit her websites at: http://www.CruiseGold.com http://www.CruiseTravelDirectory.com and http://www.CruisingTips.com
Over 40 New Cruise Ships Planned To Launch By 2010
by Roy Witman © 2007, All Rights Reserved
Cruise enthusiasts have been in a gleeful state over the last year due to the abundance of new ships that have launched. If that’s what makes you happy, you ought to find yourself delirious with joy over the announcements about 40+ new ships to take to the seas during the next three-years.
Practically every major cruise line has plans for a least one new vessel: Many have three or even four slated by 2010. And, just as the number of new ships is growing, so is the trend toward building bigger and more luxurious vessels.
Carnival
Although the smallest ships of the lot, Carnival has the most projects in the works over the next three-years. Ranging in size from 110,000 tons to 130,000 tons, Carnival’s highlight will be “Freedom,” a new class of ship costing about $400 million and carrying 2,974 passengers. With itineraries that include the Western and Eastern Caribbean, European tours to Rome and transatlantic crossings, “Freedom” will give cruise enthusiasts something to look forward to.
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)
Announcing its new Freestyle Cruising campaign in 2006 was just another step in a long process of completely revamping the entire NCL fleet from the inside out. Since its buyout in 2000, NCL has made great strides in listening to the cruising population then delivering what they want. With innovations including rock-climbing walls, Garden Villas and bowling alleys, you would think NCL had run out of ideas. It seems not! “Pearl” is slated to launch in October 2007 and has gotten rave reviews thus far. The crowning glory of the NCL fleet, however, will be three ships in an entirely new class deemed “F3.”
Weighing in at 150,000 tons and carrying 5,400 passengers, these “F3″ class ships have been described by NCL as, “a further evolution of NCL’s progressive dismantling of the structure, regimentation, and constraints of the traditional cruise experience.” One of the most impressive features is that 100% of outside cabins will have balconies.
Royal Caribbean
Three projects are also on the docket for Royal Caribbean between 2007 and 2010. “Liberty of the Seas” and “Freedom” (yes, Carnival and Royal Caribbean will have ships with the same name) and “Independence of the Seas” all shine far above the rest of the fleet with a tonnage of 160,000 each. Costing in excess of $700 million each, they will accommodate 3,600 passengers respectively. While they will be exceptional vessels offering inventive features, there is one ship that will outdo them. In fact, Royal Caribbean’s grandest vessel yet will outdo every other ship built to date.
Creating an entirely new class of ship, Royal Caribbean has drafted “Genesis.” This will be, to date, the largest ship ever built by any cruise line. It will even surpass the size of “The Queen Mary,” which holds the current record at 151,400 tons.
Accommodating up to 6,400 passengers, “Genesis” will weigh about 220,000 gross tons and cost an estimated $1 billion. Royal Caribbean chairman and CEO Richard Fain brags, “Project Genesis truly is a remarkable ship. Its bold design, daring innovations and technological advancements will delight our existing cruisers and help us draw in new ones.”
Others are also jumping in on the new ship bandwagon. Keep your eyes peeled for “Emerald” from Princess Cruise Lines, “Queen Victoria” from Cunard, and “Solstice” and “Equinox” from Celebrity.
Cruise options are growing more abundant by the day, which makes this a cruiser’s market. The cruise lines are bound to offer more incentives in order to fill these new, expensive ships. Stay on the alert for what are bound to be incredible bargains to come.
Roy Witman is Vice-President of Cruise Vacation Center at <a href="http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com">http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com</a> offering the best deals including <a href="http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com/european_cruises.htm"> European cruises</a> and <a href="http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com/mediterranean_cruises.htm">Mediterranean cruises</a>.
Lake Tahoe Luxury Rentals ” What to Expect, and Why to get one
When you re looking at Lake Tahoe luxury rentals, you re looking for something that s going to be a little more expensive than just a simple rental. After all, that s where the luxury part comes in, otherwise it wouldn t be Lake Tahoe luxury rentals, but rather Lake Tahoe rentals. There are many benefits to having a Lake Tahoe luxury rental, and there are many different things that you can expect.
When you are shopping around for Lake Tahoe luxury rentals, expect to pay anywhere from $250 a night to, at the highest, $8800 a night. If you re looking at the Lake Tahoe luxury rentals that feature only two bedrooms and a bathroom, expect to be paying anywhere from $250 to $500 a night. Some of those Lake Tahoe luxury rentals will have a hot tub, but most aren t lakefront. If you re looking for three bedroom Lake Tahoe Luxury rentals, you should be in the $300 to $800 a night range. Some of these Lake Tahoe luxury rentals will include a hot tub, but once again, most of these Lake Tahoe luxury rentals will not be on the lakefront. Once you start to look specifically for Lake Tahoe luxury rentals that are on the lakefront, and those that have more bedrooms, you re looking into the more expensive Lake Tahoe luxury rentals. For starters, the cheapest five bedroom Lake Tahoe luxury rental you are going to find is $350 a night, and that s for something that barely compares to the other Lake Tahoe luxury rentals. Generally speaking, you ll find most of these Lake Tahoe luxury rentals in the $600 to $1000 range, but they are by far the premiere Lake Tahoe luxury rentals. The very highest of the Lake Tahoe luxury rentals that you re going to see is going to be nearly $9000 a night, but these Lake Tahoe luxury rentals are on the steep side, and spectacular.
Why would you consider some of the Lake Tahoe luxury rentals? Well, for starters the Lake Tahoe luxury rentals are surrounded by a variety of activities. Some of the Lake Tahoe luxury rentals are close to the ski hills, while other Lake Tahoe luxury rentals are closer to casinos and other night life. All in all, if you choose to go with one of the Lake Tahoe luxury rentals you can t go wrong.
Kevin Rockwell visits and writes about Lake Tahoe and the many wonders of this great area at: http://lake-tahoe-fun.com Find great mountain vacation ideas, real estate information, and fun vacation attractions at Lake Tahoe Fun!
Royal Carribean Cruises - Looking For An Unforgettable Vacation? Posted By : Ibda Nowin
Royal Carribean cruises famous Gold Anchor Service takes care of all your vacation needs.A cruise vacation will let you visit tropical locales or see breathtaking Alaskan fjords.Forget your dull routine on a vacation youll always remember.
An Alaska Cruise Offers Unlimited Fun
If you are looking for the cruise of a lifetime, Alaska is the place you want to be. Alaska offers natural landscapes and wildlife along with some of the freshest air you will probably ever breathe. These are just a few of the reasons Alaska is growing in popularity. It is so popular; in fact that is the most booked cruises of the entire cruise lines in the world. But what should you expect when you cruise Alaska? Well, the wild life is a big draw for the area. You actually get to see the animals in their natural habitat, not just a well-simulated environment. The mountains are absolutely breathtaking and there are huge glaciers you can actually walk on top of. A lot of cruises to Alaska include docking where you can go inland and explore the wilderness for yourself. You will be dazzled at the awesome beauty and untamed wilds of the Alaskan landscape. You will see forests, glaciers as well as untainted shorelines and much, much more. You may be wondering if you go on a cruise, do you need to also tour the land? The answer is a resounding yes. There are things that you will see on the water you cannot possibly appreciate from the shore. Vise Versa, you will not be able to see the wild life without going on land. On the land tour, you can see ride the Alaska Railroad and stay in some of the beautiful lodges in the National Park. On the Alaskan cruise, you will see whales, salmon and glaciers. The nice thing about the packages where both cruises and land tours are available is that you can make your excursion what you want it to be. You can spend more time on land, or the boat or equal time in both locations. If you have never been to this region of the world, an Alaskan cruise may bet the perfect way for you to see it. You can also use Vancouver or Seattle as jumping off and landing points so you can take in additional sights as well.
Ryan Puusaari loves to cruise the world. If you are trying to decide what type of cruise vacation to take or would just like to read about the different cruise experiences avaliable then check out Ryan's website: http://www.enjoythecruise.com
Cruise Tips For Cruise Travel At Your Ports Of Call
Cruise travel is one of the best vacations you can take. During your cruise vacation you will visit several different ports of call. Your cruise ship will dock at exotic islands or new countries almost on a daily basis. Check out the cruise reviews on line for cruise tips before you visit your destinations to find out what fantastic experience each port has to offer.
During your cruise vacation you will visit ports to shop, explore, beach, sightsee or hike. There are a wide variety of activities in each cruise destination. Or you could just depart the ship for a chance to walk around for a change of pace. Although this is a great cruise adventure, you should realize that you will only get a small sample of what each port of call has to offer. And be forewarned, as you step of your majestic cruise ship there will be hordes of natives trying to sell you a trinket or a tour around the city.
If you take the advice above and search the cruise reviews, you should have a pretty good idea what each destination has to offer. Choose the one that has the most encompassing tour of your port. In exotic ports they have full day tours, including lunch, that will take you to the highlights of the place you are visiting. This is an ideal way to sample the city or island getting ideas for what you may want to come back for at a later date. On island tours you may want to take an organized tour in the morning, go back to the ship for lunch, then light out on your own to explore more fully, shop or just go to the beach.
If you are more adventuresome, skip the lunch on board and dine in the city. You get to experience the local cuisine and soak up the native culture. This is your vacation, learn new and different things. If you chose to do this check with the cruise director for the best places to dine and make sure you know the exchange rate. On of the cruise tips is to put your meal on a charge card so you will be charged the exchange rate on the day the bill hits the credit card company.
A cruise tip that is very useful is to use the brochure that the ship gives you for their organized tour and follow it on your own. Only do this if you are comfortable with the country you are visiting. If it is your first time overseas to a port of call, it is best to stick with the organized tour for safety and convenience. Other cruise tips can be found online about some of the wonderful things to see and do in various ports of call. Be conscious of one thing, if you chose to explore on your own, know what time the ship leaves and how long it will take you to get back on board. If you are not on an organized tour it is your responsibility to get back on time or the ship will leave without you. You then have to meet the ship at the next port of call at your own expense.
If you opt for an organized tour sponsored by the cruise ship, it should cost you anywhere from $20.00 to over $200.00 depending on what you choose to do. It could be just a simple bus ride around town for two hours or a two day trip from St. Petersburg, Russia to Moscow. The options are endless.
Most cruise lines will let you book in advance on their websites. This is very convenient and helpful with tours that sell out quickly. For instances, in the Cayman Islands the Stingray City tour is very popular and will sell out. If you book it in advance you guarantee your spot. The more inexpensive tours also tend to sell out because of some cruisers watching their budgets. So, don’t miss out, check out the cruise lines website to see if you can book your ticket in advance.
It is good to know the game plan that the tour offers. Things you should be aware of is how much the guide will be with you and do they speak English clearly. Mostly the cruise lines have very competent tour guides, but better safe than sorry. Will have any time on your like for shopping or stopping in a caf ©? It is very important to find out how much physical activity is required before you sign on for any tour. If you have limited mobility you don’t want to go on a tour that climbs the Acropolis in Athens or Dunns River Falls in Jamaica. Find out if a snack or lunch is provided, so if it isn’t you can bring along adequate funds to get your own.
There are private touring companies that you can contact on your own if you wish to tour in a more private fashion. Another alternative is to buddy up with some fellow cruisers and share taxi tours to cut your expense in half. Many times you will meet people on a cruise that have similar interests and you will spend a lot of time together on the cruise ship, why not touring also? It’s a way to save money and enjoy other passengers company.
Only hire licensed taxi drivers. Their credentials should be prominently displayed in the front of the cab. With a licensed driver you are ensured a safe trip and a guide who is knowledgeable about the islands or cities background, where to shop, eat or gamble. And of course they will know the best beaches available. Negotiate the price of your tour up front. If you chose to go to a destination where you will be dropped off for a couple of hours, negotiate with the driver to come back and pick you up. Settle on a price and pay half up front and half on the way back. If the driver has been helpful and friendly, please tip him or her.
Some cruisers like to rent cars in their ports of call. It is recommended that you only do this in destinations that you are familiar with and have a good knowledge of where you are going. Be careful when renting a car. Be sure to check out the entire car for any damages that may already be there and note them on your rental contract. If you fail to do this you may be charged for damage that was already done.
Lastly, use common sense when touring. Don’t travel in dark tight alleys, put your money under your clothes, don’t wear expensive jewelry and don’t let yourself be surrounded, especially by children. Always carry identification and the name of the cruise lines agents in the port of call in case you get in trouble.
You are on a cruise vacation make the best of it. Get off the ship at all of your ports of call whether you are touring or are just poking around. Be sure to take lots of pictures so you will have years of beautiful cruise travel memories.
Happy Cruising!
Copyright © Mary Hanna, All Rights Reserved.
This article may be distributed freely on your website and in your ezines, as long as this entire article, copyright notice, links and the resource box are unchanged.
Mary Hanna has traveled the world by Air and Ship while writing eBooks, Software Reviews and Practical Articles on Internet Marketing, Cruising, Gardening and Cooking. Visit her websites at: http://www.CruiseGold.com http://www.CruiseTravelDirectory.com and http://www.CruisingTips.com
Cruise discounts that will make your dream vacation cheaper
About 60 days before the departure of a ship is the best time to look for a discount. This is the last day when people cancel their reservation penalty free. It is a great opportunity for you to buy a ticket, because the cruise company will offer great discount on these leftover places. You’ll be more likely to find a cruise discount off-season. For example, May is good months for a discount cruise in Alaska, because the peak season is in July or August. However, you might experience bad weather in May. Still off-season Caribbean, Mediterranean or Hawaii is always beautiful, so a cruise is pleasant at all times. You will be offered great scenery and you’ll be able to relax. Look for repositioning cruises, these are a gold mine for cruise discounts. These cruises have changed their itinerary and might have caused some inconveniences for the people who have already made reservations, so they sometimes cancel them. The cruise companies find it sensible to make major discounts in order to fill the ship. You can take advantage of this and buy a ticket. Discount cruises are available for those who enjoy eating and having a great time on board. Most of the times the extra activities spent on shore are expensive. If you are flexible about the time of your vacation, you have great chances of getting a cruise discount. Most cruise lines offer discounts on their last few tickets, so if you take the risk, you may even get peak season discounted tickets. When looking for a cruise discount, you can do research in many places. The Internet is one of the top places to find the best deals. The majority of the cruise lines have a web site and they immediately post their bargains on their web sites. Most cruise lines offer great discounts. Even the luxury ships have discounts; so who knows you might end up spending your vacation in a luxury cruise. If you don’t trust the electronic way, go to your closest travel agent. Make a custom of visiting him/her and always ask for some good cruise deals. Also make sure you ask about the cabin selection, you don’t want to end up in a small cabin when you suffer from claustrophobia. Ask about the travel insurance, if it is included in the price, or if you have to cater for that yourself. Make sure you read all the conditions specified on your cruise discount tickets. You most certainly won’t be able to return them later. An inconvenience that goes along the discounted tickets is that you cannot choose the cabin or the ship of the cruise. Don’t be taken in by the most amazing offers that you find on the Internet. Make sure you trust that cruise line and book only if you are certain you are familiar with all the conditions of that certain cruise. You might have to pay extra taxes or fees that are not specified on the contract, so you might not save money after all. But if you are flexible and patient, you will most certainly find a cruise discount that will suit your needs.
For more resources on <a href="http://www.cruise-heaven.com">cruise vacations</a> or getting a deal on <a href="http://www.cruise-heaven.com/Mediterranean-cruises.php">Mediterranean cruises</a> or <a href="http://www.cruise-heaven.com/Alaska-cruises.php">Alaska cruises</a>please visit Cruise-heaven.com
