Still Traveling

By DT

March 12, 2008 8:24 AM | Link to this

I love to cruise to the Caribbean. A group of us will be cruising on Royal Caribbean to Jamaica and Grand Cayman in November. There is so much to do on the ships and at the different ports. I usually cruise on either Royal Caribbean or Carnival. I’ve had the ocean view and interior rooms. I don’t spend much time in the rooms so I usually get an interior room and spend that savings either in the casino or on an excursion. My advice about sea sickness is to take a Dramamine as soon as you board the ship. I usually don’t have any problems when I do this. The ship’s doctor can also provide motion sickness pills. For a few days after the cruise is over, you will have the sensation that you are still on the ship (a rocking feeling). Overall, cruising is a great way to take a vacation! Bon Voyage!!!!!!!!!

By JJ

March 12, 2008 8:32 AM | Link to this

I absolutely LOVE to go on cruises. There are so many activities on the ship each day. We have sailed to the Bahamas (our “starter” cruise), and this past summer we flew to Seattle and took a 7 day Alaskan cruise. Best vacation ever, but incredibly expensive.

There are plenty of activities for young kids, they have age appropriate activities, and kids’ clubs. My 10 year old niece loved the one on the Alaskan Cruise, we hardly ever saw her…….

We are going back on the Alaska Cruise in two years. I’ve talked to numerous people who have cruised to Alaska and haven’t heard anything negative about their experiences….

My suggestion Keith, is to go on a “starter” cruise to the Bahamas. They have three and four nights out of Cape Canaveral. Try a shorter cruise to test your sea legs.

But definatly plan to go on one. They are a unique experience. And you meet so many wonderful people. Oh, and the food is awesome!!!!

We’ve cruised Carnival for the Bahamas, and we did Holland America for the Alaskan cruise. Holland had a five star ship, with five star service!!!!

By JJ

March 12, 2008 8:32 AM | Link to this

I absolutely LOVE to go on cruises. There are so many activities on the ship each day. We have sailed to the Bahamas (our “starter” cruise), and this past summer we flew to Seattle and took a 7 day Alaskan cruise. Best vacation ever, but incredibly expensive.

There are plenty of activities for young kids, they have age appropriate activities, and kids’ clubs. My 10 year old niece loved the one on the Alaskan Cruise, we hardly ever saw her…….

We are going back on the Alaska Cruise in two years. I’ve talked to numerous people who have cruised to Alaska and haven’t heard anything negative about their experiences….

My suggestion Keith, is to go on a “starter” cruise to the Bahamas. They have three and four nights out of Cape Canaveral. Try a shorter cruise to test your sea legs.

But definatly plan to go on one. They are a unique experience. And you meet so many wonderful people. Oh, and the food is awesome!!!!

We’ve cruised Carnival for the Bahamas, and we did Holland America for the Alaskan cruise. Holland had a five star ship, with five star service!!!!

By Jeff

March 12, 2008 8:56 AM | Link to this

My first cruise was my honeymoon, back in October. We went on Carnival through the Western Carribbean, with stops at Grand Cayman (a nice place), Cozumel (we did the Isla Pasion VIP excursion and it was GREAT), Belize (not really too much to do there unless you like walking through jungles), and Roatan Island, Honduras (a small but developing place, had a GREAT time in Gumbalimba Park).

Overall, other than family vacations with my family - who are very much landlubbers - I really don’t mind if I NEVER take another land vacation - and I NEVER though I’d say that!

Some of the best things about the cruise, from a recent first timer: 1) You don’t have to worry about transportation. Once you arrive at the ship, all transportation is provided other than walking until you get off the ship. One of the things I HATE about land vacations is having to drive everywhere. 2) All you can eat food, 24/7. You’ve got everything from somewhat formal dining in the main dining room to casual dining on the Lido deck to room service, and some ships even have what Carnival calls a ‘Supper Club’, which is an extra $30/person, but features a seven course formal dining experience. (Main dining room is 5 - I think.) 3) The amount of things to do is AMAZING. You’ve got a variety of shows to go to, trivia, bingo, sunning, swimming, some ships even have minigolf! And that doesn’t even mention the casinos and other clubs/lounges! And that is ALL just on the ship!!! 4) At least on the ship we were on, you could STILL find public nooks that were relatively private, such as the ‘Enchanted Forest’ on the Carnival Legend.

For the kids, Carnival has a ‘Camp Carnival’ thing which is open something like 12 hours a day.

For the gym buff, most Carnival ships (def the bigger ones, MAYBE the smaller ones as well) have a fully equipped gym AND a full service spa. On the Legend, the gym was at the front of the ship just above the bridge, and most of the machines looked out over the water through floor to ceiling windows.

As far as cruise length goes: I went on a 7 day for my first one and got spoiled. Not sure if I would like a shorter one as much, because I had such an AMAZING experience on the 7 day. Note that my next one will probably be a 5 day, so we’ll see!

Destinations: As I said, we went to the Western Carribbean, and it was GREAT. Eventually I’d like to hit Jamaica, Bahamas, and the Virgin Islands as well. We’re also talking about an Alaska cruise at some point, though I have my doubts on that one as T doesn’t like to fly. Others we have planned for somewhere down the road are a 14 day through South America (leaves from Miami), and at some point - for one of the big anniversaries more than likely - we are going on a Meditteranean as well, hopefully a transatlantic that also stops in both Italy and Greece.

Cruise line: T has now gone on 8 cruises with Carnival, I’ve gone on one. She has gone on a cruise with another company (don’t remember which one), but likes Carnival more. That, plus we now get free upgrades with Carnival, so we can book a low-level interior room and potentially upgrade to a balcony room on the highest deck. (Which we did for the honeymoon.)

Interior vs Exterior: As I just said, we had an exterior room with a balcony on the honeymoon, and it was GREAT. I think I’ll stick to exteriors, prefferably with a balcony. Though honestly if you don’t plan on staying in your room that much, an interior would probably be fine.

Sea Sickness: Carnival provides a travel pack (one of those little packs like you can get Tylenol in with two pills) of Meclizine upon request. I used one on the first day at sea and didn’t have any problems the rest of the week.

Sorry for the long post… this happens to be a topic I LOVE to think about!

By Christy

March 12, 2008 9:01 AM | Link to this

We have taken the Alaskan, Caribbean (east and west) and now we are flying to Barcelona in April to take a European cruise. That way it is only 7 days and not 14 to 21. I didnt think i liked cruises after my first one, but they have grown on me. Since i have ADHD i like the different ports (i get bored in one place too long (4 dyas in Bahamas and i was screaming after 2)). I just suggest first timers DO NOT BUY EXCURSIONS FROM THE SHIP. When you get off the boat you can find them from the same companies at least half of the ships price. And be adventurous rent a car we do when we got to the carribean and it is great. You get to see more and do more. We did parasailing for 50 bucks instead of the 120 the ship was charging. We went to better beaches and had better food and got cheaper souvenirs away from the docks. So the 40 car rental was totally worth it. And most places that are port cities have plenty of english speaking people.

Oh and in Puerto Rico we took the tour around old PR for 10 a person (air conditioned) following the same 89 tour the cruise was selling. Just walk down the dock and people are selling the same excursions. My travel agent at www.cruisecheap.com jessica benjamin is great. if i find a cruise anywhere cheaper she will match or beat it. she actually told me about the excursions being cheaper off the boat. and she is always available to help even if you dont buy with her. Those Carlton agencies are over priced and they are quick to talk against web based agencies. When i got to my first cruise i had an issue with transport i called jessica on her CELL and she got it taken care of. she gave me her cell because i was worried and she wanted to be available. That is great service. I paid 1k for oceanview room for two people 7 days and that included my transportation.

Take a carry on with you if you travel when it is hot. We wanted to freshen up when we got settled on the boat and luggage comes later that night. Jessica told us that too. Ok i am done.

By Jeff

March 12, 2008 9:16 AM | Link to this

Christy:

You may be able to get excursions cheaper off the ship, but I have two main reasons I don’t do that:

1) Security. The cruise company has a vested interest in making sure the people they contract out to do the excursions are going to keep you fairly safe. Some dude you find on the dock doesn’t.

2) If your excursion returns late and you went with some dude from the dock, your ship may not be there when you get back. If you booked through the ship, they’ll KNOW that you’re running late and wait.

Completely agree about the carry on though. I know our bags didn’t get to us until about 7p that night (after dinner), and we were on ship no later than 2p. If you’re going to need something between then, best if you have it in a carry on.

By TJW

March 12, 2008 9:17 AM | Link to this

Cruising is definitely a good way to vacation. You usually get to see several interesting ports of call without being locked into any one place. We took a 9 day Royal Carribean cruise down to Key West, Cosumel, Belize, and Grand Bahama. Royal Carribean was great, I’d definitely use them again. I have to say that if I had taken a standard vacation to Key West I’d have been bored after a day or two, and I won’t return to Grand Bahama Island… but seeing that we were only there for a day, its not so bad.

The real benefit to cruising it that most of the expenses are covered. I didn’t really uderstand this until we took a vacation to St. Thomas. Your typical sandwich platter (burger & fries) was around $18. Two people could easily spend $50 a meal, and thats eating sparingly… This REALLY adds up quickly.

Cruising is definitely a good way to vacation, expecially for a family or group.

By Cruiseaholic

March 12, 2008 9:25 AM | Link to this

I too love to cruise. We have been on three and I would cruise every month if I could. I do get seasick, but there are meds to take care of that. If you are prone to motion sickness, you can get a prescription from your doctor for “the patch”. You will see many people onboard with one stuck behind their ear. It will work for three or four days. As stated above, I would start out with a short 3-4 day cruise to check it out. We took my parents this past January to the Bahamas and they are ready for another.
About interior/exterior cabins. We have had both and dont spend too much time in our cabin,but I did find that I spent more time in the one with a window. I really can’t see spending the extra money for the balcony, until I make it to Alaska, because there is all kinds of open space up on deck. As you see, the posts so far have been pretty long. After you have been on a cruise, you will want to tell everyone what a great time you had and will get excited when anyone mentions a cruise. Cruising can be addictive. So be forewarned.

By DYJ

March 12, 2008 9:44 AM | Link to this

We got married on a cruise and loved it. We had 20 sailing guests and they loved it, too. We have only sailed on Royal Caribbean but have been please with the ships and service both times. We are looking to go on a Thanksgiving or a Christmas cruise next. And, my husband really wants to go to Alaska. I told him the only way I’m going to Alaska is on a cruise. Cruising is the best bang for your vacation buck. Also, Disney is a great cruise line for kids but all of the cruise lines offer great kids programs just as good as Disney.

By tiff

March 12, 2008 10:18 AM | Link to this

On April 10th me and my family will be taking a cruise on the Disney Wonder. This will be our very first cruise. We have heard so many wonderful things about the Disney cruise line, so we are really looking forward it. Since I am an eater, I am especially looking forward to the dining experiences, and the fact that all the meals are free. To everyone else that will be cruising their families this year, hope you all have a safe and enjoyable time. GOD BLESS

By jc

March 12, 2008 10:25 AM | Link to this

We are going on our 1st cruise on Royal Caribean in June for 7 days. How should we pack? Any advice would be great.

By jc

March 12, 2008 10:28 AM | Link to this

We are going on first cruise in June for 7 days. Any advice on how to pack would be great. Cruise line is Royal Caribean.

By any advice for the more spartan cruiser?

March 12, 2008 10:44 AM | Link to this

I have never cruised and would be interested because of being on the water and seeing interesting places, except I am a contrarian - I don’t do any of the things you do on a cruise including gamble, drink, eat 24/7, shop, and sunbathe. I would be a more spartan cruiser - adults, healthy/spartan food, gym, early morning yoga, seeing exotic, natural locales, not too high-priced, etc. What sort of cruise should I look for?

By Gwen

March 12, 2008 11:01 AM | Link to this

We’re planning our sixth Carnival cruise as we speak .. we’re looking at going to the Southern Caribbean this time.

We thought about doing a land-based vacation this time, but when we started looking at it cruising is just the better value for us. Plus, when travelling with a 4-year-old it simplifies things a lot, and she loves Camp Carnival.

We had an inside cabin once, then an oceanview once and have had a balcony every time since. For one thing, if you travel with young kids it’s nice to have the balcony to go outside and relax while they nap. Plus, we always get coffee and pastries delivered to our room in the morning, so we have coffee on our balcony overlooking the ocean. Can’t beat that way to start the day. And, really, if you don’t feel like being around the crowds and the music up on deck, it’s nice to just relax on your balcony with a book.

If you’re truly not in your cabin much or can’t afford it, then inside is fine, but if you can splurge then go for a balcony.

Now that we’ve cruised several times, we always do our own excursions because the ship’s is so darn expensive. The exception is a long scuba excursion .. we did that in Belize because it was a long trip and we didn’t want to risk missing the ship.

Wow, all this talk is making me really look forward to our next cruise.

By Gwen

March 12, 2008 11:05 AM | Link to this

We’re planning our sixth Carnival cruise as we speak .. we’re looking at going to the Southern Caribbean this time.

We thought about doing a land-based vacation this time, but when we started looking at it cruising is just the better value for us. Plus, when travelling with a 4-year-old it simplifies things a lot, and she loves Camp Carnival.

We had an inside cabin once, then an oceanview once and have had a balcony every time since. For one thing, if you travel with young kids it’s nice to have the balcony to go outside and relax while they nap. Plus, we always get coffee and pastries delivered to our room in the morning, so we have coffee on our balcony overlooking the ocean. Can’t beat that way to start the day. And, really, if you don’t feel like being around the crowds and the music up on deck, it’s nice to just relax on your balcony with a book.

If you’re truly not in your cabin much or can’t afford it, then inside is fine, but if you can splurge then go for a balcony.

Now that we’ve cruised several times, we always do our own excursions because the ship’s is so darn expensive. The exception is a long scuba excursion .. we did that in Belize because it was a long trip and we didn’t want to risk missing the ship.

Wow, all this talk is making me really look forward to our next cruise.

By Cruise Master

March 12, 2008 11:07 AM | Link to this

I love cruising and so do my children. I am the mother of triplets and we have taken several cruises. We have done Disney, Carnival,Royal Caribbean and Norwegian. Each of those cruise lines have special activities for children, and activities range in age from 5 year olds to 17 year olds. The prices are also very reasonable for a family, without having to be at the bottom of the ship. You don’t want your room at the bottom

I have also just cruised with my husband on several occasions, from 5 days to 10 days, and I have thoroughly enjoyed the ride. The activities on the ship and the adventures off the ship—take advantage of the offers that the ship has, they are reasonable and worth the price. I like all of the cruise lines for different reason, the only one that I was not happy with was Norwegian…the ships were older and the crowd was a little older, that is just my opinion.

Take a cruise, eat until you can eat no more, go to the shows and hang out with the children!!!!

By Cruiseaholic

March 12, 2008 11:22 AM | Link to this

Spartan Cruiser, I don’t do any of the things you mentioned: gamble, drink, eat 24/7, shop, and sunbathe, but I do have a good time. The ships I have been on have had a gym, walking/jogging track, trivia games, and all kinds of activities during the sea days. There is even an afternoon tea with classical music, if you so desire. There are also quiet little nooks to take a book and read, or a very small library to check out a book. You may like a cruise to the Western Caribbean. There will be stops along the Mexican coast as well as Belize where you can check out some of the Mayan ruins. They are a sight to see.

By Milo

March 12, 2008 11:52 AM | Link to this

I have been on many a cruise. We went to Alaska (7 day)last year on Carnival and had a great time. The only part of that trip I didnt like was the Flight back (14 hrs). We are going on another next month, We have a stop in (8 day)Mexico, Costa Rica and Panamah. We have used Costa cruise lines and Carnival, If you want a trip with out a lot of children, go Costa, If you have children, Go Carnival. We took my systers child a couple of years ago and we only had him at dinner and then bed time. Camp Carnival for the kids lets the adults have fun as well as the kids.

Someone in a post said they liked the rooms with a view, We always get the inside rooms (We have tried the other rooms)But when it comes to sleeping there is always a lot of light that comes through the windows.

As for sea sickness, All you have to do is go to the Lobby desk and they will give you as much Meclizine as you need.

As for getting to the Port, Fly. We drove to the port on our first cruise and was dead tired when we got there also, you have to pay to park (Yes I know you have to pay to park at the air port but if you live in a big city, you can take the train or bus) and it can cost quite a bit. I think we paid around $15 a day on that first cruise to park.

What most people do not know is that most of the Cruise lines are owned by Carnival. But there is a VERY big differance on each line. I know the AJC has a cruise page but if you know where you want to go try CRUISEWEB.com, THey have good proces and you can choose from most of the Cruise lines.

Have Fun Everyone.

By Jeff

March 12, 2008 12:00 PM | Link to this

Milo:

If most of the lines are owned by Carnival, does that mean T can use her Carnival VIP pass on any of the others as well???

By droy

March 12, 2008 12:10 PM | Link to this

I have been on a number of cruises and have enjoyed them all.They are a fantastic value with all of the free food and entertainment on board the ship. Royal Caribbean is my favorite cruise line and the Alaskan Inside Passage cruise is awesome! It costs a little more but I feel a balcony room is well worth the money. Great views and I am also claustrophobic! Try a cruise and I’m sure you’ll be hooked as I was!

By Gwen

March 12, 2008 12:17 PM | Link to this

No, the Carnival platinum VIP status applies only to Carnival, not the other lines that the company owns.

By Jeff

March 12, 2008 12:22 PM | Link to this

Well dang, so much for that idea!

Main reason we stay with the Carnival line is because of her VIP pass. One or two more cruises and she’s up at the Platinum level. She ALREADY gets the upgrades I mentioned earlier, but Platinum will let us get through boarding easier (at least that was how it worked in Tampa on the Legend).

Those upgrades are NICE!!!!

By Gwen

March 12, 2008 12:29 PM | Link to this

I have noticed how Carnival tries to keep each of its other lines very separate, with its own special qualities. For instance, on Princess you can get the “Ultimate Balcony Experience” and get a private dinner served on your cabin balcony. You can’t get that on Carnival.

The best website I’ve found for information is www.cruisecritic.com. They have message boards on a variety of topics related to cruising. Check it out — anything you’ve ever wanted to know will be there.

By angela

March 12, 2008 12:40 PM | Link to this

I here/see all the great things about cruising. I usually vacation alone. I am single but don’t want to go on a “singles” cruise which to me implies everyone is out to meet someone. Can anyone give me some suggestions or comments about cruising alone? Thanks.

By Slotl

March 12, 2008 12:42 PM | Link to this

My hubby and I have been on over 40 cruises all over the world. We travel to customers during the week, so flying somewhere and staying in a hotel is NOT our idea of a vacation since we are in airports and hotels every week.

Our opinion….cruising is the ONLY way to travel.

There are many choices to be made starting with “which cruise line”. That differs with the age and traveling companions who are cruising with you. Carnival and Disney for children. Royal Caribbean if you are traveling with folks of all ages. There is always something to do for all ages.

Because we are older (and don’t travel with children) and we like exotic itineraries, we prefer Holland America, Princess, Celebrity, Oceania, and Azamara.

Next question of ask yourself…big ship (over 100,000 tons) or “small” ship (under 80,000 tons). The bigger the ship, the more public areas, more passengers, long lines, waits for open seating dinner and (in my opinion) less service and food quality. The 100,000 ton ships carry 2,600 - 3,500 passengers plus crew. The “smaller” ships hold 1,200 passengers (the Azamara ships of 30,000 tons holds 800 passengers). Fewer people, fewer lines, more customized service, and excellent food. (cooking for 800 vs. 3,000 certainly makes a difference in food quality, presentation, and the like).

Favorite cruising places: The Baltics, The Fjords of Norway (to the top), The Orient, Australia/New Zealand, The South Pacific and Hawaii, Transatlantic from Boston to the UK via Greenland, Iceland, etc. Recently, we cruised from Capetown SA to Ft. Lauderdale via St. Helena Islands, the East Coast of Brazil, the Amazon and ended in Ft. Lauderdale. In January, we just completed a 17 day cruise thru South America AND the Antartica.

I prefer to stay away from the Carribbean and Alaska. Too many huge ships with too many people in small little cities.

Our next cruise is in September on Holland America Amsterdam, it is 65 days from Seattle to San Diego via Russia, the Orient, Australia, the South Pacific, Hawaii and ends in San Diego. The longest cruise we have been on is 24 days, so this one should be “interesting”. We are going back to many of the ports we previously visited, but with the dollar exchange rate so weak, we chose to cruise West rather than to Europe (we have been on 10 cruises thru Europe.

What room to choose difers for us by itinerary. If you are traveling to Alaska, the Fjords of Norway, or the Antartica, it is “light” 24 hours a day. If you have problems sleeping during daylight hours, an inside room may be for you (and you save $$$$)

For our 65 day cruise we chose an “outside” room (no balcony), but choose a room in the back of the ship where there is a “private” area to sit outside.

We choose balcony rooms only if the “price is right”.

The best pricing time to book a cruise is just as the itinerary is announced which may be two years ahead (we booked a 2009 cruise last year). If you book early you get your choice of rooms and “early booking discounts”. Otherwise, book your cruise within 90 days of sailing. If the ship is not full, the prices will be reduced, but the choice of rooms will be very limited. Also, have your travel agent notify you of any “specials”. If the ship is not filling up in a reasonable amount of time (for the cruise line), they will run “specials” to book the empty rooms. I signed up at the cruise websites for email alerts for “specials”.

Some helpful hints on what to bring:

Hope this helps!! Once you cruise, you too will be “bitten”.

By Slotl

March 12, 2008 12:44 PM | Link to this

My hubby and I have been on over 40 cruises all over the world. We travel to customers during the week, so flying somewhere and staying in a hotel is NOT our idea of a vacation since we are in airports and hotels every week.

Our opinion….cruising is the ONLY way to travel.

There are many choices to be made starting with “which cruise line”. That differs with the age and traveling companions who are cruising with you. Carnival and Disney for children. Royal Caribbean if you are traveling with folks of all ages. There is always something to do for all ages.

Because we are older (and don’t travel with children) and we like exotic itineraries, we prefer Holland America, Princess, Celebrity, Oceania, and Azamara.

Next question of ask yourself…big ship (over 100,000 tons) or “small” ship (under 80,000 tons). The bigger the ship, the more public areas, more passengers, long lines, waits for open seating dinner and (in my opinion) less service and food quality. The 100,000 ton ships carry 2,600 - 3,500 passengers plus crew. The “smaller” ships hold 1,200 passengers (the Azamara ships of 30,000 tons holds 800 passengers). Fewer people, fewer lines, more customized service, and excellent food. (cooking for 800 vs. 3,000 certainly makes a difference in food quality, presentation, and the like).

Favorite cruising places: The Baltics, The Fjords of Norway (to the top), The Orient, Australia/New Zealand, The South Pacific and Hawaii, Transatlantic from Boston to the UK via Greenland, Iceland, etc. Recently, we cruised from Capetown SA to Ft. Lauderdale via St. Helena Islands, the East Coast of Brazil, the Amazon and ended in Ft. Lauderdale. In January, we just completed a 17 day cruise thru South America AND the Antartica.

I prefer to stay away from the Carribbean and Alaska. Too many huge ships with too many people in small little cities.

Our next cruise is in September on Holland America Amsterdam, it is 65 days from Seattle to San Diego via Russia, the Orient, Australia, the South Pacific, Hawaii and ends in San Diego. The longest cruise we have been on is 24 days, so this one should be “interesting”. We are going back to many of the ports we previously visited, but with the dollar exchange rate so weak, we chose to cruise West rather than to Europe (we have been on 10 cruises thru Europe.

What room to choose difers for us by itinerary. If you are traveling to Alaska, the Fjords of Norway, or the Antartica, it is “light” 24 hours a day. If you have problems sleeping during daylight hours, an inside room may be for you (and you save $$$$)

For our 65 day cruise we chose an “outside” room (no balcony), but choose a room in the back of the ship where there is a “private” area to sit outside.

We choose balcony rooms only if the “price is right”.

The best pricing time to book a cruise is just as the itinerary is announced which may be two years ahead (we booked a 2009 cruise last year). If you book early you get your choice of rooms and “early booking discounts”. Otherwise, book your cruise within 90 days of sailing. If the ship is not full, the prices will be reduced, but the choice of rooms will be very limited. Also, have your travel agent notify you of any “specials”. If the ship is not filling up in a reasonable amount of time (for the cruise line), they will run “specials” to book the empty rooms. I signed up at the cruise websites for email alerts for “specials”.

Some helpful hints on what to bring:

Hope this helps!! Once you cruise, you too will be “bitten”.

By Slotl

March 12, 2008 12:44 PM | Link to this

My hubby and I have been on over 40 cruises all over the world. We travel to customers during the week, so flying somewhere and staying in a hotel is NOT our idea of a vacation since we are in airports and hotels every week.

Our opinion….cruising is the ONLY way to travel.

There are many choices to be made starting with “which cruise line”. That differs with the age and traveling companions who are cruising with you. Carnival and Disney for children. Royal Caribbean if you are traveling with folks of all ages. There is always something to do for all ages.

Because we are older (and don’t travel with children) and we like exotic itineraries, we prefer Holland America, Princess, Celebrity, Oceania, and Azamara.

Next question of ask yourself…big ship (over 100,000 tons) or “small” ship (under 80,000 tons). The bigger the ship, the more public areas, more passengers, long lines, waits for open seating dinner and (in my opinion) less service and food quality. The 100,000 ton ships carry 2,600 - 3,500 passengers plus crew. The “smaller” ships hold 1,200 passengers (the Azamara ships of 30,000 tons holds 800 passengers). Fewer people, fewer lines, more customized service, and excellent food. (cooking for 800 vs. 3,000 certainly makes a difference in food quality, presentation, and the like).

Favorite cruising places: The Baltics, The Fjords of Norway (to the top), The Orient, Australia/New Zealand, The South Pacific and Hawaii, Transatlantic from Boston to the UK via Greenland, Iceland, etc. Recently, we cruised from Capetown SA to Ft. Lauderdale via St. Helena Islands, the East Coast of Brazil, the Amazon and ended in Ft. Lauderdale. In January, we just completed a 17 day cruise thru South America AND the Antartica.

I prefer to stay away from the Carribbean and Alaska. Too many huge ships with too many people in small little cities.

Our next cruise is in September on Holland America Amsterdam, it is 65 days from Seattle to San Diego via Russia, the Orient, Australia, the South Pacific, Hawaii and ends in San Diego. The longest cruise we have been on is 24 days, so this one should be “interesting”. We are going back to many of the ports we previously visited, but with the dollar exchange rate so weak, we chose to cruise West rather than to Europe (we have been on 10 cruises thru Europe.

What room to choose difers for us by itinerary. If you are traveling to Alaska, the Fjords of Norway, or the Antartica, it is “light” 24 hours a day. If you have problems sleeping during daylight hours, an inside room may be for you (and you save $$$$)

For our 65 day cruise we chose an “outside” room (no balcony), but choose a room in the back of the ship where there is a “private” area to sit outside.

We choose balcony rooms only if the “price is right”.

The best pricing time to book a cruise is just as the itinerary is announced which may be two years ahead (we booked a 2009 cruise last year). If you book early you get your choice of rooms and “early booking discounts”. Otherwise, book your cruise within 90 days of sailing. If the ship is not full, the prices will be reduced, but the choice of rooms will be very limited. Also, have your travel agent notify you of any “specials”. If the ship is not filling up in a reasonable amount of time (for the cruise line), they will run “specials” to book the empty rooms. I signed up at the cruise websites for email alerts for “specials”.

Some helpful hints on what to bring:

Hope this helps!! Once you cruise, you too will be “bitten”.

By Slotl

March 12, 2008 12:44 PM | Link to this

My hubby and I have been on over 40 cruises all over the world. We travel to customers during the week, so flying somewhere and staying in a hotel is NOT our idea of a vacation since we are in airports and hotels every week.

Our opinion….cruising is the ONLY way to travel.

There are many choices to be made starting with “which cruise line”. That differs with the age and traveling companions who are cruising with you. Carnival and Disney for children. Royal Caribbean if you are traveling with folks of all ages. There is always something to do for all ages.

Because we are older (and don’t travel with children) and we like exotic itineraries, we prefer Holland America, Princess, Celebrity, Oceania, and Azamara.

Next question of ask yourself…big ship (over 100,000 tons) or “small” ship (under 80,000 tons). The bigger the ship, the more public areas, more passengers, long lines, waits for open seating dinner and (in my opinion) less service and food quality. The 100,000 ton ships carry 2,600 - 3,500 passengers plus crew. The “smaller” ships hold 1,200 passengers (the Azamara ships of 30,000 tons holds 800 passengers). Fewer people, fewer lines, more customized service, and excellent food. (cooking for 800 vs. 3,000 certainly makes a difference in food quality, presentation, and the like).

Favorite cruising places: The Baltics, The Fjords of Norway (to the top), The Orient, Australia/New Zealand, The South Pacific and Hawaii, Transatlantic from Boston to the UK via Greenland, Iceland, etc. Recently, we cruised from Capetown SA to Ft. Lauderdale via St. Helena Islands, the East Coast of Brazil, the Amazon and ended in Ft. Lauderdale. In January, we just completed a 17 day cruise thru South America AND the Antartica.

I prefer to stay away from the Carribbean and Alaska. Too many huge ships with too many people in small little cities.

Our next cruise is in September on Holland America Amsterdam, it is 65 days from Seattle to San Diego via Russia, the Orient, Australia, the South Pacific, Hawaii and ends in San Diego. The longest cruise we have been on is 24 days, so this one should be “interesting”. We are going back to many of the ports we previously visited, but with the dollar exchange rate so weak, we chose to cruise West rather than to Europe (we have been on 10 cruises thru Europe.

What room to choose difers for us by itinerary. If you are traveling to Alaska, the Fjords of Norway, or the Antartica, it is “light” 24 hours a day. If you have problems sleeping during daylight hours, an inside room may be for you (and you save $$$$)

For our 65 day cruise we chose an “outside” room (no balcony), but choose a room in the back of the ship where there is a “private” area to sit outside.

We choose balcony rooms only if the “price is right”.

The best pricing time to book a cruise is just as the itinerary is announced which may be two years ahead (we booked a 2009 cruise last year). If you book early you get your choice of rooms and “early booking discounts”. Otherwise, book your cruise within 90 days of sailing. If the ship is not full, the prices will be reduced, but the choice of rooms will be very limited. Also, have your travel agent notify you of any “specials”. If the ship is not filling up in a reasonable amount of time (for the cruise line), they will run “specials” to book the empty rooms. I signed up at the cruise websites for email alerts for “specials”.

Some helpful hints on what to bring:

Hope this helps!! Once you cruise, you too will be “bitten”.

By Brenda Neese

March 12, 2008 3:48 PM | Link to this

Please advise readers that mega ships like Princess do want to honor & respect the formal nights & many times will ask that passengers remain in formal attire until midnight. Of course some don’t respect those of us who like to dress up for dinner. It still remains a personal choice. There are always many ladies in long gowns & gentlemen in tuxes.

By Jeff

March 12, 2008 4:00 PM | Link to this

Brenda:

Sorry, I’ve only done a tux one time in my life thus far and will do it on VERY few occassions in the future, and formal night on a cruise aint one of them. (Weddings of my kids are the other times.)

Nice suit, check! (dark gray suit with cerulean shirt and navy/black striped tie) But that is as far as it goes.

You don’t really want to know how I feel about elitist scum that look down on people simply because of what they wear…

By MP

March 12, 2008 4:27 PM | Link to this

Our favorite is probably the western caribbean, we love Jamaica. Our favorite line is hands down Royal Caribbean. We love their ships with so many things to do onboard from ice skating to climbing the rock wall. You’ll never be bored. The best thing about these trips is the trip itself. The best advice I can give is to talk to a travel agent. They can match you with the right cruise line and ship for you. The ships are so large now you most likely won’t get sea sick. However, if you are prone to motion sickness, my wife has found that Bonine works the best to control it. Is it worth the cost to upgrade from an inside cabin to an oceanview or balcony room? Many of my friends have asked this and its really up to you. We love the balcony and spends lots of time on ours. However some people don’t see the need, but we love having our private view of the ocean while at sea and while in port. How far ahead of time do you need to book your cruise? This is another one that everyone asks us. You generally get the best deals if you book far in advance. We have booked 15 months our before. However if your are flexible on your travel dates you can get some great deals on last minute cruises. This doesn’t work for us as we both have to plan far in advance due to work.

By Bill

March 12, 2008 11:18 PM | Link to this

I spent 30 years flying for a major airline and have visted many great locations on this planet. I still love Hong Kong. Then I got into cruising. It’s the best value for your vacation dollar. I like Royal Caribbean and Celebrity among the big lines. Crystal and Silver Seas are nice, however, they cost more on a per day basis. The big ships have alot to offer. The downsize is long walks and at times long lines for everything. It’s a lot easier to unload 428 passengers off a 747 then 3,500 people off a ship. The Caribbean is still the area that gets the most ships. I’m considering a MSC ship in the future. Currently, Europe is a good cruiing value as their are many ships operating there. Check out all the lines for the best value. I like to visit St. Marteen and visit Sunset Beach, where I watch the airplanes fly right over your had landing at Queen Juliana Airport. This is something you’ll never see in the US, as you would never get this close to operating aircraft. Meals are so-so on the big lines, much more gourmet of the pricy lines. Celebrity’s dining rooms are still pretty good, although sometimes a bit salty. Their alternate restaurants are excellent and for $30 pp worth the cost. Bring less clothes then you tink you’ll need, the staterooms are small. Check out the dimensions carefully and ask your travel agent lots of questions. Happy cruising!

By Lisa R.

March 13, 2008 8:17 AM | Link to this

I’m another fan of cruising. My husband and I took our 1st cruise in 1998. We flew to Puerto Rico and sailed the Southern Caribbean for 7 days with Royal Caribbean. It was great waking up in a new port each day! Needless to say, we loved it and have been sailing ever since! The boarding and departing processes are a little bit of a hassle, but when you think about the volume of passengers being cared for, it’s pretty amazing.

We sailed on Carnival one time and quickly went back to Royal Caribbean. The rooms and food were fine, but the activities and service were not on the level of Royal Caribbean. More than 1/3 of the passengers on board were under the age of 18. You could hear children running up and down the halls at night and there were teenagers hanging out all over the place.

After that we tried a “land only” vacation in the Bahamas. It was such a hassle wondering where to go for meals, shell out more money, and then you didn’t know if the food was going to be good. Not that we’re eating all day but on a cruise there is a wide variety of food available 24/7 and you know it’s good.

We’ve had inside and outside cabins. If you are claustrophobic do not get an inside cabin! Yuck! On our last cruise 4 months ago we got a balcony cabin and it was wonderful! It was fantastic! It was so nice to breathe fresh air and to listen to the ocean at night. From now on we’ll always have a balcony cabin or better.

You can’t beat cruising. Once you get on board your worries melt away!

By Jeff

March 13, 2008 9:20 AM | Link to this

Agree with Bill about the clothes.

I know we bought a t-shirt in each port, plus one with the name of the ship on it. That’s 5 shirts right there, and we were only on the ship for 7 days!

Unless you’re messy, you could probably get away with wearing the same pants every day - minus formal night - and no one would notice and/or care. Just make sure you bring fresh underwear! :P

Shoes: Ladies may tell you differently, but I could have gotten away with just one pair of dress shoes and my sandals. Good thing, because I have massive (size 13-15, depending on the brand) shoes! I wore my sandals MOST of the time, and my dress shoes to dinner most nights. If you don’t care for formal night and want to simply eat dinner in the other food areas on ship, a man can get away with just sandals!

By btatscool

March 15, 2008 8:45 PM | Link to this

Where could I find several Finasteride ? please tell me