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Showing posts from December, 2022

Tips for a Smooth Embarkation Day

In the excitement of preparing to cruise, remember that a little preparation will help embarkation day – the first day of your cruise, when you board the ship – go smoothly. Here are some top tips. Be sure to complete any requirements the cruise line has for health vaccinations, screenings, and tests, including any related to COVID-19. These are subject to change, so ask your professional travel advisor to keep you updated about the current requirements for your cruise line and ship. If you can, check in early. Many cruise lines encourage passengers to complete an online check-in process a few days before embarkation. Completing required forms in advance, as well as printing your boarding pass and luggage tags can save lots of time when you arrive at the ship. Before you leave home, double-check that you have all the documents you need. These may include your passport or other photo ID, cruise boarding pass, COVID-19 vaccination records, and test results, as well as a visa if you...

Navigating Cruise Ship Dining Options

On cruise ships with multiple dining venues, they often fall into two broad categories: free and specialty. Let’s take a closer look at each, which may help you navigate the dining scene on your next cruise. In free onboard restaurants, everything on the menu is included in your fare (although a very high-end entrée, such as surf and turf, may have a small upcharge). This category usually includes the main dining room, the buffet, and a few other options. Main dining rooms are usually big, elegant spaces with attentive service. Some ships assign passengers to specific seating times and tables, while others let you choose when and with whom to dine. Dinner menus usually offer at least three courses with a nice variety of dishes, all beautifully prepared. The buffet is often located near the pool and is open most of the day, with a variety of salads, sandwiches, side dishes, pasta, main courses, and desserts. Everything is ready when you arrive, so the buffet is a smart choice when...

Cool Cruising

If the words “cruise vacation” make you think of a tropical getaway, remember that cruise ships can also take you to cooler climes. If you would love to enjoy a cool breeze as you stroll the deck and admire the view, these cruise destination ideas are for you. Alaska . The coastline of the 49 th state is gorgeous, with glaciers, northern rainforests, diverse wildlife, and vibrant local cultures. Explore the historic ports or go hiking, fishing, or dog sledding. Antarctica . A cruise is really the only way to become one of the few who have seen the amazing White Continent. You can view polar wildlife, icy peaks, impressive glaciers, and jagged icebergs. Baltic Sea . Cruise ports on the Baltic Sea include the Scandinavian capitals of Copenhagen, Stockholm, and Helsinki, as well as historic Tallinn, Estonia, which looks like the backdrop for a fairy tale. Chile . A cruise of Southwestern Chile’s Lake District will take you to majestic fjords, snow-capped volcanos, and crystal-cle...

Cruise Destinations for Couples

If you’re thinking ahead about a romantic winter getaway, a cruise is a terrific way to go. It’s such an easy way to travel; just get on board, settle into your cabin and start having fun. You and your companion won’t have to stress about finding a restaurant, bar, theater, pool, spa, or gym – all that and more is right there on the ship. And let’s be honest – most cruise ship cabins are cozy to begin with, and if you bring a few battery-operated tealights to scatter around, the atmosphere can be quite romantic. Plus, the activities, entertainment, and dining on board and in port will give you and your companion lots of opportunities to share new experiences. As for where to cruise, there’s a world of options, but here are some island destinations we think are especially well-suited to couples. The Bahamas provides a close-to-home destination – just 80 miles off Florida’s Atlantic coast – in a beautiful setting of turquoise water, sandy beaches, and balmy breezes. The islands are...