Dream Island Cruise Vacation - Best Way To Go ?

Most people who love cruise vacations might also fantasize about going to the idyllic island paradise - miles and miles of gorgeous white sandy beaches, turquoise blue waters, lots of sun, lush tropical forests .. and with hardly a soul on the island.

But is that what happens when you go on an island cruise vacation on a gigantic modern cruise liner ? Sure, the island may be a paradise - great beaches, bluish green waters, hardly any inhabitants, tropical forests and all. But what happens when the ship gets to the island ?

Whoa ! A hungry horde of thousands of tourists from the cruise liner descend on the island in no time ... and wherever you look, all you see are tourists and not the gorgeous beaches ...

Then you start wondering if this is the vacation experience you were so excited about ...

But it does not have to be that way. You see, it is not only cruise liners that go to island ports - commercial freighters do too. These ships sail to some gorgeous islands and dock at ports cruise liners do not . The result is that the port is not deluged by tourists and you may get to see the place in all its natural beauty - the way it actually is everyday ...

And it is becoming increasingly popular for vacationers to travel on board these freighters and get to places that are not on the itineraries of cruise liners.

The accommodation on board may be comfortable, but you would not want to compare it with what would be available on board a luxury cruise liner. And you might get to see stuff like cargo being loaded and unloaded and the other activities that occur on board a freighter. In essence, you will be sharing the ship not with thousands of other vacationers, but with tonnes of cargo, possibly a handful of other tourists and sailors.

If you do not mind foregoing all the attractions on board a modern cruise ship and if you will not miss the elaborate buffets and dinners, then traveling aboard a freight cruise ship may be one option you might want to explore.

By: Gurubhakt

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Sailing on Stena Line ferries can be exciting !

Packing For Kids On A Cruise

Cruises are becoming an increasingly popular vacation choice for families. There are many cruise lines that cater to families. They offer child care for the little ones, clubs filled with activities to keep school age children occupied all day long, and teen lounges where older kids can play on gaming systems, use the Internet, listen to music and watch movies to their heart's delight.

With all of these amenities specifically geared for kids, it would seem that parents shouldn't need to worry much about bringing anything more than a few changes of clothing for their children. However, the child care rooms, kid's clubs and teen lounges aren't open 24/7, and kids do end up spending down time in their rooms with their families. When packing for kids on a cruise, there are many things that parents need to remember to bring in addition to their clothing.

For Infants and Toddlers:
* Diapers, swim diapers and wipes (pack more than you think you'll need – you may be able to purchase them in the cruise ship's store, but you'll pay a hefty premium)
* Pacifiers – bring a few extra
* Ziploc type bags to dispose of diapers – the trash in your room is only disposed of once a day
* Plastic bottles/sippy cups
* Hand sanitizing lotion
* Port a crib; booster seat for dining; stroller for on board or off board excursions – the cruise line may provide these or rent them, find out before hand
* Night light
* Disposable bibs
* Sun hat
* Children's sunscreen
* Prescription and over the counter medications
* Thermometer
* Band-Aids and antibacterial ointment
* Favorite stuffed animals, books, coloring books, crayons and toys
* Inflatable swim aids
* One or two more outfits than you think you'll need
* Portable dvd player, extra batteries, and movies

For Grade School Children – At this age, children should have a hand in the packing of their own entertainment items:

* Night light
* Sun hat
* Sunglasses
* Children's sunscreen
* Prescription and over the counter medications
* Thermometer
* Bandaids and antibacterial ointment
* Favorite stuffed animals, books, coloring books, crayons and toys
* Travel board games
* Inflatable swim aids
* One or two more outfits than you think you'll need
* Portable dvd player, extra batteries, and movies
* Portable gaming systems such as Game Boys or PSP's
* Portable music devices such as MP3 players or CD players
* A disposable camera or two to allow kids to take pictures of whatever they want
* A journal

For Teenagers – At this age, teens should handle the responsibility of packing for themselves. Help them to make a packing list so they don't forget anything important and check their bags once they are packed:

* Protective sunscreen
* Sunglasses
* Prescription and over the counter medications
* Thermometer
* Bandaids and antibacterial ointment
* Favorite books and travel board games
* Portable dvd player, extra batteries, and movies
* Portable gaming systems such as Game Boys or PSP's
* Portable music devices such as MP3 players or CD players
* A digital or disposable camera to allow teens to take pictures of whatever they want
* A journal
* Cell phone – especially if you will be going on excursions off the ship

Making sure that you have these extras will ensure that you have supplies in case of an emergency, protection from the sun, and plenty to entertain your kids on the ship.

By: Ryan Sevale

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To learn more visit www.grab2travel.com/travel-deals/hot-travel-deals.asp or www.grab2travel.com

Cruise Food: Personal Choice Dining® Makes A Big Splash

In the golden era of ocean voyages, everyone was called to a single seating of dinner in the main dining room of the ship. Whether you were hungry or not, whether you liked liver pâté or not, you came and you ate when and what you were told. Special requests from first-class passengers may have been accommodated, but they were done so at the quiet protest of the chef. Dining aboard cruise ships today has made dramatic improvements in both variety and service.

Cruising is now broadly accepted among the masses as a cost-effective and fun vacation alternative. What was once reserved for only the wealthiest is now available to practically everyone. Catering to the masses, especially families with finicky children, has become the delight of chefs, rather than an insult. Stretching their creativity, most of those on the kitchen staff take pride in developing new dining alternatives that suit their guests.

Options In Cuisine

Princess Cruises is a good example. With the advent of Personal Choice Dining®, Princess has not only taken the restrictions off typical cruise ship dining, it has also expanded options for its passengers. With "Anytime Dining," guests find most of the eight restaurants open all day. Some are open 24 hours. While the main dining room still has two seatings, it is open for Anytime Dining during breakfast and lunch hours. This allows passengers to eat when they are hungry rather than when the cruise line dictates they should dine. But time isn't the only advantage to Personal Choice Dining®.

Options in cuisine have become much more diverse. Making concessions for every age and appetite, Princess offers a little something for everyone. From an onboard, upscale Italian restaurant to a refined steakhouse to burgers, dogs and pizza at the café, adults and kids alike can enjoy what suits their fancies. In addition, guests can curb those midday (or midnight!) snack attacks with a 24-hour buffet, featuring finger sandwiches, aged cheeses, chocolate-dipped strawberries, ice cream sundaes and more.

For those who prefer a more private way to dine, 24-hour room service is available with a full menu. Simply fill out the card provided in your stateroom, and any cuisine you desire from the dining room - including steak and lobster - will be delivered to you at the time you indicate. If you desire to dine on your balcony, your server will be glad to accommodate.

Dressing For Dinner

While the main dining room does have nights where formalwear is required, other dining options onboard allow passengers to dress in whichever attire they choose. Visit the buffet in your swimsuit and flip-flops, throw on shorts and a tank top for the late-night bistro or don your khakis and golf shirt for the steakhouse and other onboard restaurants.

If you've been under the mistaken impression that cruising means tuxedos and entrées with names you can't pronounce, relax! Those days are long gone. Princess Cruises and other lines now have much more casual options you and your family can take advantage of. Eat when you want, where you want, what you want and make everybody happy!

By: Roy Witman

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Roy Witman is Vice-President of Cruise Vacation Center at www.cruisevacationcenter.com offering the best deals including Princess cruises. Visit them today! © 2007, All Rights Reserved

Cruise Travel Tips

Cruise is now one of the hottest vacations around. Why? Because cruising is one of a great vacation values available. You pay for your cabin and all the food you can eat for 3, 4 7, days or longer, of luxurious pampering before you leave on your cruise. That alone should put your mind at ease. Think about it. Not only don’t you have to worry about keeping enough money for lunch or dinner on your fourth or fifth day of the vacation, but you don’t have to worry about trying to find a place to dine.

There are a several choices for dining when you are cruising. On most of the large ships there are a multitude of restaurants to choose from. You can go casual, formal or just have pizza or hot dogs. And don’t forget that there is always room service – 24 hours a day. Picture having your breakfast brought to your room, sitting on your balcony, and dining alfresco while you arrive in a new port. This is quite an exciting way to start your day no matter where you are arriving.

Some people shy away from using this great vacation outlet because they are afraid they will get bored or feel confined while they are having a day at sea. Nothing could be farther from the truth. There are activities all day, every day that cater to everyone’s interest. And the best part of that is, if you want to play bridge and your spouse wants to do aerobics, your both free to do what ever you like and meet up later for a margarita or rum punch at the pool. Now all of the ships have children’s programs so that the kids can go off with other children in their age group, (with youth counselors), and you don’t have to worry about them or if they are having fun. These aspects afford everyone a good time without anyone feeling guilty.

Another bonus to cruising is that you get to visit multiple destinations. If you cruise the Caribbean you will go to several islands, depending on the length of the cruise. At night while you are sleeping peacefully in your bed, the captain and crew are taking you to a new exotic location for you to explore the next day.

If you cruise in Europe (after you have flown to the port of embarkation) you will find yourself in whole new countries from one day to the next. For example, if you cruise the Baltic, you will be visiting Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Russia and either Croatia or Estonia.

If you choose to cruise Asia, some ports you will visit are Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore, Hong Kong and China.Alot of nice food and beautiful sights awaits you.

www.cruise-travel-advice.blogspot.com

By: judy sim

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About the author, judy sim is a freelance fulltime writer. For more information of this article please visit www.cruise-travel-advice.blogspot.com

Holiday Tips While Whitsundays Cruises

Thanks to its location, Whitsundays can be considered to be an experience that is filled with warm tropical weather for the most part of the year. Therefore, you may experience this weather if you decide to take Whitsunday sailing holidays because the winter in this place actually means sun bathing even if it might get colder in the evening. One may experience the fresh winds while taking Whitsundays cruises because the weather is warm almost in every period of the year; summer is to be seen as warm and sultry and the wet months are not likely to happen except for February and March.

Therefore, while you are on Whitsunday sailing holidays, you have to wear light and comfortable clothes during the warm days but the evening wear can get elegant enough in order to prevent you from wearing T-shirts and even thongs can become prohibited from your evening wardrobe. The sarong and the swimmers are not to be forgotten together with an invaluable item called polarized sunglasses. You have to keep safe from the light that is reflected by the water. But you can actually use these polarized sunglasses in order to see in the water because during Whitsundays cruises, you can spot the reef that is likely to become visible.

One may experience the underwater life without having to get wet for this and the Whitsunday sailing holidays are the perfect opportunity when it comes to checking the wildlife that is to be found under the ocean water. You should not forget your sunscreen because the sun during Whitsundays cruises can become very hot and everyone can be caught by its heat. One should avoid the devastating effect that the sun may have on his holiday because higher protection should be chosen instead of the normal one. The sunscreen needs to be a waterproof one because these Whitsunday sailing holidays can become very wet.

You can let yourself be barefoot while on board of the Whitsundays cruises but you have to wear foot wear while on beach because coral cuts or oyster cuts are to be avoided in order not to spoil your holiday. You should not forget about wearing a hat during the Whitsundays cruises because a broad brimmed one is of real help when it comes to providing an extra protection that is actually very useful when you enjoy yourself wandering around the boat. Sitting on a deck can be enjoyed in the proper way while taking Whitsunday sailing holidays if you choose to wear a hat in order to protect your ears.

Usually a boat sailing requires more conditions in order to be transformed in a safe one but not all these conditions are depending upon the technical stuff; you have to be cautious yourself in order to avoid certain undesirable happenings that can occur thanks to your lack of attention or to your restlessness. So, you have to be aware of your own limits when it comes to traveling by water because the technical stuff is not responsible for your misbehaviors; therefore you must respect the conditions that are implied by Whitsundays cruises without relying exclusively on your knowledge.

By: Ckint Jhonson

Atlantic Cruises – How To Choose The Right One

Choosing a cruise can be overwhelming, but it can also be easy once you narrow down what you're looking for. If you're reading this, you've probably already decided that you want to go on an Atlantic Cruise, so you made a step in the right direction. Now – it's time to think about budget, destinations, and the kind of travel experience that you're looking for.

Laying out your budget helps taper your focus. The difference between budget, premium, and luxury cruises often comes down to staff to passenger ratio, age of the ship, included extras, and available on-board services. Another budget consideration is time allowance. If you only have a week's vacation, you can rule out month-long transatlantic cruises.

The next question is 'where'? Are you looking for sun fun on the Canary Islands? To explore the Nordic beauty of the Fjords of Bengal? Perhaps hiking the foothills of Scotland? Or exploring the historical port cities of the Americas? Even if you decide between the Northern Atlantic and the South, you'll tighten your focus.

How you'd like to travel is your last major decision. Some ships cater to families, others to couples or singles. If you're celebrating your 60th anniversary, you may not want to book on the 'Spring Break Party Boat.' Having a clear idea of what you're looking for will narrow your options significantly.

If you're not sure about the character of different Atlantic cruises, try reading reviews on-line. You can find professional reviews as well as those written by regular passengers just like you. Another fantastic resource is a travel agent that specializes in Atlantic cruises. They know about their industry, and can help you discover a tailored experience.

Picking an Atlantic cruise doesn't have to be difficult. Just take a moment to sit down, think through your what, where, when, and how - and the 'who' you'll choose will come to you!

By: Gabriel Adams

Cruise Ships Are Not Designed For Children - Do You Believe This Popular Misconception ?

Many families enjoy summer vacations aboard a cruise ship, but even more don’t consider it as a possibility. If you are looking for a different way to spend quality time with your family, you are urged to at least considering taking a family cruise. Cruise ships are a great location to have your next vacation. If given the opportunity, many parents would choose to take a cruise alone. This isn’t because of a lack of love, but because of a common misconception among parents and cruise ships. Many individuals, including parents, believe that cruise ships are not designed for children, but that is simply not true.

If you believe this popular misconception, you could be missing out on one of the greatest opportunities of your life. There are a large number of cruise lines, each offering different cruises. With all of the cruise ships available, you are sure to find at least one that can offer your family fun on the water.

Cruise ship childcare centers are facilities that benefit both parents and their children. While on a family vacation, even you need a break. For free or a small fee, you should be able to leave your children in the care of a trained and experienced childcare worker. Since a cruise ship is likely to have passengers of all different ages, many childcare facilities are grouped together by ages. As with most other services, you will find that a cruise ship’s childcare policy may vary form another’s. The above mentioned activities, services, and facilities are just a few of the many that are targeted to children, aged twelve and under. If you are satisfied with the above mentioned services, facilities, and activities, you may want to consider scheduling your next family vacation aboard a cruise ship. If you are unable to afford the assistance of a travel agent, you should be able to book your own cruise vacation online. A large number of popular cruise lines, including Celebrities Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Carnival Cruise Lines, and Disney Cruise Lines, have online websites. These websites can be used to view the activities aboard a particular ship, review the costs associated with booking a cruise, and to make online reservations. Booking your own cruise ship vacation is an excellent way to find the perfect cruise ship for your family and save money at the same time.

By: zhafran

Private Yacht Charter Or Cruise Ship – Which To Choose?

The summer cruise season is once again upon us. Time for cruise lovers everywhere to choose their yearly cruise vacation. Or, for you cruise first-timers, to decide to finally take the plunge and go on your first cruise.

For first-timers and seasoned pros alike, most people assume that in order to sail the world's oceans and rivers you have to sign up with one of the major cruise lines. While cruising with one of the majors is the most common way to sail, there are other options available, such as chartering a private yacht.

Before the money alarm bells start going off in your head, it might help to know that in some cases a privately-chartered yacht might make financial sense, particularly if you have a larger group of people who will split the cost of the charter. And, charters vary widely in price. For example, you can charter a yacht cruising Florida and the Bahamas in the winter and New England in the summer from $15,500 per week for 6 people. That comes out to just over $2,500 per person. Of course, there are pricier yachts you can charter for $385,000 per week for 12 guests and a crew of 13. A yacht like that comes equipped with fishing equipment, snorkeling equipment, water skis, 3 waverunners, kneeboards, 2 kayaks, gym and a Jacuzzi. Again, prices vary widely. You may be amazed at what you'd find in your price range. Some private yacht charters also offer cheaper deals if you agree to cook your own food rather than have a chef onboard.

Benefits of Private Yacht Charter over Major Cruise Line

Privacy:

On a major cruise you have lots of company. Over 2,000 passengers on many cruises. With a private yacht charter it can be just you and under a dozen other people, often times just your friends and family. Besides you and the other passengers, the only other individuals onboard would be the yacht crew or staff. This might not only include a captain and other onboard hands, but it may also include a maid or a private chef.

Perfect for Small Gatherings:

Private yachts are ideal for small business parties, casual business meetings, romantic getaways, honeymoons, weddings, and even family vacations. It's hard to hold a business meeting on a large cruise ship with all the noise and activity going on around you. And, a private yacht charter allows you the opportunity to get closer to your loved ones without other people getting in the way.

Activities:

You may be able to go swimming, scuba diving or snorkeling right off the yacht. Jumping off the ship and into the ocean is not something that's encouraged on a major cruise ship. Neither is fishing. But, on your own private chartered yacht, that is also an activity you, your family and friends can enjoy.

Health Considerations:

Every year it seems there's news of some outbreak of something on a major cruise ship. With all the people aboard, it's much easier for infections to be spread around, no matter how hard the crew tries to keep everything clean and disinfected. With the small number of people on a private chartered yacht, you have less chance of coming in contact with pathogens.

Benefits of a Major Cruise Line over a Private Chartered Yacht

Cost:

While you can find a private yacht charter that won't break the bank, a vacation with a major cruise line is still probably cheaper, even for an ocean-view balcony room. And, if you book early enough, you're often offered an upgrade when your cruise date nears.

Activities:

A major cruise ship offers an incredible amount of activities, such as movies, dancing, yoga, exercise classes. Many have onboard casinos and numerous swimming pools. If you're bored reading or watching the scenery, there's always an activity scheduled.

Escape:

While taking a vacation on a yacht with 8 other people sounds nice, you may not be able to escape these same people during the day on a private yacht. On a major cruise there are so many activities that people can go off and do their own thing without always bumping into each other.

When deciding between a major cruise ship and private chartered yacht it helps to sort out what you really want on your vacation. Do you want the opportunity to see beautiful scenery at a minimal cost, or are privacy and being catered to an important consideration for you?

Should you decide to look into chartering a private yacht, you might wish to go through a yacht charter agent who has knowledge of the different companies offering chartered yachts. Choose an agent who is a member of one of the yacht broker's associations, such as the AYCA, the American Yacht Charter Association, or CYBA, the Charter Yacht Brokers Association.

By: Shari Hearn

What To Wear On A Cruise Basics

Not sure what it is about booking a cruise that compels folks to pack as if they were going on a six month expedition to the North Pole. But many booking their first cruise, pack twice what they need, surely do not want for things to wear. Which demonstrates they really don’t understand what to wear on a cruise.

Naturally it helps if you know what to expect. And if you’ve been on a cruise before you’re more aware of that than someone leaving the dock for the first time. In that case you know what to wear on a cruise. Or at least should know what goes and what doesn’t.

Of course for some the most exciting part of any cruise get away is the build up to your departure date. For them, looking forward to that and planning what to take and so forth is more than half the fun. And if that’s you I’m not out to extinguish your enthusiasm. It’s just that the statement “They who pack best pack light” has some truth to it.

Then too, there are those who argue since you only have to unpack once, what’s a bit too much stuff? Aside from the space it takes up in your most likely less-than-spacious cabin, and an extra suitcase or two, probably not much. But why bother when it is not necessary?

Okay so cutting to the chase, when it comes to packing for a cruise “Less Is More”.

Then too you really don't need to bring something - just in case. Should you not be certain whether or not you need something simply do not bring it. You can always pick up anything important in port. So another good rule is "When in doubt leave it out" - of the suitcase.

Yet what you’ll be wearing also depends on the anticipated cruise dress code. On most cruises what you’ll be expected to wear to dinner is spelled out for you. It may be all formal. Or a mix of causal and formal wear.

And casual could at times mean shorts - or not.

Denim jeans are typically out. You may find them to be taboo. Especially for dinner. Besides you are better off with clothing you can mix and match. For the gals blouses and skirts. While guys can do the same with shirts and say a couple pair of Dockers.

Where you’ll be cruising also determines what to wear on a cruise. As someone in Alaska wouldn’t dress the same the same as someone on the Mediterranean. For the former a coat with a removable liner would be good to have. But that wouldn’t be much help in Greece. There a light nylon jacket might be best.

Anyway I hope you have a better idea of what to wear on a cruise.

By: Susan Bishop

Tips On How To Sail Alone On A Cruise

Getting away from it all sometimes means traveling alone in order to enjoy peace and quiet. If you have a busy lifestyle and you want to not have to speak to anyone for a few days or a week, taking a cruise by yourself is one way to do this. While you may meet people once aboard, you have the option to sit in your cabin, on the deck, dine alone or with the group, or you can find fun activities to participate in at nighttime. Thos e who travel alone on a cruise usually find ways to balance their social interaction and their need for some quiet, private time.

When travelling alone, it is important to keep an open mind about meeting new people. If you can afford to pay for a private cabin, you will be able to find peace during the day. There are many activities to do aboard a cruise ship. Many cruises stop in port cities where you will be able to leave the ship and visit shops, restaurants, and other tourist attractions. While you will be around people, you do not necessarily have to travel with them, which can give you more freedom to choose where you want to go and how long you want to spend there.


If you don’t want to travel alone, but you want to have quiet time during the cruise, ask a friend or family member who may want the same to join you. Cabins are less expensive when they are shared, so you will be able to save money and still enjoy private time. Not everyone wants their privacy, however, so be sure to choose a person who is capable of meeting people on their own and interacting with others when on the cruise. If you want to share your cabin with a stranger, you have the option to do so.

When travelling alone, you will be able to make all the decisions concerning the trip yourself. You get to choose the type of cruise you want to go on, how long you want to travel, and which activities you want to participate in. There are cooking classes, dances, formal dinners, day spas, sporting activities, gyms, pools, and much more that will keep you busy. Even if you want to just sit on a deck chair and read a book, you will be able to do so without being bothered by the daily stresses of your life.

If you have never travelled alone before or you think it will not be as much fun, try it and see. You will be able to meet new friends aboard the ship if you get lonely, and the time will pass by very quickly once you are aboard. Many people travel alone when on a cruise because they want to meet new people. Take the opportunity to sail the ocean by yourself and enjoy the many sights and people you will see and meet along the way.

By: Johnathan Bakers

Taking A Cruise

Now that you have decided that you want to take a cruise, the next step is to decide where to go. There are hundreds of destinations for you to choose from, which can make your decision a difficult one. When considering which cruise to take, keep in mind how much you have to spend, which part of the world you want to travel to, and how long you want your cruise to be. These factors are usually enough to make your decision a little easier.

Cruises range in price, so you should find one that suits your budget. Keep in mind that you may have to pay for air travel or rental car if you do not live close to a port city. Overnight hotel stays should also be figured into your budget. Money for clothing, supplies, and food while on the cruise should account for a certain percentage of your budget. If you don't have a passport and you need one, you will have to pay for this also. As you can see, there are many small costs in addition to booking a cabin on the ship. Once you have figured out these costs, you will be better able to create a working budget.


Choosing where you would like to visit will definitely help you narrow your choices. Many people choose a cruise to places they have not been to before. If you are interested in visiting certain cities, choose a cruise that stops in or around the region you want to visit. Some cruises stop in multiple areas for one or more days. This will give you plenty of time for exploring and experiencing new cultures.

The longer your cruise, the more it will cost. Keep this in mind when creating a budget and choosing your destination. Shorter cruises may not stop in any port cities or they may only stop in one. Also, the crowds will be different on shorter cruises. If you want to go on a cruise that has a younger population on it, then a shorter cruise is perfect. Longer cruises include more stops and usually have an older crowd. Depending on the amount of time you have to take a cruise, you should plan accordingly and take air travel or car travel to the boat into consideration.

As you can see, there are many factors that go into choosing a cruise. Any time you travel, you should research the areas you will be travelling in to decide if these are the places you are truly interested in visiting. Spending a lot of money for a cruise you are not interested in going on is not the best vacation. Most cruise lines offer detailed descriptions about what to expect and how to plan for a cruise. Sign up to receive brochures and emails about special deals and other information that can make your next cruise more pleasant.

By: Jerry K. Blackburn

Cruise Ship Cabin Benifits

If you are planning your first cruise ship experience, there are a lot of things to consider. This trip, and the accommodations available will not be like the travels you have experienced in the past.

The biggest thing you need to keep in mind is the location where you will be enjoying your holiday, will also be the same place you will be sleeping. It’s much like having your hotel follow you from one destination to the next, always just a little walk away. Even though there are no rooms that are too far away from one another, small changes in location can make a major difference in your ability to enjoy your trip. For example, if you have an outer cabin that is near a high-traffic deck, you may be forced to hear people stumbling by your door, or talking loudly outside your room all night. Likewise, if you have a cabin that is just below a stairwell, you will hear the clomping of people walking up and down the stairs. This is a decision you should not take lightly.


Let’s look at other locations on the ship. At the rear of the ship is usually where the higher-priced rooms are. Many come with a balcony so you can relax outside your own room and watch as you pass through the water. Keep in mind though, these rooms are also a bit above the surface level of the ship and when the seas are choppy, you are going to get quite a bouncy ride. These rooms are not for those with a weak stomach.

At the front of the ship, or the bow, there are other higher-end cabins. These often also have balconies where you can watch a sunrise or sunset and see what lies ahead. But these have the downside of the rear cabins, and then some. Since these are usually even higher above the surface, they are an even rockier ride when there are big waves on the water.

Another area to consider when deciding which cabin you want may have to do with how social you are. If you would love to be near where things are happening, the higher deck cabins are very close to all the activity venues. Usually you are just steps from the lounges, pool, restaurants, and other attraction areas. But you once again have to consider that every time you move to a room that is above the surface level of the ship, it may be a shiftier ride if the seas get rough.

If you have a weak stomach and are concerned about the possibility of getting seasick, the best place for you is in the middle of the ship. These will be more economic cabins as well, as they are the standard staterooms. If you really are prone to seasickness, you may want to pay a little more to ask for a mid-ship cabin. The closer you are to the center, the less you will feel the rocking of the boat.

By: Peter Wilson

Cruise Ships - Then And Now

When you think of taking a trip to another country, there is no doubt you immediately consider airline ticket prices. But, that was not always the most popular mode of travel. Before there were 747 jetliners to ferry people across oceans, the way to travel was by cruise ship. But when it came to the masses, they were not necessarily the luxury vessels we are used to seeing today.

Everyone has seen the blockbuster movie, Titanic. It tells a story about a couple that fell in love on the fateful ship before her sinking. While it may just be a story of fiction, it also gave you a little glimpse into what it was really like to be aboard this method of transportation years ago. As you saw in the movie, not everyone was treated equally aboard the cruise ship. There were the very elite customers who were served everything on a silver platter, but on the lower decks were those who were just hoping to get from one place to another and were forced to scrape by in an area where they were packed as tightly as a can of sardines. If you wanted to enjoy your trip, you had to be filthy rich.


Back in those days, there were not quite as many cruise liners as there are today. Those that were in existence were names that everyone knew. Some of the names you may recognize are the Lusitania and the Queen Mary.

For a while, the popularity of luxury cruise travel waned, but it had resurgence in the 1970’s. It was all thanks to a television show, The Love Boat. The staff on the television sitcom showed how great of a time passengers were having. They showed passengers relaxing, playing a number of fun games, meeting new friends over great meals, and getting to see new places. People started booking holiday cruises again hoping to cash in on some of the excitement. And for the most part the cruise lines delivered. They offered people a chance to stand on the deck and watch as they headed to new worlds, unexplored to them. In one trip they would allow those on board to see a lot of places they had never been before, and give them a great setting to talk about it at the end of the day. Some cruises didn’t even have an end destination, they merely were ‘cruises to nowhere’, a chance to experience cruise ship life for a few days. The trend never really died and has been popular ever since.

What is involved in a cruise has changed from the early years. While you can still take a transatlantic cruise, that is not the most popular choice. There are now a number of 3, 4, 7, and 10 days cruises to a variety of destinations. The accommodations are no longer just lush or poor, but instead a number of different cabin choices at a wide array of prices. Because of the variety, anyone today can enjoy a cruise, no matter what his or her budget.

By: Clinton Maxwell

European Cruises Continue To Feature Venice And With Good Reason

With European cruises increasing in popularity, more and more Americans passengers are likely to make port in some of the great cities of the Mediterranean. One of the oldest of these harbor towns is still a top port of call for modern cruise lines: Venice.

Venice is not like anywhere else on earth. It's not the only city that is laced with canals (Amsterdam has canals, too, so does Stockholm), and it's not the only city with an ancient past (Rome probably beats Venice in the historical department and Florence definitely edges her out in art). But there is something incredibly different and delightful about Venice.

You can't drive in Venice. Entrance in and out of the city is by boat (you take a water taxi from the airport), so arriving by cruise ship is close to the way the city was meant to be approached.

When you actually reach Venice, you'll have to get around by walking or boat. By far, the quickest, easiest, and least expensive way to go from point A to point B is to jump on the boat-bus, called a vaporetto. You buy tickets for it just like the bus. If you're a cruise passenger in town for the day, it may pay for you to buy a pass good for the whole day. Not only could it save you some lire, you don't have to hassle with buying tickets when you want to get a ride.

Water taxis are another option, but they're a bit more expensive. Even more expensive, but delightfully romantic and unique, are gondolas. Expect to fork out a lot of money for the experience, but, trust me, it will be an experience.

Most Venetians get around by foot, and you probably will, too. The city has all the twists and turns you'd expect from an ancient town. Because of the network of canals, you will sometimes find yourself in the intriguing position of being able to see where you want to go but not be able to figure out how to get there. Relax, Venice has something interesting practically around every corner, so even if you get lost, you'll probably still do a lot of great sightseeing.

The biggest tourist spot in town is the Piazza San Marco where St. Mark's Cathedral is located. You can tour the cathedral and even climb the towers (not hard) to get a panoramic view of the square. Legend holds that the cathedral contains the grave of St. Mark, author of the Gospel according to St. Mark.

The square is full of pigeons (all of the time) and tourists (mostly in warmer months). Depending on when you travel, you may also see scaffolding or wooden walkways around the plaza. These aren't risers for a concert or show. They are walkways designed so that people could get across the square even when it floods, which it does often enough for the city to have built elevated walkways.

Nearby is the Doge's Palace. Doge (dough-jay) is the name the Venetians gave to their ruler back in the day when Venice was an independent nation. It's a sumptuous kind of place, fit for a monarch, but most tourists enjoy the lesser accommodations better. The Doge had so many enemies he annexed a prison to the palace which is reached by crossing the Bridge of Sighs. There is a self-guided tour of the prison but it is very important to stick to the pathways marked. You are perfectly free to wander around as you see fit, but the place is like a honeycomb and you can get lost.

Getting lost is a typical Venetian experience. The city is full of unmarked streets, twisted lanes, and narrow passageways.

One of Venice's favorite native sons was reputed to have been lost. Marco Polo lived in Venice and set out for China, where he spent 20 years. When he returned, he was vilified by Venetians who called him "The Liar" for making up stories. You can visit his home. It is located on a short cul-de-sac named "The Liar"The Liar."

Venice was always better known for commerce than art, but there are some artistic treasures. If you like eating what the locals do, you're going to try seafood and a dry sparkling wine called Prosecco. Of course, most tourists end up enjoying more generic Italian favorites here, too, such as cappuccino or espresso and rich gelato.

If you have time, take a vaporetto out to Lido island. It's an island that's just a short boat-bus ride from the main drag (the Grand Canal) and there is more relaxed (and less expensive) shopping and some beaches.

Another great thing to check out is Murano, an island famous for colorful hand-blown glass. You can buy Murano glassware all over Venice, including a special design known as mille-fiori (thousand-flowers). In Murano, you can watch artisans at work and get a much broader sampling of their products. You'll find Murano glass products in lots of stores.

Glass purchases from large stores can be shipped to you at home; most shopkeepers will be able to make such arrangements, at least for larger purchases.

Venice is a well-known city for tourists. It always has been, and cruise ships and package tours to Europe continue to feature it prominently. But Venice is also a very personal kind of city. Two tourists visiting the city on any given day can walk away with distinctly different impressions and experiences.

By: Mandy Karlik

Caribbean Cruises: Planning Tips For Your Caribbean Adventure!

Now that you’ve made up your mind to take a Caribbean cruise, it’s time to start planning the trip. With the variety of cruise lines to choose from, and islands to visit, this can look like a daunting task. However, help is at hand.

Carnival Cruises has an excellent, well organized, web site that can help you to decide where to go, what to do when you get there, and how long to visit. By dividing their Caribbean cruises into three geographical categories (Eastern, Western, and Southern), they’ve taken an important step to ease your decision. Carnival’s Eastern Caribbean cruises include the Lesser Antilles, the Western Caribbean cruises take in the Greater Antilles and Mexico’s southeastern-most coast, and the Southern Caribbean cruises tour the Dutch Antilles and the adjacent coast of South America. Each area has different attractions, and splitting them apart makes planning the logistics of a Caribbean cruise much easier.

Carnival Cruises can also help you to plan your shore excursions. As you cruise the Caribbean, you’ll make port-of-call stops at numerous islands and harbors, all of which have a lot to offer the curious tourist. With a well-planned shore excursion, you can make the most of your time at each stop. You’ll be able to choose from different attractions, such as snorkeling, scuba diving, or parasailing for the more athletic, or shopping and sight seeing for the more sedate. If you stop at the US Virgin Islands, make sure that you take advantage of any custom’s duty deals; this writer particularly recommends the Cruzan Distillery’s dark rum.

There are some basic preparations that you should always remember when you take a Caribbean cruise. First, make sure that your passport is updated, and do not forget it. Many of the islands are independent countries in their own right, and while the cruise line will usually handle passport control for you, it’s never wise to cross borders without a valid passport. Second, look up the currency exchanges for each port of call in advance. Again, the cruise line can assist you with this. It’s always wise to use local currency on a shore excursion, even though many merchants will happily accept US dollars, Euros, or British pounds. Banks and currency exchanges will always give you a better rate when changing currency.

So plan well, and have a great time in the Islands!

By: Brian James

Caribbean Cruises And What They Offer For Different Travelers.

If you’ve been looking for a good vacation, something to cure the winter blues, perhaps it’s time to check out a Caribbean cruise. The Caribbean Sea, North America’s own tropical paradise, offers huge enticements to the vacationer.

It’s a region full of history: it was here that, during the Age of Discovery, the European powers started their race for Empire, and the relics of those days still exist, in the form of stone forts, rusting canon, and sunken shipwrecks. The Caribbean’s natural beauty is famous world-wide; the sea boasts North America’s longest coral reef, as well as beautiful tropical islands, white sand beaches, and sparkling blue waters. You can experience all of this, and more, on a Caribbean cruise.

The Caribbean is also a good destination for the traveler who can’t learn another language. No matter where you’re from, you can find a Caribbean location where the people speak your language. On most of the Islands, English is understood, if not spoken. Other common languages are Spanish, French, and Dutch. No matter where you go, the people are used to tourists, and know how to understand, and be understood, when there is a language barrier.

In addition to the history, the natural beauty, and the friendly people, the big cruise lines also offer a huge variety of on-board entertainment. Depending on the ship you choose, you can cruise the Caribbean with a water park, miniature golf course, ice skating, rock climbing, swimming pools, or even casinos right along with you. Different cruise ships will have different configurations for their entertainment departments, depending on who they want to attract. Cruises that want to attract families will lean more towards fun, kid-oriented on-board recreations, while those cruises aimed primarily at adults will have more mature entertainments, such as casinos and formal dining.

Travelers concerned about safety will be glad to know that modern cruise ships are among the safest vessels ever built. Modern radar and navigation systems allow them to avoid storms, and satellite communications systems guarantee that the ship is never out of contact with land. In addition, any cruise ship that operates in US waters is subject to safety inspections by the US Coast Guard.

With all of this in mind, Caribbean cruises have never been a better option for travelers looking for fun in the sun.

By: Brian James

Caribbean Cruises With Royal Caribbean International

For months, you’ve been saving for your big vacation, going over the options with your loved ones, and arranging the time off of work. Now, all the preparation is about to pay off: you’ve decided to take a Caribbean cruise. A wise decision, for a lot of reasons.

To start with, the Caribbean is North America’s “backyard paradise:” it’s a tropical sea, with a climate of eternal summer, and bordered by scenic coasts, pleasant harbors, and chains of beautiful islands. For American or Canadian travelers, a Caribbean cruise is only a short flight away. As an added advantage, on most of the islands, English is spoken or understood. Spanish is also widely used, and French and Dutch are also frequently encountered. No matter where you’re from, you’re likely to find someone in the Caribbean who speaks your language.

Especially if your language is the language of fun in the sun and relaxation. The Caribbean is famous for its natural beauty, and some areas, such as the Dutch Antilles or the Cayman Islands, are known world-wide for their scuba diving. On a Caribbean cruise, you can book shore excursions to help you experience everything the region has to offer. The websites of the major cruise lines, such as Royal Caribbean International, will all have descriptions of the shore activities they offer. Booking excursions is a great way to get the most out of your Caribbean cruise.

In addition to detailing shore excursions, the Royal Caribbean Cruises website gives a great deal more information to make your Caribbean cruise the best vacation you can have. Make sure you read the section titled “Before You Board;” not only does it tell you about shore excursions, but it will also give you good information on the travel documentation you will need (don’t forget your passport; the Caribbean may be close, but you’re still crossing international borders!), and general tips on taking a cruise (pack your first day’s clothes and toiletries in a carry-on, so you won’t have to wait for your bags to be delivered to your stateroom!).

All in all, a Caribbean Cruise is an ideal vacation. With some foresight, and good planning on your part, it will be a worry-free, hassle-free, time, as well.

By: Brian James

Caribbean Cruises: Finding Exotic Close To Home

The Caribbean is the world’s number one choice for cruise goers, and it’s no wonder why. With their jaunts through clear blue waters, beautiful beaches, and tropical climates, today’s Caribbean cruises offer the vacationer a taste of paradise on Earth.

The peak cruise season runs through the winter months, when people are trying to find relief from the cold weather of harsher climes. Because more people are looking to travel in the Caribbean, cruise fares will be higher at that time. Some savvy travelers like to tour the islands in the early spring, when fares have come down, and the temperatures are still tropically mild.

The best part of taking a Caribbean cruise is the accessibility. There’s no need to go all the way to the South Pacific to find unspoiled tropic islands; you can find them right next to the USA’s front door, in the West Indies. This arc of islands, curving from the northern coast of South America to Cuba, just south of Florida, includes such lovely Caribbean cruise destinations as St. Lucia, Puerto Rico, and Jamaica. Adjacent mainland areas, like the Yucatan Peninsula, or the Gulf Coast of Mexico, are also sometimes included in Caribbean cruise packages.

On a Caribbean cruise, you’ll make port of call stops at these and other harbors, where you can taste the slow pace of life, and easy going nature of living in the tropics. Each island has a unique history, blending the cultures of the original inhabitants and the colonial-era powers to make an ambience like nowhere else in the world.

At each port-of-call on Caribbean cruises, you’ll be able to book tours of the island. You can choose from attractions such as historic forts, plantation recreations, and white sand beaches.

The Caribbean isn’t just about taking it easy on a slow boat, though. For the younger crowd, destinations like Cancun, Mexico, or Kingston, Jamaica offer a party atmosphere, and a non-stop carnival ambience. And at every port, cruise-goers can sample the local foods: conch chowders, fresh fish, and the famous West Indian rum. So give your next vacation a calypso beat, in the Caribbean.

By: Brian James

Packing Bags When Going On A Cruise

To pack your bags is a very bothersome task as your preparations go on for a vacation. Because it is a battle destined to fail at the end when in your bag you will discover items for which you have absolutely no need, while you will lament that you have left behind a few things you really needed.

Further, for a cruise ship vacation it is really more difficult to guess what will be necessary and what will not be so. If you have no cruising experience you will be absolutely ignorant about items to be provided during the trip and therefore high probability of your carrying over packed bags will remain. For example, could you think that in most cabins a hair dryer would normally be provided? In fact, even in many hotels that is not the case. But on consideration of the possibility of its use on ship a number of times a day it is included as a standard feature, while of the cruising luxury it remains an essential part.

Therefore decide first with great care which items can be categorized as essential ones, which ones will be helpful if you take those with you, and just for the joy of packing which items you will choose.

Among the essential things, especially when you have go beyond country peripheries, can be categorized as 'the fundamentals', are the following:

· Your passport and/or state identification card or driving license since you need those in most cruise lines that go beyond the country

· Automobile insurance proof, if renting a car while you halt on land is in your mind

· As you will cross several time zones a watch with more than one time zone is the need

· Choice of clothes will depend on your planned tour schedule. Take clothes for dining and dancing events to match your luxury time if that is within your plan. Further, only swimming suite and casual clothes will suffice if moving around the pool and on the deck is the limit of your plan. By gathering the information as to what would be the activities waiting for you, the task of packing clothes will be easy to manage.

Now think of those that can be categorized as 'the Less-Than-Fundamentals and include these in that.

· In this category camera or digital camera with extra memory cards has a very special position

· Another important thing is camcorder

· Your reading glasses and of course a book you would like to read

· Next important thing is first-aid-kit of course

· For emergencies a small and handy flash light can be useful all the time

The most important things have figured in the "The Fundamentals" category and those must accompany you. Remember that you are not changing residence but simply going out to enjoy holidays and therefore many items that flash into your mind as essential ones in your daily life may not be that important here. Also keep in mind that many essential items are already provided for your use on the holiday cruise.

By: Linden J. Walhard

Alaskan Cruise Or Not?

Have you ever had the most spectacular 7 days of your life?

You have every reason to say it was a spectacular trip after you go on a 7 day Alaskan Cruise off the Alaskan shores. You can even enjoy the beauty of Alaskan Land and also take part in the many entertainment activities that are available on cruise ships. Taking an Alaskan Cruise will dwell you in the wilderness of Alaska, enjoy the magnificent landscapes and oceans of Alaska.

An Alaskan Land cruise is an amazing exploration of Alaska, its culture and the people. The culture and the view are a few of the most intriguing and worth a while experiences. Going on a land cruise might be more expensive but nevertheless, you will notice a lot of benefits from a land tour. Mountain lodges, adventure into the Alaskan Forests, mountain trains, fishing expeditions, wild waterways you name it, its worth a while.

Alaskan cruise Lines are a great extravagant experience and exposure. If you a seafood fanatic, the smell of succulent crab will grab you by the throat straight to the Cruise Kitchen. You can even enjoy the experience and adventure of catching some of the sea creatures like crabs, fish etc. Dungeness crabbing is a treat indeed, its a chance to get into the seawater, sightsee, and explore what crab-catching is all about.

Be prepared to be pampered when taking an Alaskan Cruise whether with a family, personal honeymoon or wedding cruise. On the cruise, enjoy the pool, attend a show, watch a movie, kick back in the lounge, spend time in the casino, take gold lessons, or relax with a massage at the spa. While docked you can enjoy time on the beach, shop at duty free shops, scuba, snorkel or windsurf in the ocean. Romantic activities are also available including family oriented activities.

There are endless activities that you can enjoy while taking an Alaskan Cruise.

Get more details and information at www.mradsenseready.com/alaskan-cruises/

By: Strive Mazunga

A Wide Variety Of Cruise Ships

Before the sixties, traveling on board a ship was the way of going to another continent. Travel by air, by passenger jets, which were absolutely luxurious, then ushered it. Even when Boeing introduced the famed 747 jets, travel by sea continued. This was despite the fact that it was nowhere near as pleasurable and relaxing as it is today. It was probably because it was a less expensive mode of travel as compared to air travel.

The film Titanic has quite accurately portrayed what a cruise aboard a liner entailed, aside from the great love story that unfolds in the film. There was a clear demarcation between the upper and lower class. While every luxury was available to the former right from their plush cabins to dancing and dining at the fine lounges and restaurants of the top deck, the latter had too be cooped up in their small cabins. It was simply money that decided the facilities that were available to a person. However, as a mode of travel to reach a certain place from another, an under deck ticket was the cheapest way to do so.

There were many cruise ships like the Queen Mary and the Lusitania, which were owned by shipping companies. There is a lot of legend associated with ships such as these. However, the number of such cruise liners was not many, but the companies were financially secure since there were enough passengers from all classes who brought in the money.

A perceptible change in the average view of what a cruise aboard a ship was, came with 'The Love Boat', the popular series on TV in the seventies. Now cruise travel seemed more like wonderful hotels which glided around the world offering luxury and recreation in the form of just lounging about on the deck drinking in the beauty of the ocean all around or reading a book, swimming and playing games, and dining in the fine restaurants. Once more, shipping companies acquired the same success that they had before the advent of the Boeing jet. The number of people wanting to go on a cruise holiday has been only increasing since then.

There is a wide variety of choice available right from the duration of the cruise, which ranges from four days to three weeks, to the size and amenities of accommodation on board, and the price that it costs to take a cruise. This makes it possible for anyone and everyone irrespective of their needs and budgets to enjoy a cruise. This is the main reason why cruises are the prime choice of vacation.

By: Eric J. Slarkowski

Secrets Of Planning A Successul Cruise Ship Wedding, Party, Or Meeting

By now, just about everybody in America knows that cruise lines offer great vacation deals and traveling by cruise ship can be about as hassle-free as modern travel gets. What many event planners do not know is that cruise lines are increasingly eager to work with groups to create unforgettable parties, meetings, and special events. Whether you are working on a family reunion, trying to figure out a way to out-do yourself for a birthday celebration, or just tasked with figuring out how to set up a multi-day business meeting, talk to the cruise lines. They can often assemble packages that are not just easy on the pocketbook, they can be low-stress events for host and organizers as well.

Special interest groups, which cruise lines often call affinity groups, are those groups that want to cruise for a special occasion. Family reunions, business meetings, even weddings are typical affinity cruise groups.

Being an affinity group can be easy, and many cruise lines are going out of their way to cater to the group cruise. The word "group" does not necessarily mean you need a hundred people to qualify. Even a few people who want to travel together can qualify as a group. For instance, cruises where several female friends travel together are a recognized (and new) affinity group in the industry.

Depending on the cruise and the size of the group, cruise lines may be willing to offer a package deal on staterooms. A cruise line specialist or travel agent can make recommendations, including booking a suite for four people instead of the usual state rooms (this is not always cheaper, but it can be).

Cruise groups can also make arrangements with the cruise ship for special events. On-board weddings, classes, seminars, receptions, and private dinners for a group of old buddies can all be set up. The best way to make these arrangements is to book as early as you can and discuss options with the cruise line. It is a great idea to be flexible, since cruise lines are much more experienced in this area than you are likely to be. Thus, they may know some great ideas you had not thought of and may offer good advice as to what would work well in your situation.

Princess Cruise Lines even has a specialist who works for them to help with on-board weddings. And it is true, the captain of a ship has legal authority to marry people. Vow renewal ceremonies for married couples are also very popular events for a cruise.

If you are an avid cruiser, you have probably already cruised with some special interest groups and never known it. Most ships are large enough that multiple special events, seminars, and receptions can take place almost unnoticed by the majority of passengers.

Planning an affinity group cruise involves booking a cruise as early as possible. Consulting with a travel expert is always a good idea since there are lots of cruise options today and even the most avid cruise shopper cannot keep up with everything.

Affinity group cruises should be fairly short since getting time off from work and school is tough for most people. Plan ahead, not just so you can get the rooms you want, but to allow people to put in for time away from the job. Keep an eye on the pocketbook of the participants; some folks who would gladly attend a family reunion may not have the financial clout to pay for a transatlantic cruise.

When booking an affinity group cruise, consider the port of embarkation and debarkation, that is, the place where you get on and off the ship. Cruise passengers not only have to pay for their cruise, they also have to pay for travel back and forth from this port. While many cruise lines can offer attractive package deals to combine cruise fares with airline tickets, there is still an incremental expense.

There are a surprising number of ports for cruise ships today, including Tampa and Galveston (on the Gulf of Mexico), Los Angeles and Vancouver (West Coast), and New York and Fort Lauderdale (East Coast). The ports may limit the cruise options for your particular group (for instance, you can't sail from Vancouver and go to Bermuda on any established route). However, for an affinity group cruise, the journey is more important than the destination.

On-board ship, affinity groups should take advantage of having hassle-free meals and entertainment. This leaves plenty of time for photos and videos. Those with blogging skills can commemorate the activities online; more traditional cruise passengers may be inspired to create a scrap book or other record of event memorabilia.

So if you want to get away from that tired old family reunion in the park, have the greatest graduation party ever, or renew your wedding vows with a few family and friends, visit some cruise websites and talk to your travel agent.

By: Mandy Karlik

Why You Need To Add An Alaskan Cruise To Your Summer Plans

If you want to see Alaska from a cruise ship on an unforgettable vacation, you have to do it in the summer. Summer is not only the best season to cruise Alaska, it's the only season. It's a popular destination, but since so many cruise lines offer Alaskan adventures, you can still book an Alaskan cruise you'll never forget. Even in summertime, there are still bargains to be found for those who seek them out!

Although it's known for glaciers and polar bears, going to Alaska is a bit like going on safari. This state is 65% national park, national forest, or national wildlife preserve. In fact, only one percent of this gigantic state (3.5 million lakes!) is privately owned.

The result is lots of unspoiled natural habitat for creatures ranging from the bald eagle to the black bear. You can't beat the fishing; photographers will find this place a paradise. You can see moose, elk, wolves, different types of bears, and all kinds of fish.

An Alaskan cruise is also one of the best way to see some of the world's most spectacular glaciers. Glaciers are actually moving rivers of ice. The sheer weight of them pushes them downward and outward and they move, in inches usually, over the course of years. Glaciers creak and groan as they move, providing eerie sound effects. Every now and then, you may get to witness the spectacular process of "calving," which occurs when a large chunk of ice breaks off from a glacier with a resounding crash and splash. Calving is how icebergs are born.

There was a time when most glaciers had to be observed from a distance. Most are not safe for hikers or climbers (this is the original "slippery slope") and are just plain inhospitable. That's why a cruise can allow you to drift by these magnificent creations in comfort and safety and see them as few other people in history have ever been able to observe them.

Most Alaskan cruises offer plenty of excursions and a flight-seeing tour is a great way to take in a glacier. In Alaska, flight-seeing has become enormously popular because many of the state's most specactular natural attractions are not readily accessible by land. (For example, you cannot get in your car and drive to Juneau, Alaska's capital city. No roads. Juneau is accessed by boat or plane, period.)

Alaskan culture is extremely diverse. There is a relatively large indigenous population in Alaska and cultural influences on the state range from Eskimo to Russian (the Russians owned Alaska till 1867).

In history, Alaska has always been a frontier kind of place. Way back in the 1800s, Alaska was the destination of a lot of gold miners and those who came to "mine the miners". In the 20th century, there was an oil boom. Right now, Alaska is enjoying what might be called a discovery bonanza as more and more people are finding out that it is a great vacation destination.

Alaska sought to woo tourists a while ago with the creation of a railroad that connected it with the lower 48 states. (Alaska is one of only two U.S. states that does not border on another state.) These railroads brought spectacular scenery to the passengers and allowed them to get in and out of a state that is sometimes fairly inaccessible. Today, these railroads are updated and maintained.

The problem with the railroads is that once you arrive at your destination, how do you get around?

Alaskans have always relied on ferry boats to move between towns and the Alaskan Ferry is something that increasingly numbers of tourists are discovering as well. If you have a vehicle, you can drive it on board and take the ferry (with your car) to your next destination. The Alaskan Ferry (http://www.akferry.org) even offers staterooms, food courts, and some common areas so that you can spend some time moving around the country. The ferry allows campers to camp onboard, too.

But the best way for the newcomer or comfort-lover to see Alaska is by cruise ship. The cruise ship allows visitors the luxury of remaining in one stateroom as the vessel makes port here and there, giving passengers time to helicopter, flight-see, dog-mush, whale watch, shop, or go on photo safaris by day.

Alaskan cruises typically take place from July to September, which are the best months to see the state anyway.

When traveling to Alaska, do take some warm clothing, including hats, jackets, mittens or gloves, and heavy socks. Even if the air temperature is not particularly cold (it can be 40 or 50 by day), the wind onboard ship can make it seem colder than it is. But remember to pack sunscreen, sun glasses, and a hat or a visor because the sun still reflects on the water; glare is common and the unprotected can get burned.

By: Mandy Karlik

Many Reason's For A Caribbean Cruise Vacation

So, you have finally decided to take that much needed vacation. You are thinking that you need about a week off to just take it easy with your family and you don't want to think about work at all. Now taking your typical vacation you could go somewhere and stay in the motel, but maybe you should consider a much more relaxing way to spend that week on vacation. You may want to consider taking a Caribbean cruise vacation.

All You Need to Know About a Caribbean Cruise Vacation

There are so many great things to say about taking a Caribbean cruises, but one thing for sure that is great is the food. You can not believe how much food is available to you on a Caribbean cruise vacation. One problem with all the food is the problem of weight gain when you are done. Day after day and night after night there are buffets, and during the day time you are allowed to eat whatever you want.

The nice part about the cruise ships is that most of them have fitness centers on board so you can work off some of the calories that you are gaining on a daily basis. There are sometimes other sports amenities that are available.

Basketball courts
Rock climbing walls
Ice skating rinks
Swimming pools
and much more...

The cruises today are not just for familes and couples anymore. If you like to travel alone, cruises are the way to go. They are a much safer way to travel and see different places.

Caribbean cruise vacations are all about having fun and a good time. The thing that you don't want to do is to start to get stressed out when you are thinking about what you want to do on your shore excursions. The nice thing about the Caribbean cruise vacation is when you get on board the ship, you are given all the details as to where you need to go and how to sign up for the various shore excursions.

Where you go and what islands that you visit during your Caribbean cruise vacation is determined by which ship and cruise line that you have chosen. The time of the year is also a factor on what you will see. A popular destination of a lot of the Caribbean cruise vacations is Cozumel, Mexico.

Cozumel is a fantastic place to visit. If you get a chance, you should go. There are many reasons why Cozumel is so popular. One reason is a place called Carlos n Charlie's. Here you can buy and find many souvenirs. If you are a shopper, then you came to the right place. There is a "mall" section, that has many different types of stores.

One of the other great things about a Caribbean cruise vacation is all the different people that you are going to meet. One thing is that the crew's that are on board the ship come from all over the world. This is a great way to meet people from all nationalities and make many international acquaintances.

If you are looking to take a Caribbean cruise vacation, you may want to do a search on the internet. You can also use a travel agency to make the necessary arangements for you. With the proper research, you will make your Caribbean cruise vacation a memorable one. There are many different cruises to chose from and the internet will save you much time and effort in selecting your Caribbean cruise vacation.

For more information on this topic as well as other tattoo related topics visit: Romantic Caribbean Cruises

By: beartoes

Protecting Your Health On A Cruise

As a Licensed Massage Therapist part of my work is ensuring that people reduce their stress. Reducing stress is a easy way to ensure that you are less likely to face common health problems. One way I reduce my stress, besides getting regular massages myself, is to take cruises. I love cruises and usually have at least one planned, but I've come to know that even on the most modern of cruise ships you have to take some precautions.

When it comes to cruise ship safety, there are many individuals who are concerned with their physical safety. Physically staying safe aboard a cruise ship is important, but so is staying healthy. Due to a large number of individuals in a relatively small space, cruise ships have a number of health concerns.

The health problems and concerns found on cruise ships are often highly publicized. Despite this publicity, most cruise ships are fun, safe, and clean.

Being concerned with your health aboard a cruise ship is one thing, but you should not let it prevent you from enjoying your vacation. Rather than letting the fear of getting sick ruin your vacation, you should take a few simple steps to ensure that your health will be the same as, if not better, when you first boarded.

Before your cruise ship is scheduled to set sail, you are urged to schedule a visit with your family doctor. Be sure to inform him or her that you are planning a cruise vacation. Your doctor will likely check your health to make sure you are fit for travel. In addition to examining your general health, it is possible that your doctor may recommend a number of immunizations. These immunizations may offer you extra protection; therefore, you are urged to obtain them.

If you are taking multiple prescription medications at the time of your cruise, you will want to make sure that you have an adequate supply. If you are running low on your medication, you may want to obtain a refill before you leave for your cruise. It is also likely that your doctor may request that you bring along extra medication. This request is often made to individuals who must take their medications to survive. In the event that you misplace your medication, you will have an extra supply to fall back on.

Taking health precautions before you board the cruise ship is important. However, it is also important to take precautionary measures after you board.

These measures are simple; however, they may be vital to your health. One of the first things that you should do is familiarize yourself with the layout of your ship. Determining whether or not there is a doctor onboard and where they are located is important.

Since germs and illnesses spread easily aboard cruise ships, you will need to protect yourself. This protection involves washing your hands on a regular basis. When most individuals are at home, they wash their hands after completing certain activities. In addition to eating and using the restrooms, you should wash your hands after using all public facilities. If you find it difficult to wash your hands regularly, you may want to obtain a package of disinfecting wipes. If used properly, disinfecting wipes can be just as effective as soap and water.

Cruise ships are popular for their relaxing, stress reducing atmosphere. This relaxation may include lounging on deck. When lounging on deck or taking a stroll, it is advised that you keep your shoes on at all times. As previously mentioned germs can easily spread aboard a cruise ship. Keeping your feet covered at all times will not only protect you from contagious illnesses, but it will prevent you from stepping on harmful objects.

In addition to cruising along water, most cruise ships dock in a port. It is likely that the port you will be visiting is a foreign country. In the event that you end up in a foreign land, it is important that you carefully monitor what you eat and drink. If you notice drinking advisories, you are urged to follow them. Instead of drinking tap water, you may want to opt for bottled water or another bottled beverage. Many individuals are concerned only with the drinking water, but you should also be concerned with ice cubes and water in uncooked foods. Your cruise ship staff is often a great resource regarding safe places to eat and drink.

As you can see, the above mentioned precautionary measures are simple and easy to follow. Why put yourself at risk for illness; especially when it requires little or no effort to keep your health in good standing.

By: Ben Crabtree, LMT, CNMT

How To Plan Australian Cruises

For years, people all over the world have wanted to take the dream cruise, and today this dream is no longer a dream since anyone can achieve it. All you need to do is to plan one of the many australian cruises available. These Australian cruises offer you exotic experiences. When you plan a cruise, first thing you should think about is the itinerary you would like to follow. Another thing to be considered whenever one is planning such a cruise is those places’ history you intend to visit.

As far we know Australia is not just a continent but also an island. The distance between Australia and rest of the world is considerable. This aspect is the one that offers its visitors that kind of mystery you cannot refuse to see. Though there are areas that tourists will not be able to see via cruise ship, they will still be able to see the Great Barrier Reef or other tourist areas that are most visited in Australia. Such areas can be seen by a pre or post cruise if you choose one of these Australian cruises.

A cruise to Australia will be a moment of discovery. You will be able to see and discover a land of plants and animals, which you will not be able to see anywhere else. Where could you see animals such as the kangaroos or koala living in their natural habitat? And this is all possible from a small ship cruise’ board? Is there any other country that could offer you all this? This is definitely not something you can forget about soon.

The best part about such Australian cruises is that you have both the comfort that such a boat provides you with and also the chance of visiting such incredible and captivating regions. The small ship cruises offers you a home during the period the cruise is taking place, so you don’t have to worry about making reservations to hotels. Your job is to relax and enjoy the view and the places that you are visiting. The small amount of passengers on a ship can make the cruise more flexible, so, you can stay to enjoy a festival that takes place in one of the towns you are visiting or simply stop to see the fish, whales, or dolphins.

Such an Australian cruise where the means of transportation is a small ship will give you the opportunity to glide in a boat part cruise ship and part yacht. The advantage is that you can visit places where bigger ships would not be able to go to. Generally, on a small ship, you will not have games or any other features that a bigger ship would normally offer you, but you will have the occasion to visit the bridge, and you will be accompanied by historians, naturalist guides and other people that know the area. As you go by an area naturalists and historians that are around you can teach you about the environment, people and culture of those places.

Before booking for a place to these small ship cruises, you should consider that the perfect time for such a cruise is in the fall through winter months. If you are coming from a foreign country and you want to go on such a cruise to Australia you should come prepared for a journey that will take up to two weeks. Therefore, if this is your first cruise, the choice you made is the perfect one as there will be great places to see.

Generally, cruises around Australia focus on port stops across the East and North coasts, to Brisbane, the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns, Port Douglas are ports of trek, where the cruise period last between 7 – 10 days. You can always visit Sydney, which rewards its visitors with marvelous sightseeing’s; the harbor, the Opera house; Bondi Beach and Watson’s Bay are between the most visited attractions on a cruise.

By: Ckint Jhonson

How To Easily Choose A Great Cruise

Choosing a great cruise that’s perfect for you takes a considerable amount of planning and some insight as well. With so many different cruises offering varying combinations of activities, durations and ports of call, the plethora of choices available is absolutely mind-boggling.

First things first. You need to decide how much you can afford to splurge on this dream cruise. Its useless lusting after one of those uber-luxurious cruises if you cannot afford the sky- high prices. Instead, set your sights a bit lower and you’d be amazed as the number of options available that are just as exciting, yet will not burn a hole in your pocket.

Now its time to consider what exactly is it that you are looking for!

Looking for romance on the high seas? Opt for an elegant cruise liner that offers you a romantic atmosphere aboard ship as well as in its choice of ports.

If it’s the pulsating excitement of different ports you are looking for, choose a coastal cruise and explore the sights and sounds of the many exotic ports. Sample the different cuisine and pick up unique artifacts that will serve as a reminder of your great cruise.

Want to get away from it all and are looking forward to peace and tranquility adrift in the middle of an endless ocean? Choose a larger ship that will spend more time between ports rather than at ports.

If you are looking forward to indulging in all those traditional cruise activities including gambling, great entertainment and exquisite cuisine, make sure you choose a cruise that offers you these choices.

Dreaming of icy glaciers? Go on an Alaskan tour in winter. As an added bonus you may even get to be see the wondrous sight of the Aurelia Borealis or come up close to the many humpback whales swimming nearby.

If basking in the hot tropical sun and indulging in water sports is more your thing, make sure you choose a tropical cruise that offers you plenty of opportunities to go scuba diving or snorkeling and swim with the many multicolored fish.

By: Gabriel Adams

Tips For Choosing The Right Cruise Ship For You

Cruise ships inspire images of glitz and glamour; grandiose décor, gourmet cuisine and an uber-luxurious cruising lifestyle. While all these images hold true of cruise ships, it is also true that each cruise ship has its own distinctive characteristic and flair. Cruise ships come in different shapes, sizes and designs and offer different forms of entertainment to suit individual interests, personalities and budgets.

Which cruise ship is best for you would depend on what you are looking for. Are you looking for adventure, romance or peace and quiet? Is it a family vacation that you are going on or is it your honeymoon? Would you prefer to experience the buzz of different ports or are you looking forward to drifting along the high seas marveling at the vastness of the ocean?

Almost all cruise ships offer you a wide choice of entertainment, including gambling, shopping, different sporting activities and exclusive live shows. However, if you are looking for something more specific, here a few options that you could choose from.

Luxury cruise ships: Indulge in the luxurious plush accommodation, sophisticated ambience and the elegance of black-tie dining.

Exploration-based cruise ships: Feel the thrill of excitement as you set sail on an exciting expedition to the Galapagos Islands, Antarctica or the Amazon.

Alaskan cruises ships: Sail past mountainous glaciers and gigantic humpback whales. With careful planning and the right timing you could even experience the Aurora Borealis, that spectacular show of lights that others have only heard about but never seen.

Disney theme cruises: Very popular for family holidays, this cruise offers different entertainment options for people of all ages.

Gambling cruise ships: Watch your winnings match the rhythm of the ship as it rides the troughs and crests of the waves and feel like a pirate as you gather up all the bounty you’ve won.

Barefoot cruises: Enjoy the out-of-the-ordinary experience of cruising in a sailboat and revel with the other sea lovers and sun bathers as you go island-hopping and beach-bumming all along the voyage.

By: Gabriel Adams

Cruise Deals - Getting The Best Value For Your Money

Cruise deal specials can be found everywhere. You only have to open your newspaper travel section to find great offers around the world. Virtually every week of the year the myriad of cruise lines plying the seas around the world, especially the big boys such as Celebrity; Royal Caribbean; Princess; NCL; Carnival, P&O and many others. And they all need to be full!

So, what are you going to get for your great cruise price? Well, big discounts off the 'brochure' price, that's for sure! Indeed, you can often get prices of up to 50% off (and, on occasion, even more). But, that's not all. Often there are other benefits as well. Free collection from home by limousine (or free car parking in port); hotel stays; onboard 'money' to spend; some great room upgrades, to name but a few!

Why are cruises so popular these days? Well, for those who have the bug, they will tell you of many, many reasons that they love to vacation this way. Firstly, there is such a lot of choice. Each of the different cruise lines have their own target audiences.

Highlights from some of the cruise lines are attractive and distinctive from others. For example, a two-hundred-foot rock tower for climbing is among the amenities included in cruise deals for Royal Caribbean. Princess Cruise Line, on the other hand, provides art galleries and auctions in their cruise deals, and Carnival offers an exciting Camp Carnival for kids 2 to 15. Each cruise line has something special, so each offering is unique and unforgettable!

So often it's the benefits package as a whole that will woo the traveller ready to be enticed and hunting for the very best cruise deal. You see, whilst many vacationers cruise often, it is amazing how many choose a cruise as a special treat - perhaps to mark a notable occasion, such as a wedding anniversary; a retirement or even a notable birthday.

And that means they want a very special deal - and the cruise lines know this is what is expected of them. It has become a tradition in the business to make deals in this way to sell spaces on their boats! And bear in mind that cruises lend themselves to group and even extended family travel, when special deals, even better value than the norm, can often be negotiated.

Whilst you can find deals in your local travel agent and newspapers, one of the best places to find excellent value for money is in the virtual world of online. From the broadest travel providers, such as Expedia, Travelocity and LastMinute.com, to the specialist cruise deal makers (just type the word 'cruise' into Google and you'll be overwhelmed by choice!

And did you think about length of vacation? Well, you can take your choice here as well! Whether it's a short hop of a couple of days, or months away, the choice is yours, from an amazing array. What is for sure, you really can find wonderful cruise deals to make your cash stretch further. Just one more reason to consider a cruise vacation this year, even if you haven't before.

By: mphcoach