posted by admin on Jul 14
Single Cruisers Can Go With A Group Or on Their Own
Single cruising is a lot of fun because of the friendly people you meet. Many cruise lines have special parties for single cruising passengers so that you can get to know your other single cruisers.
However, if you are a first time cruiser it is recommended that you go on an organized single cruise. There are a lot of reasons for this. First of all you are guaranteed that there will be other singles on board. As a group you will have all kinds of special activities. The first night of your cruise the group will hold a cocktail party. It is a kind of getting to know you soiree for the entire single cruising group. There are other advantageous, sometimes they arrange a hotel stay the night before the cruise so you will already know who your fellow single cruisers are. During the cruise they will host games, organize group tours and of course, group dining. The organizers sometime set up message boards so the group can talk before the singles cruise begins.
Don t try to go around the travel agency that is organizing the singles cruise because you think you can get it cheaper. Yes, you will be on the cruise with all the singles, but you won t be able to participate in the activities. The organizing travel agency will issue identification for the group of single cruisers and will have security at the functions so there will be no crashing the party. I spoke to a guy once who tried to do this and found out to late that he would be excluded. He even tried to pay to get into the activities but that was not allowed, so he missed out.
There are always questions on whether or not you should book a single cabin or take the risk of a roommate assigned by either the cruise line or the organizing travel agency. This depends on how agreeable you are. Of course, you might end up with someone who is rude, so you are taking a chance. If you don t want to take the chance, book your own cabin which will be a bit more expensive.
The travel agency will try to pick someone that is compatible. Criteria such as age, a smoker or not, and naturally, sex are used when trying to match cabin mates. If you opt to let them choose a cabin mate they may supply you an email address to contact the cabin mate so you can set some rules in advance. Find out what your cabin mates sleep habits are. If you re an early riser and your cabin mate likes to party, there will be a problem. Be flexible, the other person may want to set some rules too. The biggest problem with a stranger in the cabin on a singles cruise is that they might meet someone special and want to use the cabin for a few hours with you not in it.
The organizing travel agency will set up the dining arrangements. If after the first night you are uncomfortable with your table talk to the Maitre D he will help you. From the information I have gotten, the organizing travel agency will usually mix the tables up every night so that everyone has a chance to interact. That is the ideal solution. If you have taken the plunge solo and booked your own cruise the same goes for you, speak to the Maitre D and he will help you. Many ships now have a variety of dining options where you and pick where you want to eat and when.
Younger single cruisers should stick to three and four day cruises. One, because they re cheaper and two, you don t use up a lot of vacation time. Pick a three day cruise on a weekend that falls on a holiday and you won t use up any vacation time at all. Three days is a short time to meet people, but single cruisers are sailing with the intention of meeting people so they won t be shy. If you booking this on your own, research which cruise lines offer special single cruising dates. The over 40 crowd will be on longer cruises because they have more money and time.
If you are a single parent and you want to cruise with your kids choose a line that has a good children s program. That way your kids are supervised and you are free to do what you please. Many travel agencies are catering to this need and are setting up single cruises for parents and their kids. So do some research to find agencies that are offering a program for single parent cruisers with children.
If you are a single cruiser and you don t want to go on an organized single cruise, there are message boards out there where people post that they are looking for a roommate. It s a gamble, but if you really want to take a cruise and need to save money it is an option. There are two ways to do this. Choose a singles cruise; get the prices and the post a message to see if there are any takers. Or pick a date or an itinerary, do your post and see if anyone else is interested. It s risky but if someone answers your post you have plenty of time to talk over the internet to see if you are compatible.
Single cruising is fun but don t set your heart on finding that special someone. Take a single cruise with the idea of having fun and meeting new people that may become fast friends. Chances that you will meet your life mate are very small but it will be fun trying. Maybe, when you least expect it, your dream will come true.
For more mature female cruiser, look to the fancier cruise lines. They are a bit pricier but they usually have dance hosts and will seat you with the single gentlemen for dining.
Some cruise lines have seen the advantage of attracting single cruisers and have lessened the single supplement. In the past Crystal, Radisson and Sliversea have reduced their single cruisers supplements. These are all luxury lines.
For you single cruisers who want to brave it on your own here are some cruise lines that offer single cabins.
Cunard’s QE2 was built with 122 single cabins, the new Queen Mary 2 has none. Besides the QE2, only Costa, Peter Deilmann Cruises, Holland America, NCL, Orient Line and Swan Hellenic still have a few single cabins on some of their ships, and these tend to be the older ships. One exception to the rule is Discovery World Cruises. While their ship MV Discovery has only two dedicated single cabins, 169 double cabins are also designated as singles and sold at a single rate. Peter Deilmann Cruises also offers a single rate on double cabins on most of their river ships.
Call your travel agent and talk about single cruising and what s best for you.
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
Caribbean Cruises are your best value for 2007
Caribbean cruises are the best value for 2007 because the highest demand is for Alaska Cruises and Mediterranean Cruises . A simple check of cruise rates will show that both Carnival cruises and Royal Caribbean cruises have lowered their usual rates on Caribbean cruises compared with last years rates. Both cruise lines have strengthened their presence in both Alaska and the Mediterranean to capitalize on this trend. Royal Caribbean has moved several of their Voyager-class ships to the Mediterranean from the Caribbean and Carnival has just launched their newest ship, the Carnival Freedom, in the Mediterranean-the first time Carnival has debuted a new ship in a market other than the Caribbean. Even Norwegian Cruises is moving its ship, the Pride of Hawaii, to the Mediterranean! Although this has left the Caribbean market with less ships, the rates are underperforming all other destinations. This means it is the perfect place to look for bargain rates and promotions. This is an ideal opportunity for some to book a new ship that otherwise would have been cost-prohibitive last year. Both Carnival and Royal Caribbean have some fantastic 8 day and longer Caribbean itineraries that are just beautiful bargains waiting to be picked up by the savvy researcher. To the victor goes the spoils-so to speak! The cruise industry has always been cyclical. What is hot this year, won’t be hot next year, so you have to roll with punches, so to speak. If you follow the crowd, and the trends, it will cost you. Going against the crowd will save you a lot of money! Not only are the rates low for the Caribbean, but the promotions the cruise lines are offering a better than normal, also. It is not uncommon to find onboard-credit deals and free upgrades being offered on certain Caribbean itineraries and ships. Look here for more information on all Caribbean Cruises and good price hunting!
President of All Aboard Cruises Corp <a href=http://www.allaboardcruisescorp.com>Caribbean Cruises</a> <a href=http://www.allaboardcruisescorp.com>Alaska Cruises</a> <a href=http://www.allaboardcruisescorp.com>Mediterranean Cruises</a>
Vacation Hotspot: The Mexican Riviera
by Roy Witman © 2007, All Rights Reserved
With some of the best-known cities in the world, the Mexican Riviera has long been an attraction for the wealthy and glamorous. It’s wide range of activities offer delightful excursions for every age range and interest. From the world-famous cliff divers of Acapulco to the exceptional snorkeling of Cabo San Lucas, touring the coast of Mexico makes for a vacation you’ll always remember. If you choose one of the premium cruise lines, such as Princess Cruises, you’ll get more for your money and enjoy exceptional service, too.
Glitz and Glamour of Acapulco
If you want to see and be seen, Acapulco is the place! Jet setters, movie stars, the wealthy and more clamor for all that is Acapulco. Local bistros, mariachi bands and premium shopping are just a few of the delights this cosmopolitan town offers. But, without a doubt, one of the best-loved sights is the cliff divers.
Since 1940, men have trained themselves to plunge, unscathed, from rocky cliffs 136 feet high. As if this wasn’t enough, the divers land in just nine feet of water within a narrow channel filled with the churning ocean. One wrong move: one wrong calculation in timing: means certain death. Crowds flock to see this miraculous exhibition from the windows or outside deck of a local restaurant for each of the four daily shows. You won’t want to miss it!
Formerly owned by legend John Wayne, the Los Flamingos Hotel is a destination all to itself. With regular celebrity sightings, many people visit the hotel just to people watch. But if you crave something more than eye candy, try a high-speed jaunt up the Papagayo River onboard a jet boat. The setting for the blockbuster movie Rambo, this river boasts untouched wildlife and rich naturescapes.
Even if you partake in world-class golf, exceptional bird watching, cooking lessons from authentic Mexican chefs and intriguing archeological tours, you’ve only scratched the surface of what Acapulco has to offer!
Puerto Vallarta - From Sleepy To Stunning
Who would have thought the making of a movie could transform a sleepy little fishing village into the vibrant, stunning tourist hotspot? Richard Burton’s Night of the Iguana did just that for Puerto Vallarta. Today, the rich and famous flock to this international resort for great values on leather, jewelry and crafts as much as they do the white-sand beaches.
If you were asked to describe the perfect beach, what would you say? White, powdery sand? Palm trees swaying in a gentle breeze? Crystal-blue waters? You’ve just described Bahia de las Banderas, one of the most famous beaches in Puerto Vallarta. Relax, soak up the sun and the view, as you’re pampered beyond your wildest dreams. Princess and other cruise lines make sure your every wish is met!
When you’re ready for some excitement, book a dolphin adventure! Bottlenose dolphins greet you, as you get wet and wild with these friendly creatures. A local educational center sponsors these events that allow up close and personal encounters.
Jungle tours, mountain treks and other memorable excursions are available to make your stay in Puerto Vallarta everything you want it to be.
Cabo San Lucas - A Water Wonderland
The Pacific Ocean and Sea of Cortez merge at Cabo San Lucas. With water all around, you’ll have your choice of a long list of quests to choose from. As the ocean pounds the ancient rock formations, you can easily spot sea lions, pelicans and even hear the thunderous sound of whale tails crashing the waves.
Snorkeling, kayaking, fishing and scuba diving are also popular pastimes in this water-encircled Mexican village. If it is related to water, chances are, you can do it in Cabo!
Many top-quality cruise lines, including Princess Cruises, take great strides to provide out-of-the-ordinary experiences for your entire family while onboard or on land. With so much to choose from in the Mexican Riviera, you can opt for practically any length of cruise you wish to as many destinations as you have time for.
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 on <a href="http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com/european_cruises.htm"> European cruises</a>.
What Cruise Destinations are Hot
Right now, the areas of cruising that are selling very well are the Mediterranean and Alaska. These two areas are selling so well that Royal Caribbean has moved a total of 7 ships, from the Caribbean and Alaska, to mop up the excess business that has taken them by surprise. Carnival Cruises is launching their brand-new ship there-the Carnival Freedom. This is unprecedented for Carnival. Since they began, every new ship that they built was always launched in the Caribbean arena. After the Carnival Freedom finishes the Mediterranean cruises, it will be doing 7 day Eastern and Western Caribbean areas starting in the fall of 2007. Alaska cruises and Alaska cruisetours are selling very well. If you are planning on booking a cruise in either the Mediterranean or Alaska, you should not wait. These cruises are seasonal and space is obviously limited. The old ploy of waiting to get a last minute special is not going to work in these areas because demand is astronomical. If you are going to the Mediterranean or Alaska-book it now. Now, when there are areas that are booming, like the Mediterranean and Alaska, obviously that means there are areas that are lagging. This means you will find better than normal rates in these areas. Right now, those areas that are lagging are the Bahamas, the Caribbean and Bermuda. You can get lower than normal rates for these cruises because demand is lagging. My advice is don’t follow the crowd. If you really want to go to the Mediterranean or Alaska, unless you can find an off date that is affordable, wait until next year. Take advantage of the low rates for the Caribbean, Bermuda and Bahamas cruises. You will save a mint and still have a great time. Since rates are lower than normal, it is a perfect opportunity to find a new ship that you wanted to try out but in the past was out of your price range. The one thing that is a constant in the cruise industry is change. What’s hot this year won’t be the next year. Go against the crowd and it will save you a lot of money! All Aboard Cruises Corp are experts in Caribbean Cruises, Mediterranean cruises and Alaska cruises and can be found at http://www.allaboardcruisescorp.com. For more information on Caribbean Cruises, see All Aboard Cruises Corp.
President of All Aboard Cruises Corp <a href=http://www.allaboardcruisescorp.com>Caribbean Cruises</a>
Caribbean Island Cruise Caribbean Cruise Vacation Tips
Once the provinces of the rich and famous cruises have changed and Caribbean cruises are fast becoming the most popular vacation choice this has got to be the easiest way to see a variety of Caribbean islands in a short space of time It should be on everyone’s list of vacations with tropical Caribbean islands clear clean beaches and of course a fun filled time on board the cruise liner
Cruise In Luxury At A Discount
What could be more relaxing than taking a vacation on a cruise ship. If you
are contemplating going on vacation, choosing a cruise should be on your
list. It is an outstanding way to spend vacation with your family or using it
as your honeymoon getaway. Numerous people would actually like to go on
a cruise because of the appeal and elegance this kind of vacation can
provide.
Envision, a week or more of thinking of nothing but unwinding. You can
take a plunge in the swimming pool while partaking the view of the
wonderful ocean or you can interact with other passengers in the bar. At
night, enjoy a luxurious dinner in the dining room. You can also receive a
soothing massage with the cruise ship’s onboard masseuse. Traveling by
cruise ship can get you to your vacation destination more satisfied and
relaxed than traveling by airplane.
However, numerous people think that traveling by cruise ships can be
expensive. This is a regular misconception of people. There are several
cruise travel packages that can accommodate almost every type of person.
If you can afford it, you can select the more expensive package that will
include butlers tending to the bar in your own suite. Or, if you choose to
save money, you can try the economy class. Both of these are primarily
identical. If you’re traveling in economy class, you won’t be treated as an
unwelcome guest or an outcast.
The personnel on cruise ships are especially professional and treat economy
class travelers the same as they would treat first class travelers. The only
difference is that a first class passenger has larger rooms and typically has
butler services.
All passengers can socialize in the casino and in the ship’s bar. All can use
the facilities on the ship, like jacuzzis, swimming pools, and other
amenities.
The food provided on cruises is of a wide assortment. You can choose to
have a sumptuous dinner or you can simply have hotdogs or hamburgers for
lunch. Whatever you desire, it’s usually all there.
Here are some tips that you can use as a guide when you want to take a
discount cruise:
- Ask the travel agencies. A good travel agent can show you several cruises
that will meet your needs. The travel agent can help you find a cruise that
will fit in with your budget. Tell your travel agent how much you are ready
to spend on a cruise and how many will be traveling with you. They
generally can get you the best deals available even on a limited budget.
Just remember to see a travel agent that specializes in cruise travel and
vacations.
- Booking early entails discounts. Cruise lines provide big discounts for
travelers who book early. Booking a month in advance before the cruise can
give you exceptional discounts. Cruise lines provide early bird discounts
because they want to fill their ships early.
- Booking late also entails big discounts. Some passengers will cancel the
trip at the last minute. This allows the cruise lines offer big discounts to fill
their ships.
- Ask about theme packages. Theme packages are great if you are traveling
with a group of friends or your family. Several cruise line companies provide
discounts for group travelers. Also, if you are booking the cruise for your
honeymoon, most cruise lines provide honeymoon discounts.
- Search for packages on the internet. Visit cruise websites to locate the
different cruise packages and their prices. Here, you will have a complete
assortment of choices for cruise packages and you can also compare the
price. There are some cruise lines that present online booking discounts.
- If you have traveled on cruise ships before, it is suggested that you travel
on the same cruise line that you traveled with before. Several cruise lines
provide discounts for repeat passengers.
Here is one thing to keep in mind. A real bargain is not by establishing it on
price alone but it should be based on how satisfied you are with the trip. If
a cruise outdoes your expectations and you go home satisfied and happy,
then that’s a real bargain. Going on a cruise should be relaxing and
enjoyable .
If you paid for a cheap cruise but didn’t get what you anticipated, you might
not want to go on a cruise again and the cruise lines don’t want that. They
want you to come back and enjoy their services again.
To making your next cruise your best vacation ever,
Christian Baligad
http://cruisetravelinsights.theboneszone.com
Christian Baligad shows you shows you how and where to find the best cruise deals, dealing with travel agents, the best times of year to travel. Visit us at: http://cruisetravelinsights.theboneszone.com
Experience An Alaska Whale Watching Cruise
An Alaska whale watching cruise is one of the most unforgettable experiences of your life. When you take this cruise, not only will you view the some of the most majestic sites in the world, you will also see some of the world’s beautiful whales in their natural habitat.
The largest schools of Orca, Humpback, Beluga and gray whales are found in the waters of Alaska. On an Alaska whale watching cruise, you can see these incredible creatures frolicking in their native waters. Although all these types of common to the Alaska waters, only the Orca and Humpback whales can be seen frequently.
The Humpback whale has a long tail flipper with edges that are oddly shaped. Their color is usually black with a white patch on their throats and bellies. Their size is extremely large, and when they are seen with humpback whales whose favorite trick is to jump in the air, it is a sight to behold.
Orca whales are also known as killer whales. They can be recognized from a distance from their black and white markings and their tall dorsal fins. They can also be identified from a distance by the vapor that is present when they surface.
When you are out on an Alaska whale watching cruise, it is almost a certainty that you will see the whales do some tricks while they are frolicking. A trick that the whales perform often is called skyhopping. This trick is done when the whale projects itself into the air nose first from the water to stand vertically in the air. If the whale is really strong, it can hold up half of its body weight.
Another trick that you are likely to see on an Alaska whale watching cruise is call lobtailing. This is when a whale lifts its massive tail and slaps the water to create a large splash. This is similar to what dolphins do.
Another favorite trick that whales perform is to do a breach or lunge. This is completed when the whale lunges out of the water and slams the surface of the water on its side. Lunging generates more power then the other routines performed.
Although whales are what draw curious tourists to take an Alaska whale watching cruise, there are many other types of natural Alaska wildlife to see. You will see bears and moose grazing in their favorite fields to millions of birds in the nesting habitat. Sea lions and otters are abound in Alaska; you will enjoy watching their playful games. You will find interested and exotic wildlife wherever you turn.
One of the most unforgettable sites that you will see is the incredible glaciers in Alaska. These magnificent mountains of ice will capture your attention with their beautiful reflections of the suns rays.
When you are planning the perfect Alaska vacation, do not forget that there are plenty of recreational activities in Alaska. The favorites being kayaking and fishing.
An Alaska whale watching cruise is one of the most unforgettable experiences that you will ever have. It offers you the sites of all of nature’s creatures both big and small living together in harmony and beauty.
An Alaska cruise is the experience of a lifetime. With the fresh, natural landscapes and wildlife, Alaska cruises continue to grow in popularity. In fact, Alaska is one of the most popular cruise destinations of all the cruise lines worldwide. Read more about <a href="http://www.enjoythecruise.com/alaska_cruise.htm">Alaska cruises</a> here => http://www.enjoythecruise.com/alaska_cruise.htm
Emerald Princess: The Newest Grand-Class Ship Sets Sail April 2007
by Roy Witman © 2006, All Rights Reserved
Spring 2007 holds wonderful things in store for cruise enthusiasts. Princess Cruise Line is currently finalizing all the details in preparation for launching Emerald Princess this coming April. Modern and luxurious, this ship’s theme is all about choices.
In line with other Princess vessels, Emerald Princess will offer Movies Under the Stars, a Princess innovation that began last year with great success. With towering, outdoor, plasma movie screens that feature the latest releases in movies, concerts and sporting events, this feature has become one of the most sought after. Other ship-wide favorites slated for inclusion on the Emerald Princess include Personal Choice dining, Lotus Spa and a very high ratio of cabins offering private verandahs.
Expanded Children’s and Teens Areas
Because kids and teens are an integral part of the family vacation, Emerald Princess will offer expanded children’s and teens areas. With three age classifications, kids and teens will find a wide range of activities, games, crafts, food and parties designed specifically with them in mind. Parents will be delighted to know their children are having the time of their lives while being supervised by the watchful eyes of trained ship’s staff members.
Larger Staterooms With More Verandahs
In keeping with the ship’s theme of choice, Emerald Princess will offer 13 classes of staterooms (including family suites) that are larger than those offered on other cruise ships. Passengers will find greater amenities, including queen-sized beds, refrigerators, walk-in closets, massage showerheads, laundry services and more (depending on which cabin class is booked). Plus nearly 900 staterooms will offer balconies, one of the most popular features requested by guests.
Engagements and Weddings At Sea
As the only major cruise line to offer these features, Emerald Princess passengers have the pleasure of getting engaged or getting married on the open sea with some truly memorable touches.
For those hoping to propose while on a cruise, “Engagement Under the Stars” provides help with making a personalized video to be shown on the big screen during Movies Under the Stars. Once the question is popped, the couple can enjoy a romantic dinner prepared especially for them and receive keepsake items to remember the occasion with.
For those getting married at sea, Emerald Princess has a newly designed and expanded wedding chapel for the ceremony. The captain officiates as the couple enjoys a completely customized day of their dreams.
From flowers and candlelight to musicians, photographers, onboard catering by the ship’s gourmet chefs and even tuxedo rentals, the ship’s staff helps to coordinate every element of the ceremony and reception to ensure this is a day no one will soon forget.
Inaugural and Primary Itineraries
Emerald Princess’s maiden voyage will be a 12-day Greek Isles cruise, which will set sail April 11, 2007. Visiting some of the most scenic spots in the Mediterranean, passengers will thrill at every port, including Venice, Naples, Olympia and more.
Emerald Princess will sail a series of Greek Isles and Grand Mediterranean cruises before docking in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, in October. From here, she’ll take up Caribbean and Mediterranean itineraries.
For lovers or families, for those seeking thrills or sheer relaxation, the new Emerald Princess is sure not to disappoint.
Roy Witman is Vice-President of Cruise Vacation Center based in Yonkers, New York. Visit them online today at <a href="http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com">http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com</a> for the best deals on <a href="http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com">cruise vacations</a> including popular <a href="http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com/alaska_cruises.htm"> Alaska cruises</a>. You'll find their service exceptional and their attention to detail second to none.
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
Cruise Tips To Maximize Your Cruise Vacation
You are getting ready for your much anticipated cruise vacation. The best way to maximize your cruise travel is to have some of these cruise tips about the little things you should know. Many cruisers have questions about phoning home, seasickness, laundry facilities, and photography while on their cruise vacation. These are not big items that should concern you during your cruise travel but helpful hints nonetheless.
Phoning home always gives one peace of mind when they are on vacation. It is natural to want to check on your children, or check into the office, just remember that ship to shore phone costs can be very hefty. They can cost up to $15 minute, so I if you must, keep it brief. You can use your cell phone but be aware that in some areas roaming charges will apply. Your cell phone will not work in Europe unless you have universal service.
It is very important that you leave the information on how to contact you at home in case of an emergency. When you receive your cruise packet there will be contact information included. Make sure you leave the name of the ship, the cruise line you are traveling with, and the itinerary that you plan to follow. Make it very clear that it is for emergencies only.
There is a way to get around this expense and that is to buy a phone card and call home from your ports of call. The connection will be far greater and your savings too. Be aware that this is where the crew members make their calls home so you may want to venture further from the dock to find a not so busy public phone.
All of the modern ships are wired for the internet so you can stay in touch with email. This is a much easier and cheaper way to but your mind at ease. On some ships if you are a frequent cruiser the internet time is free. If you are not, connections can run from fifty cents to a dollar a minute. Just keep in mind that they are not high speed hook ups so they will be slow. Compose offline and then send your message. Some ships will offer you package deals to save a little money. Here again, if you can wait until you get to port, internet cafes ashore are relatively inexpensive.
Seasickness is almost a moot point on today’s cruise ships. They are so large that you don’t even know you are moving unless you look out the window or you are up on deck. With today’s technology for weather tracking the cruise lines know in advance if any storms are approaching and therefore can avoid the area. Earlier cruise ships had stabilizers but nothing compared fo today’s technology which enables them to counter act any motion the sea has to offer.
If that doesn’t calm your fears about seasickness and cruise travel there are a number of ways to ensure a very comfortable cruise. Take a cruise vacation in an area of the world that has calm waters on a modern ship with the aforementioned stabilizers. It is best to book a cabin in the middle of the ship on one of the lower levels. If just looking at a horizon that is moving sends you into a tizzy, book an inside cabin. A little known cruise tip is to arrange your beds in alignment with the ship, bow to stern. Rocking is always easier to handle than a rolling motion. Once, you’ve got yourself situated on board go up on deck and stare at a fixed position on the horizon to get your body use to the motion.
Your doctor may have some medication you can take, or try the acupuncture bracelets that go around your wrists. If you do feel queasy eat crackers and green apples to settle your stomach. Ginger capsules have been said to work wonders and are available in your health food store. By all means avoid any alcoholic beverages which will only make your symptoms worse.
On board laundry services are very expensive. Book a ship that has an onboard laundry room for passengers so you can do your own. These laundry rooms will be equipped with an iron and an ironing board. An alternative is to pack a small bottle of laundry liquid and a few clothes pins in you luggage, hand wash them in your stateroom and hang them from the shower line provided.
Photography is always a big question. Should you bring a camera or rely on the ships photographer? The answer is to bring your own. If you don’t want to worry about your expensive digital camera, buy a lot of the throw away types. Pick up a few waterproof ones too for when you take you snorkel adventure. Take twice as many as you think you need. If you don’t use them on this cruise vacation you can always use them at the next holiday or birthday celebration.
You could also opt to pick up a cheap digital. You can buy them for about $20.00 and you won’t have to worry about losing it since your expensive one is at home. These are usually smaller than the pricey ones so they are easier to carry around.
On formal nights you will want to get your picture taken by the ships photographer. These pictures are wonderful memories of your cruise but they are expensive. The ships photographer will take pictures of you all through the cruise. Getting on and off the ship, on deck, in the dining room at your table and when you enter the dining room on some nights. Although these pictures are fun, you are not obligated to buy them. If you are on a cruise vacation for a special occasion like a honeymoon or an anniversary, splurge and buy them, they will be more than just memories.
These are just a few cruise tips for the little things you should know about cruise travel. Having this knowledge before your cruise vacation will help you on the way to clear sailing.
Happy Cruising!
Copyright © Mary Hanna, All Rights Reserved.
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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
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