Understanding Dress Codes Aboard A Cruise

If you are going on an upcoming cruise, it is not necessary for you to max out your credit card to buy outfits and shoes. Your closet is likely to have everything that you will need for the cruise. There are basically three categories of cruise wear which are informal, casual and formal.

The documents along with your cruise package will include a program of the cruise's activities throughout the cruise duration and will indicate how many evenings will fall into the various cruise wear categories. Read the cruise's daily newsletter as the dress code each day will be announced.

Casual wear are clothes you are typically comfortable in wearing. What you plan to do for the day shall indicate your outfit. For cruises during the summer you will typically need your swimwear, a cover-up and sandals. For the time when you will have to go ashore, you can wear a casual tee or tank top (for girls) and a comfortable polo shirt (for guys) paired off with shorts and comfy walking shoes. Learn to mix and match your clothes to save some room in your luggage. If you have plans of shopping for souvenir shirts or you have plans of buying clothes, you can bring less casual clothes.

For evening casual, men are not supposed to wear shorts. This would mean slacks (docker's style) topped off with a nice polo shirt or sports shirt. As for the ladies, this could be a sporty dress, a pants outfit and a skirt and top. The ladies can always jazz up their ensembles with accessories. The first and the last night on board the cruise are usually the nights that allow casual wear. While jeans may be considered casual for some people, some cruise lines discourage their passengers from wearing them in the dining room.

Informal wear can be a bit tricky. This applies to evening events and depending on the particular cruise line could mean different things. For women, it could mean a dressier pants outfit or dress and as the case for men it should include a sports coat. Sometimes it may mean with a tie so it is best to check your cruise documents.

Formal night for women can go from a cocktail dress to elaborate gowns. For gentlemen, they are required to wear a black tie or tuxedo (white dinner jacket or all black) or dark suit.

Comply with your cruise's evening dress codes. It's nice to dress up once in a while.

Source: http://www.therealarticles.com/Article/Understanding-Dress-Codes-Aboard-A-Cruise/149162

Tips for First Time Cruisers

Cruise holidays are becoming more and more popular these days. Actually, with the hectic lifestyles that many people are leading these days, cruise trips are a great option for them to take a break from the pressures of their work life.

These trips are tailored to offer great relaxation and entertainment to ensure that cruisers will feel totally refreshed at the end of their vacation. If you are going on a cruise for the first time, perhaps a three or four day cruise is the best option for you. Such a trip is affordable, and it is ideal for people who want to experience what a cruise trip is all about.

Things you have to know before you go on a cruise trip

For first time cruisers, it is mandatory that you have to be aware of the following factors:

- The methods of preventing sickness at sea
- The amount of money you should bring on the trip
- Type of luggage required for the cruise
- Proper planning for shore excursions

First time cruisers often get too excited before their trips, and they may even forget their travel schedules. It is important that you remember the schedule of flight, train or other transportation that you will be taking to catch the cruise. Before you go on your trip, make sure you have everything you need with you.

Essential things that first time cruisers should bring

It is best that you bring a hand luggage to carry your essential things, such as bathing suits, medications, cameras, sunscreen lotions and necessary toiletries. It is indeed necessary that you have a clear idea about the dress code that is required for your cruise. You should check whether the cruise requires casual or formal wear. If casual wear applies, it is wise to bring a jacket and a pair of pants. It may be essential that you have your travel document with you as well, depending on the destination of the cruise.

What to do when you are onboard the cruise boat?

After getting into the boat, it is necessary to explore the cruise boat, so that you will know the locations of all the facilities in the boat. This way, you will know what facilities and activities are available for your convenience and entertainment.

Seasickness can be a major problem, but instead of letting it ruin your vacation, it is advisable to use sea bands and acupressure wristbands. You should also carry some medications for emergency purposes. Though first aid facilities are usually available on cruise boats, it is better to bring some essential medicines of your own too.

Cruises usually have laundry facilities, but you should still ask your cruise provider to confirm. Babysitting facilities are also available in most cruise boats, and you should check the cruise line policies if you want to avail of these facilities.

Finding the right cruise vacation

To enjoy the ultimate cruise vacation, it is advisable that you do some research on the cruise packages that are available. Many of the cruise lines offer toll free customer care numbers, and you can contact the customer care executives to get some information about the cruises they offer.

These executives can give you a very comprehensive explanation on the different types of cruises they have. It is also possible to find information about cruises on the internet. Online articles and journals on cruises provide many tips that you may find helpful. For first time cruisers, it is wise to go for a more affordable cruise trip first. If you find that you enjoy the cruise, you can go for longer ones later.

Source: http://www.therealarticles.com/Article/Tips-for-First-Time-Cruisers/147811

The Excitement Of River Cruises

Most of the time when people are contemplating taking a cruise vacation, they think about the huge liners that carry people from one exotic port to the next, or that traverse the oceans of the world. But in the last decade or so, river cruises have become more popular and are competing more and more for the attention of travelers. While there was a time when a river cruise was considered a specialty, these days choosing this type of excursion is a more mainstream option.

European river excursions are the most popular and were also the pioneers in providing interesting "off the beaten path" types of cruise vacations. There are many spectacular rivers that meander through different countries in Europe, which allows people to explore many scenic and historic areas not accessible by the large holiday ships.

These days there are river cruises in many other parts of the world from which to choose. As the river cruise ship lines discovered the increasing interest that people had in cruising on the waterways of Europe, they made efforts to expand their services into many other countries as well. This means that you now have the choice of cruising the rivers of Africa, South America and North America, as well as parts of Asia.

One of the advantages of a cruise on a river is that the ships are much smaller and therefore offer a more intimate and personal experience. Most of the cruise lines that sail the watercourses of the world take particular pride in offering their passengers excellent service, often with a ratio of one staff member to every three passengers, or even less. This ensures that each and every person along for the ride has their needs promptly addressed, are well attended to and even pampered on their voyage.

Even though the overall size of the ship that will carry you on the river outing is smaller, in many cases the cabins are somewhat larger than what you would find on the giant ships. In addition, they are often outfitted with fine appointments, which are meant to cater to American tastes and demands. Some of the newer ships have full Wi-Fi internet access and recent renovations on older ships have resulted in cabins with flat screen televisions, MP3 sound systems, fine high-count linens, cashmere throws, plush bathrobes, and European touches in decor and furnishings.

Adding to the luxurious surroundings of your cabin, you will also be gently gliding by gorgeous French chateaus, imposing German castles, brilliant tulip fields and many more stunning sites throughout the interior regions. And, when you are not enjoying the sights rolling by from your comfortable chair on the sun deck, you will have opportunities to leave the ship and savor the ambiance of the towns and villages along the river and rub shoulders with the locals.

Many people say that river cruises are simply the best way to be introduced to the best of Europe, because you can escape the common tourist traps. Cruising European rivers is a relaxing, enjoyable, stress-free, and comfortable way to gain new insights into the history and culture of the countries, the cities and the people.

Source: http://www.therealarticles.com/Article/The-Excitement-Of-River-Cruises/136591

Bad Press for Queen Victoria

The much touted and aggressively marketed cruise ship Queen Victoria seems to have hit rough waters.

Superstitious vacationers couldn't help but murmur predictions of doom when the customary champagne bottle with which she was christened before her maiden voyage failed to shatter. Despite this, it appeared she would avoid the fate of the Titanic after all.

Last December, however, three weeks into her life on the water, passengers on the luxury liner took ill in droves. The Queen Victoria appeared to have been hit with the dreaded cruise ship virus known as Norwalk or Norovirus.

An estimated 80 passengers spent thousands of dollars only to spend much of their holidays confined to bed. The effects of the virus do not usually cause any lasting damage. However, it hits hard and furious, causing severe vomiting and diarrhea for anywhere from 1-3 days. It is also highly contagious and easily transmitted, especially in close and confined quarters, such as one finds on a cruise ship.

Although fewer than 5% of the ship's passengers were hit with the dreaded cruise ship bug, many of those who were stricken plan to sue for compensation - whether or not they can launch a successful lawsuit is questionable.

Cruise ships hit with stomach viruses is not a new phenomenon. It has proved very difficult in the past to sue a cruise ship company for compensation for contracting an illness from a contagious virus.

Most travel agencies that book cruises have clauses that release them from liability for circumstances such as the contraction of a virus while cruising. The cruise ship companies themselves usually cannot be held responsible unless proof is provided that negligence on the part of staff led to the outbreak.

Nevertheless, many cruise ship companies offer some type of compensation to passengers who take ill while on board. Often this comes in the form of a discounted or free future cruise. Since the virus rarely leaves any lasting effects, the most a sick passenger can hope for is to get back all or part of his or her money paid.

Cruise ship companies have become much more proactive in the last decade when it comes to protecting passengers. It's bad for business if a ship is associated with illness. Companies have become astute at decontamination and at containing the outbreaks that do occur. Ships have been docked and cruises cancelled to prevent further illnesses from occurring after recorded outbreaks.

After the Queen Victoria docked in Lanzarote, efforts were made to contain ill passengers and decontaminate the ship. Keeping the bug on board and out of the port was a top priority for ship's staff. Face masks and a liberal supply of antiseptic hand lotion were just two of the precautions taken to ensure that the bug would not spread further.

Today the scourge of Queen Victoria's virus seems to be broken, at least for now. Her schedule for departures in the New Year includes trips to Sydney and Singapore.

Cunard, the ship's parent company, hopes that her curse is over and is planning for a stellar year of sailing.

Source: http://www.therealarticles.com/Article/Bad-Press-for-Queen-Victoria/136639

Flexibility and Cruises, The Way To Travel

Once upon a time a cruise was not that great of a vacation. You had to follow the ship's itinerary and rarely had much choice in what went on. Even the activities were scheduled and could be incredibly boring. The cruises available now are nothing like their predecessors. These ships have a full range of services ranging from gambling to a luxury spa for those who want to unwind and relax. Your cruise is made exactly like you want it. No more strict schedules for you. You can choose when you want to eat, sleep or play.

Have you given much thought yet to where you want to go on vacation? What do you want to do? What would pick to do? Would you lounge around in the sun all day or have an exciting adventure? Well, why not pick both and have it be the answer to your vacation dilemma? Cruises are great ways to relax and have fun in the sun. There are many different ports around the world that are just calling out you name. The deals are red hot too! Don't just sit there. Get started on your cruise itinerary now.

Cruises are a great way to get out and explore the world. Cruise ships now have every luxury you can think of from fine dining to world-class spas. It is a vacation packaged wrapped up into one neat bundle. There are even cruise ships created specifically with children in mind. The parents can frolic in the sun while the kids are engaged in fabulous activities. The destinations are all over the world and you can decide how long you want to be gone. What more could you ask for in a vacation?

Once upon a time a cruise was not that great of a vacation. You had to follow the ship's itinerary and rarely had much choice in what went on. Even the activities were scheduled and could be incredibly boring. The cruises available now are nothing like their predecessors. These ships have a full range of services ranging from gambling to a luxury spa for those who want to unwind and relax. Your cruise is made exactly like you want it. No more strict schedules for you. You can choose when you want to eat, sleep or play.

Can you imagine going on vacation and being told when you could eat, sleep or play? Cruises used to be very rigidly scheduled. Dinner was at a certain time and the activities were scheduled rigorously. You had to live your vacation according to someone else's rules. You do not have to worry about that any more. Cruise ships today are incredibly flexible. You can eat whenever you want, even if it is at 2:00 am. The kitchen is always open. You can swim when you have the urge and play whenever the mood hits you. Plan your vacation now.

If you are planning a family vacation and want some flexibility in what you do, you need to check out a cruise. You can sail the high seas to the Caribbean, Mexico or even the Mediterranean. If the destination is on the water, some cruise line will be on its way. Cruises are great vacations for everyone. The kids can find fun activities while the adults are getting away for a little private time. Fun, sun and water are all the ingredients you need to have an incredible vacation.

Source: http://www.therealarticles.com/Article/Flexibility-and-Cruises--The-Way-To-Travel/136714

Finding Cruise Bargains Has Never Been Easier

The world of cruising has exploded in the past ten years with a half dozen new ships (or more) launching every year. Luxury cruise ships circle the globe offering vacationers a convenient and exciting way to visit multiple ports in a week or two. The selection of cruise lines and itineraries seem endless. In fact, there are so many cruise lines and ships in today's market that it's a challenge to find just the perfect match. Getting the best price should always be paramount on your mind. Here are the steps to follow to find the right cruise for your next vacation at the best possible price.

1. Selecting a Destination
Cruises to the Caribbean, Alaska, Europe, South America, and Scandinavia are among the most popular destinations The season of your travel will help determine where you'll head. Most ships sail for the Caribbean and South America in winter and Alaska or Europe in the summer.

2. Think About Your Travel Dates
Each destination has prime weeks that are the most popular, most heavily booked, and therefore the most expensive. Shoulder weeks are priced lower than prime weeks, and are just before and after the prime-time. The weeks just before or after the prime weeks are an excellent time to cruise, as the weather will still be good, but the crowds and costs are less.

3. How Many People You Want to Vacation With?
The industry trend has been to build larger and larger ships, with most averaging 1,000 to 1,500 passengers. That's a lot of people to entertain, feed and bring on shore excursions! Several cruise lines limit their capacity to 300-500 passengers or fewer. While this type of cruise tends to be more expensive, these lines generally provide a more enjoyable cruise experience.

4. With an Idea of Dates, Destinations, and Size of Ship, It's Time to Visit the Major Online Cruise Booking Sites
Here are sites that have been operating for many years and offer excellent online booking services: VacationsToGo.com (love their 90 Day Ticker and Find-A-Bargain features), Cruise.com, CruiseBrothers.com, CruiseDirect.com, CruisesOnly.com, and MomentsNotice.com. I like to keep it simple and price all cruises without air, transfers or insurance. That way I know exactly what the cruise itself costs. Then I can either have the additional services added on or purchase them independently.

5. Next Check Out Your Cruises of Choice on the Cruise Review Sites Here are the most popular: CruiseCritic.com, CruiseMates.com, CruiseReviews.com,and PortReviews.com.

6. Give a Call to a Local Travel Agency or Two
Travel Agencies usually belong to larger associations that reserve bulk space on selected cruises and then sell the cruises at promotional rates, many times with extra bonus items thrown in (maybe a cabin upgrade or an on-board credit to spend as you like). Most important though, a good travel agent will be interested in getting to know a bit about you and will recommend cruise lines that are appropriate for your personality and lifestyle.

7. Compare Your Offers
By now you'll have a good idea of the cruise lines that appeal to you, the dates you want to travel, and you'll have several pricings in hand . Some folks like to buy the lowest priced cabin just to get on the ship, figuring they'll be out and about most of the time. Others enjoy having an ocean view and perhaps a balcony to relax in privacy. Try pricing your cruise as a "Category Guarantee" to save lots of money. This means you are reserving a cabin in a particular category, but will not have a specific cabin assignment until you receive your final documents. Your cabin assignment will be in that category or even higher! It is not recommended that you book this way, if you are someone who experiences sea sickness and needs to be sure they have a cabin in the very center of the ship.

8. Some Additional Advice
Fly to your cruise port early. If at all possible, arrive the day prior to your cruise. This will save you all kinds of angst and worry about your flight being delayed or (heaven forbid) canceled all together on the day of sailing. If you do fly on the day your cruise departs, take the first flight out in the morning to be certain you arrive with lots of time to spare.

Compare cancellation insurance carefully. It's a trend for cruise companies to offer several tiers of coverage, each with different coverage amounts and conditions. Have a pen in hand when they explain the policy and make careful notes. Then visit an online travel insurance site and price coverage yourself. InsureMyTrip.com is a terrific site that will scan multiple insurance providers at once and deliver the results for you so you can compare prices and features.

Happy Sailing!

Source: http://www.therealarticles.com/Article/Finding--Cruise-Bargains-Has-Never-Been-Easier/145901

Major Cruise Discounts for Spring

Thinking about booking your next cruise? Well this is the time to take advantage of the considerable discounts that many cruise lines are offering. Non profit organization, Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), has issued a press release detailing the onboard credits and savings that you can receive by booking your cruise in the next few weeks.

For the month of February, many member lines of CLIA are offering special rates, onboard credits, deposit waivers or other incentives designed to stimulate record cruise sales for 2008. This year's Wave Season offers a range from savings of more than 50 percent of cruise prices to onboard credits worth hundreds of dollars, stateroom upgrades and other perks.

Here's a sampling of offers (unless otherwise noted, offers extend through February 29).

Carnival Cruise Lines: Special rates of $249 to $339 per person on select departure dates for three- to five-day voyages on Carnival Imagination and Carnival Inspiration, both with new Serenity adults-only decks and Carnival Waterworks aqua parks.

Celebrity Cruises: Onboard credits of $50 to $200 per stateroom, based on the length of voyage, on cruises in Alaska, the Caribbean and Europe.

Cunard Line: Onboard credits of up to $300, plus a waiver of deposits for second guests on select Queen Mary 2 sailings and Queen Victoria maiden European voyages.

Crystal Cruises: Ten percent savings on new bookings of all verandah and non-verandah staterooms; five percent savings for penthouse accommodations. The savings apply to virtually all of Crystal Serenity's Mediterranean cruises this summer. This offer has been extended to bookings made through March 31.

Holland America Line: Savings of up to $450 off brochure rates plus upgrades for as little as $100 depending on sailing. The View and Verandah promotion applies to the company's eight ships offering select 2008 Alaska departures.

Norwegian Cruise Line: Weekly special offers, including on-board credits and stateroom upgrades for select destinations, are offered as part of NCL's "Freestyle Resolution Sales Event" and can be found at www.ncl.com. The promotion also includes the chance to win a free cruise.

Princess Cruises: A special "Alaska Wilderness Sale" features savings of $200 per couple plus a $200 onboard credit on Princess cruise tours, with rates starting at $1,399 for an 11-day sailing. The offer is available on many Alaska sailings.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises: Shipboard credits of up to $500 per suite in addition to normal published offers for new guests of Regent. The offer applies to sailings in Europe, the Mediterranean, Alaska and Tahiti.

Royal Caribbean International: Onboard credits of up to $200 per stateroom on select Alaska sailings/tours for 2008.

Silversea Cruises: Forty percent savings on cruise-only fares for a wide variety of voyages worldwide is part of the line's "Silver Sailings" program. For last minute shoppers, this includes the 14-day Silver Cloud cruise from Mahe to Dubai, departing February 23.

Source: http://www.therealarticles.com/Article/Major-Cruise-Discounts-for-Spring/136746

Advice On Getting The Better Cruise Deal

Taking a cruise is very popular among vacationers who want to visit exotic lands for short periods of time. Enjoy the thrill and adventure of being on a cruise line with all of its activities and amenities that make taking a cruise so unique. The biggest question, of course, is where do vacationers find the best cruise deals? People want it all; great destinations and discount cruise deals all in one!

The Key to Finding Discount Cruise Deals

There is no secret to finding the best discount cruise deals. These deals exist at virtually any time, but finding them takes research and patience. You may find great discounts through a travel agency one year, but find they don't offer the same deals the next. You may find rock bottom prices for a cruise at an agency only to discover that the cruise line itself is offering better package deals. They often throw in a few extras to entice you to buy directly from them. Seek out all avenues in order to find these cruise travel deals.

Best Places to Look for Cruise Deals

Online Cruise Dealers: When you enter "discount cruise deals" in the search box of places like Google or MSN, you get approximately 1 million results. That's because so many places are offering cruise packages online. Of course, all of these places will tell you that they have the best deals, but use caution to ensure they are reputable and recognized. There are many services with renowned reputations as being good businesses. Unfortunately, there are scam sites out there that want your money with no cruise in return. When looking online ask yourself these questions:

1. Do I see a seal of approval on the website such as the Better Business Bureau or the American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA)? Travel sites that are approved by these establishments have met rigorous criteria and are places that you can trust. Other seals of approval may come from Cruise Line National Association.

2. Is this deal too good to be true? The competition is rather ferocious online for companies selling cruise package deals. You may see wordage on sites such as "best bargains" or "dirt cheap cruises." These types of phrases throw up red flags for you. Ensure you read all the fine print before booking any cruise. You may find that there are extra fees involved; taxes, port charges and others. You will be surprised at how quickly these "extra fees" turn your low fare into a high-ticket item.

Here are some additional questions to ask yourself before forking over the cash to any online travel agency:

* Is there a fee for cancellations?

* Are there additional "hidden" fees from the site?

* Is there contact information available (phone number and physical address)?

* Does this site offer assistance to customers?

Brick and Mortar Travel Agencies: Many of the more popular cruise lines suggest you use a travel agent to book your cruise. A travel agent is best suited to find a cruise package deal that includes desired destination and price range. You will often find deals at travel agencies as well. Many people like the idea of seeing their agent face-to-face and getting their questions answered in a timely fashion. Travel agencies have also been known to thank you for your business by throwing in some onboard surprises; perhaps a bottle of wine in your cabin or some onboard perks.

The bottom line is that there is no shortage of vacation cruise deals to find. They are available year-round at many places. The important issue is to ensure you find legitimate deals that offer the most for your money. Never book your cruise without exhausting all of your options to find the best deals.

Source: http://www.therealarticles.com/Article/Advice-On-Getting-The-Better-Cruise-Deal/137011

Travel Deals

The world is full of stunning and charming locations which every traveler wants to explore. People generally love to travel with their families, friends and other near and dear ones. So they always put prime importance on the cost of the travel as they always seek to cover a lot of places with a limited budget. Many of the online tour operators arrange discounted travel packages for the benefit of the tourists, especially for those who travel in groups.

Getting information about various tourist spots, tourist operators and their tour packages is very essential. Website like vacationsbesttraveldeals.com facilitates this task. It provides extensive information regarding important scenic locations in Europe, Asia and Africa. Tourists can also gather information about traveling on cruises to various locations which are very cost effective now.

In their quest to earn livelihood, people are hardly getting any spare time to rejoice. Whenever they get any leisure time, they want to utilise it properly by leaving for a trip to tourist destinations. Destination holidays are the perfect one to bring joy and solace to your minds. But sometimes planning and affordability play a major role while determining a place for your destination holiday. There are many destinations all around the world to fulfil your desire. No matter which country you belong to, the communication was no more a problem for you. English is now a global language and is understood and spoken by a large proportion of world population. Till now, people undertake their travels by air.

But we can't deny the significance of cruises while going from one place to another for our purpose. Many of us love to glide through the ocean on a cruise for their destination holiday when time is not a constraint. On one instance, you may feel that it's wastage of time to travel for places on a cruise. But on the other hand you enjoy the nature's real beauty and can enjoy your time while cruising along a luxurious ship.

Many of the shipping companies have introduced their luxurious cruise to the world. These machines are perfect for someone to enjoy the holiday time in a secure and inexpensive manner. You can access those websites online and book your tickets through safe Internet Payment Gateways.

The vacationsbesttraveldeals.com contains guidelines about group travels particularly in Asian regions. Certain groups contain people from different cultural backgrounds. They are unknown to each other at the beginning of the travel. At the end of the trip, you will not only understand a whole new culture, but you will also make new set of friends. Other people choose to travel to Asia in groups of friends. This is especially true of backpackers, where groups of friends travel together. As Asia has so much to offer in terms of learning and traveling, it is a hot spot for group travels.

Source: http://www.therealarticles.com/Article/Travel-Deals/138065

Travel Information

Human beings are always curious to acquire new information by reading books, newspapers and magazines, watching television, browsing through Internet, traveling to various parts of the world and socializing with other people. But, making extensive travels to different locations has its own attraction and is a popular mean of acquiring new information as well as relaxation. Spending some memorable moments with your near and dear ones at picturesque locations far away from your busy life is a burning desire for every human being.

But, before embarking upon your journey, you must have some important travel information and guidelines about the place of your visit so that you and your companions can enjoy the travel to the fullest. In the era of World Wide Web, getting useful travel information is just few mouse clicks away. Websites like vacationsbesttraveldeals.com is providing detailed information to tourists around the world about popular holiday destinations across the continents. It not only guides you about the tourist spots, but also provides an easy and affordable solution of getting there such as travel on a cruise.

Europe is the hub of world economy. But, it is equally famous for its tourist centers. Located in the Central Europe, Germany occupies a special place in the world travel map. It has a perfect mix of rich cultural heritage and modern architectures. It has left its past political, social and financial turbulences far behind to induce a new lease of life. Berlin, the capital of Germany, has everything you look for in a particular tourist spot. It has nicely transformed itself from an ancient city to a modern city full of clubs, bars, restaurants and art galleries. The best time to visit Germany is between May and September.

The rich diversity of Greece makes it one of the most popular places to visit in Europe. Greece is famous for its ancient Greek civilization and mythology. Greek Gods and Goddess like Zeus, Nike and Athena are very popular worldwide. Athens, the capital of Greece is the birthplace of Olympic Games. It is a favorite holiday destination for young travelers due to its diverse culture, clean and beautiful beaches and resorts.

Like Greece, Italy is well-known for its cities full of hustle and bustle like Rome, Milan and Florence and its world famous cuisines containing lots of chicken, vegetables, seafood and of course, pasta. The friendly and colorful nature of Italian people makes outside tourists feel like at home.

Tourists have now started thinking beyond European countries. Of late, continents like Asia and Africa are drawing the attention of people. Many multi national companies have their operations in countries like India, Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong, Japan and China. As their economy is growing, they are now more aggressively marketing their unique cultures, historical monuments and structures, food, dance and scenic locations.

Source: http://www.therealarticles.com/Article/Travel-Information/138072

Cruise

People always look for memorable trips to various beautiful locations of the world. Budget is always a constraint before travelers. They are forced to think twice before planning for a journey. Travel by air used to be only mode of communication for them. Of late, many shipping companies have redefined your travel experience through the introduction of cruises that connect important holiday destinations.

The vacationsbesttraveldeals.com provides detailed information on various cruises sailing along the oceans to those who want to use ships as their medium of transportation. Different luxurious ships make your journey a pleasant experience. These ships are equipped with all modern facilities for your comfort. You will never miss your home all throughout your stay on cruises. These cruises also have a team of friendly and dedicated staff who delivers you extraordinary services in a professional manner. Though it takes so many days to reach your destination, the delight you will experience by observing the nature's beauty is worthwhile than the lost time. The expenses you incur by traveling by ships are lesser than what you imagine. Tour operators offer various types packages which are quite affordable.

There are numbers of successful cruise service providers present in this whole world. But few of them have really got the public attention in a good manner due to their unique and affordable services with comparison to others. Alaska Cruise is one of them and drawing more response due to its outstanding services than any other cruise service providers. There are several websites that deal with the services directly. You can access these websites and book your tickets online. Alaska has magnificent mountains, free-roaming wildlife and imposing Ice-Age glaciers. You can witness all these wonderful stuffs with your naked eyes. Alaska cruise services provide more values on your tour and make your trip really adventurous.

If you want to spend your vacation outside of your home country, then Bahamas islands are a perfect place for your purpose. The Bahamas cruise stops at some of the popular locations of Bahamas during its trip. Bahamas islands are full of energetic atmosphere that gives you a chance to closely watch the nature. The demand for these islands is so great that it is always advisable to book your tickets well in advance in order to avoid the rush of late booking. You can either log in to service provider's website or call them to reserve your Bahamas trip.

Many old and new cruise liners are offering Canada cruise vacation. Therefore, the service offerings are very cheap and competitive. But, there is no negligence in maintaining high-end customer satisfaction parameters. Carnival Cruise Lines, Royal Caribbean Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruses, Disney Cruise Line, Holland America Line and Princess Cruise Line are some of the renowned Canada cruise service providers. So you do not miss this golden opportunity and book your ticket immediately.

Similarly, Jamaica and Caribbean cruises fulfill your desire of a perfect vacation by offering a number of attractive packages that you can avail with your family or partner.

Source: http://www.therealarticles.com/Article/Cruise/138069

Travel Vacations

Nature is God's beautiful gift to mankind. It has stored so many wonderful and unbelievable things that leave a common man mesmerized. Human beings cherish the Nature's beauty in the form of mountain ranges, lakes, waterfalls and forests. Man has played its role in preserving and enhancing this beauty. Apart from that, various ancient civilizations have built remarkable structures, monuments and landmarks on which today's civilization will be proud of. These places leave a lasting impression on the minds of people which they never forget in their whole lifetime.

People in different countries always dream of witnessing scenic locations around the world. But, because of their professional and family commitments, they miss out on leisure times. Whenever the opportunity arises to visit outside, people want to utilize it in a reasonable manner by seeking travel information about that location. There are host of online services that help travelers across continents to receive vital tourist information so that travelers will have joyful experience in undertaking that journey. The vacationsbesttraveldeals.com is guiding tourists by providing relevant information about important places in Europe, Asia and Africa. It also contains detailed guidelines regarding traveling on cruises to different locations which is very popular among globe trotters.

Going on vacations to European countries is on the rise. Most of the European countries are economically well-advanced. Many big cities of this continent have modern infrastructure that contains skyscraper buildings, shopping malls, clubs, bars and restaurants. People here are very fashionable and have adopted luxurious life styles. But countries like Germany, Italy and Greece have also rich cultural history. Old Greek and Roman civilization had led to the establishments of numerous architectures that draw the interest of tourists even today. Tourists get astonished to see this wonderful blend of ancient and modern eras. Germany was facing severe political and financial crises for a prolonged period of time. But, it got out of that problem to become one of the important holiday destinations of Europe. The urban life of Berlin and Munich and the picturesque villages of Black Forest prompt travelers to come to those places again and again. Winter sports holidaymakers find snow covered mountains of Austria and France enthralling enough to show off their skiing and snowboarding skills. Young travelers visit in large numbers to Spain and its neighboring country Portugal. Portugal was for too long under the shadow of its larger neighbor Spain. But, it is now slowly catching up with the rest of Europe in tourism. Lisbon, the capital city of Portugal is building its reputation as the gambling center of Europe.

Asia and Africa are two largest continents of the world. But most of the countries of those continents were either developing or under developed. So they had not enough funds to improve or maintain their vast natural sceneries and historical and cultural heritages. That scenario has changed now. Countries like Japan, China, India, Malaysia, Singapore and South Africa are marketing their tourist sites in an effective manner and able to woo international visitors. The top animal reserves of Africa are found nowhere else. So you have bag full of options to spend your vacations at some of the stunning locations of Asia, Africa and Europe.

Source: http://www.therealarticles.com/Article/Travel-Vacations/138075

Finding The Best Discount Cruise Vacation Package

Even people who have never set foot aboard a cruise ship dream of being able to sail away for at least a few days on a relaxing cruise vacation. And, it's probably safe to say that most of these same people also dream about finding an amazing deal on cruise vacation packages that would make it possible for them to book that cruise. In this article there are several tips that can help you to find the best cruise deals on the market, so you can take your next vacation aboard ship.

Finding deals comes down to a combination of having a good strategy, being in the right place at the right time, and being able to take swift and decisive action to book hot deals when you find them. It is the principle of supply and demand that still rules when it comes to the rates. If the cruise lines have more ships out on the water than they are able to easily fill, then discount cruise travel deals start to appear. If they are enjoying quick bookings and people clamoring to get aboard, then the travel deals disappear and the prices start to climb.

Any time one of the cruise lines builds a new ship and puts it into service, they have a sudden increase in their passenger capacity, especially if the new ship is a "megaliner." This is a time when the cruise companies will offer special cruise deals to introduce people to the new vessel and to hopefully sell all accommodations. Additionally, the other companies will often lower their rates in order to stay competitive.

One of the best ways to enjoy hot deals on cruises is to be as flexible as possible with the category of ship and the type of cabin you are willing to book. It is also a good idea to book your cruise at least 90 days ahead of the departure date. For the best discount cruise travel deals, it is advisable to book four to six months ahead because the rates are generally lower when the ship is far from full capacity. However, if you can be super-flexible about when you can leave, then you might be able to find super hot deals on last minute travel.

When you are considering the available deals, be sure to remember that the rates for cruises include all your meals aboard ship, your on-ship entertainment, and most of the onboard activities such as movies, live shows, gym usage, games and sports, and dance classes. Some people are more than satisfied with all of the food, fun and activities that are included in the "all inclusive" price.

Whether you find cruise deals or pay full price, there are some additional costs that you should be aware of during your time on the floating hotel. For instance, you will be expected to tip the service staff which comes to about $10 per day in most cases. You will need to pay for beverages too, and this includes soda, bottled water and alcohol. As well, for special things like spa services, yoga or pilates classes, and shore excursions, there is an additional charge.

Source: http://www.therealarticles.com/Article/Finding-The-Best-Discount-Cruise-Vacation-Package/139456

Vacation Travel

Human beings love to see new places and acquire new information. It is their basic behavior. The whole world is so vast in terms of its different people, culture, food, customs and beliefs. People always want to mingle with people from other countries and share information with them. It is very difficult to have breaks in your hectic daily schedules. So when a vacation is on the cards, they try to utilize the time in a best manner. Traveling outside your country and spending some quiet and wonderful moments with your family and friends at beautiful scenic locations around the world is a common phenomenon now.

You must plan your trip perfectly so that you won't face any problem in new places. Proper preparation must be done regarding the booking of your tickets, the accessories you need to carry along, your staying and the things you need to be careful about at your new destination. All these vital information are available on a number of online sites. The vacationsbesttraveldeals.com mentions many attractive tourist destinations of Europe, Asia and Africa. As cruise travels are increasing day by day, the site is very informative about various cruise service providers and their offerings.

Europe is the commercial center of the world. Most of its countries are wealthy and are full of modern amenities and services. Countries like Germany, Greece, Italy and France have rich history and cultural heritage. Various ancient structures and monuments always draw large crowds. International tourists come in large numbers to enjoy the beauties of its clean beaches, stunning mountains, lakes and waterfalls. There is Rome, the capital city of Italy where you can see some of the historical building like Colosseum which is now one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Milan is another big city of Italy that is world famous for its designer tastes. Italian people are very romantic, colorful and passionate. So tourists always find it easy to adapt to that environment.

The famed Black Forest in Germany is a beautiful region with spectacular scenery and pictorial villages. The lakes, footpaths and snowy hills in winter make this a dream destination for walkers, hikers, skiers and swimmers. Germany is turning out to be a hot holiday destination for both young and old travelers. The country of Greece is full of history and culture, with many bits and pieces left behind from the ancient Greek civilization. It is also famous for its mythology. Stories of Gods and Goddesses such as Zeus, Nike and Athena are well-known all over the world. For travelers, the Greek islands provide some of the best scenery, fantastic weather and rich culture to spend their spare days.

The country of Turkey spreads in two continents, on both sides of Europe and the Middle East. It is a country that has witnessed much transformation in recent years, but one that has not lost the magic, rich history and beauty of its past.

If you have enough time in your hands and to feel the nature closely, then cruise travels will be the best option. Alaska cruises, Canada cruises, Bahamas Cruises and Caribbean cruises are famous for their inexpensive service offerings and hospitality.

Source: http://www.therealarticles.com/Article/Vacation-Travel/138077

The Ultimate Cruise Ship Vacation Is Yours For The Taking

When you think about preparing for your cruise vacation you probably picture packing a swimsuit and camera. However, there are a few things that often get overlooked that can make a huge difference.

If your trip takes you outside the country, make sure your passport is valid. As soon as you receive your cruise documents make your reservations for on-board amenities and shore excursions.

Assess your available credit and make sure you have plenty of cash. These small steps can greatly enhance your cruise enjoyment.

Depending on where your cruise takes you, it is a good idea to get or renew your passport. Recent changes in US law mean that a passport is required to reenter the States from Mexico and the Caribbean.

If you already have a passport, check the expiration date and make sure it has blank pages. You don't want to be on the high seas when you realize that it expired a month before, or worse during your trip. If you don't have one, get one as soon as possible and pay the extra money to expedite the process.

Once you receive your new passport, make several copies of it. If it is lost or stolen you will be very glad you took this step. Give one copy to your emergency contact back in the states and put one in your suitcase.

As soon as you get your cruise documents read through them carefully. You will find information about shore leave, amenities on board ship and other things that make your trip the best it can be. Most cruise lines will allow you to make these kinds of reservations on line.

While you could wait until you board your cruise ship to do this, you'll find yourself waiting in a long line instead of lounging by the pool. You can walk on the ship and begin enjoying yourself secure in the knowledge that your massage is not booked during dinner or a port of call.

You may have booked your cruise in celebration of a birthday, anniversary, honeymoon, or other milestone. Most cruise lines have special packages and treats to enhance your festivities.

It is important to give the cruise staff sufficient time to make arrangements such as having champagne and hors d'eouvres in your room or a birthday cake at dinner. Waiting until you board ship is likely to result in disappointment.

Several months before your cruise, assess the amount of credit available on your credit cards. This gives you time to move things around, open another card, or pay down your balance.

Your cruise line will probably place a hold on your credit card for incidentals when you check in. This hold could range from $50-200 per day. It is a great idea to call ahead and find out your cruise line's policy. This is especially important if you plan to stay in a hotel or rent a car since they will place holds on your credit card as well.

Even though your charges are adjusted to reflect the money you actually spent, it can take several days for it all to catch up. You don't want to find out that your card is maxed during your trip because of holds.

It is also a good idea to get enough cash for your trip. While you'll use your credit card a lot, cash is still important. Because of the high rate of fraud, many merchants will not take traveler's checks.

It is also unlikely that your cruise ship will cash your personal check. ATMs are usually available on ship, but sometimes they run out of cash and you will probably pay a high fee.

On shore, some smaller merchants and street vendors will not take credit cards and ATMs might not be conveniently located. Make sure you bring smaller bills so that you can tip your cruise line staff. Bringing cash ensures that you are able to fully enjoy your trip with little inconvenience.

You don't need to have a Type A personality to get organized for your cruise vacation. A little preparation will go a long way toward ensuring that you are prepared and ready to fully enjoy every minute of your vacation.

Check your passport, make your reservations, and assess your credit and cash situation. These small but crucial steps will pay off in cruise enjoyment. Of course, pack your swimsuit and camera and enjoy your trip!

Source: http://www.therealarticles.com/Article/The-Ultimate-Cruise-Ship-Vacation-Is-Yours-For-The-Taking/143146

Cruising Australia's Majestic Murray River

Cruising is the only way to discover the serene beauty of Australia's largest inland waterway. A Murray River cruise allows you to experience the magic of inland Australia in leisurely comfort.

There's something special about cruising on a large river. It is a peaceful, relaxing voyage of discovery. Australia's longest river, the Murray stretches over 2500km from the Australian Alps to the Southern Ocean.

Like the Mississippi and Rhine, it is an economic and tourist powerhouse. Sadly its future is clouded by drought and climate change.

This mighty river has a catchment covering over 20% of Australia's land mass and supplies most of Adelaide's water as well as a huge fruit and wine industry. The river is also a major tourist attraction and no visit to South Australia would be complete without a boat cruise.

Most Murray River cruises operate out of Adelaide and you have a wide choice. If you wish to spend a few leisurely days on the river, a number of companies run 2 to 4 day cruises, exploring longer stretches and mooring overnight at selected spots. On board meals and accommodation are provided and the beauty and serenity of sunset and sunrise are memorable holiday moments.

If your time is short, a full day tour from Adelaide, including a short river cruise, is your answer. I chose Prime Mini Tours because of the tour features, the price and the fact that you can cruise on the Murray for a full 3 hours. Other cruises only spend an hour on the river and this is insufficient time for you to enjoy the true beauty of this lovely waterway.

Prime is also a small, family run business based on personal attention. They provide tour coach transport to and from the river base at Mannum and have an arrangement with Jester Cruises, the boat operators.

Helen and Geoff were amiable hosts, and as our cruise trundled up the river, we were provided with lunch, while Helen entertained us with a running commentary on the river, its interesting history and its abundant wildlife.

The visual impact is stunning and there was an overwhelming feeling of serenity that only a cruise can provide. Helen pointed out places of interest as other cruise boats, vineyards and numerous varieties of water birds passed by. She also mentioned that as a result of the drought, the river level is constantly dropping and this lifeline, relied upon by so many people, may soon dry up.

Further up the river, the old port town of Echuca is another base for cruises. Echuca is home to many houseboats and they can be hired for as long as you choose. These floating homes are the most comfortable way to explore the region.

Many, including "Luxury 5", provide state-of-art comfort for those seeking more than a Tom Sawyer or Huck Finn adventure. Houseboats can be moored almost anywhere by securing them to a couple of stout trees.

At sunset, you will be enveloped by the tranquility of the bush as the Murray casts its lazy spell. Time to sit on the deck, enjoy a sumptious meal, washed down with a glass of local red and experience the serenity of inland Australia.

The message is clear. If you are visiting this part of Australia, go where the river runs, but do it soon. Experience and enjoy this Australian icon while you can.

Source: http://www.therealarticles.com/Article/Cruising-Australia-s-Majestic-Murray-River/139644

Things To Do To Get Ready For Your Cruise

The sailing date for the cruise you booked is drawing near. But before you imagine yourself having the time of your life aboard a cruise line, there are several things that you need to prepare for. Not all of these though shall apply to all cruises.

Three months prior to the sailing date, it is important to check with your travel agent what sort of identification (proof of citizenship or passport) is required for the cruise. Do everything that is necessary like renewing your passport if it is about to expire or replace lost documents (e.g. birth certificate, etc.). Avoid doing it at the last minute which is not only stressful but costly as well. If there are any visas required for certain countries that are part of the cruise's itinerary these should be applied for as well.

Two months prior to the sailing date, make the necessary final payments although your travel agent will be reminding you of the remaining balance if it is due for payment already. Begin planning for the wardrobe you will be bringing. Fit your clothes and check if there are any alterations that need to be done or stains that need to be removed. If you plan to do some shopping for items that you will be bringing with you, it is time to do that shopping now to provide you with ample time to find exactly what you want or to return stuff that you may want exchanged. It is time also to look for a house sitter and a kennel if you have pets at home.

If your kids will not be tagging along with you on the cruise, make the necessary arrangements for childcare and check on their schedules to ensure that they have everything they need while you are gone. If you like, you can tape yourself reading your very young kids a bedtime story so that they will not miss you that much.

A month prior to sailing, check with your travel agent for your airline schedule and make the necessary personal appointments for haircut, etc. If your kids are coming with you, check on what clothes they will have to bring and if they have everything they need. Check on the luggage that you will be bringing if there are destroyed locks or if it needs any repair.

About two weeks prior to the cruise date, get the necessary cruise documents and check if everything is in order (names are spelled accurately, correct sailing date, etc.). If you have questions or there is something that you don't understand, ask your travel agent. Read the cruise's documents.

One week before the sailing date, finalize everything that you will be bringing. Don't forget to bring your camera, batteries and film. Photocopy your passport and ID and leave a copy with a relative or a friend. Leave as well a copy of your itinerary and contact info should it be necessary to contact you. Withdraw the money that you will be bringing with you or arrange for the traveler's checks.

Days before the big sailing day, confirm your flight schedules and check if you have everything in order. Happy sailing!

Source: http://www.therealarticles.com/Article/Things-To-Do-To-Get-Ready-For-Your-Cruise/140201

Cruising For The First Time

If you are like a great many people, you have often thought about going on a cruise, but you are hesitant to really give it a try.

Perhaps you do not know if you had enjoy the experience, or maybe you think that it would cost too much or that you had be bored or overtaken by seasickness.

If you are concerned that you may become seasick, here's a news flash for you - cruise liners have been built for many years with stabilizers that limit the rocking motion of the waves. Some cruise ships even have billiard tables that adjust to stay level, so the waves are not a problem!) And seasick pills are quite effective - you can take them before you have a chance to get sick.

Plenty to Do-

If you are afraid that spending your days at sea could become tedious or boring, take a cruise to the Caribbean or along one of the coasts where you land in a different port just about every night. On a coastal cruise, you usually do not spend that many nights at sea. However, if you decide to cruise across the Atlantic or Pacific, then you will be shipbound for a much longer period of time.

Even if you do end up spending a lot of time on the ship, do not worry there is a huge variety of things to do on board - walking around the decks, swimming, shuffleboard, dancing, gambling, eating, and of course - drinking. Now, that last two may sink you (and the boat, depending on how much weight you gain!) if you are not careful.

Cruise lines are really floating five-star restaurants and there is always a place to get something to eat on the ship. From sunrise breakfasts to midnight buffets, to round-the-clock room service, you will never go hungry!

Most cruise ships have two seatings for dinner. One at 6PM and a second one at around 8 pm, so in order to keep your appetite under control, you may want to go for the first seating at 6 pm.

What About Formality?

Perhaps you are afraid that shipboard etiquette is too confusing, that you all feel like an untrained, uncultured oaf. Get that idea out of your mind - except for higher end cruise lines, there isn't much in the way of formality on cruise vacations these days.

There might be one formal night in a five-day cruise, so you might want to rent a tux or a gown on shore to take with you (you can also do this on board the ship, but of course, everything is a bit more expensive at sea). Even then, only about half the passengers dress up formally and no one is barred from the dining room for not dressing in formal attire. Though most nights are casual, it is a good idea for men to bring a jacket and a sports shirt.

It Won't Cost a Fortune

Cruising is not just for the wealthy. There are all sorts of bargains, particularly on discount Internet sites. For example, a recent five-day Caribbean cruise out of Miami, with stops in the Grand Caymans and Key West, cost $400 per person for a delightful cabin on the upper floors with a big window. That didn't include airfare, although you can book cruise packages that do include airfare.

However, in regards to the total cost of your cruise, there are a few things to keep in mind.

Additional Expenses

Your cruise experience can incur some additional expenses. You are expected to tip the waiters and maids at the end of the cruise, at the rate of about $3 to $4 per day. Also, on most cruise lines the food is included in the ticket price, but any alcoholic drinks are not, so you can run up a bit of a bar bill if you aren't careful. And if you become obsessed by the onboard casino, some dollars could float away pretty quickly there as well.

Most ships also offer tours when you arrive in the various ports and run between $30 and $40 per person. To save money, you can choose to wander around town on your own or hire a cab, which can often be cheaper.

Arriving on Time

Since you will probably be flying to the departure point, you might want to leave a day before the cruise begins, just in case the plane is delayed or your luggage misses your flight. By arriving early, you will have a chance that any delayed or misplaced luggage will find its way to you before the ship sails.

What If You're Alone?

Cruising is not just for couples - you will find cruises for singles, as well as families, groups, women, gay and lesbian, alumni, themed cruising and much more. You do not need a significant other to cruise - just an Internet connection and a good head on your shoulders.

Study travel website message boards for those looking for roommates and travel buddies. Get to know the person and determine whether you are looking for a constant companion or merely a bunkmate. Just keep your safety in mind as you make your plans!

Source: http://www.therealarticles.com/Article/Cruising-For-The-First-Time/143281

Hawaiian Cruises - The Best Way To See The Islands?

Hawaii has often been thought of as one of the most popular vacation spots in the world. People of all ages and from all countries dream of the perfect Hawaiian vacation.

More often, people dream of taking one of the Hawaiian Cruises that are available.

Cruises are possibly the most stress free vacation because everything is included in the ticket price. Vacationers don't have to worry about bringing extra money for anything except souvenirs.

There are a variety of Hawaiian cruises available all over the internet and any one of them makes for a marvelous vacation.

On many travel websites there is a section devoted to cruises and, of course, you will there find a section which relates just to the cruises you can take to Hawaii and the islands.

Checking out these cruise sections will educate visitors on the most popular cruises, the major Hawaiian ports of call, price varieties and the tourist highlights of the major islands.

Cruising Resources - Where To Find The Best Deals

There are specialist websites that talk about the different cruise lines that are available for a true vacationer's Hawaiian vacation. They tell about the ships that are involved, what's on them and why they are popular.

Some sites offer easy to use booking systems, to help visitors plan their vacation from start to finish. Offering links to hotels, island information, and ideas on activities to make a vacation more fun and exciting.

You'll also fond some sites offering full vacation packages for individuals and groups all at very competitive rates, listing the featured deals and with lots of links to information about other cruises, the best places to play golf in Hawaii, how to vacation in Hawaii when kids are along.

Hawaiian Cruises Are A Destination In Themselves

One of the features of some of the Hawaiian Cruise lines is the foreign ports of call. Some cruise lines go to some of the islands that are farther out in the Pacific and out of US waters.

Passports are required for these trips and the frequency of foreign ports of call appearing on itineraries is increasing.

A Hawaiian vacation is at the top of most everybody's list when they are asked about their 'dream vacations'. A cruise is an easy way to get the full featured vacation with out the stress of getting from place to place or figuring out how to pay for meals or hotel rooms in addition to plane tickets.

A Hawaiian cruise also offers a better way to a majority of the state as opposed to picking a single island on which to spend your entire vacation.

With Hawaiian cruises you get the best of all parts of Hawaii and sometimes even somewhere extra!

The choice, truly, is all yours!

Please Rate this Article

Source: http://www.pcwriters.com/Article/Hawaiian-Cruises---The-Best-Way-To-See-The-Islands-/74203

Leave The Steamer Trunk At Home When You Cruise!

There are really no 'dress codes' on cruise ships but more like guidelines to assist you in bringing the right items. Having traveled with a spouse and two teen age daughters, this writer is, however, painfully aware of the cruise shoe formula which is take the number of cruise days and multiply by 5. How else could one possibly pack 35 pairs of shoes for a one week voyage?

But seriously, less is often more on a cruise. The style of ship you have selected usually dictates the way that passengers dress. The shorter and less expensive cruises skew toward very casual and the longer cruises on luxury ships tend to be more formal.

Speaking of formal, most cruise ships have at least one gala night where passengers generally dress their best. Does this mean tuxedos and evening gowns? Yes, you will find these in evidence on longer cruises but the trend is to allow more freedom of choice on ships and this translates to dress guidelines that suggest instead of require formal wear. The dark suit or even sport jacket and tie seems to be edging out the tuxedo and dinner jacket. And even on gala night most ships offer an alternate dining venue for people who just plain refuse to dress up.

The best place to get some hints as to the suggested dress on board is in the Welcome Aboard materials provided by the cruise lines prior to your trip. But again, keep in mind that these are created to cover broad a spectrum of diverse guests.

In almost all cases, shorts, bathing suits and t-shirts are banned from the main dining room at dinner time. Ladies should remember to bring a sweater or shawl because the public rooms may be chilly. A folding umbrella is always a good idea.

Ashore, clothing suggestions depend a lot on what part of the world you are in. In the tropics, shorts, t-shirts and jeans (basically everything you are not supposed to wear in the ship's dining room) are fine ashore in the tropics. In Europe and Asia, travelers tend to be more conservative. And if your shore excursions include a visit to a cathedral or house of worship, bare shoulders or abbreviated wear for the ladies may result in denied entry.

The shore excursion or purser desk staff can provide specific guidance on board. And always check to see that at least one pair of those 35 pairs of shoes are COMFORTABLE WALKING SHOES. Navigating the stairway of the Sistine Chapel in stiletto heels would be an excursion of its own!

When packing, again, less is more for a cruise. Most first time cruisers report back that they used about half of what they brought. Veteran cruisers try to see how little baggage they can get away with. Somewhere in between will probably work for you.

Most of the medium to larger ships offer laundry and pressing service. And some of them have self-service laundry facilities (although we do not think most people consider doing laundry a fun vacation event.) Take a lot of mix and match clothes based on the length and style of your cruise.

Planning is the most important part of the packing process. Don't throw your suitcases on the bed the night before you leave and start to toss everything you own inside them. Remember, during many parts of the trip, YOU will have to drag, roll, or coax them to their check in point.

So to summarize: Make a list. Take half the stuff off the list. Divide by 2 and you have the ideal amount of cruise wear for your trip! A good rule of thumb is that if you find your travel mate looking in the yellow pages under 'Moving and Storage Companies' instead of 'Taxi and Limo services', you may have packed too much! Bon voyage.

Joe Ewart is a 30 year cruise industry veteran and a member of the Cruise Lines International Association Hall of Fame. He is CEO and editor of www.CruiseJungle.com an informaational cruise web site desgined for consumers.

Please Rate this Article

Source: http://www.pcwriters.com/Article/Leave-The-Steamer-Trunk-At-Home-When-You-Cruise-/70678

Cruise Vacations - All The Fun You Need, And More!

The feeling of escape from the rat race is never closer than when you are on a cruise. Out on the open sea, fresh air and tropical drinks, what could be better?

Cruise Destinations - The World Is Your Oyster

Deciding which cruises to take is the hardest decision to make. Hawaii, Bahamas, Caribbean or even Alaska. You can see Europe on a cruise or many other countries, where every few days there is a new destination to explore.

When you plan your cruises you will see all the different ports you can visit for the day and that can be a big deciding factor for some people.

Have you ever wanted to visit Hawaii? Of course you have, I mean who hasn't? A cruise to Hawaii give you the chance to visit all the islands, you don't pay for a hotel and it turns a normally expensive vacation into a vacation that can fit all budgets.

Crusie Activities - Much More To Do Than You Might Think

Some people say they are worried they would get bored on cruises. Well, have you seen the new cruise ships? There is something for everyone 24 hours a day. In fact, there is often more to do on a cruise ship than anywhere else you go in life. It is kind of like Vegas on a boat.

There are movie theaters, comedy clubs, casinos, night clubs, swimming pools, hot tubs, shopping centers and more food than you can probably imagine. There are cruises for seniors, students, honeymooners and families.

Cruises are for everyone. They offer organized activities that you can opt to sleep through or lay on the deck soaking up the sun. You are where the decisions get made!

Addicted To Cruises - Why Not!

Cruises offer many of the amenities of a resort hotel and they even have televisions in the rooms if you just want to relax in your room. You can make telephone calls, cruise the internet, just like on land. The question you are going to end up asking yourself is how many cruises can I take?

They become addictive to those who take them. You get all the benefits of a vacation with none of the work. You pay for your ticket, tip the appropriate people and relax.

Cruises are some of the most fun times you will have in your life and such memorable times with your spouse or family.

Some cruises are limited to seasons like Alaska. The beauty of the Alaskan cruises are the scenery. Maybe a tropical setting isn't your cup of tea but you still have many options.

How about touring Europe without all that time on an airplane - with no ground travel arrangements. You just walk off the boat, explore, get souvenirs, eat local food and then go back to your comfy stateroom!

There are so many cruises to consider and exploring all your options is the way to go. Get some brochures, find one that fits, get on that ship and leave your life behind for a while.

Please Rate this Article

Source: http://www.pcwriters.com/Article/Cruise-Vacations---All-The-Fun-You-Need--And-More-/75536

Last Minute Cruise Deal - How To Find Them!

Is it better to wait before grabbing a last minute cruise deal? This question is often bandied around and the simple answer is yes and no.

Yes, you can get some great cruise deals if you wait until the last minute and no, if the cruise is scheduled to sail during peak holiday periods. Waiting until the final minute would not be a good idea.

Plan Your Trip

Planning for a last minute cruise deal is probably the best advice but how do you plan for a vacation if you are not completely sure there will be spots available when the cruise is just about ready to depart?

The usual practice is for great deals to be available when bookings first open and booking through travel agents is the best course to take. Once the opening flurry settles down cheap prices will not be as readily available.

Be Flexible

Being flexible with your travel arrangements and concentrating on the off-peak times is the key to getting good last minute deals. Cruise companies don't like sailing with empty staterooms as it means lost revenue and the off-peak season is a great time to find the best deals.

If you are planning a trip to the Caribbean for example, the period from September to the end of the year can present excellent late opportunities.

Online Deals

The internet is a terrific source in finding those last minute bargains. It wasn't too long ago when you needed to rely on the cruise companies themselves and travel agents to find a good deal at the last minute and while the latter is still a viable way of sourcing out great deals, going online has presented a myriad of opportunities.

With the massive increase in ships taking to the waters over the past ten years so too has the number of specialist websites increased. Many of these sites specialize in late minute deals and finding one to suit your travel needs is becoming increasingly easier.

Joining a newsletter list is another great way to ensure you are kept in the loop. If an online service is offering you the opportunity to get on their mailing list then it will pay to do so. This will enable them to keep you up-to-date on what deals are on offer as well as news on cruises in the future.

Waing until the last minute to score a great cruise deal will take a little patience on your part but by being kept informed by sources such as those mentioned above will give you little to be concerned about.

Please Rate this Article

Source: http://www.pcwriters.com/Article/Last-Minute-Cruise-Deal---How-To-Find-Them-/74740

Planning a Family Cruise: Set Sail with the Family

Going on a cruise is something many people dream about. Entirely cut off from the day-to-day world, taking to the sea can be an ideal way to relax. But many people put off their dream cruise vacations until later in life because they don't think it possible to take their kids along with them.

You may be happy to know that the cruise world is changing, with several companies making a special effort to ensure that families feel included, and that means planning a family cruise has never been easier.

If you're planning a family cruise, the first thing you'll want to decide on is a family friendly destination. Depending on your budget, you might want to consider cruising around the Mediterranean, where you can take time out to explore the remnants of ancient civilizations while your kids enjoy the calm blue waters and warm sunshine. A cruise in the Bahamas offers a relaxed family-friendly atmosphere where children will love learning about local customs and trying exotic food. And a classic Caribbean cruise has something for everyone, with a host of interesting places to visit and great weather for the kids to enjoy.

Carnival Cruise Lines, in particular, has a number of kid-friendly offerings. With more than 100,000 kids traveling on its ships each year, you can be certain there will be friends for your little ones to play with. Carnival has a have a busy program of events designed to keep kids of all ages entertained; they also offer a babysitting service and a 'free play' area full of toys (plus a video games room for older kids). Celebrity, Costa, Crystal and Holland America offer similar services, while Disney cruises put kids centre stage with a large area of the deck, designed to look like Captain Hook's ship from 'Peter Pan', devoted to them. Disney also offer special cabins designed for teenagers so that they can have their own private spaces adjacent to family cabins.

When you're planning a family cruise, be careful to ensure that suitable cabins are available. Most cruise lines require that an adult (sometimes an adult over the age of 25) share each room where kids are staying. This can make things difficult for larger families. Carnival and Disney offer five person cabins. Although you may see tempting deals offered by the smaller cruise lines, it's often worth sticking with the major ones because they can guarantee reduced rates for young passengers.

Planning a family cruise is all about getting the details right to begin with. Then you can set off on your vacation with the certainty that everybody will have a good time.

Please Rate this Article

Source: http://www.pcwriters.com/Article/Planning-a-Family-Cruise--Set-Sail-with-the-Family/80783

Things To Do In Barbados

If you go on a Caribbean cruise holiday you are likely to stop over at many of the beautiful islands. One that is particularly special is Barbados as it offers stunning scenery and an interesting history. World famous for its beaches and cricket these are two things that you definitely wouldn't be able to escape when visiting the tropical island.

When first settled in 1625 Barbados was found to be almost totally covered in dense jungle with a very large population of wild pigs. The first descendants were African slaves who were bought to the island in the 17th century to work the sugar cane plantations. Now referred to as Barbadians, they worked hard to make something of the island and this is even very evident today.

Something that would reassure anyone going on a Caribbean cruise holiday is the fact that from 1841 to 1845, Barbados was considered the healthiest place in the world to live with only one death per 66 people, compared to a world average of approximately one death per 35 people.

Something that tourists who go on a Caribbean cruise holiday will learn about is Barbados's interesting history. In the past thousands of people would travel to Barbados because it was thought to have healing qualities. With the exception of the head, people were completely immersed in the sands of the beaches of Cattlewash in St. Andrew as this was believed to kill many illnesses. This practice lasted for many years before it started to wane.

In recent years there has been a massive construction boom with new hotels and housing complexes springing up. The trend accelerated as the island prepared to host some of the key Cricket World Cup matches in 2007 and has continued thanks to the large amount of tourists the island receives every year.

Due to the number of people falling in love and immigrating to Barbados, a shortage of jobs has prompted many Barbadians to find work abroad. They then send the money that they are earning back home which is an important source of income.

Barbados attracts so many visitors every year that it is now one of the most prosperous islands in the Caribbean. In fact, the export of sugar was its main revenue earner for many years but tourism has now taken over this. As well as this, its political, economic and social stability has given it one of the highest standards of living in the developing world. This is hardly surprising because when on a Caribbean cruise holiday you can't help but be intrigued by the gorgeous island.

One of the charming sayings throughout the history of the island is that the Mongoose in Barbados never crosses the road unless someone is watching. Many people who go on a Caribbean cruise holiday are left in awe after visiting Barbados. No doubt this is down to the tropical weather, amazing scenery and laid back nature of the locals.

Please Rate this Article

Source: http://www.pcwriters.com/Article/Things-To-Do-In-Barbados/79688

The Ideal Caribbean Cruise Deal That Will Mesmerize You

Cruising has becomes so widespread and the reason is that you can get all the holiday you want under a single package, for instant accommodation, dining in addition to entertainment with the promise of romance and adventure. Adding to it, cruise liners have seen a healthy growth and selecting the correct package from the right cruise liner can make the difference between a perfect vacation and just a normal cruise.

Cruising to the Caribbean is a welcome escapade simply because of its sun drenched stunning beaches. A trip to the beautiful islands was inconceivable before due to its cost but now it is the smart option with its abundance of natural beauty. You get to take out your luggage just once but squeeze in multiple destinations as part of your vacation without the need to fret over accommodation, car and meal arrangements.

With days spend relaxing out in the ocean and trip to the idyllic islands, it is little wonder people can't wait for the next cruise. Spending up to a week in the Caribbean for the fun-filled vacation is feasible with the abundance of Caribbean cruise packages that just about accommodate all the possibly needs of the vacationers.

It is usually necessary to prepare vacation months in advance to acquire the ideal deal but when it comes to the Caribbean cruise deal, sometimes waiting until the last moment to get your ticket might get you the best deal. As there are a great number of cruise vessels travelling to the Caribbean, for instant more than ten vessels cruising to the Eastern and Western parts of the Caribbean with up to a capacity of 1000 holiday makers.

For the Caribbean cruise to fill to capacity, there are deals for as low as $99 for a cruise of seven days with all activities included in one package. That sort of deal is rare but deal for $199 can be found depending on the duration you desired. Be patient and grab the Caribbean cruise deal you always wanted.

There are a wide variety of options available for the Caribbean cruise package and the choice can be to the Eastern, Western or the southern parts of the Caribbean and the duration you desire. A cruise to the Caribbean let you absorb the rich culture as well as the charisma and appeal of its local inhabitants. The Caribbean is a mixture of French, British and Spanish influence.

The Caribbean cruise packages cater to every need and for families, it is the ideal choice. It is usually fully booked during the school holidays even though it is operational all year round. Planning in advance is wise although different cruise liners offer diverse itineraries and that is accompanied with gourmet meals, great service, and comfy accommodation in addition to visit to charming islands.

The Caribbean cruise package is indeed the chance to explore the idyllic beauty of the islands and the ticket to a captivating vacation complete with invigorating experiences. One ticket includes accommodation, meal and entertainment. Alcoholic beverages are even included; sometimes tipping is encouraged and welcome by the crew.

While there, you can take in the magnificent botanical gardens or a trip to the plantation or even under the world renowned waterfalls. The Caribbean islands are a heady mixture of modern amenities and natural beauty. The cruise will allow lovers of nature to escape the modern lifestyles and get in touch with the raw beauty of its natural surroundings.

For those new to cruising, there are a great number of choices offer by the Caribbean cruise liners, such as carnival cruises, also known as fun vessel as there are plenty of activities for the young folks to party throughout. It is great for those who like to party but there are quieter cruises for you to reinvigorate and unwind.

You can go about getting your Caribbean cruise deal by going to your nearest travel agent as they are the one close to the market and able to secure the ideal deals for you or you can get your tickets online. Checking out the company official website allow you to view every vessel and the itinerary that is the right fit. You will not have trouble getting the ideal Caribbean deal you desire.

As each cruise liner cater to different crowds, for instant Disney cruises to young folks and they are designed such that the activities, meal and entertainment are the right fit. So it is wise to check up the cruise liners and choose the one that suits you so as not to be disappointed but make it the Caribbean cruise deal you always dream of.

Please Rate this Article

Source: http://www.pcwriters.com/Article/The-Ideal-Caribbean-Cruise-Deal-That-Will-Mesmerize-You/79603

Mind Your Manners On A Cruise Ship

You are going on a cruise vacation because you feel that you deserve some needed rest and relaxation. But just because you are on a vacation, it doesn't have to mean doing everything according to how you want it to be at the expense of other people's vacation.

A cruise ship most especially those huge mega cruise liners are like small cities with a diverse population of passengers as well as crew members coming from diverse cultural backgrounds all over the world. The only common thing that passengers on board have in common is the desire to have an enjoyable and fun-filled vacation trip to rejuvenate from the stress at work, to spend quality time with friends and family and to have some fun and excitement. But quite often there are certain passengers who get carried away with their behavior and forget to bring along with them their etiquette and good manners.

It is important that you adhere to the cruise's dress code. The ship's daily program of activities shall indicate the proper attire for every evening. Avoid being inconsiderate and ignoring the dress code. Aside from looking inappropriate, you don't want to be stared at.

There are many passengers who pile personal belongings or towels on the chaise loungers near the pool area to save the area for possible later use. Do not be selfish and make the lounge chairs available for other people to use if you are not going to be using it for the moment.

While it is perfectly fine to save a seat for your cruise companion or for your spouse, avoid saving entire row of seats in the show lounge or saving a complete table in the dining area. Do not be thoughtless and give room for others.

If you will be bringing your kids along on the cruise, you should be able to control their behavior. Parents should not allow young kids to roam the ship freely on their own, run around, splash water when taking a dip in the pool, cavort around like horses and play with the elevators not only for their own safety but for the safety of the other passengers on board. While it is true that they should have some fun for it is their vacation too, it shouldn't be at the expense of others.

Be considerate when you smoke and do smoke only on designated smoking areas on board.

It is perfectly fine to jog around the deck on the designated jogging area but avoid jogging early before daybreak as the passengers inside the cabins located below the jogging area on the deck may still be having their sleep. Jog during the indicated hours.

When you are at the gym, wear appropriate workout attire and wipe the equipment after you finish with it. When other people will be waiting for their turn, use the machine for only a reasonable time.

Be courteous and considerate. Bring with you a pleasant attitude and your good manners.

Please Rate this Article

Source: http://www.pcwriters.com/Article/Mind-Your-Manners-On-A-Cruise-Ship/78496

Great Variety Of Caribbean Cruise Liners Offering The Best Cruising Experiences

Caribbean cruise liners has grown with increased vacationers choosing to spend their holiday cruising, at the same time making it affordable so driving more people to take up their packages. The adaptability and ability to meeting the diverse need of the holiday makers are the reason for satisfying the demanding vacationers.

Plenty of activities are put up by the Caribbean cruise liners to indulge the passengers with fun-filled, instructional and relaxing programs for every taste so you will not have a dull moment. Cruising can be done by yourself or with a romantic escapade with your partner and even enjoying quality time with your folks basking under the Caribbean sky.

Even though majority of the Caribbean cruise liner remain committed to the highest quality of service and dining experience, they have different itineraries and activities for diverse holiday makers. Certain cruise liners are family oriented and other cater to different clientele so it is necessary to make additional enquiries before you book the cruise holiday.

With the abundance of information on every Caribbean cruise liner, it is wise to absorb it before making the final decision. At time, it might be overwhelming but it is necessary so as not to be disappointed after the trip. It is essential to check your passport before booking the cruise and if you don't have one, apply for it. Aside from it, you will need to take the necessary formal and casual attires as well as those for theme events. Planning is vital to a good cruise holiday and you need to check with your cruise liners to ensure that everything that is need will be pack.

Caribbean cruise liners have packages for the family and it is a fantastic opportunity for your children to take in the sights as well as partake in the numerous programs designed especially for them. You don't have to worry about your children as they will be taken care of by qualified crews and you can be left alone with your spouse to enjoy the surroundings.

Keeping to a light luggage for your family is essential so as not to overload yourself worrying about the luggage as well as looking out for the kids. Light and casual clothing will do for your children. Remember to bring whatever medication that your family needs as you might not be able to get it while on board. It is also necessary to make a declaration to the Caribbean cruise liner the medical conditions of your family members. Medical team will be onboard the vessel so in any emergency, you can consult them

For the ultimate luxury, you have Caribbean cruise liners offering the best in amenities. They are the not the standard cabin but outfitted with roomier accommodation plus television set, fridge and a computer with a breathtaking view of the ocean. Some may be smaller but it is no less luxurious with all the facilities.

Plenty of activities onboard and deck pools are outfitted with retractable roofs. Even instruction courses like education or gastronomic cooking as well as digital photography are provided. The spa is top of the line with massage, facial or sauna and even meals on this luxurious offering.

You get to watch luxurious cruise programs too and all sort of activities, for instant, dancing, karaoke and stand-up comedy. So brace yourself for the ultimate in luxurious offering on the Caribbean cruise liners.

You can spend your honeymoon on a Caribbean cruise liner too and it is one of the most romantic experiences you will have. Besides exploring out of the way Caribbean islands, there are plenty of romantic settings to indulge in. You will have an unforgettable experience with your partner on those idyllic locations.

Majority of the cruise liner vessels are outfitted with modern navigational and communication amenities that will ensure your safety. Even unusual weather that might unsettle the passengers will be ably dealt with by the experienced crew.

Most vessels plying the ocean by major Caribbean cruise liners are very stable as it is huge so you will not experience motion sickness. There is no need to spend your cruising vacation coop in your cabin even if you are prone to motion sickness. All Caribbean cruise liners are also equipped with qualified medical personnel to attend to any emergencies. All the usual medications are store onboard so as no one is left stranded.

Please Rate this Article

Source: http://www.pcwriters.com/Article/Great-Variety-Of-Caribbean-Cruise-Liners-Offering-The-Best-Cruising-Experiences/81707

Idyllic Eastern, Western & Southern Caribbean Cruises

The winter season affects our mood and if you feel like getting out of the rut, an eastern Caribbean cruise might be the cure. That what your physician might prescribe; a trip to energize and restore you to the usual vibrant self again. At times the cold, harsh winter makes you feel less lively but the sun soak Caribbean will reinvigorate you.

If there is a lack of vibrancy in your life, consider a cruise vacation to the eastern Caribbean and that might restore you. The idyllic and beauty of the eastern Caribbean islands has so much to offer, not just to relax and revitalize but adding the zest that is missing at the moment.

Lacking a focus in your life and negativity creeps in but a vacation to the eastern Caribbean island will take your mind of it as you will be too busy enjoying the cruise to think about it. The charm of the local, beguiling sights of the islands, sun basked beaches and the fun-filled activities will make you forget the dull, monotonous routine that have engulfed your life. Once done with the cruise, you will want to consider a second trip.

The trip can be by yourself or with your folks but an eastern Caribbean cruise will have everything for everyone. Plenty of entertainment such as casino, shopping, dancing to live music and be treated like royalty by crew members serving you meal and drinks when you are lounging by the deck pool. The cruise can be for just a few days to weeks, depending on how long you want to be pampered.

Do not hesitate; book you ticket right now and have the cruise of a lifetime as there are just about every package for all budget types. Caribbean is a world away from your monotonous and dull existence and a cruise to re-energize your spirit and soul as well as your body.

On the other hand a western Caribbean cruise can offer just as much. Majority of the Caribbean cruise liners provide the cruise to western Caribbean as it is very popular with vacationers. Among the benefits are the opportunity to tour various islands and partake in their history with locations such as Mexico and South America and occasional ports of Key West and New Orleans.

Get ready the necessary documentations as you will require it and now majority of the cruise liners requested for it to deal ahead with the modification of the travel laws from 2008. From there, you can check up the offer for western Caribbean cruise by checking up the places you will like to stop over as well as the right vessel for you.

Majority of the cruise liners strictly abide by a quality standard in service and dining but they have different packages for diverse types of travelers. For instant if you are bringing along the kids, then check up one which has plenty of activities centered on them

It is necessary to plan ahead to avoid disappointment, for instant, the types of programs they offer and the appropriate type of attires to bring along. Both formal and casual wears are necessary and some vessels require you to adhere to strict dress codes. Check with the western Caribbean cruise liner and pack accordingly. A sturdy and comfortable shoes is essential for the trip to the islands, thus with sufficient preparation, you can enjoy your cruise to the western Caribbean with assurance.

You can seek romance and bask in the sun on the beautiful beaches for your southern Caribbean cruise. Similar to the eastern and western Caribbean cruises, you will be treated like royalty. All sort of entertainment will be on offer on the southern Caribbean cruise and you will get plenty of meal, beverages, music and activities. Like-minded people seeking romance just like you and you might find your companion onboard.

Get rid of your inhibitions as everybody will be just like you and with plenty of activities on the southern Caribbean cruise organized around couples, you will have a partner for all programs. Most will be unknown to you but that where your journey begins on your search for a partner.

After the entire introduction and mixing around, you can spend time with the special someone on a dining date. As the vessel is so huge, with plenty of private dining areas; it just likes your personal yacht. You can also spend time exploring the idyllic islands. Take in the sights; mix with the charming local, shop for souvenir you're your chosen companion. You may never know that it will spark a romance to last a lifetime, so let loose of the inhibitions and enjoy yourself fully on the southern Caribbean cruise.

Please Rate this Article

Source: http://www.pcwriters.com/Article/Idyllic-Eastern--Western---Southern-Caribbean-Cruises/81725