Aloha! On the mainland this traditional greeting means hello. In the Hawaiian language it means so much more - love, compassion, and affection. A word that expresses warmth. What better greeting for a destination with a warm culture, warm and friendly people and year-round warm temperatures?
As you catch your first glimpse of Hawaii's diverse paradise, colors abound: deep blue waters, lush green valleys, black, green and white sand beaches and the mist and red flowing lava of an active volcano. For the romantic, the adventurer, or the photographer, the landscapes provided by Hawaii are a backdrop for everlasting memories. Imagine soaring cliffs with rugged edges, exotic plants and flowers, cascading waterfalls and beautiful beaches. Whether staying at a resort, a boutique hotel or choosing to island hop via cruise ship, Hawaii's unique natural wonders will thrill your senses. The six major islands in Hawaii include: Hawaii's Big Island, which continues to grow to this very day, Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, and Maui. They each have their own persona, charm and beauty.
If you're hoping to catch a sight of the majestic humpback whales, make sure to visit Oahu and Maui. These glorious creatures migrate to Hawaii each year from December to May to breed and give birth to new calves. February and March may be the best time for viewing. While there, they put on quite a show for onlookers with their acrobatic antics. Not shy, they often will saddle up next to a boat and glide alongside in their slow and graceful way and stare you right in the eye.
For the sportsmen, choices abound in the diverse Hawaiian environment. Take the plunge and catch a wave and a few lessons in the land of big wave surfing. Some of the best surf competitions take place in Hawaii during the months of November and December. If you prefer to stay dry, enjoy a round of golf at some of the most scenic course around. Hawaii attracts golfers from all over the world to its more than 70 stunning golf courses. Find the perfect spot on any of Hawaii's six islands.
If you're looking for an easy way to get an overview of the islands, Norwegian Cruise Line offers a Hawaiian cruise to four islands in seven days onboard the Pride of America. Their Golf Program offers excursions to Hawaii's top courses. With nearly 100 hours in port, you'll be able to explore natural wonders, historic sites such as Pearl Harbor and much more. This is a cruise where the destination is the focus! If there's a particular island you want to explore more in-depth, a longer stay at a selected resort may be a better choice. How ever you choose to visit Hawaii...it's a destination to put on your bucket list. So pull up your anchor and make plans to see for yourself the place that Mark Twain described as, "The loveliest fleet of islands that lies anchored in any ocean."
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Friday, June 25, 2010
Tips for the First Time Cruiser
Cruising...once you've experienced it, you just can't get it out of your system. With each and every cruise you learn something new. Before you know it you're sharing your enthusiasm with novices as well as your fellow avid cruisers. However, before you get to that point, you have to step foot on your first ship. Beware and cast off with caution! Even the most skeptical cruiser has become hooked! You just might be next.
For those of you who are casting off for the first time, here are a few tips.
1) Basic Cruise Terminology:
embarkation: getting on the ship
debarkation: getting off the ship
port: left side of the ship (usually the side you dock on)
starboard: right side of the ship
aft: the rear of the ship
fore: the front of the ship
2) How to choose a cruise:
It's hard to go wrong on a cruise vacation, but a bit of planning will make sure you get the most bang for your buck! You'll want to consider 3 factors when choosing your cruise: cruise line or ship, itinerary, and budget. Each cruise line has a slightly different personality and amenities. With a little research you or your travel agent will match you to that perfect ship. Cruise lines fall into four categories - contemporary, premium, deluxe and luxury. Your budget and lifestyle will determine which you prefer. A few of the names you hear about so often - Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and Princess are considered Contemporary lines. Whichever level of luxury you choose, a ship is a destination in itself!
Living in the Southeast, many of us think Caribbean when we think cruise, but your itinerary choices are endless! According to the Cruise Line International Association, the "hot" destinations for 2010 include the Mediterranean, Alaska, European Rivers, Europe, Hawaii, the Panama Canal, and of course, the ever popular Caribbean and Bahamas. When choosing your itinerary, you should also consider your port of embarkation and debarkation. Ask yourself, "Do I want to fly or drive to the port?" The choice is yours.
3) Best Time to Cruise?
Everyone knows that anytime is a great time to cruise! If your heart is set on a specific locale, advance planning is a must. The Caribbean is a year round destination, but more exotic locations will require some scheduling. You can usually count on the following calendar as a general guide: Alaska - May to September, Europe - April to November, Bermuda - April to October, the Panama Canal -September to April.
4) Passports / Visas / Identification:
It's best practice for everyone who is cruising and traveling to foreign ports to obtain a passport. If you get sick or are detained and can't return via the ship, you will not be able to reenter the U.S. without a passport. Though unlikely, that would be a headache no one wants to deal with on vacation! It's also advisable to make three copies of your identification: passport, visa (if required), birth certificate and driver's license. Keep a copy in your checked baggage, in your carry-on baggage and leave a copy at home with someone. Visas are only required in certain countries. The list can be found on the U.S. State Department's Travel Website.
5) Best Cabin Location:
Once again, this is going to depend on personal preference. Typically, the higher you go on the ship, the more expensive the cabins become. Some people prefer the higher cabins for the view. However, if you are prone to motion sickness you are better off on a lower level and mid-ship. If noise is a concern avoid placement below large public areas or across from the elevator.
6) Will I get seasick?
The cruise ships today have stabilizers that assist in regulating the motion of the ship at sea. But let's be honest. The ocean is an unpredictable force, so rough seas are always a possibility. If you're very sensitive to motion, you'll feel less of it on the larger ships and don't forget the importance of that strategic cabin placement - lower and mid-ship! Many over the counter medications for seasickness seem to work well for most people, including Dramamine and Bonine.
7) Tipping:
First time cruisers might easily be caught off guard by the amount of tipping involved in their first cruise. Be sure to take plenty of one dollar bills just for this purpose. The tipping will begin at the port when your luggage is unloaded. Sorry do-it-yourselfers. You are probably out of luck here! You'll want to be prepared for any taxi rides in the port cities as well. Onboard gratuities are usually added to your final bill on the last night or you have the option of tipping in person. The cruise line provides recommended amounts for each service person.
8) Safety:
Modern cruise ships obey international and national maritime codes for seaworthiness and fire safety. They are equipped with lifeboats, modern telecommunications and have doctors on staff to treat cruisers during an emergency. Within a few hours of boarding your ship, you'll be required to participate in a safety drill at a "muster" station. During this drill, you'll be instructed where to find your life jacket, how to properly wear it, and where your designated area is to report to during an emergency. It's very important to participate during this drill. After all, it's part of the tradition of the first day at sea!
As far as safety in port is concerned, it's usually advisable not to wear flashy jewelry and keep an eye on your wallets and purses, as petty thefts can be a problem for tourists. If you aren't familiar with a port, the safest way to enjoy the area is through a ship-sponsored excursion. Be cautious about getting off the beaten path in unfamiliar territory. A little research before the trip will indicate which areas have safety issues. Most of the time, everyone is friendly to tourists and you'll have a wonderful time with no incidents.
9) How will the children be entertained?
A cruise is a paradise for children and parents alike. The cruise lines have awesome supervised childrens's programs, broken up into appropriate age groups. Most cruise lines require their workers to have college degrees in education or another related field to work in this program. The children will have so much fun they won't mind Mom and Dad sneaking off for a little alone time.
10) What's NOT included in a cruise?
Cruises are basically considered all-inclusive vacations. Even so, there are some
items that are extra. Usually, your gratuities are not included. Also, though food and drinks are included in your cruise fare, soft drinks and alcoholic beverages are not. Excursions, those fun adventures you take at the ports of call, will be extra. Specialty restaurants are fun and delicious, but they carry a small surcharge - up to $20 to $25 per person. If you're on a tight budget, the dining room and buffets will serve you just fine. Even with a few extras thrown in, cruising is still one of the best values out there!
Relaxation, fun, entertainment, food, adventure, a get-away you'll never forget! If you'd like to plan your next cruise escape, we would love to assist you at CruiseOne - Cathy & Lon Brooks. 770-456-5631. www.cruise2escape.com
For those of you who are casting off for the first time, here are a few tips.
1) Basic Cruise Terminology:
embarkation: getting on the ship
debarkation: getting off the ship
port: left side of the ship (usually the side you dock on)
starboard: right side of the ship
aft: the rear of the ship
fore: the front of the ship
2) How to choose a cruise:
It's hard to go wrong on a cruise vacation, but a bit of planning will make sure you get the most bang for your buck! You'll want to consider 3 factors when choosing your cruise: cruise line or ship, itinerary, and budget. Each cruise line has a slightly different personality and amenities. With a little research you or your travel agent will match you to that perfect ship. Cruise lines fall into four categories - contemporary, premium, deluxe and luxury. Your budget and lifestyle will determine which you prefer. A few of the names you hear about so often - Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and Princess are considered Contemporary lines. Whichever level of luxury you choose, a ship is a destination in itself!
Living in the Southeast, many of us think Caribbean when we think cruise, but your itinerary choices are endless! According to the Cruise Line International Association, the "hot" destinations for 2010 include the Mediterranean, Alaska, European Rivers, Europe, Hawaii, the Panama Canal, and of course, the ever popular Caribbean and Bahamas. When choosing your itinerary, you should also consider your port of embarkation and debarkation. Ask yourself, "Do I want to fly or drive to the port?" The choice is yours.
3) Best Time to Cruise?
Everyone knows that anytime is a great time to cruise! If your heart is set on a specific locale, advance planning is a must. The Caribbean is a year round destination, but more exotic locations will require some scheduling. You can usually count on the following calendar as a general guide: Alaska - May to September, Europe - April to November, Bermuda - April to October, the Panama Canal -September to April.
4) Passports / Visas / Identification:
It's best practice for everyone who is cruising and traveling to foreign ports to obtain a passport. If you get sick or are detained and can't return via the ship, you will not be able to reenter the U.S. without a passport. Though unlikely, that would be a headache no one wants to deal with on vacation! It's also advisable to make three copies of your identification: passport, visa (if required), birth certificate and driver's license. Keep a copy in your checked baggage, in your carry-on baggage and leave a copy at home with someone. Visas are only required in certain countries. The list can be found on the U.S. State Department's Travel Website.
5) Best Cabin Location:
Once again, this is going to depend on personal preference. Typically, the higher you go on the ship, the more expensive the cabins become. Some people prefer the higher cabins for the view. However, if you are prone to motion sickness you are better off on a lower level and mid-ship. If noise is a concern avoid placement below large public areas or across from the elevator.
6) Will I get seasick?
The cruise ships today have stabilizers that assist in regulating the motion of the ship at sea. But let's be honest. The ocean is an unpredictable force, so rough seas are always a possibility. If you're very sensitive to motion, you'll feel less of it on the larger ships and don't forget the importance of that strategic cabin placement - lower and mid-ship! Many over the counter medications for seasickness seem to work well for most people, including Dramamine and Bonine.
7) Tipping:
First time cruisers might easily be caught off guard by the amount of tipping involved in their first cruise. Be sure to take plenty of one dollar bills just for this purpose. The tipping will begin at the port when your luggage is unloaded. Sorry do-it-yourselfers. You are probably out of luck here! You'll want to be prepared for any taxi rides in the port cities as well. Onboard gratuities are usually added to your final bill on the last night or you have the option of tipping in person. The cruise line provides recommended amounts for each service person.
8) Safety:
Modern cruise ships obey international and national maritime codes for seaworthiness and fire safety. They are equipped with lifeboats, modern telecommunications and have doctors on staff to treat cruisers during an emergency. Within a few hours of boarding your ship, you'll be required to participate in a safety drill at a "muster" station. During this drill, you'll be instructed where to find your life jacket, how to properly wear it, and where your designated area is to report to during an emergency. It's very important to participate during this drill. After all, it's part of the tradition of the first day at sea!
As far as safety in port is concerned, it's usually advisable not to wear flashy jewelry and keep an eye on your wallets and purses, as petty thefts can be a problem for tourists. If you aren't familiar with a port, the safest way to enjoy the area is through a ship-sponsored excursion. Be cautious about getting off the beaten path in unfamiliar territory. A little research before the trip will indicate which areas have safety issues. Most of the time, everyone is friendly to tourists and you'll have a wonderful time with no incidents.
9) How will the children be entertained?
A cruise is a paradise for children and parents alike. The cruise lines have awesome supervised childrens's programs, broken up into appropriate age groups. Most cruise lines require their workers to have college degrees in education or another related field to work in this program. The children will have so much fun they won't mind Mom and Dad sneaking off for a little alone time.
10) What's NOT included in a cruise?
Cruises are basically considered all-inclusive vacations. Even so, there are some
items that are extra. Usually, your gratuities are not included. Also, though food and drinks are included in your cruise fare, soft drinks and alcoholic beverages are not. Excursions, those fun adventures you take at the ports of call, will be extra. Specialty restaurants are fun and delicious, but they carry a small surcharge - up to $20 to $25 per person. If you're on a tight budget, the dining room and buffets will serve you just fine. Even with a few extras thrown in, cruising is still one of the best values out there!
Relaxation, fun, entertainment, food, adventure, a get-away you'll never forget! If you'd like to plan your next cruise escape, we would love to assist you at CruiseOne - Cathy & Lon Brooks. 770-456-5631. www.cruise2escape.com
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Anticipatory Fun
How do you make a one week vacation experience last for months or even up to a year? Granted, this isn't for everyone. Certainly, not for the last minute planner who gets a thrill of adrenaline from throwing things together quickly. OR the spontaneous type who likes to be free as a bird and live from moment to moment, but for those of you who like to plan...the enjoyment you receive from a cruise is not contained within that one week time frame spent on the ship. Far from it! The good times start the moment you begin planning your next cruise vacation.
What is it about human nature that allows us to receive such pleasure from anticipation? My father and I were discussing this the other day. He was describing how men who like to hunt often receive as much satisfaction from collecting and preparing their gear as they do from the actual expedition. His thoughts were that it was their personality type that attributed to this. They felt a sense of accomplishment from finishing a project that they had planned and organized. Sometimes, he said, they enjoyed the planning stage even more than the expedition itself. Not him, of course. Perhaps, this enjoyment of planning and organizing explains it for some people. However, I dare say, even if for a planner, it would be a rare cruiser who would enjoy the planning stage more than the cruise vacation itself!
I think the anticipatory stage might also bring to life what so many people seek in their lives - hope. Hope for the future...even for that one week vacation. Although, many people find hope in their spiritual lives, even those that are fulfilled spiritually, may just want a dose of hope that represents fun. A fun break away from the day to day routines of life. After all, with everything that goes on in our world today, who can have too much hope? Whatever it is that drives people to enjoy this phase of the vacation. It is a real phase. It brings much enjoyment, and it's a way of extending that vacation in a way - a pre-vacation. So research away. Make your lists. Plan. Plan. Plan. Enjoy your pre-embarkation!
What is it about human nature that allows us to receive such pleasure from anticipation? My father and I were discussing this the other day. He was describing how men who like to hunt often receive as much satisfaction from collecting and preparing their gear as they do from the actual expedition. His thoughts were that it was their personality type that attributed to this. They felt a sense of accomplishment from finishing a project that they had planned and organized. Sometimes, he said, they enjoyed the planning stage even more than the expedition itself. Not him, of course. Perhaps, this enjoyment of planning and organizing explains it for some people. However, I dare say, even if for a planner, it would be a rare cruiser who would enjoy the planning stage more than the cruise vacation itself!
I think the anticipatory stage might also bring to life what so many people seek in their lives - hope. Hope for the future...even for that one week vacation. Although, many people find hope in their spiritual lives, even those that are fulfilled spiritually, may just want a dose of hope that represents fun. A fun break away from the day to day routines of life. After all, with everything that goes on in our world today, who can have too much hope? Whatever it is that drives people to enjoy this phase of the vacation. It is a real phase. It brings much enjoyment, and it's a way of extending that vacation in a way - a pre-vacation. So research away. Make your lists. Plan. Plan. Plan. Enjoy your pre-embarkation!
Friday, June 4, 2010
How to Really Save on the Price of Your Cruise: Put Together a Group
In this modern world, many people love to search the internet for the best price on their cruise. Let's face it. It's a challenge! The problem is how do you really know if you truly found the "best" price? I understand the thrill. I'm the type person who likes that shopping thrill. It's the victory of the hunt when you find the perfect deal. Now, some people don't enjoy the endless hours on the computer searching for the perfect deal. They would rather just pick up the phone and call their travel agent. However, others actually get a kick out of the research and bargain shopping. For them it's the beginning of the cruise experience. I can relate to this. I'm a coupon shopper, a sale shopper, and before I became a travel agent, I was one of those cruise bargain shoppers. However, one of my best deals was through a travel agent when she had an exclusive offer from a cruise line. My point is....if you REALLY want the best possible deal on a cruise - Put together a group, and travel for practically free. This is the ultimate way for you bargain shoppers out there to get a great deal on a cruise!
Free? There must be some kind of catch. Right? Not if your travel agent negotiates the group contract with the cruise line and you're able to obtain the required number of group members. With most lines, a group of 16 full paying adults will earn a tour conductor credit. This is the person who is deemed to be the group leader. If you have 15 friends to travel with, why not let that person be you? If you can organize these people to join in on the fun, then you have just earned yourself a free cruise fare. Of course, if you are married or are taking another traveling companion, you'll have to pay for them, and you do have to pay for taxes and government fees. But it's a steal of a deal! Doubtful that you can beat that deal anywhere else! Usually, you'll also be awarded other amenities for your group that your agent will negotiate for you. All the cruise lines have great deals for groups, but I've grown particularly fond of working with the Princess Groups Department, as they negotiate special rates and amenities for your group.
You might ask why the cruise lines would be so generous? It's a win-win situation for everyone. You have your "berth" paid for, and they have someone out there providing free advertising to help sell those cabins. They're also counting on the fact that you just might spend some of the green stuff onboard their lovely ship. Yes! It's a win-win situation all the way around.
Free? There must be some kind of catch. Right? Not if your travel agent negotiates the group contract with the cruise line and you're able to obtain the required number of group members. With most lines, a group of 16 full paying adults will earn a tour conductor credit. This is the person who is deemed to be the group leader. If you have 15 friends to travel with, why not let that person be you? If you can organize these people to join in on the fun, then you have just earned yourself a free cruise fare. Of course, if you are married or are taking another traveling companion, you'll have to pay for them, and you do have to pay for taxes and government fees. But it's a steal of a deal! Doubtful that you can beat that deal anywhere else! Usually, you'll also be awarded other amenities for your group that your agent will negotiate for you. All the cruise lines have great deals for groups, but I've grown particularly fond of working with the Princess Groups Department, as they negotiate special rates and amenities for your group.
You might ask why the cruise lines would be so generous? It's a win-win situation for everyone. You have your "berth" paid for, and they have someone out there providing free advertising to help sell those cabins. They're also counting on the fact that you just might spend some of the green stuff onboard their lovely ship. Yes! It's a win-win situation all the way around.
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Just Like People - Ships Come In All Shapes, Sizes & Styles
You're in the kitchen and you hear that familiar beat. If you're not a cruiser, you have to admit it, you're tempted to become one. Just the commercials alone of two of the most well known cruise lines will get your feet to tapping. For the vast majority of people, which ships come to mind immediately when they think of cruising? I dare say it would be Carnival and Royal Caribbean based on the marketing campaigns we so often see. Most people are familiar with the Princess line and the whimsical Disney. Beyond that it begins to get a little fuzzier. Your more sophisticated and experienced cruisers are familiar with a variety of other lines. For me, when we began our journey on this now life-long exploration of the world of cruising, we weren't aware of anything above the "contemporary" lines. Contemporary line you ask? Just what does that mean? Well, like so many things in life, even cruising is divided into styles and classes. When you first dip your toes into this fun-filled world of travel, you may not be too concerned with the choices laying before you. However, as the addiction grows, you may find that you want to experience new things. Understanding the different styles and choices in cruising will allow you and your cruise specialist to make the best choice in matching you with the right ship. There IS something out there for everyone! Who knew there were so many choices and styles in cruising? Things have changed. Today's cruise industry is made up of Contemporary, Premium, Deluxe, and Luxury Lines. Let's take a look at what each of these categories are and which lines fit into each one...
So, exactly what is a "Contemporary" Cruise Line?
Contemporary cruises are the most well known or popular in the cruise industry. These are the lines that typically first come to mind when we all think of cruising: Royal Caribbean, Carnival Cruise Lines, Norwegian Cruise Lines, Princess Cruises, MSC Cruises, and Costa Cruises. These ships tend to be larger, newer and full of amenities. A multitude of activities are usually found onboard these ships with impressive shows, large spas, casinos, and organized children's programs. These lines are great for families and active types. You'll find itineraries as short as 3 days and as long as 14 days on these lines - sometimes longer, and you'll be able to explore such places as the Bahamas, the Caribbean, Mexico, Europe, Alaska, South America, the Mexican Riviera, and Asia. Fun! That's what I think of when I think of Contemporary lines.
You've probably heard of some of the "Premium" Cruise Lines:
Just the next step up from contemporary is the premium cruise line. Many of us have heard of Celebrity and Holland America but might not have realized that they belong to this slightly more prestigious category. This category still offers many of the activities of the contemporary line but with more of an upscale flair shall we say. You'll find high tea, wine tastings, white glove service and cigar bars on these ships. Many of Celebrity's new ships have the lawn area up top where you can enjoy a spot of golf. While the majority of itineraries will still fall in the 7+ day range with similar destinations as the contemporary lines, it is possible to find vastly more extensive sailings. For the truly dedicated, Holland America offers a World Cruise of over 100 days. That's enough to satisfy the cruise bug in anyone, wouldn't you say?
Have you heard about "Deluxe" Cruise Lines?
Elegant ships, smaller ships and fewer guests (approximately 800) with more luxurious amenities. That describes the deluxe category which includes Azamara and Oceania Cruises. You'll enjoy these lines if you're looking for entertainment with more of a cabaret style, staterooms with higher end amenities, such as, higher thread count sheets and high end toiletries. While the casinos are smaller the libraries are actually more extensive for the more sophisticated reader. The traveler will find more exotic destinations and longer itineraries on these lines. They aren't really recommended for families with young children as they don't have staff dedicated to children and teens like the contemporary and premium lines do.
Ah, "Luxury", just how luxurious are these Lines?
When cruise lines went into the luxury business, they far exceeded expectations. These luxury lines deliver more "luxury" than your typical luxury hotel or resort. With a staff to guest ratio of 1:1.5, the staff is always anticipating the needs of their guests. Leading celebrity chefs prepare world-class cuisine which is served in an open seating environment and each meal is prepared to the order of the individual guest. These ships carry fewer passengers and many are "all inclusive" including items like gratuities, wine, and even custom shore excursions in the base price of the cruise. These lines usually draw the sophisticated traveler and are more "experience-oriented" than "entertainment-oriented". This sophisticated group includes: Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Silversea Cruises, Cunard Line, The Yachts of Seabourn and SeaDream Yacht Club.
So, that's an overview of the different styles of cruise lines. Just like a hair style, over time, your ship style may change. I think I would like to get around to trying them all....
So, exactly what is a "Contemporary" Cruise Line?
Contemporary cruises are the most well known or popular in the cruise industry. These are the lines that typically first come to mind when we all think of cruising: Royal Caribbean, Carnival Cruise Lines, Norwegian Cruise Lines, Princess Cruises, MSC Cruises, and Costa Cruises. These ships tend to be larger, newer and full of amenities. A multitude of activities are usually found onboard these ships with impressive shows, large spas, casinos, and organized children's programs. These lines are great for families and active types. You'll find itineraries as short as 3 days and as long as 14 days on these lines - sometimes longer, and you'll be able to explore such places as the Bahamas, the Caribbean, Mexico, Europe, Alaska, South America, the Mexican Riviera, and Asia. Fun! That's what I think of when I think of Contemporary lines.
You've probably heard of some of the "Premium" Cruise Lines:
Just the next step up from contemporary is the premium cruise line. Many of us have heard of Celebrity and Holland America but might not have realized that they belong to this slightly more prestigious category. This category still offers many of the activities of the contemporary line but with more of an upscale flair shall we say. You'll find high tea, wine tastings, white glove service and cigar bars on these ships. Many of Celebrity's new ships have the lawn area up top where you can enjoy a spot of golf. While the majority of itineraries will still fall in the 7+ day range with similar destinations as the contemporary lines, it is possible to find vastly more extensive sailings. For the truly dedicated, Holland America offers a World Cruise of over 100 days. That's enough to satisfy the cruise bug in anyone, wouldn't you say?
Have you heard about "Deluxe" Cruise Lines?
Elegant ships, smaller ships and fewer guests (approximately 800) with more luxurious amenities. That describes the deluxe category which includes Azamara and Oceania Cruises. You'll enjoy these lines if you're looking for entertainment with more of a cabaret style, staterooms with higher end amenities, such as, higher thread count sheets and high end toiletries. While the casinos are smaller the libraries are actually more extensive for the more sophisticated reader. The traveler will find more exotic destinations and longer itineraries on these lines. They aren't really recommended for families with young children as they don't have staff dedicated to children and teens like the contemporary and premium lines do.
Ah, "Luxury", just how luxurious are these Lines?
When cruise lines went into the luxury business, they far exceeded expectations. These luxury lines deliver more "luxury" than your typical luxury hotel or resort. With a staff to guest ratio of 1:1.5, the staff is always anticipating the needs of their guests. Leading celebrity chefs prepare world-class cuisine which is served in an open seating environment and each meal is prepared to the order of the individual guest. These ships carry fewer passengers and many are "all inclusive" including items like gratuities, wine, and even custom shore excursions in the base price of the cruise. These lines usually draw the sophisticated traveler and are more "experience-oriented" than "entertainment-oriented". This sophisticated group includes: Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Silversea Cruises, Cunard Line, The Yachts of Seabourn and SeaDream Yacht Club.
So, that's an overview of the different styles of cruise lines. Just like a hair style, over time, your ship style may change. I think I would like to get around to trying them all....
Monday, May 24, 2010
Welcome Aboard Cathy's Cruise Chat!
Cruising. It's actually like a pebble with many colors. Once the novice picks it up and examines it the first time, they discover it's so much more than what they thought. At least that was my experience on my first cruise. Many years ago, my husband surprised me with an anniversary cruise. Now, you have to understand. I'm a sun worshipper from Florida who was transplanted up to Georgia and whines about missing the beach on a regular basis. So, this man of mine who doesn't like humidity decided he would sacrifice himself and take me on a cruise. Little did he know he was going to be in for a big surprise! What my beautiful white sandy beaches of the Gulf Coast couldn't do - the amazing clear blue waters of the Caribbean accomplished! My husband became addicted to cruising as much as I did. Now, let's be honest. Every once in awhile I will hear someone say they didn't like cruising, but it is rare...extremely rare. We all usually come back from our first cruise - mad, raving addicts! Many non-cruisers think of a cruise as being "trapped on a ship with nothing to do for days". They say they are afraid they'll be bored. Nothing is further from the truth. The cruise ships of today are floating cities. Often, there is not enough time to explore all the areas on the ship or get around to participating in all the possible activities. Yet, beyond the magnificence of the ship, there were two things that impressed me the most on that first cruise. First, I will never forget the awe I felt at seeing the magnificence of that brilliant, blue, crystal-clear Caribbean water for the first time. I could not tear my eyes away from it. Growing up on beautiful beaches in Florida, I had never seen water like that before. No, the Caribbean beaches don't beat out the white sands of the Florida gulf coast, but no where have I seen such a beautiful blue liquid painting in my life as on a cruise gazing down at that ocean. Secondly, both my husband and I came back from that cruise completely and utterly relaxed - for the first time after any vacation. Perhaps, it was because we didn't have to drive a car. Perhaps, it was because we didn't have to worry about meals. Perhaps, it was because the setting was beautiful and each day was a new adventure. Whatever, the reason...we were hooked for life!
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