Accommodations for Solo Cruisers

If you’re interested in cruising on your own but not in sharing a cabin, good news: there is a growing number of cruise ship cabins designed for one. And, these single-occupancy cabins come at single-occupancy prices. If you cruise on your own in a cabin intended for two, you’ll probably have to pay what’s known as a “single supplement,” which can be as much as another cruise fare. So, you could pay up to double to have your own cabin, or you could consider sailing with a cruise line that provides solo accommodations, like these:

Norwegian Cruise Line has been a leader in accommodating solo cruisers with cabins that are thoughtfully designed for one. You can find them on most of the line’s newer ships: the Epic, with 128 “studio” cabins, has the most. Most of the NCL studios are inside cabins, but some have windows to the corridor or virtual portholes that stream a view of the water. And when you sail in a studio cabin, you’ll have access to the Studio Complex and Lounge, a social space with coffee, cocktails, big-screen TVs, and pre-dinner gatherings to enjoy.

Royal Caribbean has cabins for solo cruisers on several ships – some have just a few, but Quantum Class ships have up to 28. The solo cabins are from a mix of categories, including inside cabins, inside cabins with virtual balconies, and outside cabins with open-air balconies. Plus, while all of the activities on Royal Caribbean make meeting other passengers pretty easy, there are also hosted meetups just for solo cruisers.

Virgin Voyages’ three ships each have 46 cabins for solo cruisers; these are mostly inside cabins, but some have ocean views. All of Virgin Voyages’ cabins are sleek and stylish, and the cabins for one are no exception. While the cruise line organizes meetups for solo “sailors,” these ships are designed for easy socializing. The wide variety of activities, restaurants, and bars creates lots of opportunities to mingle and chat with other solos, couples, and friend groups.

Holland America Line also has some solo cabins on some of its ships, including the Koningsdam, Nieuw Statendam, and Rotterdam. These ocean-view cabins have the same amenities as double-occupancy cabins, but are available for a single-occupancy fare.

Whatever the cruise line, cabins for one are popular, and they tend to sell out well in advance. To reserve one for yourself, contact Anita, your professional travel advisor.

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Preparing to Pay for Cruise Extras

Your cruise fare pays for so much, including accommodations and housekeeping, lots of onboard dining and entertainment, port fees, and great service. But when you get on board, you’ll encounter some tempting extras that carry separate fees. Understanding and planning for these optional extra costs before you sail can help you stay comfortably within your vacation budget.

Here are some popular items for which most mainstream cruise lines charge extra:

Beverages. Most cruise lines offer at least a few complimentary beverages, but the majority of them, from bottled water to cocktails, are available at a per-drink price. You can save by purchasing a beverage package before you board the ship. Ask your professional travel advisor for more information.

Specialty restaurants. The dining venues included in your fare will serve delicious food, but it’s fun to try the elevated cuisine at an onboard specialty restaurant; and the extra charge is often less than you would pay for a similar dining experience at home. Pick an evening to treat yourself and make a reservation in advance.

Room service. Room service used to be complimentary on most cruise ships, but many now charge delivery fees. To avoid this, pick up some food or snacks at one of the no-free-dining venues to take to your cabin.

Internet access. Your cruise line is likely to charge a fee for internet access (which can still be spotty). To avoid the fee, use your cruise as a time to unplug from your devices. Or, wait until the ship is in port to check email and socials; you can usually get connected in port facilities, or at a nearby shop or restaurant.

Shore Excursions. While most shore excursions come with fees, there’s usually a variety to choose from, including options that are fun and reasonably priced. If you’d like to splurge on a special shore excursion or two, be sure to select and reserve them in advance to help avoid any pricey impulse buying as you sail.

There are other optional extras you can plan for, like spa treatments, professional photos, laundry services, and even certain high-cost menu items (think lobster and chateaubriand). One way to avoid some of these fees is to reserve your cruise well in advance: extras may be included in promotional and early-bird fares. For more information, talk with Anita, your professional travel advisor, who has the best access to special offers from the cruise lines.

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Cruising the Western Mediterranean

 To explore some of the loveliest and most historic places in Europe, consider a cruise in the Western Mediterranean. A wide range of itineraries is available from various cruise lines. Your professional travel advisor can help you find the cruise ship, schedule, and style that suits you best.

While the Western Med is a fine destination for cruising all year long, the summer months can be hot, with the largest crowds on shore. Also, many Europeans take all of August off for their own vacations, so some shoreside attractions may be closed during that month. In spring or fall, cruise passengers often enjoy smaller crowds and cooler temperatures in the Western Mediterranean. Winter can be a little chilly in some areas, but holiday celebrations make it a lovely time to sail.

Many voyages focus on popular ports along the southern coasts of Spain and France, as well as the west coast of Italy. Here are just a few of the wonderful Western Med ports you may wish to visit:

Barcelona, Spain. There’s so much to see in the ancient Gothic Quarter and Old Town, but you can also visit the Sagrada Familia and other buildings designed by Antoni Gaudi, tour FC Barcelona’s stadium, walk the beach at La Barceloneta, or visit a Benedictine abbey on the peaks of Montserrat.

The French Riviera (Côte d’Azur). Where you dock along this famous coastline may depend on the size of your ship: it could be a larger port like Marseilles, or a smaller one like Saint-Tropez. No matter where your ship calls, the scenery along the coast is stunning.

Rome, Italy. Most ships dock in Civitavecchia (a major port since the second century), where passengers hop on trains or buses for an hour’s ride to Rome. On a first visit, a highlights tour will take you to the most iconic sites; on a return visit, spend more time exploring a favorite place, like the Colosseum, the Vatican, or the Piazza Navona. Before or after Rome, your cruise might also call on the Italian ports of Genoa, Livorno (for Florence), or Naples.

Some Western Med cruises also call on Portugal, Monaco, or Mediterranean islands like Mallorca, Sardinia, Corsica, or Malta. And, some venture to North African ports in Tunisia, Algeria, or Morocco, too. For much more information about your options for cruising the Western Mediterranean, talk with Anita, your professional travel advisor.

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What to Do as Your Cruise Ends

When you approach the end of a cruise feeling relaxed and carefree, you know that your floating vacation has done its job. But, remember that there are some things you should do to prepare for leaving the ship and heading home.

If you have onboard credits, use them up. Onboard credits, which passengers can purchase or receive as a booking incentive, are the same as money on board. If you have any left on the last full day of the cruise, treat yourself to something in a shop or at the spa.

Pack your bags. It’s not as much fun as packing before the cruise, but it’s necessary during your last full day on board. Take a careful look around so you don’t leave any belongings behind, but don’t pack anything that belongs to the ship – you’re likely to be charged for it. If the crew will take your luggage off the ship for you, be sure to attach the color-coded tags you’ll receive and put your luggage in the hall by the appointed time (but, put the things you’ll need in the morning in a carry-on bag you’ll keep with you).

Check-in for your flight home. Many airlines encourage advance check-in; if you have Wi-Fi access on the ship, check in on the airline’s app to help your homeward journey go smoothly. This is also a good way to double-check your flight time. If you don’t have onboard Wi-Fi, you should be able to connect once the ship docks.

Check on your disembarkation time. Most ships assign disembarkation (leaving the ship) times based on flight times. If your time doesn’t agree with your after-cruise travel plans, visit the guest services desk and ask to make a change. Of course, if you travel light and can carry all of your own baggage off the ship, you may be able to disembark as soon as port authorities clear the ship.

Check your final bill. Errors happen, and it’s important to check your bill and settle any issues before you leave the ship. If you find unfamiliar or inappropriate charges on your bill, visit the guest services desk.

Book another cruise. To entice you to book before you disembark, the cruise line may offer attractive discounts and extra rewards. If you’re interested, talk with the staff at the guest services desk.

For even more tips for a smooth end to any cruise, talk with Anita, your professional travel advisor.

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Dining With the Kids

One part of cruising that everyone looks forward to is onboard dining. But if you’re cruising with children, you may wonder how well the ship will meet their gastronomic needs. In short, don’t worry. Cruise ship chefs and servers know how to work with diners who might be a bit fussy, a little messy, and always hungry.

One aspect of cruise ship dining that’s great for kids is the variety of dining spots and food available. Most ships have at least two dining options – a main dining room and a buffet – as well as themed or specialty dining venues (some ships have dozens of these).

The main dining room offers sit-down, multicourse breakfasts, lunches and dinners for all ages. Some offer special children’s menus, but kids are welcome to order from the regular menu, too. If your child doesn’t find the menu appealing, get creative. Ask for a side dish as main plate; for a different preparation, such as chicken that’s fried instead of grilled; or for an unfamiliar sauce or despised vegetable to be left off the plate. Your server can make some suggestions, too. And while the chefs can’t make every special request a reality, they will accommodate them whenever possible.

The ship’s buffet is usually open most of the day and evening, ready to tame kids’ hunger with an array of main dishes, sides, salads, and desserts. Some even have a “kids’ area” where favorites like macaroni & cheese and fresh fruit are always available. Be sure to supervise your child’s visits to the buffet to help them follow proper etiquette (take only what they’ll eat, don’t dip the same utensil in different dishes, etc.).

For a quick meal or snack, many ships have one or more convenient snack bars, often located by a pool. They may serve pizza by the slice, burgers and hot dogs, fresh salads and more. There are usually one or more soft-serve ice cream machines on board, too.

It’s a treat to dine at an onboard specialty restaurant that serves gourmet fare (often for an extra charge). Many welcome children, and some even have children’s menus. Specialty dining can be fun for a child who likes trying new tastes; if not, it may be better as an adult-only experience.

And, there’s one more dining option that’s great for kids, especially tired ones: room service. Ask your professional travel advisor about all the kid-friendly dining options on your next cruise.

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Icon of the Seas’ First Anniversary

The world’s largest cruise ship, Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas, recently marked its first anniversary. After a year of sailing in the Caribbean, which features of this spectacular ship are pleasing passengers the most?

The AquaDome, an aquatic entertainment venue enclosed by a big glass dome, has proven to be a favorite. During the day, it’s a place to relax and take in the views; at night, it’s a shimmering showplace for cascading fountains, high dives and aerial acrobatics. Royal Caribbean is planning to have an Aqua Dome on all of its Icon Class ships (more are in development, with the Star of the Seas scheduled to launch this year).

The Pearl, a walk-through kinetic sculpture, is second only to the AquaDome in passengers’ hearts. Lined with thousands of kinetic tiles that can capture human movement to create energy, the Pearl simulates natural sensations like rolling waves, gentle breezes and shooting stars. In addition to beauty and enjoyment, the Pearl provides the structural support that made it possible for the Icon’s designers to place more ocean-facing windows along the Royal Promenade.

Passengers also appreciate one of the Icon’s practical innovations – destination elevators. Instead of just pushing an “up” or “down” button, passengers who need an elevator use a touch screen to select the floor they’re going to. This enables the system to efficiently assign elevators to specific trips, which reduces waiting time (important on such a big ship).

The Icon is the first Royal Caribbean ship with infinite balconies, which can transition from indoor to outdoor space. In balcony mode, the top half of an exterior glass wall slides open to let the breeze in; the touch of a button closes it up to make the area, furnished with two comfortable chairs, part of the cabin’s interior. According to Jennifer Goswami, director of product development for Royal Caribbean, many passengers who were unsure about the infinite balcony say they now prefer it to a traditional balcony.

Finally, the most lovable new feature on the Icon is Rover, a friendly Golden Retriever who lives on board and ensures that all the passengers she meets feel welcome. Rover is such a hit with passengers and crew that all Icon Class ships are slated to have their own “chief dog officers.”

To find out how to sail on Icon of the Seas and enjoy all these popular features – and many more – talk with Anita, your professional travel advisor.

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Cruising the Eastern Mediterranean

Like the Caribbean, the Mediterranean is a cruise destination that offers distinctly different experiences depending on which portion you sail. Let’s take a look at the Eastern Mediterranean.

You can cruise the Eastern Med any time of year, with summer being the busiest – and warmest – time to go. If you like cooler weather and smaller crowds on shore, cruising this region in spring, fall or winter may be best for you. Your professional travel advisor can help you select from the wide range of cruise lines, ship sizes, and cruise styles available.

There are also a lot of different itineraries to choose from. Some will introduce you to the lovely Adriatic Sea, which lies between the east coast of Italy and the west coast of the Balkan Peninsula; some focus on Greece and the gorgeous Greek Isles; and some venture even farther east, to Türkiye and Egypt.

If you choose an Adriatic-centered cruise, port calls are likely to include Venice in Italy and Dubrovnik in Croatia. Venice is a romantic city full of Renaissance and Gothic art and architecture. There are no roads – only canals – because the city is spread over more than 100 small islands in a tranquil lagoon. Dubrovnik is a historic city too, with a well-preserved, medieval Old Town. It’s easy to see why this was a filming location for “Game of Thrones.”

Some cruises of the Greek Isles include a call on Athens, the capital city on Greece’s mainland. The Acropolis of Athens, an ancient citadel, has some of the world’s most ancient and historically significant structures – including the Parthenon, the Temple of Athena, and the Theatre of Dionysus – all built nearly 2,500 years ago. Many of the Greek Isles also have archeological sites, along with wonderful sunny beaches.

Cruises of the far eastern reaches of the Mediterranean may call on Türkiye’s ports of Istanbul and Kuşadasi. Istanbul is the world’s only city on two continents (Europe and Asia), and the exciting mix of cultures shows in the city’s architecture, attractions and food. Kuşadasi is a gateway to nearby Ephesus, where you can see the remains of the Temple of Artemis, one of the wonders of the ancient world. Some cruises also call on Alexandria, Egypt, to visit age-old catacombs and the Great Pyramids.

There’s a lot more to know about cruising the Eastern Mediterranean; your professional travel advisor can give you more expert tips and ideas.

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Our Trip Thru the Panama Canal

 

In December, we embraced the thrill of a "back-2-back" cruise adventure, setting sail from Miami through the iconic Panama Canal, and then back to our starting point in Miami. This journey consisted of two unforgettable voyages: the first whisked us through the Southern Caribbean's dazzling gems—Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao, and Cartagena—leading us to the vibrant Panama City. From there, we embarked on our return journey, traversing the canal once more and journeying up the coast of Central America back to Miami. Contrary to my initial thoughts, there weren't as many sea days, which allowed us plenty of time to savor the ship's amenities alongside the refreshing Caribbean breeze.

During the first leg of our cruise, we had the incredible opportunity to sail with Dondra Ritzenthaler, the newly appointed Chief Executive Officer of Azamara, who took the helm in May 2024. Her impressive tenure as the Senior Vice President of Sales at Celebrity Cruises brought a wealth of experience to her new role with Azamara.

Our main focus on this voyage was to engage with Dondra and gain insight into Azamara's vision for the future, including exciting potential developments like the addition of a fifth ship. We're optimistic and hopeful for new horizons!

Experiencing the Panama Canal's remarkable operations twice within a week was a true highlight. It was an inspiring journey, solidifying our belief in Azamara's continued growth and success in crafting exceptional travel experiences.

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Discovering Quito and the Enchanting Galapagos

 In early November, our adventure began as we jetted off to Quito, Ecuador, to kickstart a thrilling journey to the Galapagos Islands. Despite our late-night arrival at Quito International Airport (UIO), a 40-minute drive through winding mountain roads led us to the impressive JW Marriott hotel.

What a delightful stay it was! The hotel offered one of our most enjoyable experiences, albeit with a small hiccup: we were advised against drinking tap water. Thankfully, the hotel thoughtfully provided bottled water in our rooms, and we took full advantage of the complementary water bottle filling station in the lobby. It was a botanical delight, with fragrant cut roses—one of Ecuador's treasures—adorning every hotel corner.

Nestled in the Andean Mountains, Quito sits at an impressive elevation of 9,350 feet, leaving us breathless in more ways than one! Sleeping posed a challenge for some due to the high altitude, and a few members of our group needed a little medication to aid in adjustment.

Our first full day in Quito was spent exploring the enchanting old city, where we uncovered a fun fact: Panama Hats originate from Ecuador! Our charismatic guide mentioned that Teddy Roosevelt's famous Panama Hat was an Ecuadorian creation. Later, we had our equatorial escapade at the “Ciudad Mitad del Mundo” monument. A quirky discovery was made - it's not precisely on the equator, but close neighbors with the line. A fascinating water demonstration of how drains swirl differently on either side of the equator piqued our curiosity.

After an exhilarating two-night stay in Quito, we caught our charter flight to the Galapagos, bound for Baltra.

Sailing the Galapagos Aboard Celebrity Flora

Upon arrival, a dedicated team of naturalists whisked us from the airport to a nearby dock, where the Zodiac awaited to ferry us to the majestic Celebrity Flora. Hand luggage in tow, we boarded with a splash of sea spray— not unlike a gentle maritime baptism. Flora, a 100-guest marvel with 50 staterooms, became our floating sanctuary for a memorable seven-day voyage.

Aboard the ship, evenings took on a unique rhythm of recap sessions, where we unraveled the day's adventures while savoring words of wisdom about the days to come. The cruise offered twice-a-day expeditions ashore, ranging from challenging treks to serene strolls, catering to every explorer’s taste.

Galapagos: An Archipelago of Wonders

Each island in the Galapagos unfolded a vibrant tapestry of creatures, unafraid and unperturbed by human presence. Among these remarkable beings, the Albatross captured my heart. Though awkward on land, this bird soars through the skies with grace. We were lucky to arrive at the tail end of the nesting season—most adults had migrated, leaving behind a few curious younglings.

The Celebrity Experience: Pure Magic

Wow! Celebrity delivered an extraordinary experience with exceptional guides and a stellar support team, both pre- and post-cruise in Quito. I'm already dreaming of a return voyage aboard the Flora to this incredible archipelago. Until then, I'll hold onto the hope of seeing you on board someday!

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Cruise Port Facility Upgrades

Established ports that have lots of cruise ship visits need upgrades from time to time, whether to refurbish aging facilities or provide new and improved services for passengers. Here are some recent and current port upgrade projects that you might come across on a cruise.

Nassau, The Bahamas, recently completed a major port reconstruction that created more space for visiting cruise ships, as well as new retail and entertainment venues. Better passenger flow and two new marinas help get land- or water-based shore excursions off to a smooth start. Shops in the port area now offer more Bahamian-made crafts and other products. There’s also a museum that celebrates Junkanoo, the Bahamian national festival.

The Caribbean island of St. Lucia has begun a complete redevelopment of its cruise port in Castries. The project is intended to improve the docks, retail spaces, traffic flow, and overall passenger experience. It will take at least two years to complete, but there will be no pause in cruise ship calls on this beautiful island.

The Dominican Republic recently opened its fifth cruise port: Cabo Rojo, in the southwestern corner of the country. There’s lots to do right in the port area, which has a pretty beach, a pool and a lazy river, a dune buggy track, a Ferris wheel, and a merry-go-round, as well as restaurants and shops. There are also glass-bottom boat tours, birdwatching in Jaragua National Park, ATV adventures, and excursions to nearby beaches or the town of Pedernales.

A major upgrade of the San Juan Cruise Port in Puerto Rico – one of the busiest in the Caribbean – will invest $425 million in infrastructure, services, and attractions. The project will repair terminals, wharves, walkways, and more to accommodate an increase in visitors, expected to rise to 5 million per year during the next few years.

The port of Seward, Alaska, is replacing a 60-year-old fixed dock with a floating dock that can rise and fall along with visiting ships, eliminating the need for passengers to go up and down steep ramps. The $137 million project includes a new, larger cruise terminal and should be finished in time for the 2026 cruise season.

Port facility upgrades generally take place without any disruption to scheduled port calls, and it can be exciting to see the changes taking place. To find out if you’ll encounter any port upgrade projects on your next cruise, check with Anita, your professional travel advisor.

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Simple Tips for a More Enjoyable Cruise

There are lots of easy ways to help yourself enjoy a cruise to the fullest. Take a look at these tips and make a note to try some of them the next time you sail.

·         Don’t miss the sail-away party. As the ship heads out to open water, go up on an open deck to join the party, enjoy the view, and feel the fresh sea breeze. The joy and anticipation in the air are infectious!

·         Explore the ship. Cruise ships are marvels of engineering and design, so get to know yours. In addition to the dining spots, entertainment venues, and pool, seek out some cozy nooks where you can relax.

·         Organize your cabin. Rather than leave your belongings in your luggage and your luggage on the floor, take some time to unpack and organize. Put your clothes and shoes in closets and drawers, place toiletries in the bathroom, and stow your luggage where you won’t trip on it. Your cabin steward can provide extra hangers and show you any hidden storage areas.

·         Try new tastes. In the main dining room or at the ship’s buffet, try dishes you haven’t had before. You may discover that you love some ingredients or flavors that are new to you. If you’re willing to be adventurous but don’t want to waste food, ask a companion if they would like to share a portion of something new with you.

·         Make a resolution to try at least one new onboard activity. Each morning, open the cruise line’s app on your mobile device to check the daily schedule of events. Depending on your cruise line and ship, you may have opportunities to try out some new fitness equipment or spa treatments and to join in deck games, card tournaments, trivia and karaoke contests, enrichment classes, and more.

·         Catch a sunrise and a sunset. Watching the sun rise or set over open water is a beautiful, calming, inspiring sight. Be sure to catch at least one of each while you sail – you may find yourself making it a daily ritual.

·         Finally, if you experience any motion sickness, ask for some medication at the passenger service desk; or, ask your cabin steward for a green apple to eat. Either (or both) should help as your body gets used to the motion of the ship. After all, you don’t want to miss a moment of your wonderful cruise.

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Sober Cruising

For all who live an alcohol-free lifestyle, there’s good news about cruising, as popular cruise lines strive to welcome and support passengers who are committed to sobriety.
Many cruises have some events and activities that center on alcohol, such as onboard wine tastings or shore excursions that feature local wineries or breweries. But, one of the wonderful things about cruising is that everyone can make their own choices about how to spend their time on ship and on shore, and there are always alcohol-free options.
Those in recovery should know that most cruises offer daily “Friends of Bill W.” meetings. These are onboard meetings of Alcoholics Anonymous, named for Bill W., one of the founders of AA. Look for the meetings on the ship’s daily schedule of events.
Cruise lines also support sober lifestyles by serving a variety of nonalcoholic spirits, wines, and beers on board.

·         Princess Cruises just announced that it will launch its Amore Princess Zero Alcohol Collection this spring. This new, zero-proof bar menu will have a variety of mocktails – including the “24K Margarita” crafted for Princess by Formula One driver Lewis Hamilton – and a selection of nonalcoholic beers, wines, and sparkling wines.
·         Passengers on Holland America Line ships can purchase beverage packages that are alcohol-free and include refreshing mocktails, like the Ginger Mango Splash and Melon Mint No’jito. These packages also include unlimited premium coffees, juices, sodas, and bottled water.
·         The Zero@Sea program on Seabourn Cruise Line ships is included in passenger fares. Zero@Sea features mocktails made with popular alcohol-free spirits, along with nonalcoholic beers and wines.
·         Royal Caribbean offers a zero-proof bar menu that includes creative mocktails like the All-Aboard Spritz (lime and cranberry juices with desert pear and club soda) and the Tropical Crush (pineapple and mango juices with Red Bull Yellow Edition).
·         Virgin Voyages serves no-alcohol mocktails in all of its dining venues, including spirit-free versions of favorites like Bloody Marys, Moscow Mules, and Pina Coladas. The popular Test Kitchen restaurant even has a mocktail menu created by a James Beard Award-winning mixologist.

Everyone who maintains a sober lifestyle is on a unique journey, and sailing on a ship where non-alcoholic options abound – but alcohol is still readily available – may not suit everyone. If cruising with alcohol on board isn’t for you, there’s another option for sober cruising: some specialty cruises are completely alcohol-free. Just ask Anita, your professional travel advisor, for more information.

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Cruising Brazil

Brazil is a fantastic cruise destination with more than 4,500 miles of coastline and a high-energy culture. A variety of cruise lines call on this vast country, which covers roughly half of South America. Here’s a quick look at some ports you can visit along Brazil’s Atlantic coast, from north to south.

Like many Brazilian port cities, Belém has a historic center where colonial-era buildings make a scenic contrast with the skyscrapers in newer parts of town. Belém’s Cidade Velha (Old Town) includes the lovely Teatro da Paz, charming squares, and the busy Ver o Peso market.

In Fortaleza, named for a fortress that dates from 1649, you’ll find Parque Ecológico do Cocó, a huge urban park, and the Mercado Central, full of handmade jewelry, leather goods, and local tastes. Or, head for a sandy beach that’s backed by dramatic red cliffs at Morro Branco.

A network of rivers, lagoons, and bridges makes Recife the “Venice of Brazil.” Enjoy the beach at Boa Viagem, or view collections of medieval weaponry and art at Instituto Ricardo Brennand. Perched on lush green hills, the lovely and historic area of Olinda is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Originally a complex of sugar plantations, Maceio is now better known for beaches, seafood, and Festa Junina, a celebration around the June solstice. Praia do Gunga is one of Brazil’s prettiest beaches; or, you can take a boat ride to Maragogi and wade in clear tidepools that emerge between the reefs.

Salvador is prized for its blend of Native, African, and European cultures, which are reflected in the city’s architecture, food, and music. The historic neighborhood of Pelourinho is full of architecturally significant buildings, museums, and demonstrations of capoeira, an Afro-Brazilian martial art.

Backed by stunning mountains, Rio de Janeiro is world-famous for the beaches of Ipanema and Copacabana, the celebration of Carnival, and the Samba tradition of music and dance. It also has vibrant neighborhoods with top-level cultural attractions, fine dining, and sports. There’s so much to see that it can be a challenge to select just one shore excursion, so be sure to consider all your choices.

Many cruises that visit Brazil also call on ports in the neighboring countries of Uruguay and Argentina, stop at some of Brazil’s islands, or include a sail-up part of the Amazon River. To explore your options for cruising in beautiful Brazil, talk with Anita, your professional travel advisor.

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Cruise Ship Internet Service

Some who cruise see their time on board as an opportunity to unplug from daily life, disconnect from work or school, and put their digital devices away. But others want to stay connected while they cruise, whether it’s to stream a favorite TV show, update family and friends at home, check in with colleagues at work, or even work remotely. If you’re in the second category, here’s what you should know about internet availability on cruise ships.

Internet service at sea has been improving, and most ships now provide service through their wireless networks (with the exception of some that sail to remote locations).

On many ships, WiFi access is an extra – it’s not included in your fare, so you’ll need to pay for it. If you want access for the duration of a cruise, you may be able to purchase a discounted WiFi package in advance. But if you know you’ll need to be connected for only part of a day or two, wait until you’re on board to purchase access at an hourly or daily rate.

Some cruise lines offer different levels of service. If you just want to check your email, you may be able to purchase a lower-cost level of access. If you want to stream TV or conduct video chats, you may need to purchase the strongest, highest-priced internet access.

Cruise ships get their internet service from multiple sources, including land-based signal towers when they’re closer to shore, and satellites when they’re out at sea. In either case, signal strength can vary, and the connection is likely to be slower than what you’re used to. Because signal strength is usually stronger when the ship is near shore, you may want to do any streaming or video chatting when you’re close to a port. Regardless of the ship’s location, you may experience better signal strength very early in the morning or late in the evening, when fewer passengers are using their connected devices.

Even if you purchase the best and strongest internet service package you can, remember to put your phone in airplane mode for the duration of your time onboard. You can turn on your wireless feature separately to connect to the ship’s Wi-Fi, and you’ll avoid unwanted data and roaming charges.

For more information about internet service on your next cruise and advice on making the best use of it, talk with Anita, your professional travel advisor.

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River Cruise Highlights

When travelers begin to think about a cruise vacation, they often think about ocean cruises: big ships sailing across big expanses of water to beautiful ports of call. But, there’s another option for a cruise vacation – sailing on one of the storied rivers of the world. If you haven’t tried one yet, here’s a quick look at what to expect on a river cruise.

River ships are much smaller than ocean-going ships, which makes it a different kind of cruise experience. The ships are small because they must be able to glide under bridges, through shallow water, and into narrow docks. Ocean-going ships may carry thousands of passengers, but many river ships carry less than 200, providing more opportunities to get to know your fellow passengers.

River ships stay close to land. Part of the enjoyment of a river cruise is watching the scenery on shore, which can quickly change from farmland to bluffs or from small villages to urban centers. The narrow design of river ships means almost all cabins are exterior, with big windows or sliding glass doors.

While river water isn’t always perfectly smooth, the chances of motion sickness on a river cruise are much less than on an ocean cruise.

Many river cruises call on a different port each day; a full day on the water is rare. Shore activities may include walking tours, hiking, bike rides, cultural experiences, visits to museums and markets, and more.

River cruise dress codes tend to be relaxed and casual. The focus is always on what there is to see and do on shore, so what you wear to explore on land is fine on board, too. There may be one gala evening suited to more formal clothes, but dressing up is usually not required.

As for where to cruise, Europe provides a variety of itineraries on major rivers. Sail through multiple counties on the Rhine or Danube, or enjoy France by cruising the Seine or the Rhone. For an Italian voyage, look to the Po. To spend time in Portugal’s wine country, sail the Douro.

River cruise options in Asia include China’s Yangtze, Southeast Asia’s Mekong, and India’s Ganges. You can take an adventurous cruise of South America’s Amazon, or stay closer to home for a cruise on the Ohio, Mississippi, or Columbia.

To learn more about the many delights and options for river cruising, talk with Anita, your professional travel advisor.

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Be Entertained Aboard the Icon of the Seas

Everything about Royal Caribbean’s new ship, the Icon of the Seas, promises a new kind of cruise experience. That includes a terrific variety of onboard entertainment.

With an emphasis on the excitement of live music performance, the Icon sails with dozens of musicians on board. They perform at Lou’s Jazz & Blues, the Dueling Pianos bar, the Point & Feather English Pub, and several other venues around the ship.

Musicians are also an integral part of two productions in the Royal Theater. A 16-piece orchestra accompanies a spectacular staging of the beloved musical fantasy “The Wizard of Oz” (the classic tale has been updated with some modern touches, too). And, a show called “SHOWBAND! Live. Music. Now.” puts the spotlight firmly on talented musicians.

More than 75 other performers, from singers to skateboarders to ice skaters, will be ready to take their places under the lights of the ship’s multiple performance venues. Here are a few highlights:

In the AquaDome – an exciting new version of the Aqua Theater on other Royal Caribbean ships – a show called “Aqua Action!” combines the breathtaking skills of high divers, aerialists, skateboarders, and synchronized swimmers with of-the-moment performance technology. The AquaDome is also the stage for “Pirates vs. Mermaids,” a lighthearted show that reveals who truly rules the ocean.

The power and beauty of top-level ice skating is on display at Absolute Zero, the Icon’s ice arena. The choreography of “Starburst: Elemental Beauty” takes full advantage of Royal Caribbean’s largest ice rink yet. Another ice show, “Once Upon a Time: The King’s Royal Ball” features familiar fairytale characters.

Be prepared for excitement along the Royal Promenade – from time to time, groups of sailors, swashbuckler, and scalawags turn it into a stage for an entertaining demonstration of their skills, as well as a battle of wits.

Before or after a performance, you can relax around one of the ship’s seven pools, take a trip down one of six water slides, enjoy one of the family play areas, or try out some of more than 40 dining spots and bars.

With Caribbean ports to explore and so many options for onboard entertainment, it’s unlikely that anyone could be bored on the Icon of the Seas. The ship’s itineraries include Perfect Day at CocoCay, the cruise line’s fabulous private island, too. To learn more about the Icon and how you can sail on it, talk with Anita, your professional travel advisor.

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Sail on a New – or Good as New – Cruise Ship

This promises to be an exciting year for cruise fans, as various brand-new ships are scheduled to begin riding the waves.

Royal Caribbean’s highly anticipated Icon of the Seas is ready to begin its reign as the world’s largest cruise ship at the end of January. Passengers will enjoy the ship’s innovative new performance spaces and activities, comfortable cabins and suites, and exciting new restaurants and bars. And – for your advance cruise planning – Royal Caribbean plans to add two more new ships to the Icon class by mid-2026.

Princess Cruises will also introduce a new class of ship this year. The Sun Princess, debuting in February, will be the first ship in the Sphere class. This will be the largest ship in the Princess fleet, offering new types of suite accommodations, the first rollglider ride at sea, and new areas where kids, teens, and families can enjoy themselves. The Sun Princess will sail in the Mediterranean before moving to the Caribbean.

Disney Cruise Line’s new Disney Treasure will showcase the prankster-turned-hero Aladdin, among other popular characters. Onboard highlights include a water slide with a new Mickey and Minnie Mouse adventure story, three theaters, and a rotational dining plan that lets guests dine at different restaurants each day, but with the same familiar wait staff. The Treasure will sail in the Caribbean.

Several other cruise lines will launch new ships this year, including Cunard Line, Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, Silversea, and Viking Ocean Cruises, as well as river cruise lines Ama Waterways and Avalon.

New cruise ships have lots of appeal, but high demand can increase their fares. As an alternative, consider sailing on a ship that’s recently been refurbished and updated.

Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Joy will use a three-week stay in dry dock this January to reconfigure some suites, add two dozen balcony cabins and a thermal suite, and expand the Vibe Beach Club. The ship will sail in the Caribbean this spring before switching to Bermuda cruises.

Oceania Cruises will undertake a major refurbishment of the Marina this May, redesigning some suites and adding new dining options. The updated ship will have the line’s signature restaurant, Aquamar Kitchen; al fresco dining in a new Italian trattoria; and an all-day ice cream parlor. The refreshed Marina will sail in Northern Europe this summer.

For more information about a voyage on a new or renewed ship in 2024, talk with Anita, your professional travel advisor.

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Cruise Assumptions You Don’t Want to Make

For those new to cruising, learning the ins and outs of cruise travel takes time; even frequent cruisers constantly pick up new tips. To help add to your cruise knowledge, here are some common assumptions that may not reflect reality.

All cruise lines are about the same. No, not at all. In fact, cruise lines work hard to differentiate themselves and establish a signature style. Some specialize in small ships, some in big ships, and some offer variety in their fleets. Some focus on the onboard experience, others on destinations and onshore activities. Some are popular with families, and others are beloved by singles, couples, or friend groups. Your professional travel advisor can give you insight into cruise lines that interest you.

All cruises are all-inclusive. Some cruise lines offer all-inclusive fares that cover everything from travel to and from the ship to shore excursions in every port. But more often, your cruise fare covers a lot – your cabin, dining, onboard entertainment, access to pools and other amenities, top-notch service, and possibly gratuities for the crew – but lets you decide how much to spend on extras like shore excursions, spa services, personal training, photographs, casino play, and beyond-basic beverages.

Cruise ship cabins are basically all alike. This may be true on some small ships and all-suite ships, but most have multiple cabin types; large ships often have dozens of cabin categories. Mostly, they can be grouped into inside cabins, which are comfortable and well-lit, but don’t have windows; outside cabins, which have natural light from a porthole or larger window; balcony cabins, which have a glass door opening to some outdoor space for relaxing and viewing; and suites, which are the largest cabins onboard and come with balconies and extra amenities.

There’s no need to arrive early for a cruise. This may be true only if you live in or within easy driving distance of the port your cruise departs from. Every cruise has a firm departure time, and the ship can’t wait for passengers who have a travel delay. If you need to take a train or plane to your ship, plan to arrive a day or two before embarkation, just to be safe. Your professional travel advisor can help you find a place to stay and transportation to the ship.

To avoid making other assumptions about cruising, talk to Anita, your professional travel advisor for advice and guidance.

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Be Healthy at Sea

It’s been a while since the COVID-19 pandemic was at the top of everyone’s thoughts, but it remains important to protect yourself from infectious disease – especially when you’re all set for a beautiful cruise vacation. You should be aware of what the cruise lines do to help prevent illness on board, and about steps you can take to protect yourself too.

All cruise lines and ships that operate in U.S. ports are subject to the Vessel Sanitation Program of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which has high standards for cruise ship cleanliness. Under this program, cruise ships that dock in U.S. ports must submit to unannounced inspections of their kitchens, medical facilities, restaurants, pools, and other public areas, as well as their water and ventilation systems. The top score for an inspection is 100, and many ships do receive perfect scores. All violations that result in a lower score must be corrected.

To further safeguard passenger health, some cruise lines require pre-boarding health declarations or health checks to identify passengers and crew members who might be ill. Those who are found to be ill may not be able to board the ship. (When this happens, the cruise line might allow the passenger to change to a different sail date; but, this is a good reason to consider purchasing travel insurance that ensures you won’t forfeit your cruise fare.)

Many cruise lines continue to encourage passengers to vaccinate against preventable diseases like COVID, influenza, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) before taking a cruise.

You can also take steps to ward off illness while you’re on board. As on land, one of the best things to do is wash your hands, frequently and thoroughly. You’ll also find hand sanitation stations around the ship.

It’s currently not required on most ships, but you certainly can wear a face mask – especially in more crowded spaces, like theaters and lounges – to protect yourself.

While you’re cruising, be sure to get enough sleep, eat well, and keep up your regular exercise routine to feel good and maintain your body’s natural defenses against illness.

If you do feel unwell while cruising, visit the onboard medical facility. The medical staff can examine you and, hopefully, help you feel better more quickly. If you do have something infectious, you’ll give the medical staff a chance to both help you and prevent the bug from spreading.

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Don’t Be a Chair Hog

 Every time you step on a cruise ship, you join a few hundred or a few thousand other people who are ready for a wonderful vacation. So, for as long as you’re on board, it’s important to be considerate of your fellow passengers. Skipping the line, smoking on a balcony, making noise in a hallway, or talking during a performance are just a few examples of disruptive behavior to avoid. But above all, don’t be a deck chair hog – it’s a top irritator on many cruises.

Chair hogs put towels or other belongings on deck chairs (usually in a prime location, such as next to the pool or looking toward the best view). Then they disappear, expecting the chairs they claimed to remain theirs for the entire day – even while other passengers are searching the decks for available chairs.

Chair hogging may seem like standard cruise behavior, but it’s not a way to make new friends on board. Chair hogging can make you unpopular among your fellow passengers and also among the crew, who receive the frustrated complaints of other guests. Some cruise lines now post rules intended to stop chair hogging: when a claimed chair goes unoccupied for a certain length of time, the crew removes the belongings and puts them in a secure location.

Whether or not your ship has official chair-hogging rules, passengers often take matters into their own hands when a deck chair is claimed but goes unoccupied. If you’re ever tempted to hog a chair, remember that it may not be worth the risk of having your belongings moved and misplaced.

If you take it upon yourself to move a chair hog’s belongings, be sure to treat them carefully and respectfully. It’s always best to ask a crew member for help. And, keep in mind that chair hogging may be unintentional. A passenger who places their things on a deck chair may sincerely intend to use that chair; but if they leave to find a family member, get a bite to eat, or do an errand at the service desk, they may be away much longer than intended.

Again, if you don’t want others to hog chairs, don’t do it yourself. With deck chairs and other shared amenities, do your part toward peaceful, pleasant coexistence with your fellow passengers. For more tips about good cruise ship etiquette, talk with Anita, your professional travel advisor.

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