Carribian Cruise – Caribbean Cruise

Posts Tagged ‘Caribbean’

What better way to escape those cold weather doldrums than a relaxing cruise to a warm destination. Cruises offer all the amenities of home, and many more. The all inclusive nature of a cruise vacation makes it easy to relax and put the thought of cold weather and work behind you.

Choosing a destination to escape those cold weather blues can be a fun challenge. There are many options for warm weather cruising. Some may choose the more exotic routes such as the Panama Canal, Australia and New Zealand, or even the Nile River. Others may choose the allure of the Mediterranean and the French Riviera. Still some prefer the South Pacific or the Mexican Riviera.

All of those destinations have a lot to offer, but the five destinations below are the top five for the warm weather seeker.

Multi-Destination Caribbean Cruise

This is by far one of the most popular cruise choices. The Islands of the Caribbean have so much to offer. They are as diverse as they are similar. The sandy beaches, blue waters, and lush jungles entice many visitors to jump ship at each port and explore the many offerings.

These cruises range from a 3 day excursion to 10 day island-hopping expeditions. Some cruises focus on only a couple of islands, while others make a swing around the entire area. On board the ship you can enjoy the entertainment and meals, while resting up for the day trips to the islands. Scuba, snorkeling, fishing, hiking, or simply exploring villages and mountain trails, are all examples of some of the adventures that await you on the islands.

While it is impossible to experience all the Caribbean has to offer in one multi-destination cruise, it does allow the traveler the opportunity to sample a little of each culture.This smorgasbord of experiences opens new opportunities for future vacation planning.

Barbados

While we are still in the Caribbean, Barbados is a superb destination. With nearly constant 80 degree temperatures, soft sand beaches, cool blue waters, and lush vegetation, this is a vacationer’s paradise; a relaxing cruise to the island makes it even more enjoyable.

Barbados offers a rich cultural history coupled with many modern amenities. Friendly, laid back people also make this a choice destination. Throw in some great water recreation, posh resorts, and a hopping nightlife and Barbados becomes an even better choice.

Hawaii

Although not well known as a cruise destination, Hawaii has always been a warm weather destination for travelers. The problem for most vacationers was choosing which island to spend their vacation on. A cruise through the islands eliminates that choice. You get to experience them all.

You could choose a cruise that started in Honolulu and then hop to each island for a great cultural and entertaining vacation. The time aboard ship could be used to rest up between visits to the islands. This is a great way to experience all the islands have to offer in a short amount of time.

For those who enjoy the on-ship part of the cruise the best, there are cruises that depart Mexico or British Columbia and float across the pacific for a very relaxing trip. These are much longer excursions. The onboard time can be spent enjoying all the amenities the ship has to offer before embarking on the many island adventures.

Aruba

Another Caribbean destination, Aruba, is well known for its nightlife. Aruba has often been called the Caribbean’s answer to Las Vegas, with its many lavish casinos and upscale resorts. This island relies on tourism to keep it going, with over fifty percent of its gross national product coming from tourism. That explains why the people are so open and friendly.

The trade winds help keep the temperatures down from the extremes, but the arid, dry climate promises plenty of beach weather. Days spent on the beach and in the warm waters, coupled with nights spent enjoying the resorts and casinos equals fun and relaxation. A low crime rate just adds to the air of relaxation.

U.S. Virgin Islands

This popular string of islands is a hotspot for cruise ship tourism. St. Thomas is the port of choice for shoppers. There are many other attractions and beautiful beaches, as well. Many cruise ships focus their trip on St. Thomas alone, and the passengers are not disappointed. However, the other islands cannot be ignored.

St. John is not a common cruise ship destination, but it is an easy ferry trip from St. Thomas. St. John offers a great look at the nature and history of the islands. And, if it is history you are looking for St. Croix is the destination of choice. It is rich in history with many historical attractions. And Water Island, although not on the cruise ship docket, is a short ferry ride from St. Thomas and offers a relaxing taste of paradise. With less than 200 residents it is an unspoiled gem in the chain of islands.

Oh My God! It’s official. Well, at least it’s unofficially official. I have a disorder. I’m a junkie. It’s called “Caribbean Obsession Disorder” (COD) and it’s described as “an uncharacteristically and sometimes irresponsibly compelling drive to seek out sensory indulgence identified with the Caribbean culture – including music, scenery, fashion, food and habitat. Often accompanied by alcohol and other substance use, social and/or career lethargy, disregard for authority and rebellious (antisocial) behaviors against provincial standards and ideals.”

There’s more explanation for this disorder, but I think you get the picture.

I suppose it’s not surprising that someone actually has a name for this state of mind, after all our culture is obsessed with pigeon-holing EVERYTHING. But it is ironic that it is considered a disorder. Why couldn’t it be called “Caribbean Delight Affinity”, or “Stress Management Through Caribbean Meditations”? Ah well, whatever you call it, I have it. I display all the symptoms, most notably the “rebellious (antisocial) behaviors against provincial standards and ideals”.

I think about the Caribbean constantly, I design my life around getting my next fix, and I experience serious mood swings and irritation if I am deprived from breathing that magnificent air for more than a month or two. My heroes are Earnest Hemingway and Jimmy Buffet.

I spend so much time cruising in the Caribbean that some of my friends are starting to have conversations about me that include phrases like “running away from reality” and “just won’t grow up”, and “can’t seem to hold down a real job”. About the only people I know that don’t see anything weird about being addicted to spending beautiful luxurious days plowing the blue waters of the Caribbean are teenagers, romance novelists and a couple of aging explorers I met in Nassau who were pirates born 200 years too late.

Oh sure, lots of people LIKE the idea of cruising the Caribbean. What’s not to like? But, most grown-ups relegate it to a tiny slice of life, something that one does only when the “important” stuff is under control. A tiny little carrot that dangles tantalizingly from the sticks of careers and mortgages and “responsibilities”. Perish the thought that cruising itself could be important, or that it could make people more productive, or better parents or better members of society. That’s just not realistic! Well, I beg to differ.

You know, it wasn’t that long ago that responsible adults shook their heads in dismay at the number of kids “wasting their time” skateboarding on those plywood half-pikes that cropped up all over the place. Of course, that was pre-1995, before the massive financial windfall of the X-Games, where today, those very same “kids” command million-dollar endorsement fees and light up ESPN with their extraordinary aerial acrobatics.

In 1990, Kimberly and John Puckett took a backpacking vacation into the Alaskan wilderness and while drinking in the sensational view from atop Sable Mountain they conceived of the idea of creating a specialty coffee house patterned after ski lodges and Alaskan cabins. That “Aha!” moment, which was made possible because they indulged their fascination of wild and woolly nature, has grown into Caribou Coffee, the 2nd largest coffee chain in the US (Starbuck’s is first).

Reaching back in history a bit, we can remember the story of a young cartoonist who envisioned a “world” where cartoon characters could be brought to life in a fantasy environment of sheer child-hood delight. Walt Disney’s efforts to build Disneyland were ridiculed and criticized for years, even to the degree that his immediate family worried that he might have lost his grip on reality.

Well, seems to me that we could use a bit more of that flight from reality. And it also seems to me that gazing blissfully at a priceless Caribbean sunset is a fantastic vehicle in which to take that flight. What if the best way get in touch with the real meat of life is to remove oneself from the travails and pressure of that life. What if the perfect incubator for creating solutions and ideas to address vexing problems was the deck of a cruise ship, or a sandy white beach? I think we are missing the boat with regards to cruising in the Caribbean. Rather than dismissing it as an anti-social disorder, we should celebrate it as an essential activity that spawns true genius.

And in that vein, fellow adventurers, I proudly don the label of “COD”, and pledge myself to discovering and reporting back to the imprisoned masses, the magic of Caribbean waters, and sunsets and all that other wonderfully indulgent stuff. And more that that, I invite you to cast of the dispersions and judgments of those timid souls who measure the quality of their lives in terms of how big their car payment is or the square footage of their houses or how predictable their lives have become.

Yeah, it’s not always easy. Family and friends will wonder about your “crisis of identity”, employers will fret over your laid-back demeanor and credit card companies will scratch their heads in bewilderment that you refuse to be shackled by the gods of debt and credit ratings. It won’t be easy, at least to start. But here’s what you’ll get in exchange:

•Delightful moments, sometimes whole days of delightful moments, where the only stress is making sure the SPF of your sunscreen allows you to get a great tan.

•Beautiful blue water, majestic seas, lazy skies, and visual experiences that bury themselves deep in your soul rather than smog, pollution, stress, traffic, alarm clocks, beepers, ringing telephones, blinking computers, packed schedules, mindless news about the latest self-destructive celebrity and obscene political commercials 24-7.

•Somebody else waits on you hand and foot (for a change).

•A menu of adventures and experiences that you won’t have, or won’t have time for, in your current life. Things like diving, horseback riding, swimming with sting rays or dolphins, four-wheel drive explorations of rain forests and ancient ruins, parasailing.

•You’ll meet people that don’t want anything from you other than to make your acquaintance and maybe share a Corona.

•Romance, intimacy and sex. Of course, it helps if you take someone along that’s already comfortable getting naked with you, but some great love stories have written their opening chapter against the enchanted backdrop of Caribbean sunsets. (It’s also been reported that a Caribbean cruise is 97% more effective than prescription drugs for erectile… oh, maybe that’s too much information for some. But, the side effects are all good.)

•You’ll see things, and learn things, that will never get on your radar screen while slaving away in the Monday – thru – Friday world of car pools, office politics and soccer practice.

•You’ll discover a new meaning for “alone time”. It’s the kind of time that sits outside the pace of life, that defies logic, that lets you get in touch with the piece of yourself that lies slumbering inside you. You’ll have thoughts that surprise and delight you, and you’ll tickle your fantasies in ways that you haven’t tickled them since you were a kid.

Now, I ask you. How could ANY of that be a bad thing? C,mon, it’s time to trade in some of those other disorders you’ve got for one that really rocks! Get COD!

Happy Cruising!

Most people who book a cruise for the first time (92%) will make their selection based on when they can go and how long they can stay. The second most important factor will be how much it costs. Everything else is dependant on those two items. In 2006, there were 112 different cruise ships operating out of U.S ports transporting about 10 million passengers on some 4,500 cruises. 70% of those 10 million people went to destinations in the Caribbean, and four cruise lines (Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian and Celebrity- The Big Four) accounted for about 3/4 of passengers.

If you fall into that broad category, your choices will be fewer, but that doesn’t mean you have to settle for something you don’t want. But simply asking “What’s the best ship (or cruise line)?” is kind of like asking “What’s the best beer?”, or “What’s the prettiest color?” The very things that one cruiser likes about a cruise are the things that other cruisers vigorously dislike. The good news is that whatever you do like, there is somebody out there doing a bang-up job providing it.

Generally speaking, the Big Four specialize in the “more-is-better” approach to cruising, while smaller cruise lines focus on more specific areas, such as 5-star quality, small intimate ships, enrichment, etc. Here are some factors you can consider when choosing your cruise.Size of the Ship.

Here some general observations one can make regarding the size of the ship. What the passengers are there for.

The bigger the ship, the greater the attention paid to make sure that the ship-board experience is as unforgettable as possible. This translates into activities, distractions and a festive, socially liberal, fun-and-games atmosphere. If that annoys you, these big ships may rub you the wrong way. How many people you’ll be traveling with.

The bigger the ship, the more people there will be on it (duh). Generally speaking, families, singles and singles traveling in groups will prefer the non-stop beat of the large ships. On the other hand, if you prefer quiet and don’t like the crush of crowds at poolside or in the dining room, you’ll have much better luck in the smaller ships, especially the ones that hold fewer than 1200 passengers. The types of ports you will visit.

Big ships go to big ports. Certain ports, such as Roatan, Honduras or Vera Cruz, Mexico, are only available to smaller ships. Sometimes those ports are the very thing that makes the cruise quite special. If the ports of call are at the top of your list of reasons to take a cruise, consider booking passage on smaller ships that have extended itineraries. Age of the Ship

“Old” is a relative term in the cruise industry, meaning ships that were launched around 1990 or before (15+ years a go). Many of these ships were state-of-the-art at the time and trumpeted the absolute best cruising had to offer. But in the last 15 years, cruise ships have gotten bigger and more extravagant in ways that were unimaginable two decades ago.

Older ships are not bad, just different. Many are less efficiently designed and have more traditional layouts. Some of the extras and amenities that are common on the newer ships, like internet in your cabin, themed alternative dining restaurants, wave pools and ice rinks don’t usually exist on the older ships. Cabins are smaller, critical traffic areas (such as elevator lobbies and disembarkation lines) are congested and shops can be pretty cramped. Some passengers (not all) notice stale odors or complain that the ventilation systems in the cabins are cranky.

On the flip side, many of the older ships have been up-fitted and remolded in the last few years, and so are fine cruising vessels. They are primarily used on the shorter cruises (3-5 days) and generally charge lower fares. Take into the account the value of the cruise experience. Maybe the older ships aren’t as fresh and perfect as the newer ones, but the value they offer – what you get for what you pay – can be outstanding. Design of the Ship

Whether it’s accomplished with an extreme makeover or during the building stage, cruise ships place a premium on the design. Some are designed for luxury, some for fun, some try to strike a middle ground. Ships are often given “star” ratings similar to those given to hotels. Some ships are 5-star, such as Holland America. Others are 4-star, such as Carnival or Royal Caribbean. Keep in mind, if you want 5-star, take a cruise on a 5-star ship. Don’t take a cruise on a 3- or 4-star ship and then be unhappy because it’s not top quality. A good source available on the internet, is the “Galaxsea.com” Cruise Ratings site (http://www.galaxsea.com/ratings.html).

I also highly recommended the various message boards that populate the internet. Such sites as Cruisecritic.com or Cruisemates.com are an excellent way to see what other people say about the ship and the itinerary you are considering. You can browse the hundreds of posts by people who have been there, and you can ask specific questions of people who take cruising very seriously. Type of Entertainment

Whether it’s the combo that plays at poolside, the bands that perform in the clubs or the glitzy production numbers that grace the theatres, cruise ships put a lot of thought and a ton of money into presenting entertainment. Pick the right entertainment environment and you’ll spend sun-drenched days in blissful happiness. Pick the wrong one, and you’ll feel like you’re surrounded by a bunch of people scratching their fingernails on a chalkboard.

Entertainment isn’t just about the lounge/club/party scene. It’s also about cooking classes, lectures, watching a movie, wine tasting, the casino, getting your golf swing computer analyzed, karaoke, bingo, “game-show” games or touring the galley. You can get a good feel for the type of entertainment and activities a ship offers by going online and checking out the ships on-board newsletter. It lists EVERYTHING happening on the ship. Each cruise line’s website will have a sample version of their newsletter. If your travel agent is any good at all, they will have copies from a variety of cruises they have taken. Dining

For many people, a cruise is all about the food. If you’re one of them, you’ll want to learn what your prospective ship has to offer.Main Dining (aka Formal Dining). All cruise ships have at least one Main Dining venue and many ships have more than one. The main dining room is the embodiment of luxury and service on your ship and they all work hard to offer classy selections. It’s an opportunity to try food and preparation styles that you would never experience otherwise. The main dining rooms will also open for breakfast and lunch. There is no assigned seating for these meals, but you still get great service and the menu selections are very good.

Many ships now offer alternative restaurants that require reservations and/or a surcharge in which you can choose from restaurants that specialize in French cuisine, seafood, or any number of other themes. There is a $5 – $15 surcharge for each person, but for people that like the choice, it’s well worth the money. This option usually isn’t available on ships built before 1990, because the idea wasn’t popular enough to include the extra space needed.Alternative Dining. In addition to the main dining room, all ships have a variety of interesting food options. Each has their own version of buffet lines that operate through-out the day, and naturally, some are better than others. New York style delis, pizza and sushi bars, and the always popular poolside grills are but a few of the ideas that are employed. Most ships now also provide coffee shops, bakeries and ice cream counters which usually cost extra. Room service is available 24-hours a day (no charge), with pastries and fruit in the mornings and sandwiches and pizza the rest of the day and night.Available ServicesChild Care and Youth Programs. Cruise lines understand that the people paying the tab need to have a good time if they are going to come back again. And the way that you make sure parents have a good time is to make sure the kids they are traveling with have a good time.

If you are planning a family cruise, you’ll want to travel on a ship that provides the best environment for the youngsters in your group. On the other hand, if you don’t want to have your space invaded by youngsters, you’ll want to stay away from cruise ships that make their youth programs a priority (such as Disney). Programs are set up to provide age appropriate activities and are usually free of charge. There will be an orientation about the youth programs on the first day of your cruise so you can get all the information you need, as well as meet the people who will be overseeing your kids.

Almost all ships provide in-cabin baby-sitting services for an extra fee. When provided, these services require you to pay cash directly to the sitter, rather than place the charge on your ship-board account. Educational/Enrichment Programs. Alongside the more traditional programs like yoga, nutrition counseling and towel folding, some ships now offer programs on gourmet cooking, wine tasting, art education, digital photography, computers, flower arranging, ceramics and much more. Most are offered at no extra charge. The availability of programs increases the longer the cruise. Shorter cruises usually only have a single day at sea, which is the most popular time to offer these classes. Some cruise lines place as high a premium on enrichment programs as other cruise lines place on partying and fun.Spa Facilities. Across the board, most ships consider a good spa and gym to be essential. Most cruise lines outsource their spa operation to Steiner Leisure Ltd. of London, England, who operate the spas on over one hundred cruise ships, including all of the spas on Royal Caribbean, Carnival and Disney ships. In all probability, no matter which ship you select, you’ll have a quality menu of options and a good spa. Gymnasium/Fitness Center. While you can generally count on a consistent level of quality and service in the spas, unfortunately the same can’t always be said of the gyms. Some are absolutely spectacular. Others are little more than a closet with treadmills. The newer ships will have very nice gyms regardless of the cruise line. The older ships, i.e., those built before 1990, may or may not, depending on whether the ship has been recently refit. Exercise equipment usually includes treadmills, stationery bikes, weights and cardio machines and most come staffed with one or two Fitness Directors. Fitness centers usually include men’s and women’s locker rooms, whirlpools, saunas and steam baths. Internet. Most ships have some kind of internet access, but it is a relatively new technology as far as passenger services go. On the newer ships, there is access all over the ship, even in many cabins. But the older vessels have more limited access. “Internet Cafes” are as common as casinos. Cruise lines are working hard to implement ship-wide wireless internet access and they are definitely getting there. But that doesn’t mean you’ll be able to check your e-mail at poolside. In some cases, wireless access is limited to one or two locations. If you do bring your laptop, finding electrical outlets on the ship can be REALLY hard. Make sure your battery is charged. Laptops and wireless cards can be rented on board.Cabin Size and Options

There are basically four options for cabins; inside, ocean view, suite or balcony (some ships call it “verandah”). Inside: The least expensive cabin aboard. The size of cabins can vary greatly from one ship to another. RCCL Sovereign-class ships are ridiculously small (119 square feet), whereas a similarly priced cabin on Carnival is about 50% larger (187 square feet).Outside: Usually an identical layout to the inside cabins, but has a window or portal. The difference in price between a standard inside cabin and an ocean view cabin ranges from $10 – $40 per night (NOT per cruise) depending on the ship and the time of year. In almost all cases, outside cabins, whether or not they have balconies, are larger, sometimes by as much as 15%. If your outside cabin is on one of the decks that has an exterior deck, you won’t necessarily see much ocean and you’ll have to deal with people walking outside your window all day.Balcony. Before 1990, balconies were not considered important, and so most ships built during that time either didn’t have any at all or have only a few. For all of the newer ships, i.e. those built after 1995, balconies are plentiful. A balcony will add $20 – $30 per night to the cost of an outside cabin, which usually works out to about twice as much as the cost of an inside cabin. For a 3-day cruise, given the short amount of time you’ll spend in your cabin, a balcony may not be worth double the cost.Suite. Actually, “suite” is a pretty generous description, since what you’re actually getting is an extra large cabin (about twice the size of your standard cabin and 3 – 4 times the cost). There are some suites that provide separate sleeping quarters and private hot tubs on the balcony but these are very limited and very expensive (5 – 10 times as expensive as an inside cabin). Most suites are a larger, and usually better furnished, version of a standard cabin.

When considering cabin options, think about how many people will be sharing it and much time you’ll be using it. The longer the cruise, the more important size and balconies become. Location of the cabin also determines desirability (and cost). For example, lower cabins sometimes pick up engine noise or the sound of the anchor dropping, but they do tend to be more stable in rough seas. Cabins located close to the action near the middle of the ship are convenient, but may also be in high traffic areas which translates into noise in the halllway outside your cabin.Itinerary

Caribbean cruises are broken down into 3 broad regions – Western Caribbean (Cozumel or Playa del Carmen, Mexico; Grand Cayman; Key West, FL; the Dominican Republic; Jamaica; Belize; or Costa Rica), Eastern Caribbean (Bahamas, St. Thomas, St. John, Puerto Rico, or Turks & Caicos) and Southern Caribbean (Aruba, Martinique, Barbados or St. Thomas).

Western Caribbean cruises tend to include more sea days because the destinations are so far apart and the distance one must travel across the Gulf of Mexico is so long. If you take one of these, make sure you choose a ship you’re going to like because you’ll be spending a lot of time on it.

Eastern and Southern Caribbean cruises usually include more ports of call (the islands are right next to each other) and therefore offer a wider variety of venues. That doesn’t mean you’ll have a wider variety of activities. The basic offerings from port to port will generally be the same type of activity, just different scenery.

Some things you’ll want to consider in addition to where you are going:How long will you be there? Ships that are in port for only part of a day only allow enough time for one shore excursion and may not leave time for shopping or bar hopping. Ships that stay in port overnight, or at least until midnight allow for more diversity of activities in port.When do you arrive/leave? This can matter, for example, if you want to do a sunset dinner cruise, but the ship pulls out sundown. Likewise, if you’ve booked a shore excursion on your own that requires a pick-up time at 9:30 am, but your ship doesn’t dock until noon, you’ll lose your money.How do you get ashore? Sometimes the cruise ships tie up at a pier and you just head down to the gangway and walk ashore. Other times the ship has to anchor away from the dock and deliver people ashore via tenders, which means there will be a bottle neck getting on and off the ship. This can be a major pain, especially if the ship is one of the super liners that has to disgorge 3,000+ passengers. Also, the roughness of the wind and water can hamper tender activities and can even cause the ship to decide to not stay in the port.In Summary

For many cruisers, you won’t really care about all of these factors. No problema. Just pay attention to the ones that are important to you. Whether you are booking through a travel agent or directly with the cruise line, ask about the issues that are important to you and make sure you check out the online reviews and message boards to get objective info.

HAPPY CRUISING!

The time cruises were only for older people or the rich are long gone. I  made several cruises in the Caribbean. Cruises are fun, relaxing and there are lots of things you can do or see!

And no, you won’t get bored on these ships, there is always something to do or see on the ship itself if you have a ‘fun’ day at sea. You’ll want more days on the ship, so you can just enjoy the facilities they offer on these ships.

The biggest advantage of a cruise: you unpack once and you go places all week, without having to pack your suitcase every five minutes! While you’re having fun at night or sleeping, you will be taken to your next destination. For example on a cruise in the Caribbean, like I did, you visit 3 or 4 islands in just ONE week!

So, this is the perfect vacation if you don’t have a lot of vacation days left and want to make the most out of it.

You can make it a relaxing vacation and read a book by the pool, or visit the beautiful beaches at one of the islands you dock. OR you can have an active vacation: swimming, snorkelling, horseback riding, biking… what ever you want, they usually have it! You can experience culture sights or do a mix of all of the above!

It’s a great way of travelling. And if you have a look at the price, which includes a good hotel, wonderful food, the entertainment and the places you can visit on your way, a cruise is not that expensive!

For more information, personal cruise reviews and cruise tips: check out http://www.isabellestravelguide.com

Why Take a Royal Caribbean Cruise Vacation? Well, with all the
different cruise ships in their line, all the destinations,and
the affordable price range, there are cruises to please every
traveller, no matter how jaded.

In our fast-paced society, Royal Caribbean offers a very
cost-effective and time-efficient way to take a holiday. Think
about driving all day through holiday traffic to a far-away
destination, packing and unpacking at every hotel, and trying to
find restaurants and personal services. On a Royal Caribbean
cruise you don’t drive anywhere for weeks at a time. Even on a
tour bus , it’s you personally who must handle all the luggage
and repack at each new destination. On a cruise, your bags
arrive with you when you check in and the staff transports them
to your cabin, stateroom, or suite. You are at home immediately
and don’t have to move until the cruise ends. And cruise ship
cuisine is legendary in both quantity and quality. Each Royal
Caribbean ship has world class restuarants staffed by
award-winning chefs, and the cruise price includes the cost of
the food. At every port, guided tours are available so you won’t
miss any of the spectacular attractions. You can take a holiday
from parental duties as well, since supervised activities and
games are available to keep children occupied. And at the end of
your holidy staff will arrive to pick up your luggage and take
it to the intended pick-up point. Cruise ship facilities free
you from so many of the worries and strain associated with
traveling, and allow you to relax and actually enjoy your
vacation time.

Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines offers the some of the best deals
in the travel industry. Conde Nast Traveler consistently rates
Royal Caribbean Cruises as one of the world’s best cruise ship
lines. Services include informative lectures about your
location, upscale boutiques, and Broadway-style entertainment.
Some ships even have facilities for ice-skating shows. Try your
luck in the Casino or even collect fine art at the onboad
auction. Enjoy exotic nightlife at clubs with various themes.

You’ll never feel neglected at the onboard spa. Try a deluxe
manicure and pedicure, a luxurious facial or even a relaxing
massage. You’ll leave glowing and invigorated.

But Royal Caribbean isn’t just for the adult traveller. Royal
Caribbean features an Adventure Ocean Youth Program and
Fisher-Price Aqua Babies and Aqua Tots to occupy younger
passengers. When the ship reaches port, adults have the
opportunity to take cultural tours by themselves without hauling
along bored and unwilling children . And the the younger set can
enjoy vigorous, noisy activities such as a rock-climbing wall
without wearing out the parents. One ship under construction,
Freedom of the Seas, is being equipped with onboard surfing!

Age or disability do not hamper cruising. Modern cruise ships
are specifically designed to accommodate the needs of aged and
mobility-impaired passengers, and staff is always ready to help
with the special medical needs of passengers. Nowadays most
major cruise lines accommodates those who require dialysis or
supplemental oxygen, and more medical services are available if
requested beforehand. An emergency clinic with CPR equipment is
available on each ship, saving you the trouble of finding an
English-speaking doctor in a foreign country.

Dinner is a major form of entertainment on a cruise ship, a
practice dating back more than a hundred years to the era when
cruises were for nobility and the wealthy who expected elegant
formal meals. With today’s laid-back lifestyle the old-fashioned
elegance is optional, and for those who enjoy casual dining,
meals can be obtained around the clock from room service and
cafeterias. However, what is a cruise without glamour? It can be
a lot of fun to go to a ritzy event where ladies show off their
best attire and jewelry, and gentlemen wear tuxedos.

And don’t forget the cruise destination itself! Royal Caribbean
docks at a different port of call every few days, depending upon
distances and sailing time between local ports. Aside from the
caribbean, these ships sail all around the world, to Hawaii,
Mexico, the Panama Canal, New England, Alaska and many European
ports. It’s up to you whether you want to explore onshore or
lounge aboard the ship all day. You are free to investigate each
destination on your itinerary as long as you arrive back at the
dock in time for departure.

Optional activities are offered for a slight extra cost, and
Royal Caribbean offers adventures geared toward the unique
features of every destination. There are cruisetours, a
combination land/sea package to further explore inland in
Alaska, the Canadian Rockies, Whistler Resort and Europe.

With all these pleasing and unique services available at such
affordable prices, why not think about a Royal Caribbean Cruise
for your next sea vacation.

Why Take a Royal Caribbean Cruise Vacation? Well, with all the
different cruise ships in their line, all the destinations,and
the affordable price range, there are cruises to please every
traveller, no matter how jaded.

In our fast-paced society, Royal Caribbean offers a very
cost-effective and time-efficient way to take a holiday. Think
about driving all day through holiday traffic to a far-away
destination, packing and unpacking at every hotel, and trying to
find restaurants and personal services. On a Royal Caribbean
cruise you don’t drive anywhere for weeks at a time. Even on a
tour bus , it’s you personally who must handle all the luggage
and repack at each new destination. On a cruise, your bags
arrive with you when you check in and the staff transports them
to your cabin, stateroom, or suite. You are at home immediately
and don’t have to move until the cruise ends. And cruise ship
cuisine is legendary in both quantity and quality. Each Royal
Caribbean ship has world class restuarants staffed by
award-winning chefs, and the cruise price includes the cost of
the food. At every port, guided tours are available so you won’t
miss any of the spectacular attractions. You can take a holiday
from parental duties as well, since supervised activities and
games are available to keep children occupied. And at the end of
your holidy staff will arrive to pick up your luggage and take
it to the intended pick-up point. Cruise ship facilities free
you from so many of the worries and strain associated with
traveling, and allow you to relax and actually enjoy your
vacation time.

Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines offers the some of the best deals
in the travel industry. Conde Nast Traveler consistently rates
Royal Caribbean Cruises as one of the world’s best cruise ship
lines. Services include informative lectures about your
location, upscale boutiques, and Broadway-style entertainment.
Some ships even have facilities for ice-skating shows. Try your
luck in the Casino or even collect fine art at the onboad
auction. Enjoy exotic nightlife at clubs with various themes.

You’ll never feel neglected at the onboard spa. Try a deluxe
manicure and pedicure, a luxurious facial or even a relaxing
massage. You’ll leave glowing and invigorated.

But Royal Caribbean isn’t just for the adult traveller. Royal
Caribbean features an Adventure Ocean Youth Program and
Fisher-Price Aqua Babies and Aqua Tots to occupy younger
passengers. When the ship reaches port, adults have the
opportunity to take cultural tours by themselves without hauling
along bored and unwilling children . And the the younger set can
enjoy vigorous, noisy activities such as a rock-climbing wall
without wearing out the parents. One ship under construction,
Freedom of the Seas, is being equipped with onboard surfing!

Age or disability do not hamper cruising. Modern cruise ships
are specifically designed to accommodate the needs of aged and
mobility-impaired passengers, and staff is always ready to help
with the special medical needs of passengers. Nowadays most
major cruise lines accommodates those who require dialysis or
supplemental oxygen, and more medical services are available if
requested beforehand. An emergency clinic with CPR equipment is
available on each ship, saving you the trouble of finding an
English-speaking doctor in a foreign country.

Dinner is a major form of entertainment on a cruise ship, a
practice dating back more than a hundred years to the era when
cruises were for nobility and the wealthy who expected elegant
formal meals. With today’s laid-back lifestyle the old-fashioned
elegance is optional, and for those who enjoy casual dining,
meals can be obtained around the clock from room service and
cafeterias. However, what is a cruise without glamour? It can be
a lot of fun to go to a ritzy event where ladies show off their
best attire and jewelry, and gentlemen wear tuxedos.

And don’t forget the cruise destination itself! Royal Caribbean
docks at a different port of call every few days, depending upon
distances and sailing time between local ports. Aside from the
caribbean, these ships sail all around the world, to Hawaii,
Mexico, the Panama Canal, New England, Alaska and many European
ports. It’s up to you whether you want to explore onshore or
lounge aboard the ship all day. You are free to investigate each
destination on your itinerary as long as you arrive back at the
dock in time for departure.

Optional activities are offered for a slight extra cost, and
Royal Caribbean offers adventures geared toward the unique
features of every destination. There are cruisetours, a
combination land/sea package to further explore inland in
Alaska, the Canadian Rockies, Whistler Resort and Europe.

With all these pleasing and unique services available at such
affordable prices, why not think about a Royal Caribbean Cruise
for your next sea vacation.

Why Take a Royal Caribbean Cruise Vacation? Well, with all the
different cruise ships in their line, all the destinations,and
the affordable price range, there are cruises to please every
traveller, no matter how jaded.

In our fast-paced society, Royal Caribbean offers a very
cost-effective and time-efficient way to take a holiday. Think
about driving all day through holiday traffic to a far-away
destination, packing and unpacking at every hotel, and trying to
find restaurants and personal services. On a Royal Caribbean
cruise you don’t drive anywhere for weeks at a time. Even on a
tour bus , it’s you personally who must handle all the luggage
and repack at each new destination. On a cruise, your bags
arrive with you when you check in and the staff transports them
to your cabin, stateroom, or suite. You are at home immediately
and don’t have to move until the cruise ends. And cruise ship
cuisine is legendary in both quantity and quality. Each Royal
Caribbean ship has world class restuarants staffed by
award-winning chefs, and the cruise price includes the cost of
the food. At every port, guided tours are available so you won’t
miss any of the spectacular attractions. You can take a holiday
from parental duties as well, since supervised activities and
games are available to keep children occupied. And at the end of
your holidy staff will arrive to pick up your luggage and take
it to the intended pick-up point. Cruise ship facilities free
you from so many of the worries and strain associated with
traveling, and allow you to relax and actually enjoy your
vacation time.

Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines offers the some of the best deals
in the travel industry. Conde Nast Traveler consistently rates
Royal Caribbean Cruises as one of the world’s best cruise ship
lines. Services include informative lectures about your
location, upscale boutiques, and Broadway-style entertainment.
Some ships even have facilities for ice-skating shows. Try your
luck in the Casino or even collect fine art at the onboad
auction. Enjoy exotic nightlife at clubs with various themes.

You’ll never feel neglected at the onboard spa. Try a deluxe
manicure and pedicure, a luxurious facial or even a relaxing
massage. You’ll leave glowing and invigorated.

But Royal Caribbean isn’t just for the adult traveller. Royal
Caribbean features an Adventure Ocean Youth Program and
Fisher-Price Aqua Babies and Aqua Tots to occupy younger
passengers. When the ship reaches port, adults have the
opportunity to take cultural tours by themselves without hauling
along bored and unwilling children . And the the younger set can
enjoy vigorous, noisy activities such as a rock-climbing wall
without wearing out the parents. One ship under construction,
Freedom of the Seas, is being equipped with onboard surfing!

Age or disability do not hamper cruising. Modern cruise ships
are specifically designed to accommodate the needs of aged and
mobility-impaired passengers, and staff is always ready to help
with the special medical needs of passengers. Nowadays most
major cruise lines accommodates those who require dialysis or
supplemental oxygen, and more medical services are available if
requested beforehand. An emergency clinic with CPR equipment is
available on each ship, saving you the trouble of finding an
English-speaking doctor in a foreign country.

Dinner is a major form of entertainment on a cruise ship, a
practice dating back more than a hundred years to the era when
cruises were for nobility and the wealthy who expected elegant
formal meals. With today’s laid-back lifestyle the old-fashioned
elegance is optional, and for those who enjoy casual dining,
meals can be obtained around the clock from room service and
cafeterias. However, what is a cruise without glamour? It can be
a lot of fun to go to a ritzy event where ladies show off their
best attire and jewelry, and gentlemen wear tuxedos.

And don’t forget the cruise destination itself! Royal Caribbean
docks at a different port of call every few days, depending upon
distances and sailing time between local ports. Aside from the
caribbean, these ships sail all around the world, to Hawaii,
Mexico, the Panama Canal, New England, Alaska and many European
ports. It’s up to you whether you want to explore onshore or
lounge aboard the ship all day. You are free to investigate each
destination on your itinerary as long as you arrive back at the
dock in time for departure.

Optional activities are offered for a slight extra cost, and
Royal Caribbean offers adventures geared toward the unique
features of every destination. There are cruisetours, a
combination land/sea package to further explore inland in
Alaska, the Canadian Rockies, Whistler Resort and Europe.

With all these pleasing and unique services available at such
affordable prices, why not think about a Royal Caribbean Cruise
for your next sea vacation.

Why Take a Royal Caribbean Cruise Vacation? Well, with all the
different cruise ships in their line, all the destinations,and
the affordable price range, there are cruises to please every
traveller, no matter how jaded.

In our fast-paced society, Royal Caribbean offers a very
cost-effective and time-efficient way to take a holiday. Think
about driving all day through holiday traffic to a far-away
destination, packing and unpacking at every hotel, and trying to
find restaurants and personal services. On a Royal Caribbean
cruise you don’t drive anywhere for weeks at a time. Even on a
tour bus , it’s you personally who must handle all the luggage
and repack at each new destination. On a cruise, your bags
arrive with you when you check in and the staff transports them
to your cabin, stateroom, or suite. You are at home immediately
and don’t have to move until the cruise ends. And cruise ship
cuisine is legendary in both quantity and quality. Each Royal
Caribbean ship has world class restuarants staffed by
award-winning chefs, and the cruise price includes the cost of
the food. At every port, guided tours are available so you won’t
miss any of the spectacular attractions. You can take a holiday
from parental duties as well, since supervised activities and
games are available to keep children occupied. And at the end of
your holidy staff will arrive to pick up your luggage and take
it to the intended pick-up point. Cruise ship facilities free
you from so many of the worries and strain associated with
traveling, and allow you to relax and actually enjoy your
vacation time.

Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines offers the some of the best deals
in the travel industry. Conde Nast Traveler consistently rates
Royal Caribbean Cruises as one of the world’s best cruise ship
lines. Services include informative lectures about your
location, upscale boutiques, and Broadway-style entertainment.
Some ships even have facilities for ice-skating shows. Try your
luck in the Casino or even collect fine art at the onboad
auction. Enjoy exotic nightlife at clubs with various themes.

You’ll never feel neglected at the onboard spa. Try a deluxe
manicure and pedicure, a luxurious facial or even a relaxing
massage. You’ll leave glowing and invigorated.

But Royal Caribbean isn’t just for the adult traveller. Royal
Caribbean features an Adventure Ocean Youth Program and
Fisher-Price Aqua Babies and Aqua Tots to occupy younger
passengers. When the ship reaches port, adults have the
opportunity to take cultural tours by themselves without hauling
along bored and unwilling children . And the the younger set can
enjoy vigorous, noisy activities such as a rock-climbing wall
without wearing out the parents. One ship under construction,
Freedom of the Seas, is being equipped with onboard surfing!

Age or disability do not hamper cruising. Modern cruise ships
are specifically designed to accommodate the needs of aged and
mobility-impaired passengers, and staff is always ready to help
with the special medical needs of passengers. Nowadays most
major cruise lines accommodates those who require dialysis or
supplemental oxygen, and more medical services are available if
requested beforehand. An emergency clinic with CPR equipment is
available on each ship, saving you the trouble of finding an
English-speaking doctor in a foreign country.

Dinner is a major form of entertainment on a cruise ship, a
practice dating back more than a hundred years to the era when
cruises were for nobility and the wealthy who expected elegant
formal meals. With today’s laid-back lifestyle the old-fashioned
elegance is optional, and for those who enjoy casual dining,
meals can be obtained around the clock from room service and
cafeterias. However, what is a cruise without glamour? It can be
a lot of fun to go to a ritzy event where ladies show off their
best attire and jewelry, and gentlemen wear tuxedos.

And don’t forget the cruise destination itself! Royal Caribbean
docks at a different port of call every few days, depending upon
distances and sailing time between local ports. Aside from the
caribbean, these ships sail all around the world, to Hawaii,
Mexico, the Panama Canal, New England, Alaska and many European
ports. It’s up to you whether you want to explore onshore or
lounge aboard the ship all day. You are free to investigate each
destination on your itinerary as long as you arrive back at the
dock in time for departure.

Optional activities are offered for a slight extra cost, and
Royal Caribbean offers adventures geared toward the unique
features of every destination. There are cruisetours, a
combination land/sea package to further explore inland in
Alaska, the Canadian Rockies, Whistler Resort and Europe.

With all these pleasing and unique services available at such
affordable prices, why not think about a Royal Caribbean Cruise
for your next sea vacation.

This year plan an extravagant and unforgettable holiday with your friends or family. Have a relaxing and calm family or romantic time. Enjoy the lush tropical exquisiteness and spectacular landscape; it is a highly suggested romantic hide-out. It is certainly one of the most attractive islands in South Africa. The island has a sub-tropical temperature and has beautiful sun-drenched days. This is the most eye-catching place for the nature friendly people.

The place is adventurous and soothing too. For those interested in adventure there are a great number of outdoor activities, for those who simply want to lay down and get some tan there are beautiful beaches and for those who want cosy intimate time special resorts are available.

Especially for the eco-friendly tourists the St. Lucia Wetland Park is the most gripping destination. It has is a contender for World Heritage Site Status. Its famous and prominent ecosystems and biodiversity has no need to be described in words: it is simply a site to behold.

The other incredible locations which area must visit in St.Lucia include Pigeon Island, The Pitons, Marigot Bay and Sulphur Springs.

Pigeon Island is an exotic and inexplicable attraction of St.Lucia. It has wonderfully relaxing beaches which are peaceful and quiet and provide a soothing effect to you. This isolated island is the perfect place for some privacy and personal luxury. It also has historical significance and has old forts and camps.

The Pitons or sometimes known as ‘The Peaks’, have the UNESCO’s world heritage sites that are Gros Piton and Petit Piton.  These two clone sites are an additional breathtaking sightseer appeal and are worth a visit. For the people with an adventurous streak these peaks are a treat. A climb up these gorgeous peaks can be most refreshing. The view on the top is awe-inspiring.

Marigot Bay is considered to be the paradise on Earth, especially by the sea loving tourists who love to cruise. This cove also is appealing those who have a love for food and sun. Exotic and tall coconut trees, beautiful sandy beaches and the best quality of foreign food are available. When you are looking for some quality time with your family it is the perfect spot for picnic. Yachats are available for having a fun in the sea.

Sulphur Springs is a beautiful and attractive site; its beauty is one that is unforgettable and memorable for a life time. Its humid yet pleasing springs catch the attention of the tourists interested in extraordinary splendour. Diamond botanical gardens and Toraille waterfalls are also nearby and are a spectacle to remember. For those uninterested in just hot sunny days spent sun bathing, jungle biking is offered at Anse Chastanet. It is a whole new experience when you race through glorious orchids and French colonial ruins.

So this summer instead of wasting your money else where at some crowded and jam-packed island spend it on luxurious and exotic as well as amazingly beautiful and versatile St.Lucia island.

Waves crash, breezes caress your skin and amidst the ocean, our place is in perspective. The Norwegian Sun, so incomprehensibly huge in port, is now but a pinpoint – a miniature model of the world. She carries 2,200 passengers and 960 staff from over 58 nations. We burn 200 tons of fuel a day for over 70,000 horsepower of propulsion and electrical generation. “We get about 12 feet to the gallon,” says Paul Baya, Cruise Director for Norwegian Cruise Lines. Hungry appetites devour 20,000 pounds of fresh fruit and 35,000 pounds of vegetables each week.

Cruise ships are like all-inclusive resorts with changing scenery. Typical shore visits give you a taste of each port. From Jamaicans hawking their wares to Grand Cayman’s elegance to Cozumel’s stunning reefs – all guests are assured water views and countless activities.

Measuring nearly 900 feet in length and thirteen decks high, you navigate your new world as the captain navigates the globe. Journey to the spa, five Jacuzzis, two pools, the basketball court, theatre, nightclubs, casino, thirteen restaurants, jogging track, fitness center, shuffleboard and library. You can do your own thing or join others in yoga to volleyball or dancing. Out of cell phone range and too busy for e-mail, you live for the moment and anticipate yet another exciting port.

A common sea tale is that you will gain weight on a cruise. It’s true: the food is tasty, all you can eat and available twenty-four hours a day. The dessert options are endless. A quick call to room service yields anything from brownies to breakfast to bananas.

Instead, we chose to sprint the stairs whenever possible, dined on delicious vegetarian entrees and fulfilled a New Year’s resolution to visit the gym. The result? Fitter, trimmer and feeling rejuvenated in just one week.

On Shore

Thousands throng to Jamaica’s 600-foot Dunn’s River Falls each day. A cascade of refreshing freshwater invigorates as you venture from the ocean to the summit.

For Norwegian Cruise Line Passenger Scott Blatt, 48, the climb is an extraordinary feat.

An amputee, Blatt tossed his crutches aside for an unassisted ascent – to the cheers of onlookers. Blatt’s climb is a first in Jamaican history. Regardless of your skill or experience level, there are shore activities for everyone. While some marvel at stunning fish of every color while diving the reefs, others snorkel or tour Mayan ruins.

“Over 1500 divers explore Cozumel’s waters daily,” says Gustavo Costa, 35. Costa, an attorney from Buenos Aires, Argentina, now teaches diving. He sets the dive’s tone with the persuasiveness and knowledge you’d expect from an attorney. “Strict laws protect marine life from humans. Harming or killing is prohibited, ensuring our enjoyment of these beautiful creatures. Do not wear a knife or gloves, harm or chase after the wildlife – fines exceed $5,000.” Costa’s conservation efforts were rewarded. The reef, vibrant and flourishing, passed by like a movie. Floating effortlessly with the current, adult Angel Fish danced about, Puffer Fish looked back with their big, helpless eyes, lobster loitered, a nurse shark nervously darted off, a Manta Ray flapped massive wings in slow motion – like a hawk soaring a ridge. When it was time to go home, it was far too soon.

Getting There

Several cruise lines offer journeys from nearby ports. Norfolk, Baltimore, Philadelphia and New York are a quick train ride away. “If you do travel by air to Miami, it is advisable to arrive a day early, so you don’t miss your ship in case of weather delays,” suggests Jerry Carlson of Delta Airlines. Art deco hotels in Miami’s South Beach provide colorful, dynamic architecture. The ocean and people on parade are an extra bonus.

Sidebar

For More Information:

www.oceana.org

www.CruiseNorfolk.org

www.NCL.com

www.Pelicanos.com.mx

www.AtlantisAdventures.net

www.ThePalmsHotel.com