Planning the Best Cruise Vacation

If you want to plan your cruise vacation without the help of a travel consultant you will need to know where to begin and what to do. First, we need to write down our interest and decide what activities we want to partake in for this particular cruise. Second, we need to decide where we want to go, when we want to go and how long we want to stay. Since each cruise line offers different activities, amenities, schedules and dinning options, you want to pick one that will go with what interest you. Third decide what cruise line you want, some people have a particular cruise line in mind. But if you don’t have a preference, read a little on each cruise and choose the one you like best. Which ever one is picked you will have an awesome time by following the next few extra steps.

Get the best discount
Prices of a cruise rise and fall often. The price that you pay will be determined on the when, how, who, and what of your cruise price research. Cruises that offer the best discount are not in high season and they do not have a unique itinerary. Other determinations of discounts will depend on the room that you purchased, if you booked really early or at the very last minute, your age, and if you are a repeat customer.

Buy Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is extra protection for the unexpected things that can happen while on vacation. The cost is fairly reasonable for what is covered. As an insured traveler you will have the comfort of knowing you are protected if: there is a flight cancellation or delay; lost, delayed, damaged or stolen luggage; canceled trip; medical emergencies. Make sure to pick a policy that is enough for your vacation needs. Remember to consider pre-existing medical needs, some insurance carriers has special rules regarding this.

Calculate the total cost
This may be the most difficult step because we don’t know how much souvenirs or other extras may cost. Therefore, calculate the set prices and then give your self a budget. Remember to be realistic with your budget, only you know how much you like to spend. In your budget don’t forget on board drinks (if your cruise is not all inclusive), land excursions, gambling and tipping staff (carrying $2 and $5 bills makes this easier).

What you should pack
Luggage: It is advised to pack light so that you may have enough room in your bags to bring souvenirs home. You must separate a carry on bag from the rest of your luggage. Pack your medication, documentation, sunscreen, change of clothes and anything else you will need immediately after boarding in your carry on bag. The rest of your luggage will arrive at your room later in the day. On every cruise there is at least one formal night. If your trip is more than three days there will be two or more formal nights, so you will need to pack a suit jacket and trousers or evening gown. Remember to bring comfortable walking shoes and work out clothing. Also, take into consideration that cruises get direct sunlight. Therefore, you may need a sun hat or some other sun protection. Swim suits and other wet suits are needed as well.

Documentation: It is recommended to bring your passport. But, check with your cruise line to find out if you will need additional documentation for your trip. Here are some of the other documents that may be needed.

- U.S Residents: State or Federal issued ID
- Non-U.S Residents: Visa or Alien registration card

Secure your home and documentations
Before going on your cruise make sure to secure your home and have some one look after pets. Make sure to lock doors, windows and file cabinets. Put all jewelry in a secure and safe place. Also you should keep copies of all important documents with a responsible person or in a safe place where a responsible person could access them if needed.

Set Sail and enjoy your cruise
You have arrived early and should board the ship early. Getting on the ship early, will allow you to buy your shore activities and load money on your cruise card before there is a long line. In addition, you can get to know your location on the ship, where your muster station is and the locations of activities/ amenities. Afterward, you can sit by the pool and drink that margarita you’ve been waiting for.

Cruise and Vacation Specialist
Cruise vacations.