Is anything more luxurious than taking a cruise holiday?
Traveling to exotic locations on a luxury ship, catching
sunrays, and breathing the salty breezes can renew and
replenish anyone, no matter how shopworn from the cares of
work. However, a cruise holiday requires planning in order
to be the best it can be. Check out these tips to have a
cruise experience you will remember.
So where do you start when planning a cruise holiday? First,
what is your budget like? Do you need to hold down expenses?
Then here are a few tips for economizing on your cruise
holiday.
When scheduling your cruise holiday, you should be aware
that there are off season and on season dates, and that you
want to schedule your trip in the off season to get the best
deal. What you may not know, however, is that cruise lines
actually change prices a number of times throughout the
year. Ask and find out when their absolute lowest season
prices are. In addition, keep your plans somewhat flexible
so that you can change ships at the last minute. Sometimes a
ship is not filled to capacity, so the cruise line will sell
the last few tickets at a real bargain. It is always to
their advantage to sail filled to capacity because people on
holiday spend money on souvenirs, drinks, etc. Use this
knowledge to get a really great deal.
Where you cruise to on your holiday can make a big
difference in your cost as well. If you pick a popular spot,
you can travel cheaper than if you choose a less popular
spot. Another consideration is whether you really care about
those ports of call. If you just want to stay on the ocean
liner and enjoy the luxuries, book a cruise that doesn't
stop anywhere. These "cruises to nowhere" are just as
luxurious as the others but cost less.
To be safe on a cruise holiday, don't take a lot of
expensive equipment or jewelry with you. Make sure your
passport, health insurance, and other papers are up to date.
Be sure to ask about laws you may inadvertently be breaking
when you get off the shore you are accustomed to. Laws in
ports and even in the water can vary, and you sure don't
want a big hassle with a foreign law enforcement agency.
To travel lighter, find out about equipment that will be
available on the ship. For instance, if the cruise line
provides irons or hair dryers, you won't need to pack yours.
Also pack your own sample size shampoo, toothpaste, and
other toiletries because these items will cost more in the
gift shop. You should have access to laundry facilities on
your cruise holiday, so you don't have to take a huge amount
of clothing. Pick a wrinkle proof lightweight outfit for
every two or three days and pick separates in colors that
coordinate so you can get different looks. Be sure to pack a
formal and or semi-formal outfit if you will be taking part
in these sort of activities on your cruise holiday. |