Posts Tagged ‘Vacation’

PostHeaderIcon Vacation on Mexico’s Caribbean Coast

As you are exploring Caribbean vacation options, do not look just at the islands and cruises traveling between them. Mexico has a beautiful Caribbean coast, complete with paradise beaches, unique cultural destinations, and luxurious resorts. A Caribbean vacation to Mexico might be perfect for you the next time you plan a getaway.

When planning a tropical trip to Mexico, look at locations on the Yucatan Peninsula. This peninsula is made up of Mexico’s Yucatan, Campeche, and Quintana Roo states, as well as parts of Belize and Guatemala. As found in much of the Caribbean, the climate in this part of Mexico ranges from sunny and warm to extremely stormy. This region is in the Atlantic Hurricane Belt, which means it is susceptible to wind damage and flooding. Typically, hurricane season lasts from June 1 to November 30 every year. Late August to the end of November is considered the off-season and rates to Mexico are usually lower. At all times of the year, however, you can visit some of the famous tourist destinations in this area.

If you like to dive, Valladolid in Yucatan is your ideal destination. This town is the site of a number of sinkholes, which are connected via underground streams and caves. In some of the safe spots, you can swim, as well as dive into these underground caves with a tour guide. This is a unique opportunity for any diver, as you can see locations different from the typical ocean dive.

The Yucatan peninsula is also famous for its Mayan sites, which you can find in archaeological zones such as Kabah and Labna. One of the most famous of these is the ceremonial Chichen Itza, a UNESCO World Heritage site that includes an observatory, a ball court, and pyramids where they put on shows. A number of the Mayan sites offer guided tours, while at some you can also explore on your own if you want.

If you are more interested in what the coast has to offer, you can check out any of Mexico’s beaches in this area. Cancun is an extremely popular destination for international tourists, as it has a number of resorts and hotels with direct access to the beach. Along with sunbathing, you can try snorkeling, diving, fishing, jet skiing, sailing, parasailing, and a number of other marine activities. The great thing about the weather in this area is that, with the exception of hurricane season, rain usually clears rather quickly, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the beach.

Are you planning an upcoming trip to Mexico’s Caribbean Coast? If so, here are some travel tips to keep in mind:

¨ Apply for your passport early. Yes, United States citizens need a passport to get into Mexico and back home, even if you travel there via boat. You should apply for your passport at least three months prior to your date of travel, and it is better to apply about six month in advance if you can. Keep your passport in a safe place while on vacation, such as in your hotel safe.

¨ Do not drink the water. This is not an urban legend. When you are in Mexico, ask for bottled water, because the tap water contains bacteria that could make you sick. Locals have built up a tolerance, but as a tourist, you can become sick.

¨ Make sure you check customs laws. Without proper paperwork, there are certain items that you should declare when you come back into the United States. If you are going to shop while on vacation in Mexico, make sure you can keep your items! This can save much frustration and stress because by checking customs laws you know what can be brought back into the country.

You have a number of booking options when looking for a place to stay in Mexico. First, you can look for a hotel and plan your own activities. The cheapest options are inland, away from the coast, but remember that you may have to pay for beach access whereas hotels on the beach often give guests free access. You can also look at all-inclusive resort options. These can be very affordable and they give you more options with less time spent planning.

Even if you do not want to spend your entire Caribbean vacation in Mexico, you can use this as a starting point to for a cruise. Many Caribbean cruise lines spend time in Mexican waters before moving on to some of the islands you can find in this part of the world. Most people do not realize that Mexico is a prime location for a Caribbean vacation. This location should not be overlooked because along with unique cultural opportunities, Mexico can be more affordable than other island vacation options.

PostHeaderIcon Try a Caribbean Carnival Cruise

Are we always complaining about not getting to see that perfect place we have dreamt of? That too in a very short span of time. Herein lies the answer.

What is a paradise? Well, beauty lies in the eyes of the beholder. The inert twining of nature with the best she has to offer – the mountains, the sea, the land and the rest. A Caribbean Carnival cruise offers all of these things to keep you up and going – a voyage straight into the hearts and minds of people who experience it.

The cruises to the Caribbean are typically split into one of three categories: Eastern Caribbean, Western Caribbean, or Southern Caribbean. The trips to Southern Caribbean are typically a short one and will typically depart from Puerto Rico, Aruba, or Barbados; while longer journeys may depart from the mainland of the United States. Western Caribbean cruises will depart from the Gulf of Mexico for the most part: Florida, Texas, Alabama, and Louisiana. Finally, the Eastern Caribbean cruises may depart from the Gulf of Mexico, usually Florida, or New York, for slightly longer journeys.

Every region is elegance at its best .Shopping, snorkeling or sailing is best suited to the eastern Caribbean region .Those devoid of nature can head to the western region. The strong hearted can head to the south.

The length of your trip decides where you want to head. A typical two day adventure will leave you more at sea and a bit of port too. When you are at sea, you can enjoy all of the accommodations of the cruise ship, including food, pampering, and fun. When you port at your destination, you may choose to stay aboard or go out and see the sights of your temporary new home. The longer your trip gets, you may actually get to port at several different locations, which is especially nice as it gives you the freedom to explore more. You will then set course for home and travel a day or two back to where you departed from – a little more relaxed and ready to face the next year.

This is how the Caribbean tour is lined up for you. You will have no complaints in the land of Caribbean, an enchanting experience designed to suit every bit of your needs

PostHeaderIcon Tips To Make Your Caribbean Island Cruise More Enjoyable

Many people now consider Caribbean cruises as excellent value for money and a good place for families to spend some time together; why not spoil yourself and be treated like royalty while you spend time visiting these idyllic tropical islands. It should be on everyone’s list of vacations with tropical Caribbean islands, clear, clean beaches and of course a fun filled time on board the cruise liner. There is a great deal of flexibility involved on the part of the liner companies and they can arrange short taster trips or a full fourteen days or more vacations.
The great thing about cruising is that these ships have immense experience in catering for just about all tastes so whether you just want to relax on the deck or want a full itinerary of events, they will be able to supply exactly what you want. You can guarantee the cruise liner company will have a package custom made to suit your needs as it is their job to ensure you have the best vacation ever.
In any situation where you are spending a great deal of money, it is worth checking out a few details that should put you on the right track and you travel agency will be a good place to start. Almost every Caribbean island will receive cruise liner guests but they can’t call on every one each trip as it would take to long so you need to look for a package that will call at the islands you want.
Disco loving people that don’t like to sleep will enjoy those cruise vacations that arrange activity filled days and non-stop party evenings. Some Caribbean cruise liner companies actually produce virtual tours and other information on DVD’s which can be collected from your travel agent or ordered online.
The main difference with this type of vacation is the number of changes of clothing you take with you as there is a greater opportunity to dress for evening functions. Women may want to take two or three evening dresses and men will need a tuxedo, they will probably get to wear it for a number of evenings.
A common mistake is for families to believe that cruise vacations aren’t very child friendly which couldn’t be further from the truth as most have more activities for children than they do for adults. There is always something for them to do and people to take care of them if you need a few hours of adult time.
But Caribbean cruises can be for adults to and there are those that do not have children on board. Other cruise liner packages are available and have been created for special occasions like weddings, honeymoons and anniversaries.
The whole idea of a Caribbean cruise vacation is that you enjoy yourself and just let go for however long you are on board because it may be some time before you go again!

PostHeaderIcon Top Five Cruise Destinations to Escape the Cold Winter Weather

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.

PostHeaderIcon Is making a Cruise something for You?

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

 

PostHeaderIcon Cruising is Growing in Many Ways

Cruising is now big business, only last week private equity group Apollo Management became a major shareholder in Norwegian Cruise Lines (NCL) having spent $1 billion for a 50 percent share of the company. Apollo has also recently purchased Oceania Cruises and has a deal with Regent Seven Seas and is a growing force within the industry. So what else is growing within the industry? Well the cost of a new build is staggering, Royal Caribbean are spending no fewer than $1.2 billion on just one ship, the yet un-named Genesis class ship due in service in the fall of 2009.Ships have grown rapidly, not just in cost but in size over the last few years. When you consider that Titanic was 52,300 tons and considered in its time to be a monster of a ship; nowadays car ferries are just as big. Royal Caribbean Cruise Line are renowned for being innovative within the world of cruising and are pushing the boundaries with their new cruise ship that will make the Titanic appear nothing more than a barge. At 220,000 tons the Genesis class ship will surpass the Independence of the Seas, due to enter service this spring, which at 158,000 tons will be the joint largest cruise ship in the world at present. It begs the question, just how big can they make a cruise ship?There is no doubt, wherever you look in the world of cruising, there is some form of growth. This year there is set to be 5 new builds and a couple of renamed ships cruising out of the UK alone. Add to this the number of new to Europe ships cruising out of the Mediterranean ports and Costa Cruises are set to send two ships to Dubai compared to only one last year. This all adds up to the number of ports being visited by cruise ships is set to reach an all time high.Another growing aspect is how we receive the news of what the cruise companies are doing and that is via the cruising website. Independent cruise websites are growing almost daily as more people try to get on the bandwagon of an industry that appears to be on a never ending uplift. The Cruise is one of these new, growing websites and has been designed by Drabdesign a UK based search engine optimisation company that has a history of cruising websites. What makes The Cruise stand out is the look and feel of a real newspaper and although it is still being worked on, it will have an archive of a whole year’s news. Being split into sections means if you are interested in the growing number of new builds, or news from a specific location such as US Based Cruise News even destination news, it will have it all.

PostHeaderIcon Is the Caribbean a Good Place for a Cruise?

Caribbean cruises are fast becoming the most popular of all cruise vacations anywhere and it is not surprising; this could be a vacation of a lifetime because it will be one you never forget. It should be on everyone’s list of vacations with tropical Caribbean islands, clear, clean beaches and of course a fun filled time on board the cruise liner. How long you sail for really is up to your budget and what standard of cabin you want but these tours can be add-ons for other vacations or as long as fourteen or more days.

Sailing is an excellent way to enjoy yourself and this includes a person who just wants to send all day on board enjoying the entertainment to someone who can’t wait to explore all the new sights. Never worry that there will not be enough to keep you occupied as cruise liners are past masters at ensuring their travelers have everything they need.

In any situation where you are spending a great deal of money, it is worth checking out a few details that should put you on the right track and you travel agency will be a good place to start. Caribbean cruises travel to most parts of the world, but with different price packages for each itinerary together with the duration and the number of places visited.

For those individuals and couples that enjoy parties and event filled vacations then choose a cruise vacation that perhaps is designed more for adults than families. Even though your tour operator should be able to provide information on the types of Caribbean cruise packages that are available, there will probably be more advice to be found on the web sites.

Besides the usual, you need to pack suitable attire for many occasions like formal evening wear as well as beach, deck and other casual wear. For formal evenings and events a gown is necessary for women and tuxedo for men so that you can be seen in your finest and something you need to be prepared for especially if you are invited to the Captains table.

Don’t worry if you are uncertain about taking your children along on a cruise vacations because there will be plenty for them to do without you needing to be close at hand, watching over them. You can even take time off for a little quality adult time as there is fully trained staff to look after them.

But Caribbean cruises can be for adults to and there are those that do not have children on board. Other cruise liner packages are available and have been created for special occasions like weddings, honeymoons and anniversaries.

Your Caribbean cruise will be a vacation of a lifetime as you don’t have to do anything but enjoy yourself as everything else is taken care of irrespective if you go on your own, a couple or part of a family group.

PostHeaderIcon Royal Caribbean Review

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.

PostHeaderIcon Royal Caribbean Review

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.

PostHeaderIcon Royal Caribbean Review

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.