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Planning a perfect trip to please everyone is easier said than done, especially if you are considering going on a cruise, as there is much to do for the entire troupe.
Whether you want to explore itineraries for an Alaskan retreat or wander the storied streets of Barcelona, cruising offers the perfect way to travel, relax and see new destinations, provided you plan it right.
From an ocean or river cruise to planning destinations and cruise lines, this blog will cover it all, including some tips and tricks to make your voyage productive and fun.
The first step is to contact a cruise specialist as certain travel advisors have access to offers or onboard extras which may not be offered to you directly.
Travel advisors also have a personal relationship with many in the cruise industry and can offer clients exclusive benefits if they book their cruise through them.
Next, consider which cruise would be the best for your entire crew, keeping in mind the itinerary and the destinations covered, as cruise ships nowadays sail to all seven continents, so there is a cruise itinerary for everyone.
Other things to consider while choosing a destination are the best time of the year to visit, duration of the trip and if there is a shoulder season to get better pricing.
Now you need to find out which cruise line is best suited for your budget and needs. Some factors to consider are whether the cruise is “adults only” or if food is your thing, then a gourmet-themed cruise etc., would suit you.
Look for cruise lines that have a solid reputation for the itinerary you want. Also popular cruise lines offer great onboard activities, but in the end, they should be of importance to you and what you are looking for from your voyage.
Now the next step to plan is your onboard accommodation. While the interior cabins are the cheapest, there are some things to consider when selecting the cabin type that suits you best.
In a cabin with a balcony, you can always open the window whenever you want to enjoy some fresh air, but if you are mostly out of the room, an interior room can be a good budget option, as you will only need the room to sleep and shower in.
For more space, consider booking a suite that also comes with extra perks.The best is to pick a cabin based on your destination. For instance, a balcony while cruising the Mediterranean for a nice private viewing space.
If you have accessibility needs, make sure your cabin is either below the kitchen or gym for easy access, so that in the end there are no surprises.
Also some people dislike sleeping below the water line, so make sure your cruise travel expert guide you to the best cabin to suit your lifestyle as this will be the key to an enjoyable cruise.
Next come the dining options as there are many choices on a cruise ship. While most ships have buffet-style restaurants, if you are particular about food styles, speak to your travel advisor to make sure your culinary desires are catered to beforehand.
When it comes to choosing shore excursions, do thorough research of your ports of call before deciding on which tour to book, as these activities are not included with most mainline cruise lines.
Lastly, gratuities need to be thought of as to whether they are included in your package, as there will be an additional amount you need to pay at the end of the sailing. Happy sailing!
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