http://www.articletrader.com/ Articles at ArticleTrader en-us http://www.articletrader.com/travel/vacations/why-book-your-cruise-package-online-and-why-not.html http://www.articletrader.com/travel/vacations/why-book-your-cruise-package-online-and-why-not.html Sat, 09 Dec 2006 00:00:00 -0600
But how does one go on a cruise?

If you have decided to go on a cruise then you should first decide on which part of the globe you want to go to.

It would be best to consider the things and the cultures that interest you, your likes and dislikes as well as the cruise package that fits your budget.

Booking a cruise package can either be done personally or online. Booking a cruise package online can be more relaxing because you no longer have to go out of the house or the office to make inquiries about the specific cruise package you want.

If you want to book a cruise online then why not take a look at the various sites offering cruise packages. You should evaluate the websites depending on the ability of the cruise company to meet your demands.

The dependability of the cruise company should also be a consideration so it is better to choose a site that offers online booking and yet offers several numbers which you can call for more inquiries.

The relaxation and joy you expect to get out of going on a cruise starts from the moment you decide to embark on such trip. This includes the time you spend looking for a professional agency that can offer you tips and suggestions as to what cruise package to take.

Booking a cruise package online enables you to save time and money.

Online inquiries can be more efficient because if you want more information then you can ask everything you need online and you get the feedback as soon as possible depending on the efficiency of the customer service system being used by the cruise site.

By booking a cruise package online, you can easily do research on the areas that will be included in the cruise.

You can browse the areas that interest you and if these are not to your liking then you can just as easily change your mind and look for another cruise package that will suit your preferences.

Don’t worry if you are working on a specific budget because you can still get the best cruise package according to your budget through online bookings. There are sites that already quote the exact cruise package while outlining the possible additional expenses that you will have to spend for while on the cruise.

Some sites also offer discounts especially for clients who book a cruise package online. However, booking a cruise package online without the help of any travel agency can also have some disadvantages.

If the online site does not offer a cruise expert to guide you throughout the selection and booking process, then you may get lost and may make bad decisions. It is best to ask for the help of the site’s customer service and ask for a cruise expert to help and guide you during the booking process.

If you have never been on a cruise before, you should avoid booking a cruise package online especially if the site does not offer the assistance of a cruise expert. Booking a cruise online only works for those who have knowledge on how the whole cruise package works.

There are times when the site offering a cruise package is not so professional in their communication. Sometimes, they may issue cancellations which may already be too late for the planned cruise.

You should evaluate your expertise in organizing a cruise package and should weigh the advantages and disadvantages of booking a cruise package online before you take that giant step and decide to book a cruise package online.

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Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/travel/vacations/why-families-go-cruising.html http://www.articletrader.com/travel/vacations/why-families-go-cruising.html Sat, 09 Dec 2006 00:00:00 -0600
You might think that family bonding sessions are limited to beaches and trips to Disneyland, but you also have another option: cruises.

You might be surprised but there are actually cruises which are tailored to suit a family's specific needs. There are cruises which even kids can enjoy.

While cruises for seniors are wonderful refreshing avenues and a haven of possibilities for singles, cruises are a myriad of options for every family who wishes to embark on it.

Bonding sessions are instantly the most important thing any family can obtain from cruises. Being on a cruise forces you to literally and figuratively leave all of your other affairs in life and with just the family and yourself aboard a classy boat, there is really much refreshing and catching up to expect.

When you are at home or in a restaurant, it will be easy to worry about your paperwork pending at home. But when you are on a boat, you are really left with no choice but to savor each moment with the people who matter the most and enjoy the experience with them - which in itself is not really a bad thing.

Husbands and wives can still find time to catch up and rekindle their love for each other together with their offspring. There will definitely private moments for married couples, especially if the kids are already in their adolescent stage and don't really require much supervision.

Huge families who use cruises as a reunion venue may find themselves having more fun with the scenery than having reunion in a restaurant and a fixed spot.
There is definitely a different positive psychological impression of being in transit together as compared to just staying and chatting in a stationary place.

In the case of going aboard a cruise with a couple more families, there will definitely be some sort of cultural education especially for children. They will be exposed to things they might not be accustomed to, and this is a great opportunity for parents to contribute to their learning growth.

Small families may find family cruises as opportunities to linking up with other families with similar interests.

A support group is important for any individual, as well as for the family which is considered as society's primary social unit. Being able to link up with other families may help parents trade parenting tips while their kids mingle on the other areas of the ship.

There is variety in a cruise which can satisfy every member of the family. The introverted types may find staying within quarters relaxing, the artistic ones can find the picturesque scenery inspiring and even the food preferences may well be accommodated by the flexible menus that cruises are known for. Since it is also a group affair, you might find yourself entitled to one of those neat discounts if you are resourceful enough.

Special amenities are also provided for group cruises such as these. Group cruises are tailored in such a way that it helps build more meaningful relationships between the people while traversing the itinerary.

Leisure rooms and lounges may be found from within the ship and it is something from which everybody can benefit.

While it's true that some cruises may be deemed an unconventional family affair, it's definitely one of the most unique and fun ways to rekindle the harmony of the family amidst the picturesque background.

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Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/travel/vacations/why-seniors-and-retirees-go-cruising.html http://www.articletrader.com/travel/vacations/why-seniors-and-retirees-go-cruising.html Sat, 09 Dec 2006 00:00:00 -0600
Some might shrug off cruises to be something that are for the young and the elite, but in reality, cruises can be enjoyed by anyone, particularly senior citizens.

There are actually a lot of cruises available which are catered specifically for seniors and there are really many valid reasons which would make any senior enjoy the option of taking a cruise even in his or her old age.

There may be many initial inhibitions such as the possible hazards of traveling or some hangups which come from a relatively sedentary lifestyle most seniors have gotten themselves accustomed to, but embarking on a cruise is really worth all that adjustments.

For one thing, it is the perfect way to cap off a well-traveled life or an entirely new horizon to explore for those who have not gotten around to traveling in their younger years. Experience and enjoyment must not end where wrinkles begin to appear. Cruises open up a new avenue which is not normally available for seniors who opt to stay home and do their daily routines in the same circles or areas.

Experiencing travel and vacations such as a cruise is an entirely different feat when you are already in your old age as compared to when you were younger.
Even if you have visited that place in your youth or have tried embarking on that same cruise in the past, you might be pleasantly surprised at the changes time can do to same itineraries you had in the past.

Since most seniors are either staying at home or retired, chances are, they are more prone to being bored and depressed. If anything, getting on board a lovely and relaxing cruise can definitely change one's perspective not only within the duration of the cruise, but even in the days after that.

These seniors may find it hard to travel for health reasons, but since cruises can be tailored to suit one's physical conditions, the concept of having more memories to add to their wealth of experiences will prevail to be of more importance.

Another good thing about cruises which seniors might like is that they are also being opened up to the opportunity of meeting new and interesting people. While most old people have already established their bonds in their respective homes, families and communities, there is always a room for more exciting things brought about by other people, whether they are younger or older.

The refreshing change of scenery will also do wonders not only to the mental and emotional aspect of seniors, but also in the physical. Less stress and refreshing opportunities such as taking a cruise just helps lessen and taper off any existing stress brought about by circumstances and/or old age.

This in turn may lessen one's inclination to the debilitating illnesses such as strokes and heart attacks. The body will also release more of the happy hormones called endorphins which leaves people with a feel-good feeling that will keep them perky.

Discounts are also readily available for most packages only for seniors to enjoy. Cruises cost quite a lot, but with the aid of these discounts, the lovely opportunity to sip and socialize aboard a cruising ship in an entirely different setting is now made more affordable for senior citizens.

Life is short and it is meant to be enjoyed. For seniors & retirees who have already gotten through the ropes of life in all its ups and downs, there is really nothing more rewarding than having that much-deserved break aboard a well-managed and lovely cruise in the place of their choice.

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Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/travel/vacations/why-couples-and-newly-weds-go-cruising.html http://www.articletrader.com/travel/vacations/why-couples-and-newly-weds-go-cruising.html Sat, 09 Dec 2006 00:00:00 -0600
Many a movie and love story has been in romantic settings, usually involving nature. Man meets woman on the shore or aboard a train or even in the most unimaginable situations.

Many women (and even some men!) find themselves deeply engrossed with these love stories, waiting for the happy ending after two hours of lovely backgrounds and well-arranged and delivered lines.

But why let the story end there and confine yourself to merely watching them? You can actually celebrate your own new marital bliss or rekindle old flames of your marriage not just with the camera but with the lovely backdrop of the ocean by means of being in a cruise with your one and only.

This is really the opportunity to splurge on a cruise. And it is not actually accurately described as splurging because the non-monetary benefits of being in a cruise with your lifetime partner is priceless and irreplaceable.

You may have other bonding options, but cruises are on the top of the list of things couples do together for good reason. It is definitely the best way to celebrate marital bliss whether it is new or on the verge of soaring to a new level.

There are special packages for couples and one just has to be resourceful and specific with what kind and for how long do they intend to embark on a cruise. The planning in itself can actually help couples reconnect with each other in a different way. While deciding on things as mundane as water bills and electric bills can end up burning couples out, deciding on which adventure to take together is clearly something else.

Couples may find that being on a cruise gives them a huge amount of privacy. A routinary life filled with caring for children and working can take a toll even on the most strong relationships.

A vacation which allows husband and wife to take time together and show love for each other in the most intimate way is something needed by every couple from time to time. It's like tuning up a piano to make sure it continues to play sweet and well-toned music.

Most couples who end up getting divorced are those who tend to take each other for granted and did not make an effort to revive that spark which newlyweds have for each other in huge amounts.

In a cruise, there will be no work and so much time for couples to focus on each other and the possible goals they have in the near future. Ordinary avenues hardly leave any room for dreams and innermost thoughts and fears. But being in an exotic backdrop can definitely stir a couple's hidden passions and enable them to unleash it to their partners in a good way.

Exploration of exotic places together can actually serve to strengthen the bond and increase the positive memories couples have of each other. This keeps them from looking in another direction since the cruise in itself fosters an environment of exclusivity and romance.

Another thing that a cruise can bring is that it can actually unveil incredible facets of your partner which you never thought existed. A different setting can incite different reactions from any person, and this can help both partners get to know each other more in a deeper way.

Cruises can be considered symbolic of the journey that couples take together in their very lives, and it can actually do more wonders than any couple dares to imagine. It is truly a way for real life people to weave their own love stories. So go ahead, book a cruise for your honeymoon or wedding anniversary.

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Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/travel/vacations/why-singles-go-cruising.html http://www.articletrader.com/travel/vacations/why-singles-go-cruising.html Sat, 09 Dec 2006 00:00:00 -0600
Singles are just about the most free creatures on earth. with no pending family responsibilities whatsoever (except perhaps for some school work and day jobs), these singles have little or almost nothing to worry about when it comes to planning on embarking on a cruise.

Having less thing to worry about with regards to family responsibility doesn't mean that singles are less stressed. In reality, singles may actually have more stress than most people because they are literally and figuratively at the top of their game.

They are not yet retiring, or have not yet tapered off to the more subdued lifestyle when married. Singles are like loose cannons, and they deserve to have some fun time and get their own breaks by means of going to cruises and refreshing vacations.

Being a single is all about possibilities. And cruises complement this particular stage of life. First, there is the excitement of meeting new people and gaining new friends.

At the very least, you might find useful contacts for your next business or get to meet someone possessing the job or the hairstyle or the kind of life that you have always wanted to have.

There is plenty of room for chitchat and exchanging of contact numbers in cruise settings. Besides, people tend to unleash their more adventurous facets when under vacation, and that has been scientifically proven.

There is also possibility of finding a romantic partner aboard a cruise. There is nothing more romantic than watching the sky and the waves converge while you are being swept off your feet by that long elusive prince charming. Cruises bring a variety of people together, and pairs may find themselves complementing each other's lifestyles. The whole cruise itself entitles any swinging single an added sphere from which they could find their ideal romantic partner.

Since most single people are confined within the recesses of their work and neighborhood and usual hobbies, embarking in a cruise increases the chances of meeting people you wouldn't otherwise have met in your day-to-day activities. The matter of trust is to your discretion. But the thrill is definitely included for singles in every cruise package.

If you're more of the career-driven and ambitious type, you might find these cruises to be avenues for a birth of a new business. You might be in dire need of certain people with expertise you have no access to.

Since there is a variety of people in a cruise, you might find potential business contacts awaiting your proposal on the ship. A warning though: some people don't like discussing business matters while on vacation. So the best way would be just to get contact numbers and keep in touch after the cruise to discuss your business opportunities.

Cruises are good avenues for self-exploration and introspection. Most single people are surprisingly left with little time for themselves despite their singlehood. Embarking on a cruise, away from work and all the things a typical single is used to, one can find the cruise to be a good place to rethink life goals and quicken or slow down the pace of life. The relaxing ambience in the backdrop will definitely propel you to levels you might now have imagined.

Going to a cruise as a single is a unique experience in itself. You may find yourself in that same cruise with your husband in the future, but it will not be like your solo cruising experience. And clearly, embarking on a cruise for singles is truly adding up to a storehouse of experiences which will become part of your best memories.

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Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/travel/vacations/cruise-hidden-costs-revealed.html http://www.articletrader.com/travel/vacations/cruise-hidden-costs-revealed.html Sat, 09 Dec 2006 00:00:00 -0600
A cruise package can be quite expensive even if you take a cruise during the off-peak season.

If you are planning to go on a cruise you should check out the actual expenses necessary for the cruise package to make sure you do not go beyond your budget.

However, if you have already booked for a cruise package you should not remain complacent that you have taken cared of all the necessary financial matters. Most often, there are hidden costs that may come up only immediately during the cruise or even while the cruise is going on.

Imagine the humiliation you will be subjected to if there are additional expenses necessary during the cruise and you have not prepared for them. Being asked to pay for hidden costs while on a voyage can turn the cruise into your worst nightmare.

While booking the cruise package, it is important to take note of the prices of commodities that are sold inside the cruise ship. If the prices of soda or other food item is too much, then you can always bring extra grocery items with you on the cruise.

You should always expect that items sold in a cruise ship will always be more expensive than the regular price so bring extra items like batteries for the camera, pens, soda, water and the likes.

Also ask about the rates of sea sorties or trips ahead of time. The rates offered by the cruise ship can be more expensive than if you go ashore and look for a possible shore trip yourself.

If you do not want the hassle then you can do some research and ask friends who have been on the same cruise ship before as they may be able to recommend possible areas to visit at a lower cost.

Remember that the operator of the cruise ship is out to make money so expect a thirty to fifty percent mark up on every shore activity or commodity that is facilitated and sold by cruise ship personnel.

Souvenir shops abound inside cruise ships and the souvenir items will definitely cost you a hand and a leg.

It is better to go on the shore and look for souvenirs by yourself. By doing so, you will get unique and reasonably priced souvenirs.

You do not have to spend for unnecessary and extra expenses while on a voyage. However, you should always allot at least $10 everyday for tips especially for cabin attendants.

The problem is that while no cruiser can be forced to shell out extra money aside from the actual expenses for the cruise, a cruise will always have a away of enticing people to spend more than what is necessary.

Blame it on lightheadedness or the feeling of being free but there is always a tendency to splurge when on a cruise.

You should exercise caution when charging items or goods on your bill if you do not want to deplete your bank account even before the cruise is over. The best thing to do is to always think twice or even thrice before spending money on anything.

Be a wise cruiser. Most ship items will be sold at discounted prices when the cruise ends. Be wary of swiping the powerful plastics because it is always easy to charge everything and worry about paying the accounts when the cruise is over.

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Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/travel/vacations/best-time-to-go-on-a-cruise-peak-and-off-peak-season.html http://www.articletrader.com/travel/vacations/best-time-to-go-on-a-cruise-peak-and-off-peak-season.html Sat, 09 Dec 2006 00:00:00 -0600
Going on a cruise is not only expensive but it is also time away from your work. Great care and effort should thus be exerted by you or any person who plans to go on a cruise.

One of the factors to consider when going on a cruise is the budget.

You can still go on a cruise even if you are on a limited provided you do your research as to which cruise package will suit your budget while giving you the most comfort and entertainment.

You can maximize your budget if you decide to go on a cruise during off peak season because this is the time of the year when the cruising industry will definitely give out big discounts.

Going on a cruise during the off peak season will entitle you to freebies, discounts, special packages and the privilege of enjoying the cruise without an annoying crowd.

Travel agencies have their own data on what months are considered the off peak season for cruising.

The holiday season is usually not the best time to go on a cruise because prices will definitely be sky rocketing because of the increase in demand for cruise packages. This is the time when most families are going out to enjoy vacation time.

Taking a cruise during the off peak season will mean lesser cost of going on a cruise. However, this will only be possible if you have made arrangements with your employer to go on vacation ahead of the holiday season.

This is more possible if you do not hold a regular job and you own your time and business. This is also ideal for retirees who are starting to enjoy life.

When going on a cruise, it is also wise to consider the weather of the area of destination. Most often, the off peak season is timed when the weather is not so good. Most people go on a cruise when it is summer time and the weather is favorable for gallivanting.

But if you are adventurous then you can take the risk and still enjoy the cruise at a lower price.

The most in demand destinations for cruising are Alaska, Hawaii, the Caribbean and Europe. Anybody can go cruising in the Caribbean at any time of the year. It is also the same for Alaska as these two areas have very nice weather.

If you want to go to Alaska you should consider going to the area in May but this is already considered a peak season. A cruise to Europe from April onwards is also consider peak season.

If you want to take advantage of going on a cruise during the off peak season then you should plan on cruising just before Christmas. However, the Christmas Holiday is not a good idea to go on a cruise as the cruise packages can get more expensive and the cruise itself stressful because of the number of people going on a cruise.

Taking all factors into consideration, it is best to plan ahead and plan well before going on a cruise to avoid hitches and to allow you to enjoy your vacation.

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Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/travel/vacations/how-to-choose-your-cruise-popular-themes-and-packages.html http://www.articletrader.com/travel/vacations/how-to-choose-your-cruise-popular-themes-and-packages.html Sat, 09 Dec 2006 00:00:00 -0600
The rates also vary greatly and you are wary about deciding on purchasing a ticket to one, in the fear that afterwards, you will find that there are other cruises that cost much less.

The trick to finding the perfect cruise ship for you is in trying to match your main interests to the cruise ship you shall take. Below is the list of the most popular themes and packages for cruises.

Food & Wine Cruise

A Food & Wine Cruise is pretty self-explanatory – in essence, it is a cruise whose main focus consists of a lot of food and a lot more wine. Lectures or lessons may be conducted on the basics of wine tasting, and perhaps discussions on fine food and fine dining.

It will be a great cruise for those who want to take a cruise that will not only provide them with a great experience, but will also lead them to acquiring a more experienced and inquiring palette.

Literary & Fine Arts Cruise

For those who are partial towards the arts, a literary and fine arts cruise may be perfect for you.

Here you will be able to visit picturesque places, perhaps attend readings and discussions on books and poetry. You might even be able to attend some art classes where you can try painting the wonderful views you will see during the cruise.

Murder Mystery Cruise

Want a cruise that’s a little more adventurous? Why not take a cruise that’s filled with danger and mystery? Of course, it’s all just pretend, but it’s a great way to spend a vacation. Spend days on a ship trying to solve a murder mystery.

Don’t trust anyone, suspect everyone. Just make sure they don’t suspect you.

Celebrity Cruise

Some cruise companies offer themed cruises with popular celebrities on them, for the enjoyment of the entire family. Meet and greet your favourite celebrities, dine and dance with them, and expect nothing more than pure entertainment.

American Safari Cruise

For people who love adventure and the outdoors, consider taking an American safari cruise, where you will be taken to wild destinations across the United States and Latin America.

You’ll see the most beautiful animals in their natural habitats – an explorer’s every dream. Such cruises offer trips to the Alaskan wilderness, the Pacific Northwest, snake rivers, Mexico’s Sea of Cortes, and so on.

Ancient Adventure Cruise

If you’re more of a history buff, try going to an ancient adventure cruise. Here you will gain knowledge on the rich history and culture of the places you will visit. It’s like going to a school field trip, only you’re on a boat instead of a bus, and it’s a lot more luxurious. It’s a great way to have fun and learn at the same time.

Golf Cruise

If you love golf, you're gonna love this! Cruising offers a unique opportunity to experience a variety of spectacular golf courses, each in a different country or island.

It's a great way to have a fun time cruising without missing out some action on the golf course.

Last Minute Cruise

If you live life in the fast lane & have no time to plan or if you just dislike planning, there are last minute cruise deals just for you. Just click on the link & see if you find any last minute cruise deal that you like.

Summary

There is such a wide variety of themed cruises to choose from that there is sure to be at least one cruise that’s perfect for every person. So scour the internet for the perfect cruise vacation, and once you find it, take it immediately and prepare to have a wonderful time vacationing.

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Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/travel/vacations/how-to-get-the-best-cabin-location.html http://www.articletrader.com/travel/vacations/how-to-get-the-best-cabin-location.html Sat, 09 Dec 2006 00:00:00 -0600
Going on a cruise is no joke because it requires money and time. It is thus very important that you pick the best cruise package that you can get to make the cruise memorable.

A cruise will definitely give you more time to commune with nature particularly the serene waters.

If you are planning to go on a cruise make sure you get the best location in the cruise ship so you will be able to enjoy the cruise.

The best cabin in a cruise ship will definitely be worth more than what can be expected from an ordinary cabin. If you can get the least price for the best cabin in the cruise ship then you are fortunate.

If you want to get the best cabin location during the cruise then you better book the cruise early whether or not you are cruising on a peak or off peak season.

Remember that the early bird gets the worm so make sure to reserve a slot for a cruise ship the earliest possible time so you can get the best cabin location.

The best cabin location can be relative because it depends on the preferences of the traveler. A person who wants a good view will have a different perception compared to a person who wants to be left alone.

One of the most important considerations when choosing a cabin location is your capacity to withstand the waves.

If you suffer from seasickness and get nausea when at sea then better get an advice from a seasoned cruiser as to which cabin location would be the most comfortable for you and your malady.

A future cruiser like you should be aware that you can choose from four cabin classifications when going on a cruise. If you wants serenity and aloneness you can opt for an inside cabin without windows.

If you want to enjoy the view then should choose an outside cabin with a porthole. A balcony cabin with its very own verandah can be more expensive but it will be worth it. If budget is not a concern, then you should opt for a suite with all the amenities thrown in.

The cabin location that you choose can make or break the whole cruise.

The location of the cabin is very important especially if you are not used to sailing and is prone to getting sea sickness. The best cabin choice would be a cabin located in the lower and central part of the ship.

If you are a cruiser who wants to savor your vacation without unnecessary interruptions then you should avoid getting a cabin located at the highest portion of the ship as this is where most of the noise in the ship can be heard. Cabins in this part of the ship however offer one of the best views from the deck.

If you are overly cautious about safety and you always worry about the possibility of drowning, you can have peace of mind by choosing a cabin located near the location of the lifeboats. This way, you enjoy the cruise and feel safe at the same time.

If you want to get a good view of the sea or land then you should also ask about the side of the ship where the cabin is located so you can take advantage of your cabin location when sightseeing.

Except for sheer chance, there is no easy way to get the best cabin in any cruise ship. You either have to do some research or shell out more money.

But what the heck! You are going on a cruise to have fun so make the most of what you have!

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Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/travel/vacations/important-things-you-should-bring-for-your-cruise.html http://www.articletrader.com/travel/vacations/important-things-you-should-bring-for-your-cruise.html Sat, 09 Dec 2006 00:00:00 -0600
You are so excited that even though you are usually a procrastinator when it comes to packing, this time around you, find yourself preparing the things you will be bringing to the cruise days ahead of your cruise date.

But as you unload your closet to fit all its contents on your luggage, you are stopped by common sense and realize that you will not be able to fit all of the things you need for the cruise on your seemingly tiny luggage.

You’re probably right on one of your observations, and that is, that you will not be able to fit the entire contents of your bedroom into a few pieces of luggage.

What you got wrong, however, is that you won’t be needing a whole lot to have a safe and very enjoyable cruise.

Here are a few tips on what to bring, what not to bring, and a bunch of other cruise-packing related topics.

So read on before the 'pack rat' in you start to stuff your whole house into your pitiful bags.

Stay in check with a checklist.

It’s ideal to list down all the items you think you need on a checklist.

You read it right, the items “you think you need” – because when you consult that list a few times over, you’ll begin to realize that there are some things you included which you really didn’t have to.

Once you start realizing this, start crossing out the items on the list that you are now sure you don’t need.

This way, you won’t forget to pack the ones you need, but also won’t be stuck with excess, and not to mention useless, luggage.

In a cruise, your luggage is the closest thing to a store.....

Going on a cruise is like going to any isolated beach resort, or to a place faraway from civilization.

Because of this, you have to remember that while on the cruise, you will not have a convenience store or pharmacy to run to once you realize that you failed to pack your daily medication or some basic toiletries.

Which is why it is absolutely important to pack in all your basic necessities first – a toiletry kit, a pillbox with the enough amount of medication you will be needing for the duration of the cruise, and so on.

Multiply your outfits by mixing and matching

As much as possible, avoid packing outfits whose pieces you cannot mix and match with each other.

Instead, opt for pieces that are of the same or of complementing colors to extend your limited wardrobe on the cruise.

This is also an important point to take note of when you think of footwear – as much as possible, bring a shoe that will match most, if not all of your outfits, so you don’t have the hassle of bringing multiple pairs.

Keep a neat cruise closet

If you still have space on your luggage, consider bringing a mesh clothes hamper that packs flat in your bag.

Once you are on the cruise, pull out the hamper and hang it on your closet to help you keep your cruise closet nice and tidy.

Luggage, luggage, luggage

Let’s begin this final tip with an analogy: real estate is to location, location, location, as to cruise packing is to luggage, luggage, luggage. What you pack for the cruise is just as important as what you pack them in – so be sure to purchase luggage that is sturdy, durable, and as lightweight as possible.

What to do when your luggage bag is unable to close

There's no such thing as a perfect luggage bag, even if it's in a good condition. There were cases of luggage bags being unable to close while on a cruise!

If you buy a new luggage bag from the cruise ship, it's not going to be cheap. The solution - bring along some duct tape, it can close up your luggage bags when they are unable to close.

When you get home, there'll probably be duct tape marks & stains on your luggage, you can remove them easily with lighter fluid.

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