Are you planning a holiday of a lifetime aboard a ship? There are a number of questions to ask yourself and perhaps some of the answers below will help you to plan your perfect holiday. The first question you need to ask is who you're going to take with you. Is a romantic holiday or one that you want to open up to family and friends. It used to be the case that children and cruises didn't mix but you'll find ships that have wonderful carers and activities organised for children of all ages. This gives them a fantastic time and leaves you free to spend the time however you wish. You need to decide on your budget. Cruising is historically not a cheap alternative but, having said that, there is a lot of competition around and now is probably an ideal time to get real value for money. Remember that there is a big choice of cabin from the most expensive with balconies and a separate lounge through to the inner bowels of the ship (not good if you suffer from claustrophobia or sea sickness). If you're in a wheelchair you must check access with the company. Some of the doors are quite narrow and create a lot of problems for many disabled people.

Cruises around the north of the northern hemisphere are becoming more and more popular but aren't practical in the depths of winter; it's just too cold. Even the Mediterranean can be really quite dull and chilly so if you want sunshine you have to move towards the areas that will guarantee it; usually that's the Caribbean or Mexico where cruising is a way of life. If you are disabled you need to decide if cruising is the right holiday for you. Even the basics of getting ashore can demand quite a high level of athleticism when the ship has to anchor at sea and ferry people ashore. Although most cruiselines will include trips for everyone, again there are some that are physically demanding, whilst others tire your mind!

Travelers are looking to rejuvenate and invigorate their lives while experiencing relaxation and adventure. Purposeful pleasure is becoming increasingly popular. Cruise ships are catching on and riding the wave with their many enrichment programs. Some more than others. Special interest speakers provide a series of original presentations on destinations and topics of special interest to cruise guests. The Cruise Critic remarked of Grandeur of the Seas, launched in early 1996, one of Royal Caribbean's older vessels: "There's also no enrichment program (unless you count napkin folding and dollar origami), though that is fairly customary for Royal Caribbean in general." To Royal Caribbean's defense their International cruises do offer enrichment programs on the following - "Fun and unique" topics with a broad appeal, Culture and topics that relate to the cruise itinerary, Billiards, Anything "Behind the Scenes," History presented in a fun way, Journalism, Art, Mardi Gras, Sports, Theater/Hollywood, Astronomy, Nature/Wildlife, Space Program, "British" topics, New Age, Men's topics, Seasonal and Holiday topics.

Celebrity Cruises offers - Art History, World Affairs, History, Culture, Maritime History, Celebrities/Hollywood, Theater, Music, Journalism, Nature/Wildlife, "Meatier" topics with a broad appeal. Discovery World Cruises provides - Cultural, Current Events, World Affairs, Politics, History, Journalism, Art, Astronomy, Nature/Wildlife, "Meatier" topics with a broad appeal.

Bodrum charter cruises offer an outstanding experience even if you only have a short time to spend. If you visit the town of Bodrum on Turkey's southern coast, you should try to visit some of the private coves along the Aegean shoreline. You'll enjoy this beautiful area most if you explore it on one of the Bodrum charter cruises. With its beautiful shoreline and all its nighttime activities, Bodrum has become a popular tourist destination. The natural beauty, lovely weather, and historical surroundings are features that attract many tourists. Choose Bodrum charter cruises and leave your everyday life behind. Although availability depends on when you reserve, Bodrum charter cruises offer many sailings to accommodate your budget. Typically measuring from 45 to 115 feet in length, gulets are sailing ships with double masts that hail from the southwestern coast of Turkey. Bodrum gulet cruises are valued because of the Old World atmosphere that the cruises exude. These Mediterranean boats are handmade, and when originally designed they were used by sponge divers.

Bodrum yacht cruises offer a more sophisticated and elegant way to sail. Gulet boats are not as large and offer fewer amenities. If you take Bodrum charter cruises via yacht, chances will be greater that you will find amenities like on board entertainment, spas and sophisticated dining. Air conditioning is highly recommended, especially at particular times during the year, and will be available on yachts. But all the rooms on either sailing vessel offer perfect ocean views, so no matter which one you choose you'll certainly be happy on that count.

Many college spring break students have never been on a spring break cruise. They have jumped in their cars and headed for Florida or one of the many beach areas on the east and west coast of the United States, but never thought of cruising. So how does the first timer go about finding the best Bahama cruise for spring break 2009? First lets talk about the length of time you want to be on vacation. Do you want a spring break trip that will last the entire week or just the weekend? This will drop a few cruise lines off the list. Several cruise lines only have weekend cruises to the Bahamas, others only have seven-day cruises to the Bahamas. Second, you need to decide if you want an all inclusive spring break package or a pay as you go spring break trip. Naturally, all inclusive spring break trips will be more expensive, but you may end up paying more if you purchase your own food, drinks, and activities on the ship. Now we have knocked a few more Bahama cruise packages off the list.

Third, try to decide on a cruise only, cruise and stay, or island tour package. Some Bahama packages involve nights at a hotel once you arrive at your spring break destination, others keep you on the cruise ship the entire time. Island tour packages may stay at one port the first day and move on to other islands over the next few days.

Anyone heard about the Great Barrier Reef of Australia ? Most of us would ask – who has not. Just like the Australia is known by the Great Barrier Reef, so is Kerala known by its backwaters. The Kettuvalloms – the Kayas (canals) – Kerala – Backwaters all are synonymous to each other. There is no other better identity of Kerala. Small canals – kayas drawing into the sea make the backwater. The water turns salty with the water of the sea and this makes place for both – the fish and the rice. Both, the raw forms of food add beauty to the surrounding lands and thus the swampy marsh waters convert into the famous and beautiful Backwaters of Kerala. Having heard a lot, I moved on to the lands of Kettuvalloms – Alappuza.

Alappuza District is the USP of Kerala – selling like hot cakes. The backwaters and the owner of the Kettuvalloms – both being flexible make it more popular. Its the thine and the dine which works here. Flexible days, appropriate timings, good food from the Chefs dine and the air of the backwater makes a ride in the Keralas Kettuvalloms the best way spending a holiday. And so here I was for a Keralan Holiday in a Keralite way. Fiddling through the pages of the various houseboats, I ticked on particular Houseboat – Cocoon as it was called, made a good way for the one traveller – that was me. Packing a 12 hr ride for Rs 1200/-, I sat my foot on Cocoon. With a crew of a Chef, a bearer and the Boat Driver we sat afoot on our ride on waters. The comfortable amiable Kettuvalloms with one kitchen, one room and a drawing room en – suite bathrooms was the best thing I had. And was there anything better I was asking for.

TBA cabins are one way to save money on a cruise but they come with a caveat. In the cruise industry, TBA means To Be Assigned. “Guaranteed Rate” is another term that is often used. Either way, what it means is that, no matter what, you would get a cabin in the category you purchased and, if you get lucky, you could get an upgrade.

Why do the cruise lines do this? Usually, the first cabins to sell out on a ship are the least expensive and the most expensive. When all of the inexpensive cabins are sold, the remaining inventory is usually made up of the mid-priced cabins. The cruise line can have a harder time selling these as they may be competing against lower prices on other cruise lines. Enter the TBA or guaranteed rate cabin. By selling passengers a ‘guaranteed rate’ or ‘TBA’ cabin, the cruise line always has an inexpensive cabin ‘available’.

When you make a TBA reservation, you are not assigned a cabin until anywhere from 30 days out up until the time you actually check in. You are ‘guaranteed’ to get the category you paid for or better. What the cruise line is doing is ‘selling’ the same inexpensive cabins multiple times, moving earlier purchasers, or past passengers, or using any of a number of other criteria, up into a higher category of cabin. If you don’t mind what cabin you end up with or where it is located on the ship, this is a great way to purchase a cruise. But, for a good price, you give up all control as to the location or type of cabin you get. (Note: If you purchase an Outside category, you will NOT be given an Inside cabin. This is the only thing you can be sure of.)

Ha Long bay is very picturesque with many magnificent landscapes and seascapes. Nowadays it sparkles even more with the appearance of big sea sails printed with the letters Indochina Sails. In the immense atmosphere permeated with sunlight and wind, one suddenly feels lonely. In the distance, ranges of mountains emerge from the sea. The Indochina Sails cruise ship moves gently towards Bai Tu Long Bay. In the luxurious dining room, every one looks out through the big windows. The European and Asian dishes are delicious, prepared by outstanding chefs and served up by a professional staff. The cruise ship moves out towards the centre of the bay. Hon Trong Mai (Male and Female Chicken island) appears before us. This island attracts a great number of visitors and is the pre-eminent symbol of Vietnamese tourism.

Vung Vieng fishing village is more beautiful in the weak sunlight of dusk. The Indochina Sails cruise ship drops anchor so that tourists can visit the village. The sunlight gleaming on the sea looks like an oil painting, but is formed entirely by the hand of nature. Staying overnight on the Indochina Sails cruise ship is a memorable experience. This is not only because one floats in one of the most remarkable natural wonders of the world. It is also due to the cozy and luxurious cabins on Indochina Sails cruises. Though the buffet has finished, everyone wants to stay on deck and enjoy the stunning scenery. The melodious light music, played in the traditional style, creates an unforgettable atmosphere.

Further information:
- Indochina Sails are the newly built wooden junks designed in the contemporary traditional Vietnamese style
- The cruise ship has spacious cabins and suites with large private bathrooms, a big sun deck, elegant dining room (32 seats), bar, beauty spa, massage, kayaking and entertainment. This luxury is enhanced by the professional manner of the friendly and enthusiastic management and staff.

Christmas season can be an exhausting time for all the Christmas decorations, shopping, meal preparations and other activities associated with the busy, but joyous season. If you want to relax, leave the preparations for other families and take a break, a Christmas vacation cruise is a perfect getaway for you and your family.

More and more cruise lines are providing new ways for families to spend their holidays with them. A good thing about Christmas vacation cruises is that your whole clan can join the trip and share different activities on-board and at port stops, but each family will still have their own, private cabin. Christmas Vacation Cruises also provide entertainment for children on-board. So if you are worried that your kids wont be given their yearly wish to Santa Claus, most cruise lines provide an on-board Santa for children. Your teens could also enjoy Christmas and New Years Eve parties, various holiday contests and craft making. If you are giving a Christmas cruise vacation as a gift for your loved ones, you can choose from different destinations that you think they could enjoy. From a 10-day Caribbean trip to a cruise in Mexico, Hawaii, Austria or other interesting places, your family is guaranteed to enjoy the scenery, activities and one-of-a-kind experience provided by cruise vacations.

Choose the Perfect Cruise Line for Your Christmas Vacation If you decided on spending your holidays with a Christmas vacation cruise package, it is now the time to determine the destinations you wish to see. Although there are only few packages available for most winter cruises, your cold-weather retreat can still be one of the amazing experiences in your familys life. The Norwegian Cruise Line provides its clients with winter cruises destined to the Mexican Riviera, Hawaii, Caribbean and the South Americas. These amazing destinations provide different boarding ports including New York, Charleston, Houston, Miami and New Orleans. Your children can enjoy Santas gift giving and various crafts making while your whole family can keep the spirit of Christmas with caroling from the cruise crew.

My wife and I go on a lot of cruises. It all started about 10 years ago when we got married. We honeymooned on the American Queen River Boat, a week long cruise up the Mississippi river. I must admit that was a fun trip. The boat could just pull up to the bank and drop a long gangway onto the levee and walk on or off...back then there was no security to go through... Our second cruise a year later was aboard the Crown Odyssey, a smaller older ship, on a cruise through the Greek islands. What a trip! I discovered that I love old Greek and Roman ruins, and Mediterranean food is fantastic! Kathy says Greece has the best tomatoes of anywhere in the world. We had a blast, visiting places like Athens, Mykonos, Santorini, and Istanbul. During that second cruise we built a website about the cruise and we would upload pictures and text to the site during our stops in port. We would find an internet café and do the uploading while sipping a cold drink. We have a photo on our site with Kathy seated at a computer at an internet café in Athens, and out the window over her shoulder you can see the Parthenon.

One of the best things about cruising is that you can see damned near everything you ever wanted to see by going on a cruise. For example, one day I told Kathy that if she could find a cruise where I could see the Egyptian Pyramids, then I would go. I think it took her all of about 20 minutes to book the cruise. Silly me. But hey...there I am at the pyramids and in front of the sphinx in Egypt. It turns out that the Pyramids are just a couple of hours by bus from the port of Alexandria.

Now I grew up in the days of the cold war, and it's hard to get used to a McDonald's in Moscow. Earlier on that trip I visited Berlin and we saw what was left of the Berlin Wall. It was simply remarkable for me to be visiting such places. Never thought I would find myself standing in East Berlin. Ok so there are a lot of amazing destinations, but not all cruises are destination cruises. Some are what my wife and I call "Party" cruises. Not much to see at the ports of call, but lots and lots of partying. A recent cruise we went on to the eastern Caribbean was one of the most fun filled cruises I've been on. Kathy had been conversing with about 72 people who were going to be on the cruise on something called "Cruise Critics" a message board place where people meet to chat about cruises. So we had cruise critic parties frequently on board the ship, and went to the shore excursions as a group. It was like doing everything with a whole boatload of best friends you were meeting for the first time.

All Alaska Luxury Cruises take place between the months of May and September. However, if you can avoid the months of July and August as these are the most popular months of all for fellow travelers to book their cruises. When it comes, to which cruise to take two are available. However, long you wish to be on the cruise for will depend just which one you select. The shortest one lasts for seven days and this leaves from Vancouver before returning to Vancouver. Whilst the other cruise can last for seven days or for ten days and this again leaves from Vancouver but takes, you then to Seward where you return flight will be arrange from.

As well as viewing the Alaskan landscape from the boat on which you are, traveling many of the cruise companies, arrange excursions ashore as well. If you want, you could always have a go at fishing for King Salmon or take a trek into the wilderness to view some of the areas natural inhabitants. If you are considering booking on to such a cruise, it is important that you do so as early as possible. These cruises are becoming extremely popular and the more favored accommodation is often booked up well in advance of the cruise season. Plus if you do actually book early, enough the companies that operate these cruises will offer their customers relatively good discounts as well. So for something a little different for your next vacation an Alaskan luxury cruise may well be worth considering.

It is important to remember that a Hawaii luxury cruise could cost you considerably more than a more fun filled one. However, on these kinds of cruises you will find that you get what you have paid for. But if you would like to enjoy the luxury of such a cruise then there are things that you can do which may make such a trip more affordable. When booking your accommodation, although the thought of having an outside cabin or stateroom sounds nice, it can increase just how much your cruise will cost quite substantially. But a great way of saving money is to instead book a cabin or stateroom inside the ship. Although you may not have the same views offered by the outside ones, you will still have the same level of comfort and luxury.

Furthermore although the ship may be calling at several ports during the cruise, if you want to save yourself money then do not actually go ashore at them all. Instead just select a few so you will not need to include further costs for shopping, lunch and the excursion ashore. Although many luxury cruises will be all inclusive, you still need to factor in other costs for additional items that are not provided as part of the cruise package. Along with excursions ashore, the use of the health and beauty facilities onboard will need to be paid for. It is therefore important that you take your time and consider all your options before you book your Hawaii luxury cruise. By doing this you will find that, it is all that you could ever dreamed of.

ARRIVING IN PORT When the ship arrives in port, it will either dock at the pier or anchor slightly offshore. You may think that when the ship docks right at the pier you can walk must be signed, and local authorities must give their clearance, a process that can take as long as 2 hours. Don't bother going down to the gangplank until you hear an announcement saying the ship has been cleared. If your ship anchors rather than docks (which ships usually will do in Alaska), you will go ashore in a small boat called a launch or tender, which ties up next to your ship and shuttles passengers back and forth all day. Getting on the tender may require a helping hand from crew members, and the waves may keep the tender swaying, sometimes requiring passengers to literally jump to get aboard. Whether the ship is docked or anchored, you are in no way required to get off at every port of call. The ship's restaurants will remain open, and there will be activities offered, though usually on a limited basis. If you do get off, before you reboard you may want to use the phones at the docks to call home. This is much cheaper than making calls from the ship. But be prepared to wait for a phone. No matter how many telephones there are on the pier, you will invariably find that off-duty members of the crew, who generally get off the ship earlier than passengers, have beaten you to them. It's an interesting exercise to stand near a dozen public telephones and listen to the Filipino, cockney, French, Norwegian, and other languages and dialects being spoken by the users.

THE ESSENTIALS: DON'T LEAVE THE SHIP WITHOUT 'EM You must bring your ship boarding pass (or shipboard ID) with you when you disembark or you will have trouble getting back on board. You may also be required to show a photo ID or driver's license (the ship will let you know if you have to carry this as well). And also don't forget to bring a little cash-although your ship operates on a cashless system, the ports do not. Many passengers get so used to carrying no cash or credit cards while aboard ship that they forget them when going ashore.

WATCH THE CLOCK If you're going off on your own, whether on foot or on one of the alternate tours or transportation options that we've listed, remember to be very careful about timing. Cruise lines are very strict about sailing times, which will be posted around the ship. You're generally required to be back at the dock at least a halfhour before the ship's scheduled departure. Passengers running late on one of the line's shore excursions needn't worry: If an excursion runs late, the ship accepts responsibility and won't leave without the late passengers.

Thinking of going on a cruise but really don't have the money to spend? Well consider trying a 'repositioning cruise'. Now I know this doesn't sound very tempting or exciting and it does actually sound a little confusing, but bear with me. In reality these are one off voyages that cruise ships make when transferring from one cruise region to another. You could be joining the whales and other seagoing creatures migrating either north in the summer or south for the winter. Repositioning cruises are very popular as the low prices are so appealing and also they are generally longer than a normal cruise giving passengers a truly relaxing cruise holiday, unencumbered by frantic days in port. Many cruise fleets have ships spending most of their time in spring and summer in the Mediterranean then transferring to the sunshine islands of the Caribbean for the winter months. The great thing about a 'repositioning cruise' is that you will experience a real adventure voyage at sea but at a bargain price.

You will find that most cruise lines are keen to fill their ships with fare paying passengers when making this type of transfers and so in order to achieve this offer the cruises at really low prices. To entice cruisers even more they often include themed activities, like photography or dancing lessons to make them more appealing. The thing to remember is that these types of cruises are not generally called repositioning cruises in the brochures. Words such as discovery crossing, eastbound or westbound may be included in the cruise name. Due to the nature of a cruise such as this they are mostly in the spring and autumn. A down side is that you might experience occasional choppy weather as your travel from one part of the world to another and you also may spend more time at sea than you might on a normal cruise but all this adds to the adventurous atmosphere. A transatlantic cruise ship will be sailing to spend winter in the Caribbean and you get the chance to enjoy all the best of the Mediterranean and an autumn sailing across the Atlantic. Other cruises will be crossing the Atlantic and visiting several Caribbean islands before reaching the ship's new home port.

Other great cruises to look out for are those cruising down either side of Africa with the ships travelling to Cape Town or Mombassa for the winter period. Also cruises in South America and Asia are becoming more popular cruise destinations so you might also find repositioning cruises from the USA across the Caribbean to South America or across the Indian or Pacific Oceans. Ships spending the summer in Alaska will almost always feature a repositioning cruise in the spring or autumn that will include time in Hawaii, the western cost of the Americas and/or a transit through the Panama Canal. A downside to consider when taking a repositioning cruise is that you will spend longer at sea as you have a larger distance to cover. Days at sea are usually unavoidable but for some are a bonus as it allows the chance to truly relax, perhaps enjoying a good book from the ship's library.

Since 1980, the North American cruise industry, which makes up the majority of the global cruise market, has experienced an average annual passenger growth rate of 8.1%. Cruise capacity also increased by 450% over the same period, with 225,714 beds available in 2006. Going forward it is predicted that five to ten new luxury liners will be built every year, and with that growth there has been an equally impressive boom in the number of available jobs. Cruise ships are literally floating cities that provide some of the same services that small cities or towns provide to their citizens. These vessels can carry as many as 3,000 passengers and crew members, and often operate in pristine coastal waters. Because mega cruise ships are homogeneous in so many areas, from their multiple mall-like restaurants to the pre-fab cabins, giant playrooms and sprawling spas,cruise lines strive to differentiate themselves in any way they can. Big cruise liners can carry up to 5,000 people, including a crew of more than 1,000, which makes them genuine floating cities. With lengths that exceed 300 meters and gross tonnage of more than 100,000 GRT, onboard facilities include swimming pools, theatres, cinemas, restaurants, shops, saunas, tennis courts, photo processing shops, laundries, dry cleaning and everything a passenger could possibly require during their stay in their floating hotel.

Often, they have spacious interiors, ample decks, pools, and excellent meals. Other amenities that some of the cruise ships offer are on-board doctors, shops, libraries, conference rooms, and nightly discos. The ship will be sized to fit through the Panama Canal and feature a new restaurant deck, more verandah staterooms and new entertainment venues. For certain destinations such as the Arctic and Antarctica , cruise ships are very nearly the only way to visit. New cruise ships are still coming online at the average rate of seven per year, and almost every ship sets sail near full capacity week after week. Close to a million more cruises are taken every year than the one before, and every year ships get bigger and better. The first of the new mega cruise ships is scheduled to come out in February 2008, when Norwegian Cruise Lines launches it's all inclusive cruise ship the Norwegian Jade. There are nine of these new mega cruise ships scheduled to be launched, each carrying over 2,000 cruise passengers.

Cruise ships are the ideal way to escape the every day and head, perhaps, for warmer climates, fun and relaxation, and some time to yourself. Cruising is also a great time to invest in your well being with a visit to the onship day spa. There's no reason to leave behind the services you may have come to enjoy at your local spa. Cruise ship day spas offer guests everything from massages and aromatherapy wraps to steam rooms and full gym services. Is it possible with all the delicious cruise food to stay healthy while cruising? Carnival Cruises thinks so. Guests stay in shape with Spa Carnival's state-of-the-art exercise equipment, jogging track and aerobics classes. Each ship's spa features a staff of knowledgeable fitness experts ready to assist passengers. Spa Carnival also features a variety of beauty treatments that will have you looking and feeling your best. Services for men and women include facials, loofah treatments, manicures, pedicures, and hairstyling.

Passengers aboard Celebrity Cruises are transported to a whole new world with spa treatments inspired by rituals from exotic cultures in the world-famous AquaSpa by Elemis. The largest, most luxurious spa afloat offers an array of treatments designed to take guests to a higher level of relaxation. In addition to deluxe manicures, mineral essential facials, and aromatherapy massage, you may also pamper yourself with a hydrotherapy spa bath, herbal steam bath in the Etruscan Chamber, or Elemis Synergistic Therapy, which combines reflexology, Shiatsu, and pressure-point massage. Or splurge for the Sensory Heaven treatments, offered exclusively on Celebrity Cruises. Introducing a new generation to the world of spa-ing, Royal Caribbean features GenerationYSPA, a program specializing in services and treatments for teens ages 13 to 17. For instance, spa services include Acne Attack, an oxygen facial for problem skin, or Fabulous Fruity Facial, a massage for the face utilizing a moisturizing, organic mixture of fresh fruits. The girls take a break together to enjoy the side-by-side Mother and Daughter Paradise Massage, or smarten up the tootsies with a Sole Mate pedicure. Boot camp fitness classes get the blood pumping to prime tweens and teens for adventure.

Norwegian Cruise Lines operates with a fleetwide agreement with Mandara Spa, a leading operator of exotic resort spas in the world. Spa treatments reflect the beauty, spirit and traditions of Bali. Services include the Hawaiian Majesty, Bali-Press, and Four Hand massages. Exquisite treatments like the Oxygen Lifting or Japanese Silk Booster Facials nurture guests inside and out. For an evening out, guests may finish out their visit with an up-do or manicure. Featuring heavenly beauty and wellness rituals, the Greenhouse Spa & Salon on Holland America Cruise Lines offers breathtaking views for guests as they enjoy exotic skin, body, and hair treatments ranging from hot stone massages and pedicures to hair styling and facials. Facilities include a heated ceramic lounge reminiscent of an opulent Turkish bath, therapy rooms inspired by an exotic blend of cultures, or a hydrotherapy pool bubbling with warm sea water. Whatever the service, passengers enjoy the indulgences that are a signature feature of Holland America Line cruises.

Maybe you're a seasoned traveler who has been reluctant to try a cruise vacation in the past. People who have never taken a cruise have all kinds of reasons for not trying it. Maybe all you need is the perfect excuse! If you can't think of a good one, here are six ready-made excuses for booking a cruise vacation right now.

1. I'm saving the environment. Where else can you find everything you could possibly want to do, see, hear, and eat all in one place? Take all-inclusive Caribbean cruises, for example. You'll never have to get into a carbon-emitting car to go to the casino, to the gym, to get your hair done, or out for a night of dancing. When you get to your destination, you'll find sunshine, sand and surf from the first moment you step off the ship.

2. I like saving money on a vacation package. Think floating vacations are expensive? Think again! There are discount cruises available to just about every destination you can imagine. You can increase your odds of finding discount cruises if you aren't picky about destination, and if you are flexible when it comes to travel dates.

3. I don't mind showing my age. Age is beauty, and sometimes age is savings too. There are many cruise deals available to seniors. So if you're over 65, don't hide your age, use it to your advantage!

4. I enjoy mixing pleasure with pleasure. You can book a cruise vacation that combines the fun and relaxation of cruising with your favorite hobby. There are cruises for scrapbookers, antiques lovers, golf enthusiasts, bridge and chess players, and more. Imagine enjoying all of the perks that cruising offers: dancing, dining, swimming and gaming, plus engaging in your favorite leisure activity.

5. Cultural exposure is important to me. There are ships sailing all over the world. No matter what culture tickles your fancy, there's probably a boat sailing in that direction. Are you drawn to Greece, Turkey or Egypt? Book a trip on a Mediterranean cruise line. Do you prefer the tropics? Try a Hawaiian island cruise. Do you want to explore the rugged beauty of the mountains? An Alaskan vacation cruise might be just right for you. Besides diverse destinations, you can even get a taste of culture right onboard ship. Sample cuisine from several countries. See shows featuring dance styles from different continents. Plus, you'll meet people from all over the world.

6. I think it's important to see how "the other half" lives at least once in a lifetime. Where else can you go on vacation and have absolutely everything done for you? Imagine no cooking, no cleaning, no curfew and no demanding schedules. You do whatever you want, whenever you want. You'll never run out of things to do. Or you can do nothing at all.
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Want to go on exotic holiday soaking in luxury. A luxury cruise is the best way to enjoy your holiday. There are various cruises around the world each rivaling the other in providing the ultimate comfort and entertainment. A Caribbean cruise, would transport you to a different world. Caribbean islands consist of beautiful sun kissed, immaculately clean beaches and lovely turquoise waters. And the cruise itself, providing you the ultimate luxury and entertainment. There are several liners which provide you a plethora of choices. You can choose between a short cruise or a longer version of thirteen days or more. You can choose a package to suit your taste and time available. You can be absolutely certain that you will have the time of your life. There are several islands in the Caribbean. Each island rivals the other in beauty and charm. There are different packages provided by various liners on the choice of islands you visit. But generally the islands for which the cruises are arranged are Jamaica, Antigua, Bermuda and Bahamas.

In Antigua you will enjoy the picturesque scenery. Jamaica would entertain you with the cascading water falls and spectacular mountain scenery. Barbados would enthrall you with picture postcard beaches. In Bahamas you can laze under a shady palm on the beach, forgetting the world. Once you board the cruiser, you will be treated to a variety of programs each rivaling the other in providing you exceptional entertainment. Are you a disco lover? You can dance away to your hearts content. Do you like parties? There are evening parties abroad the cruiser. You can dress yourself to charm everyone around. For your family, a cruise in the Caribbean would be ultimate in luxury and entertainment. For the kids there is not even a single dull moment. There would be people take care of your children for a while, if you want to enjoy some time of your own. Whether you are on your honeymoon or not, Caribbean cruise would provide the most romantic moments of your life, for you and your partner. A wedding anniversary or a birthday celebration, a luxury cruise in the Caribbean would a wonderful way to celebrate.
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If you have never tried a Caribbean cruise as a vacation then it is time you tried. With the exotic and beautiful islands these ships travel to, their popularity is not surprising. A cruise liner holiday is a combination of amazing entertainment, wonderful activities and an opportunity to visit the idyllic islands of the Caribbean. Some people only take a short break and visit perhaps only a couple of islands as part of a larger vacation but most people are doing a tour of as many islands as they can with some lasting over two weeks. Vacations like this are about enjoyment and it what these companies do best irrespective of weather or environment, it is your choice; enjoy the on board entertainment or that at each destination. Cruise liner owners are aware of this and have different packages to cater for diverse crowds so the vacation can meet their needs of a dream holiday with a variety of entertainment packages available.

Planning is the key to vacationing and with the number of packages now available it will be well worth your time to have a chat with your tour operator's agent. Don't forget that there are a large number of Caribbean islands so cruise liners have arranged packages which reflect certain island themes as they cannot visit every island in such a short space of time. Disco loving people that don't like to sleep will enjoy those cruise vacations that arrange activity filled days and non-stop party evenings. Whilst your travel agent can give more details, so can the Caribbean cruise liner website and information on the types of packages should be more in depth. One important thing to remember is the type of clothes you pack for your trip as you will have the opportunity to wear all you normal holiday clothes plus those for dressing up in the evening. Women may want to take two or three evening dresses and men will need a tuxedo, they will probably get to wear it for a number of evenings. The great thing about cruise vacations is that if you take your children along you can be sure they will have a fun filled time. In actual fact there is specially trained staff to take care of children that can provide entertainment activities throughout the entire day and during the voyage.
Tags: Caribbean Islands Antigua Island Caribbean Beach ST Lucia Island Bermuda Island Caribbean Bahamas Beach Caribbean Tourism Caribbean Beachfront Vacation Ocean Club Bahamas Nassau Island

Maybe you're a seasoned traveler who has been reluctant to try a cruise vacation in the past. People who have never taken a cruise have all kinds of reasons for not trying it. Maybe all you need is the perfect excuse! If you can't think of a good one, here are six ready-made excuses for booking a cruise vacation right now.

1. I'm saving the environment. Where else can you find everything you could possibly want to do, see, hear, and eat all in one place? Take all-inclusive Caribbean cruises, for example. You'll never have to get into a carbon-emitting car to go to the casino, to the gym, to get your hair done, or out for a night of dancing. When you get to your destination, you'll find sunshine, sand and surf from the first moment you step off the ship.

2. I like saving money on a vacation package. Think floating vacations are expensive? Think again! There are discount cruises available to just about every destination you can imagine. You can increase your odds of finding discount cruises if you aren't picky about destination, and if you are flexible when it comes to travel dates.

3. I don't mind showing my age. Age is beauty, and sometimes age is savings too. There are many cruise deals available to seniors. So if you're over 65, don't hide your age, use it to your advantage!

4. I enjoy mixing pleasure with pleasure. You can book a cruise vacation that combines the fun and relaxation of cruising with your favorite hobby. There are cruises for scrapbookers, antiques lovers, golf enthusiasts, bridge and chess players, and more. Imagine enjoying all of the perks that cruising offers: dancing, dining, swimming and gaming, plus engaging in your favorite leisure activity.

5. Cultural exposure is important to me. There are ships sailing all over the world. No matter what culture tickles your fancy, there's probably a boat sailing in that direction. Are you drawn to Greece, Turkey or Egypt? Book a trip on a Mediterranean cruise line. Do you prefer the tropics? Try a Hawaiian island cruise. Do you want to explore the rugged beauty of the mountains? An Alaskan vacation cruise might be just right for you. Besides diverse destinations, you can even get a taste of culture right onboard ship. Sample cuisine from several countries. See shows featuring dance styles from different continents. Plus, you'll meet people from all over the world.

6. I think it's important to see how "the other half" lives at least once in a lifetime. Where else can you go on vacation and have absolutely everything done for you? Imagine no cooking, no cleaning, no curfew and no demanding schedules. You do whatever you want, whenever you want. You'll never run out of things to do. Or you can do nothing at all.

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.

With the vast amount of different rivers and canals in France, and having such a varied landscape, you can be sure that you will be able to find just the right type of holiday for you and your family. So, as you cruise along one of the rivers or canals at a leisurely pace you will get to see things that most people will never experience and each region also offers you the chance to experience their fantastic and sometimes unusual cuisine along with the incredible French wine that is as varied as the different regions. Only a boating holiday in France will enable you to fully appreciate the idyllic countryside and architecture from Roman to Renaissance periods along with the beautiful chateaux that are dotted along the banks, with the added plus of the glorious weather to match, it is not like travelling along the Norfolk Broads in the United Kingdom most of the year, when you are guaranteed to get some rain or gloomy days!

There is such a wide choice available for your boating holiday and you can pick the area with the climate for you; the further down South you go, the warmer it gets, but don’t forget that whilst cruising along, you need to be on the right hand side of the river or canal, just as the roads are in France! One point, a licence is required to be able to travel by boat on the French waterways, unless of course you only have something like a canoe! Basically, any boat that has a motor means that you have to have a licence, although temporary permits called La Carte Plaisance are available and are issued by the boat rental company or charter firm that you book with. A la Carte Plaisance is valid only for a set period of time for any habitable boat, which is under 15 metres in length, but there is also permit available for your children to drive the boat if they are between the ages of 14 and 16, if you feel they have a good sense of direction! but this is a great way to get all the family involved in the fun, but you must ask for a La Carte Junior in order to be allowed to do this.

Are you ready for a vacation? Do you need someplace to go where you can relax and get away form everything? Then consider a Bermuda Carnival Cruise getaway. These vacations are filled with excitement and enough adventure to keep you satisfied for a long time to come. The cruise itself will definitely be like a dream come true. Everything will be taken care of for you so that you will have the opportunity to sit back and relax and only do the things that make you happy. Then after an exciting cruise you reach Bermuda and all its beauty. If you have never had the pleasure of seeing Bermuda before, be prepared to be swept away from all the amazing things it has to offer. A Bermuda Carnival Cruise getaway offers their guest some of the finest spas in the world. What better way to relieve all the tension that you have been dealing with for so long. Spas will help both your body and your mind to be calm and feel refreshed, a feeling that don't come around very often. Everyone needs a chance to regroup and have a new start. It gives you a new look on life. A Carnival cruise gives their guest a lot of activities to choose from. They have exciting casinos that can make you feel like you are in Las Vegas.

The Bermuda Carnival Cruise getaway has even more to offer you as a guest such as extraordinary entertainment, some of the finest dinning in the world and many other ways for you to relax and have fun. After arriving at Bermuda you will encounter many unusual sites that will simply amaze you. For starters the beautiful pink sandy beaches will be a site to remember forever. Bermuda has gorgeous rolling hills, extraordinary cliffs and caves that you can enjoy while biking across the island. If you prefer motor scooters are make available at your request. You can go for a boat ride or enjoy something more adventurous such as snorkeling or scuba driving. If you are searching for the perfect vacation then taking a Bermuda Carnival Cruise getaway will end your search. It has something for everyone even the person who enjoys historical sites. If you enjoy golfing, Bermuda has top-notch golf courses just waiting to be discovered by you. The shopper can enjoy visiting the local shops and all members of the family will enjoy eating in some of the finest restaurants in the world. You can spend your day on the beach relaxing and your nights enjoy some of the entertainment the nightlife at Bermuda has to offer.
Tags: Carnival Nile Carnival and Princess Cruise Lines Disney Spain Cruises Star Windstar Cruise Alaskan

There it was, the Carnival Pride, sitting majestically in port awaiting the arrival of the next group of guests to sail to the Mexican Riviera. I was pumped! I had been on cruises before but this was the first seven night cruise I had been on. I couldn't wait to board the ship and see our stateroom, and get started on our next adventure. We were setting sail out of Long Beach California for the Mexican Riviera. Our trip would take us to Puerta Vallarta, Mazatlan, and Cabo San Lucas. It was October and according to the Carnival website the weather down in Mexico would be beautiful. They were right. We had a Balcony Stateroom with an extended balcony and we were cruising with family who were in the staterooms next to ours. After some trying and signing agreements we were able to get the doors opened between balconies so we could all sit out together and relax and watch the ports come and go. I highly recommend getting a port side room when cruising, especially when you have a balcony room. Before we were even completely out of Long beach we had "met" the people in the rooms above ours! The mood was celebrational and we couldn't wait to get the fun started. The first night on a cruise you get to meet the waitstaff in the main dining room that will be with you for the entire cruise and we weren't disappointed. Our waitresses treated us like royalty and were very friendly and helpful. The bar that served the dining room made excellent cocktails to have with dinner and the kids were given extra cherries in their cherry sodas. The food was excellent and we left the dining room satisfied with everything and ready to go see the show in the Taj Majal Lounge. The shows on the Pride are fun and lively and remind you of Vegas with the one exception, they are suitable for children unless you go to the adult comedy show. Early in the evening one night you can go to the comedy show with the kids if they are cruising with you but you can't miss they adult comedy show late that night. That is where Carnival Kids Camp or Camp Carnival comes in. They offer a babysitting service for a reasonable fee from about ten p.m. to about three a.m. They have slumber parties, watch movies, play games, make crafts, and generally have a good time. During the day kids can spend time in Camp Carnival for free but must be picked up for meals in most cases. My only complaints about Camp Carnival on the Pride were; to get to Camp Carnival you had to walk down halls past staterooms, there was no other way to get there. Also, the kids are taken to different areas of the ship for activities and if your child's age group is not in Camp Carnival when you go to drop them off you have to take them to the area of the ship where their group is. If you have more than one child cruising with you it can be a pain having to wander the whole ship to find their groups to drop them off in different areas. I mentioned before your waitstaff at dinner. You will see them in other areas of the ships doing other jobs during the day before they start in the dining room. they might serve you your breakfast in the buffet, or make your coffee at one of the coffee bars. Every time they see you they call you by name, ask how the other family members are, and go that extra mile to make sure you are having a great time. By the time you are done with your cruise, they will know your favorite foods, drinks, desserts, and will sometimes even bring you extra of your favorite dinners or desserts without you having to ask for them!

The shops aboard the Pride are wonderful, they have some of the most beautiful jewelery you could imagine and the best part is, it's all duty free! This is the best place to buy your souveniers. On this cruise you have two formal nights for dinner. I recommend that you attend at least one of them and get the portraits done. You can get pictures taken with different backgrounds and then you look at the pictures and choose which ones you want to buy. You are under no obligation to buy any of them ever. It is up to you but it is a great way to get that family portrait you've always wanted! Another place on the ship to have a great time is the casino. They offer everything from slots, to blackjack, to poker, just remember not to spend all your time there. You should also check out one of the many pools on deck, they have a running track and several outdoor activities on board. Check out the spa! Get a massage or get your hair done for formal night. Each night you will find a Carnival Capers schedule in your stateroom along with your towel animal. Look this over, it tells you all about the next days events, activities, shows, and much more.
Tags: Bridgwater Carnival Carnival Liberty Valor Victory Glory Carnival Conquest Carnival Destiny Miracle Carnival Corp Corporation Carnival orporationoration

Many of us can only dream of spending a fortnight in a top suite on our next cruise, but with the market becoming increasingly price competitive, we thought now would be a good time to compile a countdown of the ultimate luxury accommodations at sea! There are a few things you'd expect to come as standard as a suite guest, such as a handy butler and pillow menu, but we have hunted high and low for those that go a whole lot further. Our first entry comes from a P&O's Aurora. At 76,000 tons she is no super liner, yet still manages to have one of the most impressive suites to be found at sea. Situated at the very front of the ship are two exclusive Penthouse Suites. Spanning through two decks, the 937sqft suites comprise of two balconies, a sweeping spiral staircase, dining room, living area, Jacuzzi bath and a choice of a baby grand piano or a library, but most striking of all, the area is highlighted by floor to ceiling window and patio doors providing fantastic sea views. At a modest 360sqft including balcony, you may wonder how Costas Samsara Suites made it into our top countdown. The answer is; size isn't everything. These suites may not have enough room to throw your own party, but they do have direct access to the biggest wellness centre at sea, covering more than 2000sq metres over two decks. Suite guests receive a "welcome ritual" package which includes daily entry to the Thermal baths and Thalasso Pool, two spa treatments of their choice, two fitness or meditation lessons, access to the relaxation area plus table reservations at the exclusive Samsara Restaurant which serves a range of wellness foods. A stay in a Samsara Suite pretty much guarantees a truly relaxing cruising experience, and uniquely, one where you may just go home a few pounds lighter than you arrived! Celebritys Millennium class ships have dominated the prestigious Condé Nast readers' awards over the past four years, achieving the top four ranked ships in the world.

With that in mind, you would expect a celebrity suite to feature as one of our top spots. And it is well deserving of its place with a suite that is over 1400sqft, impressive enough, however, when this has a 1098sqft surrounding balcony providing 180-degree ocean views attached to it, makes this pretty outstanding! The two suites, situated at the very back of the ship on Penthouse Deck, feature separate living and dining areas, baby grand piano, exercise equipment and a marbled bathroom with whirlpool bath. The suite is well equipped with entertainment facilities such as TVs, DVD player, music centre, fax machine and internet station. Your suite experience with Celebrity starts at boarding with priority embarkation and welcome champagne. Runners up in our countdown are Cunard. Awarding the largest of the famous trio - the Queen Mary 2 -a liner boasting the most lavish suites afloat. Lucky guests accommodating either the Balmoral or Sandringham Duplex Suites can enjoy no less than 2249sqft of luxury. Spread across two floors, you can expect to find an oversized balcony, marbled bathroom and expansive living area downstairs. This truly is a home away from home.
Tags: Cruise Itineraries Sunset Cruise Dolphin Cruise Cabins Cruise Ship Charter Cruise Nature Cruise Line Family Cruise Reviews Luxury Cruise Passenger Bahama Cruise Mediterranean Grand Princess Cruise

The Norwegian Gem is the newest luxury cruise liner in the Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL Corporation Ltd.) fleet. As beautiful as it is luxurious, the Norwegian Gem is nothing short of a floating resort with living accommodations that range from economical inside staterooms up to spectacularly large, three-bedroom staterooms with access to private courtyards and private pools, hot tubs, and sun decks. Butler and/or concierge service is also available. The Gem's other amenities include two main dining rooms; thirteen restaurants featuring menus that span the globe, each offering a unique, elegant dining experience; a variety of lounges and bars throughout the ship; a beautiful large pool; hot tubs located throughout the ship; a beauty salon and spas; a fitness center; a boutique; special areas for walking, jogging, volleyball, basketball, and tennis; theaters that feature Vegas-style entertainment, and a casino with a turn-of-the-century circus theme. There are also many kid-centered activities and areas. The kids have their own pool and game rooms. There are separate, safe, and observable activity areas for the littlest passengers; Nintendo game systems are available with games appropriate for any age, and there is a great video game arcade for the older kids.

For those who are looking for quieter more contemplative settings, there is a chapel, a library, a card room, and an art gallery; and then there is the "Corona Cigar Club" for those who enjoy a good cigar (and perhaps a snifter of fine cognac) and the company of others who share those tastes. The Gem also provides a modern business center and meeting rooms that can accommodate 60 people for those who choose to combine business or educational seminars with their cruise. Freestyle Cruising: Who Needs An Activity Director? Freestyle Cruising is a Norwegian Cruise Line concept that is best explained the way they themselves explain it in their literature: "Welcome to Freestyle Cruising, where you are officially off the clock from the moment you board ship. There are no rules to follow or schedules to keep. Plan on a whim or book everything in advance. You get to spend each day your way." There is, of course, a large, helpful staff of experts available if you need advice, assistance, or are looking for information, but with Freestyle Cruising, you can plan your own day, make your own reservations, and enjoy your cruise, as they say, "your way."

Freestyle Cruising applies to the entire shipboard experience, but back in 2000 when Norwegian Cruise Line unveiled their freestyle concept, the primary focus was on dining. Up until then, a cruise ship had formal dining rooms, scheduled meal times, and in many cases, assigned tables. Norwegian Cruise Line saw the Freestyle Cruising concept as a way to get the formality out of meal times and allow each passenger to choose where to eat, when to eat, and most importantly, choose their own meal-time companions. There are still two main dining rooms on the Gem, for those who prefer a touch of the traditional, but even here, you will find a more relaxed, flexible atmosphere than was afforded to your parents or grandparents in their day.
Tags: Norwegian Spirit Cruise NCL Med Cruise Norwegian Jewel Sunset Cruise Caribbean Cruise Deals Dolphin Cruise Norwegian Ship Cruise Line Pride of Hawaii