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Vacation Guide
CRUISE TIPS
Every year more people are discovering the value of the
all-inclusive nature of a cruise vacation. Many of those
people will return to cruising again and again because
they enjoy the many luxuries provided by the package the
Cruise Line has put together for them. But, because there
are many differences in the types of cruises available
and a cruise is an all-inclusive package it becomes very
important that you pick the right cruise for you. It’s
all or nothing, so you’ll want to do a little research
to find out if the "all" in their package is
just what you are looking for in a vacation.
How long are cruises?
The 3-day weekend, 4-day midweek, week long, 10 day are
all popular, but you can also find cruises that are several
months in length. You can find 2-day cruises and even
some lasting only a few hours just to gamble in international
waters. In other words, any combination of time from hours
to months are offered to attract your vacation dollars.
Where do cruises go?
Just about anywhere in the world. The Caribbean, Pacific
coast of California, Mexico and Alaska are popular among
tourists from the United States. But, cruising is basically
found where ever you find water.
What factors should I consider to help me decide which
cruise to pick?
- The amount you have budgeted and the overall cost
of the cruise.
- Any special price breaks or deals.
- The Cruise Line’s reputation for the quality
of its cuisine and its menu.
- The Cruise Line’s reputation for customer service.
- The Cruise Line’s previous ship safety and
cleanliness record.
- The overall atmosphere the cruise conveys. Whether
it is family fun, party time, quite elegant sophistication
or romantic getaway.
- The length of the Cruise.
- The Ship’s own facilities.
- On ship activities planned.
- Any theme attached to the cruise.
- The ports you will be visiting.
- The shore excursions that the Cruise Line offers.
HOTEL TIPS
How can I pick the best Hotel for me?
- Ask around and consider their customer service record.
What ratings have they received from independent rating
organizations?
- Evaluate their franchise for consistency. Many Hotel’s
are franchised so you’ll want to see how the
particular location fits into the Hotel’s chain.
Find out how the chain rates this particular property
within their organization.
- Consider their Hotel policies, are they favorable
to you or do they penalize you in some way.
- Find out what partnerships they have that could
save you money in other areas. Many Hotels have agreements
with airlines, rental car or credit card companies.
- See if they credit your frequent flyer or frequent
guest programs with points.
- Check the Hotel Chain's locations. Does their Hotel
chain have locations where you travel? Do they have
international locations?
- Check the individual hotel's location. Is their
airport hotel really close to the airport?
- Evaluate their facility. When were the rooms last
remodeled? Does it have the types of features you
need? How well does it suit your need for the quick
overnight stay or the weeklong resort vacation? Do
they have business suites or meeting rooms available
if you need them? Does the particular Hotel you want
to stay in located in a safe part of town? Is any
major construction going on in the area around your
Hotel’s location? Will there be any large groups
staying at the Hotel that could negatively impact
your stay?
- Do they offer the types of extra services you need?
Do they have a concierge, shuttle or laundry service?
- Can they honor your special requests?
- See if they offer a Premium or Loyalty Club that
feature the services you need.
- Check to see if you belong to any groups that entitle
you to a special deal with a particular Hotel.
- Consider their rates and the availability of any
coupons or discounts. See who offers the best overall
deal for your budget.
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