Choose All Inclusive Cruises
A cruise can be anything you want it to be. Cruise lines are always adding new shipboard amenities, different types of cruises and adding new interesting ports of call. Whether you choose a luxury cruise or a quick and inexpensive three or four day cruise you will receive pampering. All of your needs are catered to for the entire length of your cruise.
With so many choices in cruise lines and cruise ships and so many different options and itineraries, selecting the right ship is very important. Make sure you research all the options available so that you will have a dream cruise vacation!
Carnival ImaginationThis Fantasy Class Ship has just finished a complete renovation. Read all about it.
Grand Cayman Must see attractions include Seven Mile Beach, Sting-Ray City and the Turtle Farm. Cruise the western caribbean.
Newest Trend For Cruises: Spa Accommodations
The popularity of spa vacations now has a sea-going alternative. Cruise lines today are providing private spa decks with spa staterooms and suites. The first ship to offer spa accommodations was the Costa Concordia. Carnival's ship, Carnival Splendor, due out in July 2008, will feature 68 spa staterooms and suites. Look for more cruise lines to offer spa accommodations.
Booking Your Cruise
When you are ready to book your all inclusive cruise vacation there are a few things you need to remember. First and the most important is proof of citizenship requirements. If you book through a travel agent they will tell you what you will need for the cruise you are booking. However, if you are booking it online or through the cruise line you need to make sure you are aware of the required documentation. Get a passport, this is what all cruise lines suggest. Make sure the name on the passport is the name that you book the cruise under. Don't book the cruise under Cindy if the passport has Cynthia on it. This is very important!
Next thing is flights. If you are flying or driving, go a day early. If the cruise departs on Saturday, book your flight to arrive on Friday. Give yourself an extra day to deal with any flight delays, schedule changes or cancellations. If you are driving, plan to arrive at least one day prior to your cruise departure. Always allow yourself plenty of time to get to the pier. You don't want to miss that ship!
When booking your cruise, consider buying travel insurance. It is well worth the extra cost. Compare the cruise lines insurance with other policies such as Travel Guard and Access America. Travel insurance offers you peace on mind in the event of an emergency. Insuremytrip.com lets you compare different insurance plans from leading insurance companies.
5 Things to Know About Cruises
1. You can book your cruise directly with the cruise line. Every cruise line has their own website where you can research and book your cruise. This is ok for those who have cruised before and know exactly what they want. But it costs nothing to use the services of a professional travel agent. Using a travel agent gives you the benefit of their experience, technology and value added services such as getting your seat assignments for your flights, monitoring your cruise rate for any lower or better promotions that you may qualify for and making sure you are aware of all the required documentation needed for your cruise.
2. Don't overpack. Most people tend to overpack for a cruise. Take the basics plus be sure to pack flip-flops or other slip-on shoes for going to the pool or any water-related shore excursions you might take. Some ships have self-serve washer and dryers you can use. Most ships have at least one formal night. A suit or dress will do fine for formal nights.
3. How much and whom do you tip? On some luxury lines tipping if forbidden. Other cruise lines offer prepaid gratuity options. A typical tip is $3.50 a day for stateroom attendants; $5-$10 per day is recommended to be shared by the waiter, wine steward and maitre d'.
4. What the price of the cruise includes. Cruise price includes your room, food and some beverages. Free drinks may include coffee, tea, lemonade, and for breakfast, juice. Some of the luxury cruise lines include wine for no extra charge. Free activities include -- pool, gym, shows, and moonlight stroll around the ship.
5. Cruise ship dining. Most ships now have various dining options: cafes, buffets, specialty restaurants and formal dining rooms. Open seating is available on many ships allowing you to sit where you want. Most menus include lowfat or low-calorie options.
