Celebrate the Bride or Groom at Sea

A cruise is a special travel experience, and a cruise ship is a terrific venue for all kinds of celebrations – including a pre-wedding bachelor or bachelorette party. Some of the best things about cruising fit beautifully with the goals of a bachelor or bachelorette getaway. Here are a few examples:

It’s a brief, but exciting getaway. A three-day cruise from a U.S. port lends itself well to a bachelor or bachelorette party schedule. It’s enough time to relax and enjoy yourselves without taking too much time away from work and wedding preparations at home. Itineraries to consider include:

·         Three-day cruises to the Bahamas from Miami or Ft. Lauderdale. These are offered by several popular cruise lines, including Celebrity Cruises, MSC Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Royal Caribbean. Some Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line itineraries include a day on their private islands in the Bahamas, which are a treat to visit.

·         Princess Cruises offers some three-day itineraries along the Pacific Coast, starting from Los Angeles or Vancouver.

·         While you may not want to travel too far for a short cruise, three- and four-day itineraries are available in other parts of the world, including the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Asia and Australia.

It’s a great value. There are short cruises available at very reasonable fares that include comfortable accommodations, delicious dining, and access to pools and many other onboard activities. Your group can discuss the purchase of extras – like shore excursions, beverage packages or spa services – and decide what to do as a group and what to leave to individual preferences.

It’s a lot of fun. Cruises are known for an easygoing but lively onboard atmosphere. Activities include lounging by the pool (where there’s often live music or a DJ playing tunes), joining in deck games and friendly competitions, working out in the fitness center, or enjoying relaxing treatments in the spa. On shore, there may be beaches and water sports or cultural sites to explore. In the evening, your group can enjoy live performances, along with music and dancing in the bars and lounges. Bring your coordinating t-shirts!

It’s easy to plan. The bride or groom can simply select a destination, ship and sail date, and a professional travel advisor can take care of the rest. Unless you live close enough to drive to the port, Anita, your travel advisor, can also arrange everyone’s air travel and provide more tips for a great pre-wedding cruise experience.

Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/AtthetaTravel

 

Why Use a Travel Advisor

1. Relationships with suppliers – you know when you’re visiting your neighborhood restaurant where the servers are familiar and give you a new dessert to try with your meal sometimes? Companies and people love to reward loyalty and the same is true about travel providers. Travel advisors have relationships with these companies and their staff and want to keep that relationship mutually beneficial! The suppliers know that if they can keep their travel advisors’ clients happy, they’ll be more likely to send more people their way. Sometimes this can translate into extra attention, free upgrades, or even things like chocolate-covered strawberries in your room!
2. Knowledge about products – what’s the best travel insurance and should you get it? If something were to go wrong or there were any last-minute changes, which suppliers have the best cancellation policies? Ask your advisor! They treat knowledge about travel like it’s their job (because it is!)
3. Better rates / added benefits – you won’t always get better rates booking with an advisor, but you’ll often get more value added. In the age of online booking, it’s easier than ever to find “deals” online, but when you go through a massive online booking company, oftentimes, you’re not seeing the whole picture. Is that hotel room so cheap because it’s on the side of the building next to train tracks and faces a brick wall? With an advisor, you know exactly what you’re getting and what added benefits are coming along with it. Travel advisors also stay updated on what kind of sales are happening. If they know you’re looking for a river cruise to Europe and a big sale starts, they’ll know to pass that information along to you!
4. Translating dreams to reality – How do you take your vague notion about a dream vacation and turn it into reality? Ask your travel advisor! They’re able to translate your wants into real locations and help you identify what pieces of your trip will matter the most.
5. Travel logistics – How much time do you need for a layover? Would it make the most sense to rent a car, hire a driver, or something else altogether? If even starting down that train of thought is giving you sweaty palms, take a deep breath and call your travel advisor.
6. Peace of mind – In the unfortunate event that something does go wrong, having someone on your side to help you through it and advocate for you is invaluable. Instead of being stuck internationally frantically trying to track down all of the people you need to call, you can make one call to your travel advisor and trust them to figure out the best plan for you.
7. They get to know you – The more you use a travel advisor, the more valuable they are. With each trip you take through them, the more feedback you’re able to give them on what worked for you and what you’d skip next time, making each subsequent trip even further beyond perfect.

Making Friends on a Cruise

Cruising with friends is always fun, but a cruise is also an opportunity to meet new friends. On a ship with hundreds or thousands of passengers, how do you find those you’d like to spend time with?

Connect with your fellow passengers before the cruise begins. Groups for passengers of specific cruises can pop up on social media well before the departure date. Future shipmates use these groups to share tips and recommendations and make plans to meet on board. Ask your professional travel advisor where to look for social media groups for your upcoming cruise.

Get involved in onboard activities. Be sure to choose a cruise that offers activities you enjoy, whether that’s sunning by the pool, working out, going on shore excursions, playing deck games, listening to guest speakers, or taking in a live performance. The activities will get you out of your cabin and into the mix with people who enjoy the same things you do.

Sit with others at dinner. In the ship’s dining room, ask the maître d’ to seat you at a larger table where you could start or join a conversation. If you don’t connect with anyone, simply ask to be seated at a different table the next night. And if you meet friendly shipmates during the day, suggest gathering for dinner or drinks that evening.

Ask the social staff to introduce you to other passengers. The cruise director and the rest of the social staff manage all onboard events and activities, so they meet lots of passengers who are friendly and welcoming to new people. An assist from a member of the social staff can help you overcome any initial shyness about introducing yourself to your shipmates, too.

Consider a theme cruise. Your professional travel advisor can help you look at special cruises that are centered on a theme, which means you’ll automatically have something in common with everyone else on board. There are theme cruises for a wide range of interests: everything from TV and movies to music, sports, crafting, fitness, dancing, LGBTQ+, cars, wellness, cooking, beer and wine…the list goes on.

Stay in touch. After you make some new acquaintances, use the cruise line’s app to message each other while you’re on board. And before you leave the ship, get contact information for the new friends you’d like to stay in touch with.

Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/AtthetaTravel

 

A Fleet of New Ships

Cruise fans have a lot to look forward to because a new crop of cruise ships is preparing to debut in 2025.

New ships can be many years in the making; they are marvels of modern engineering. Planning and design often take several years, and the actual construction of a ship – from laying the keel to the first float out – can take 18 months or more. For example, Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas, first announced in 2016, just entered service in January 2024.

Here are some of the ships scheduled to make their first voyages in 2025:

MSC Cruises is planning an April launch for World America, which will be dedicated to the North American market. The ship will have lots of bars, lounges, and dining spots, a 350-foot-long promenade, fabulous waterparks, an 11-story drop slide, and an over-water swing ride. With a passenger capacity of 6,762, World America will sail the Caribbean from Miami.

Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Aqua is also set to launch in April. It will have the line’s biggest variety of cabins to date, including more accommodations for solo cruisers. The ship can accommodate up to 3,571 passengers, who will be thrilled by the world’s first hybrid waterslide and rollercoaster. The Aqua will sail a variety of itineraries from New York, Port Canaveral, and Miami.

Royal Caribbean will launch Star of the Seas, the first sister ship to Icon of the Seas, in late August. The ship can take up to 5,610 passengers (in nearly 30 different cabin categories) on 7-day Caribbean itineraries from Port Canaveral. Each sailing will include a day at the line’s private island, CocoCay.

Virgin Voyages will add Brilliant Lady to its fleet in September. Up to 2,700 passengers will enjoy signature features like a boxing ring, stylish lounges, and theme parties. Brilliant Lady’s inaugural season offers itineraries from multiple U.S. ports, including New York, Miami, Los Angeles, and Seattle.

Princess Cruises is scheduled to launch Star Princess in early October; up to 4,300 passengers can enjoy more than two dozen bars and restaurants, along with an infinity pool and other places to relax. The ship will sail two Mediterranean cruises before crossing to the Caribbean in late October.

More new ships for 2025 include Oceania Cruises’ Allura; Celebrity’s Xcel; and Ritz Carlton Yacht Collection’s Luminara. To talk about how you can sail on these and other new ships, contact Anita, your professional travel advisor.

Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/AtthetaTravel

 

Millennials Take to the Seas

Those who think cruising is only for travelers in their golden years haven’t seen this survey statistic from CLIA, the Cruise Lines International Association: the average age of cruise passengers is 46, and more than a third are under age 40.

This means that millennials – loosely defined as people born between 1981 and 1996, who are now aged 28 to 43 – are likely to find quite a few of their peers on a cruise ship. Millennials now make up about 22% of cruise passengers and 88% of those who have cruised plan to do so again.

Millennial interest in cruising may originate in cruise trends like more relaxed onboard dress codes, more adventurous cuisine, more modern ship décor, and more accommodations that suit solo cruisers (a growing number of passengers, currently almost 10%, sail on their own). Like passengers of all ages, millennials are drawn to things that cruises excel at, like visiting multiple destinations and providing vacation value.

If you’re a millennial new to cruising – or you know a millennial you’d like to treat to a cruise – here are some cruise destinations to consider.

The warm and balmy Caribbean is a top choice. Itineraries range from two days to 14 or more, and you can sail from a variety of home ports, including Houston, New Orleans, Tampa, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and others farther north along the East Coast. You can visit the beautiful small islands of the Eastern Caribbean; the Yucatan Peninsula in the Western Caribbean; or the islands of the Southern Caribbean. Some cruise lines maintain private islands in the Caribbean, which are wonderful places to spend a day.

If you live in the western U.S., you can head to Los Angeles or San Diego for a cruise of Mexico’s Pacific Coast. Itineraries often include classic cruise destinations like Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta and Acapulco. These cruises offer terrific scenery, with lovely beaches, rugged mountains, and dramatic sea cliffs.

If you have a little more time, you can fly across the Atlantic for a cruise that calls on the historic port cities of the Mediterranean. Itineraries can include stops in Barcelona, Marseille, Rome, Naples, Venice, or Dubrovnik, as well as islands like Mallorca, Malta, or Sardinia.

There are so many more regions of the world to explore via cruise ship; no matter what age you are, talk with Anita, your professional travel advisor, about destinations and ships that will thrill you.

Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/AtthetaTravel

Bucket List Cruising: The Galapagos Islands

Situated along both sides of the equator in the Eastern Pacific Ocean, the Galapagos Islands are an enchanting place where endemic species – including some found nowhere else on Earth – live in unspoiled settings. These beautiful, volcanic islands are part of Ecuador, which is about 550 miles to the east. Cruising is a wonderful way to explore this bucket-list destination.

The amazing animals that inhabit the islands include giant Galapagos tortoises; marine iguanas, the only iguanas known to feed in water; flightless cormorants; Galapagos penguins, the world’s only tropical penguins; several species of tanagers, also called Darwin’s finches, whose characteristics vary from island to island; and blue-footed boobies, named for their bright blue, webbed feet. There’s also magnificent sea life, from hammerhead sharks to frigatebirds and albatrosses; and unusual plants, including lava cactus. Most cruises sail with experienced guides who help you prepare for and understand what you’ll see and experience.

Cruises to the Galapagos are expedition cruises; they use smaller ships that don’t have as many features as today’s big ships but are still very comfortable (some are quite luxurious). Popular cruise lines that visit the Galapagos include Celebrity Cruises, Hurtigruten Expeditions, Lindblad Expeditions, and Silversea Expeditions.

On a Galapagos cruise, you won’t miss a big ship’s amenities because there’s so much to see and do. Expect to be very active: each day will include one or more excursions on land, on the water or both. While the islands are close to each other, you’ll discover that they are also distinct from each other, hosting different species or variations of common species. At night, the ship will move between islands while you sleep.

Because the islands straddle the equator, they experience almost 12 hours of daylight daily and warm temperatures all year. But, some seasonal variations in the weather might determine when you want to sail. From December through May, expect sunny skies with a few showers and daytime temperatures in the upper 80s. But from June through December, a seasonal ocean current brings cooler water to the islands, which makes the sea a bit choppier; daytime highs are still about 80 degrees, and there’s little rain.

Anita, your professional travel advisor can give you more details about Galapagos cruises, available ships, and the specific islands they visit. Consider the possibilities for pre- or post-cruise stays in Ecuador or elsewhere in South America.

Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/AtthetaTravel

Tips for Packing Small

This is a truism for any type of travel, and especially for cruise travel: the less luggage you bring along, the better. Less luggage is easier for you to handle and keep track of; airline baggage fees can add up if you have too many or overweight bags; and, you’ll want to have some extra luggage space for gifts and mementos you acquire while cruising. So, here are some tips for packing small.

Start by making a list of what to pack, because an hour or two of wardrobe planning can help prevent overpacking. Make a list of things that are right for the climate where you’ll cruise; add any special items for theme parties or shore excursions, as well as essentials like a swimsuit, pajamas and underwear. Then, take a deep breath and pare the list down, keeping only items that can be mixed and matched to make multiple outfits. Be sure to ask your professional travel advisor about your ship’s laundry and dry-cleaning services; using them may help you pack even less.

Special note for cool-climate cruises: instead of bulky sweaters, pack lighter items you can layer.

Shoes deserve special attention because they take up a lot of luggage space. Try to limit yourself to one pair for daytime excursions and one pair for evenings on board. If you don’t have shoes versatile enough to go with everything in your suitcase, a new pair of fashion sneakers may be a good investment.

Many travelers swear by rolling clothes, rather than folding them, to save luggage space; there are some good online videos on this topic. As you pack, try to put smaller items inside others: for example, put rolled socks inside your extra shoes or rolled t-shirts inside a sunhat.

Some travelers use packing cubes to help keep different types of clothes neat and organized, or to keep the pieces of an outfit together.

Also, don’t pack large containers of toiletries or medications; put enough for the length of your vacation into smaller containers.

Finally, be sure that one of your bags is a carry-on that will stay with you. In addition to essential paperwork and medication, use it to store a pair of pants or shorts and two tops. This will give you a little more room in your main suitcase and ensure you have fresh clothes if your luggage is delayed at any step on your journey.

Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/AtthetaTravel

 

Evolving Cruise Ship Features

If you’re a frequent cruiser, you may have noticed that some cruise ship traditions are making way for more modern versions of themselves. If you haven’t cruised for a few years, or you’re planning your first cruise, here are some cruise ship features that are entering a new era:

Formal nights are fading. Just as dress codes in schools and workplaces have become more relaxed, some cruise lines are relaxing or completely doing away with “formal night” dress codes. Still, if you love dressing up for dinner, you certainly can!

Paper newsletters are going digital. Lots of passengers look forward to receiving their daily onboard newsletter and schedule of events, but it’s now more likely to appear on your mobile device than under your cabin door. Cruise lines are also using their apps to provide personalized recommendations for onboard and onshore activities, reminders of upcoming spa appointments or specialty restaurant reservations, and more.

Buffets are going full-service. For a time, It seemed that the COVID-19 pandemic would lead to the complete disappearance of the cruise ship buffet. But, the tradition continues – with some changes. Many buffets now have the staff plate the items you select, and even deliver your plate to your table.

Art isn’t just in onboard galleries anymore. Some cruise lines are highlighting art all around their ships, rather than enclosing it in galleries.

Single-use plastics are giving way to alternatives. This often begins with straws and bottles of water; cruise lines are replacing the plastic versions of these high-use items with alternatives made of reusable or biodegradable materials.

Cabin light switches are being replaced by keycard ports. To ensure that cabin lights turn on only when passengers are in their cabins, some ships are installing keycard ports where light switches used to be. Instead of flicking the lights on (and possibly forgetting to flick them off when you leave), you simply put your keycard into the port.

New fuels are gaining ground. Traditionally, cruise ship engines burned heavy fuel oil; now, some ships have switched to engines that use liquid natural gas, which reduces greenhouse gas emissions, particulate matter, odors, and engine noise. Research into new alternative fuels for cruise ships continues, too.

To learn more about new and improved practices in the cruise industry – and to select a cruise line and ship with the updated features you want – talk with Anita, your professional travel advisor.

Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/AtthetaTravel

 

About Cruise Ship Size

You can cruise on ships big or small – anything from a megaship that accommodates more than 7,000 passengers to a yacht-style ship that carries less than 100. So, before you make a cruise reservation, think about the size of the ship you’d like to sail on based on what you’re looking for from a cruise vacation.

In general, big ships offer more of everything: more cabin categories, pools, dining spots, entertainment, activities, shore excursions, and more. But, a big ship’s common spaces can be somewhat busy and noisy; or, threaded with lines waiting to enter a restaurant or theater, claim a poolside lounger, or disembark in a port of call.

Small ships don’t have the space to offer as many choices, but they often provide a higher level of service and a more personalized cruise experience. Seeing the same people every day makes it easier to get to know your fellow passengers, too.

Here are a few more things to think about before you answer the “big or small” question for yourself:

Dining. Dining options on small ships are fewer, but there’s often a greater focus on culinary quality. Large ships have more dining spots and may serve a greater variety of food, which can be helpful if you’re sailing with companions who have different food preferences.

Entertainment. As with dining, big ships have more options for onboard activities that appeal to all ages, as well as more pools, theaters, lounges, and special activities for kids. Small ships tend to focus on the region being explored, presenting informative talks about local culture and showcasing local performers.

Wayfinding. On a small ship with fewer decks, it may be quicker and easier to find your way around. On a large ship, you’ll have more places to go, but getting to the pools, gym, dining, and entertainment venues – not to mention getting on and off the ship – may take longer.

Ports. Big ships call on ports that can accommodate them, passing by those with smaller harbors or fewer facilities. Small ships can often take passengers to out-of-the-way places, which may prove to be the highlight of your cruise.

Finally, remember that your cruise ship choices aren’t limited to big or small; medium-sized ships often combine some of the best features of their bigger and smaller cousins. To decide what size of ship is best for your next cruise, talk with Anita.  your personal cruise expert.

Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/AtthetaTravel

Cruising Japan

Japan is a nation of islands, which helps make it a fantastic cruise destination. The 14,000 islands of Japan stretch about 1,900 miles, from the Sea of Okhotsk in the north to the Philippine Sea in the south. While ships call on only a few of the islands, there are many reasons to cruise there, including:

The islands are beautiful. Japan is on the Pacific Ocean’s Ring of Fire, and its volcanic islands are mountainous, heavily forested, and often edged by beaches. Japanese gardening is an art form, as is Japanese architecture; both are admired worldwide for their elegant simplicity.

The cities are energizing. Much of Japan’s population lives in bustling urban areas on the coastal plains of its major islands. Tokyo offers everything from gorgeous public gardens and museums to incredible shopping. Osaka features an iconic castle, neon-lighted Ferris wheels, and thousands of restaurants. It’s also the gateway to nearby Kyoto, Japan’s cultural capital, with over 2,000 Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples.

The food is delicious. If you enjoy tempura, sushi and sashimi, miso soup, and other Japanese dishes at home, you’ll love them in Japan. Japanese cuisine has a traditional emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients; careful use of proteins and fats; and seasoning that makes even staple foods, like rice and noodles, taste exotic. Japanese dining etiquette is interesting, too, with practices such as placing the most honored guest the furthest from the entrance to the dining room.

The culture is fascinating. Some of Japan’s most honored traditions are available for cruise ship visitors to experience. You can sit on a tatami mat for a gracious tea ceremony; meditate alongside a Buddhist monk; enjoy the music of a three-stringed shamisen played by a geisha; or take a relaxing soak in an onsen, a natural hot mineral spring.

Many popular cruise lines sail to Japan, including Celebrity Cruises, Cunard Line, Holland America Line, MSC Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean and Princess Cruises, as well as luxury lines like Regent Seven Seas, Seabourn and Silversea. Itineraries are often roundtrip from Yokohama, the cruise ship port for Tokyo.

When you talk with Anita, your professional travel advisor about itinerary options, discuss when to cruise, too. Japan’s cherry trees bloom in March and April, fall colors peak in October and November, and if you sail in winter you could enjoy a post-cruise stay at a Japanese ski resort.

Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/AtthetaTravel

 

Tips for Holiday Season Cruises

If you already booked a cruise that will set sail during the upcoming winter holidays, we’re don’t need to convince you to sip a seasonal drink by the pool, enjoy holiday meals prepared by expert chefs (with no need for you to cook or clean up), and otherwise celebrate the season on the open sea. But, we can still offer a few tips for making the most of your time onboard.

Preparation for a lovely holiday cruise can begin before you leave home. Consider bringing along your most elegant (but still packable) outfit; you may wish to dress up for a holiday dinner or show. Even if you keep it casual, pack some fun accessories – maybe a Santa hat, holiday-themed jewelry, or some soft reindeer antlers for your head.

You can dress up your cabin, too, with a tiny Christmas tree, a small menorah, or some sparkly garland. But, be sure to sure to check your cruise line’s rules: for example, most do not allow decorations that have to be plugged in, candles with flames (battery-operated are usually okay), or door decorations that extend into the hallway space.

If you want to bring gifts to exchange with your cruise companions, don’t wrap them until you’re on the ship: wrapped packages are likely to be unwrapped at security checkpoints. So, bring a little wrapping paper, tape, and ribbon to make gifts look festive after you board. Or, keep your luggage light by purchasing gifts in the ports you visit. Of course, if your cruise is a holiday gift to your companions, there may be no need to give other gifts!

While you’re cruising, check the daily schedule for holiday movie screenings, sing-alongs, seasonal crafting sessions, holiday-themed games, and other delightful activities. If you enjoy attending religious services during the holidays, they will be on the daily schedule as well. And, don’t miss special events like Santa’s arrival, menorah-lighting ceremonies, the midnight countdown on New Year’s Eve, and other holiday traditions that create wonderful cruise memories.

Finally, consider presenting a small gift – say, some candy or a gift card – to your cabin attendant and other crew members who provide you with great service. They are sailing and working away from their homes during the holidays, and will surely appreciate a little holiday extra from you.

For more ideas about celebrating the holidays on the high seas, talk with Anita your professional travel advisor.

Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/AtthetaTravel

 

If Your Luggage Doesn’t Board the Ship With You

After you spend time carefully packing for a cruise, it’s distressing if your luggage goes astray somewhere between your home and your cruise ship cabin. While we hope this never happens to you, you should know what to expect and what to do in this unfortunate situation.

To help avoid a lost luggage event, use at least one way to track your luggage. For example, download your airline’s mobile app and use its luggage-tracking feature. Many travelers also place small tracking devices in their luggage – these devices can share their exact location with your mobile device. And even when you use these precautions, be sure to pack an extra outfit – plus essential paperwork and prescription medication – in a carry-on bag that will stay with you.

After you fly to your departure city, If your luggage doesn’t appear on the baggage claim carousel, look around; airport staff may have set it aside. If not, go to the baggage service desk for the airline you arrived on and show your luggage claim tickets. If you put tracking devices in your luggage, open the tracking app and share that information with the baggage service representative, too.

If your luggage is on a different flight and will arrive before you board the ship, give the baggage service representative details on where to deliver it.

If your luggage won’t arrive before the ship departs, provide details about the cruise itinerary; hopefully, the airline can deliver your luggage to a port of call. Then, when you board the ship, visit the guest services desk and let the staff know you’re expecting your luggage to be delivered to the ship. Ask them if they can connect with the airline’s baggage service to keep tabs on the situation for you.

It doesn’t happen often, but if your luggage comes to the dock with you yet doesn’t show up in your cabin, visit guest services. If your luggage isn’t found onboard, ask for assistance such as free laundry services, complimentary t-shirts and toiletries, and discounts at onboard or onshore shops.

Sailing without your luggage is not ideal, but the airline, cruise line, or your travel insurance provider may cover at least some of the related costs. Be careful to keep any paperwork, emails, and texts you receive, as well as receipts for anything you buy to replace what was in your luggage. And, check in with Anita, your professional travel advisor for additional advice.

Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/AtthetaTravel

Navigating Your Cruise Ship

Some cruise ships are as large and as populous as a small city, so knowing how to find your way around is important. Even on a smaller ship, the number of decks, elevators, and hallways can make things a little confusing. Fortunately, there are a variety of resources to help you get to where you want to be.

You can start by becoming familiar with the ship before you cruise. Most cruise lines provide online deck plans for their ships; if you prefer paper, your professional travel advisor can provide a deck plan brochure or printout. Use the deck plan to locate your cabin and see how you can get to the closest elevators, the pool, the dining room and buffet, the show lounge, etc. If the cruise line’s website includes photos of the ship, take a look at them so things will seem at least a little familiar when you get on board.

Once on the ship, take a little time to orient yourself and develop a sense of forward (toward the front of the ship) and aft (toward the back of the ship). If you have a keen sense of direction this may be easy, but don’t be surprised if it takes a little time.

Deck plans are often posted in cabins and near elevators and stairs. This signage is usually quite detailed, including cabin numbers and the names of restaurants, theaters, and other common spaces. There may be deck plans inside the elevators, too, to help you know which way to turn when the doors open.

You can also call up deck plans using the cruise line’s app on your mobile device; downloading and using the app will put lots of additional information about the ship, itinerary, and daily schedule at your fingertips, too.

Your ship may have wayfinding kiosks with screens that display deck plans and other maps (very helpful if you want to see the deck plans on a larger screen). If the kiosks are interactive, you can simply touch the venue you want to find or enter its name to make directions appear on the screen.

There’s one more reliable way to get just about anywhere on board – ask a member of the crew. They live on the ship for weeks or months at a time, are familiar with every inch of it, and will gladly direct you.

For more onboard navigation tips, talk with Anita, your professional travel advisor.

Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/AtthetaTravel

 

Port Calls of the Caribbean

The Caribbean is balmy all year long, the water is beautifully blue, and the beaches are legendary. For these reasons, it’s one of the world’s most popular cruise destinations. If you haven’t already sailed there, here’s a quick introduction to the region and the places cruise ships call on.

The Caribbean Sea is defined by the Greater Antilles islands on the north, the Lesser Antilles islands on the East, the northern edge of South America on the south, and Central America – plus Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula – on the west.

Cruise destinations in the Greater Antilles include Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic (which shares the island of Hispaniola with Haiti), Jamaica, and the Cayman Islands. The Greater Antilles, made mostly of continental rock, are known for mountainous beauty. Popular ports include San Juan, Puerto Rico (the departure port for some Caribbean cruises); Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic; Ocho Rios, Jamaica; and Georgetown, Grand Cayman.

The Lesser Antilles is an arc of small islands that stretches from the U.S. Virgin Islands (at the northern end) to Trinidad and Tobago (at the southern end). Some are low-lying atolls, edged by coral reefs; and some are volcanic, with lovely peaks and valleys. Islands of the Lesser Antilles that are beloved by cruisers include St. Thomas, St. Maarten/St. Martin, St. Kitts, Dominica, Martinique, and St. Lucia.

Southern Caribbean cruise itineraries may call on some of the Lesser Antilles but often focus on one or more of the ABC islands – Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao. While the ABCs are not far from the coast of Venezuela and South America, they are part of the Netherlands. Cruises that call on the ABCs often visit Barbados, which lies just outside the Caribbean.

Cruises of the Western Caribbean often call on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, where popular ports include Cancun, Cozumel, and Costa Maya. Some itineraries also visit islands off the coast of Belize and Honduras, including Ambergris Caye and Roatan, a popular destination for snorkeling and diving. Depending on the port of departure, Western Caribbean cruises may call on Jamaica and Grand Cayman, too.

We haven’t mentioned The Bahamas or the Turks and Caicos islands because they are geographically in the Atlantic, rather than the Caribbean; but, you’ll find these pretty islands on quite a few Caribbean itineraries, too.

For much more information about the many options for Caribbean cruising, talk with Anita, your professional travel advisor.

Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/AtthetaTravel

 

Must-Try Dishes at Sea

On many cruise ships, food is a main attraction. Why? There are a few reasons:

·         Cruise ship food has a historic and justified reputation for being both plentiful and delicious.

·         On most ships, several dining venues are included in the fare, with specialty dining experiences available for a reasonable charge.

·         Most ships offer a choice of restaurants and cuisines to sample.

·         Cruise ship menus have shifted to a greater focus on healthy choices and fresh ingredients.

·         On some cruises, menus highlight the food of the region the ship is sailing in.

·         Cruise line chefs are used to accommodating special dietary needs.

So, what are some must-try dishes at sea? There are so many that it’s difficult to name just a few; and, what you’ll enjoy most depends on your personal taste. But, here are some favorites.

·         Clothesline Candied Bacon from Pinnacle Grill, Holland America Line. Chef David Burke’s appetizer involves a tiny clothesline and bacon bathed in a marinade that includes maple syrup, Dijon mustard and orange zest.

·         Lobster Pad Thai from Red Ginger, Oceania Cruises. A light, fragrant broth lets tender lobster meat and rice noodles shine; the galley will make it as mild or spicy as you like.

·         Cochinita Pibil from Los Lobos, Norwegian Cruise Line. Pork braised in bitter orange juice with annatto (achiote) seeds is a delight; and don’t miss the fresh guacamole prepared at tableside.

·         Pizza Margarita from Alfredo’s Pizzeria, Princess Cruises. Princess is known for some of the best pizza at sea, and Alfredo’s Neapolitan-style pizza starts with a made-from-scratch, hand-stretched crust.

·         Loup de Mer from Murano, Celebrity Cruises. Grilled Mediterranean sea bass with a sauce Nicoise (cherry tomatoes, olives, and capers) is a gift from the sea.

·         Any steak from Steakhouse at The Verandah, Cunard Line. Your server will show you the different cuts available before your selection is cooked as you like it; the result is so tender, you may not even need a knife.

·         Amalfi Lemon Meringue Cheesecake from Jamie’s Italian, Royal Caribbean. Creamy lemon cheesecake on top of lemon curd and topped with fluffy meringue – yes, please.

Keep in mind that cruise ship menus can change quickly. But, if you don’t find a favorite dish on the menu during your next cruise, there are sure to be many others that will provide a palate-pleasing, memorable meal. For more dining tips, ask Anita, your professional travel advisor, about their favorite dishes at sea.

Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/AtthetaTravel

 

Cabin Location: Forward, Middle or Aft?

Compared to other choices you need to make before a cruise – such as a cruise line, destination, and itinerary – picking a cabin may seem like a relatively minor decision. However, where your cabin is located on the ship can enhance your cruise experience. Should you pick a forward (toward the front), middle, or aft (toward the back) cabin?

Be assured that there’s no one correct answer to this question; the answer that’s right for you depends on your individual needs and preferences.

Let’s start with cabins that are mid-ship. The most important thing to know about them is that they are usually the most stable if the ship has to sail through rough water. If you’re prone to motion sickness, a midship cabin may be the best choice. These cabins are often close to more than one set of elevators, too, which may be an advantage for you.

Forward cabins can be a good choice if you value having a view from your cabin. The sides of a cruise ship often curve inward a bit near the front of the ship, so forward cabins that have a window or balcony may offer a wider view (but, work with your professional travel advisor to make sure your view won’t be obstructed by equipment). The curving side walls can contribute to unique (and more spacious) cabin layouts, too. However, forward cabins do tend to feel the most motion if the sea is choppy.

Like forward cabins, aft cabins may offer a bit more space, especially if they are located at or between the back corners of the ship. When these cabins have balconies, they are often the most spacious on board, with a great view over the ship’s wake. Because of this, aft cabins can be quite desirable. However, a potential disadvantage of aft cabins is periodic noise or vibration from the operation of the ship’s engine and anchor.

It's important to consider the vertical location of your cabin, too. Higher decks usually offer bigger views and more balconies but are more likely to feel the sway of the ship. Lower decks are more stable, but inside cabins don’t have windows – still, that can be an advantage if you’ll mostly use your cabin to sleep, shower, and dress.

There’s more to know about selecting a cabin location; for expert advice, including specifics about pricing, talk with Anita, your professional travel advisor.

Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/AtthetaTravel

A Look at Cunard Line’s New Queen Anne

The newest Cunard ship to sail under the cruise line’s signature red and black funnel is the Queen Anne, which accommodates up to 2,996 guests and 1,225 crew members. The ship is sailing a variety of itineraries from its homeport of Southampton, England, venturing to Scandinavia, the Mediterranean, and beyond.

The Queen Anne is Cunard’s first new ship in 14 years, and it blends the cruise line’s traditional art deco elegance with a contemporary vibe. Examples include the Grand Lobby, which has a timeless black-and-white marble floor, but also a three-story-high LED screen where constantly changing images tell the Cunard story.

Another triple-deck space on the Queen Anne is The Pavilion, centered on a pool surrounded by modern navy and white tiles. Overhead, a glass dome opens or closes to suit the day’s weather. The dome also shelters a bright and open Wellness Studio, a small performance stage, and a new restaurant, the Pavilion Wellness Cafe. (If you prefer an open-air pool, the Queen Anne has one toward the aft of the same deck.)

The top deck includes an open-air observation lounge and space for deck games, including some firsts for Cunard: a state-of-the-art pickleball/paddle tennis court, and an archery area for beginners or experienced archers.

Cunard fans will notice that the Commodore Club lounge is larger than on other Cunard ships, with plenty of seating, a stage, a fabulous 270-degree view, and a round bar. In fact, many of the ship’s bars and public spaces are round or curvy, designed to help passengers interact.

The Queen Anne has 15 restaurants, more than double the number on any other Cunard ship. New options include Aranya, which features the flavors of India; Aji Wa, serving sushi and an omakase tasting menu; Tramonto, a fresh air venue with sharable Mediterranean plates; and Sir Samuels, a high-end steakhouse. On the Queen Anne, even the Cunard mainstay Golden Lion Pub has a new menu created by famed chef Michel Roux.

The Queen Anne’s spa features a luxurious thermal suite with a pool and heated tile loungers. There are experience showers, reflexology foot baths, a Himalayan salt sauna, and Cunard’s first cold room.

With all these features and more – including updated suite and stateroom designs – the Queen Anne is ready to please passengers who enjoy a blend of tradition and progress. To plan a voyage on this new ship, talk with Anita,  your professional travel advisor.

 Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/AtthetaTravel

Cruising the Saint Lawrence River

A cruise on the Saint Lawrence River is a wonderful way to explore part of the border between the U.S. and Canada. The river is the main outflow of the Great Lakes, flowing east from Lake Ontario to the Gulf of Saint Lawrence, and onto the Atlantic Ocean. The eastern part of the river is deep and wide enough to accommodate midsize cruise ships (and also whales, which you may spot near Saugenay-Saint Lawrence Marine Park).

Ships often sail from Boston or New York through the Gulf of Saint Lawrence, then as far as Québec City or Montreal (or the reverse). Port calls to or from the river may include Portland or Bar Harbor, Maine; Halifax, Nova Scotia; and Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island. The historic port cities on the river include Québec City, Trois-Riviéres, and Montreal.

Québec City is one of the oldest European settlements in North America, and its old city walls still stand. You can see churches and a monastery that date from the 1600s, or picnic on the Plains of Abraham – once the site of a battle in the Seven Year’s War, now a spacious park. Or, sip afternoon tea at the beautiful Château Frontenac hotel, then stroll Dufferin Terrace for lovely views of the river.

It’s fun to visit Trois-Riviéres’ downtown pedestrian mall and its museums; they include Musée Pop, which presents Québécois culture; and Borealis, where interactive exhibits highlight the region’s paper mill industry. The Old Prison is fascinating, too, with many stories to tell about its more than 160 years of operation.

Montreal is a major, French-speaking city on a large island in the river. Unique  neighborhoods include the Underground City, which connects downtown office buildings, shopping centers, universities, and performing arts venues. Above ground, Montreal is known for its parks, churches, universities, professional sports, and food: try the poutine, a delicious mix of crispy fries, cheese curds, and gravy.

Some Saint Lawrence River cruises are on smaller ships that can sail the narrower, shallower stretch of the river west of Montreal. These itineraries usually sail in a scenic area called the Thousand Islands, and even into the Great Lakes.

Cruise season on the Saint Lawrence is generally May through October; early fall sailings have the added attraction of fall colors along the shore. To learn more about the many options for exploring this river by cruise, talk with Anita, your professional travel advisor

Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/AtthetaTravel

What to Do if You Have a Complaint on Your Cruise

While every aspect of a cruise is carefully planned to deliver a terrific passenger experience, there’s always the possibility that something may go wrong. We hope you never have a cruise complaint, but if you do, here are some steps you can take.

Talk to someone about your complaint while you’re still on the ship. Don’t wait until later to write an email or letter of complaint to the cruise line. Instead, allow the crew to improve your cruise experience while it’s happening.

Take your complaint to the right crew member. This usually is not the cruise director, whose job is to manage onboard entertainment and activities, but not to manage complaints. To find the right crew member, visit the passenger service desk, briefly describe your complaint, and ask who you should speak with.

Talk about the specifics and details of your complaint. When you talk with crew members who can help you, provide as much detail as you can. The goal of the cruise line and the crew is to give you a great cruise experience, and providing details about your complaint will give them a better chance to make things right. Many valid complaints – such as a cabin that isn’t cleaned by the time you return from a shore excursion, air conditioning that doesn’t work well, or slow service in a bar or restaurant – can be quickly fixed once they’re brought to the crew’s attention.

But, some things that you may find unsatisfactory may not be easy to fix. Examples include your view being blocked by another ship while in port, or a port call being cancelled due to dangerous weather. These issues are due to circumstances that are beyond the crew’s control.

And, things that simply don’t align with your personal preferences – such as your cabin’s floor plan or the juice selection at the breakfast buffet – may also be difficult for the crew to change. But, crew members want to help and will do what they can to make you a happy and satisfied guest.

No one can guarantee a problem-free cruise, but there are steps you can take before you cruise to minimize any chance of complaints. These include taking care to choose a cruise line, ship, destination, itinerary, cabin, and shore excursions that you’ll truly enjoy. Anita, your professional travel advisor, can help you research your cruise options and choose those that fit you best.

Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/AtthetaTravel

Sailing the Greek Isles

The magical Greek Isles spread across more than 8,000 square miles of the sparkling Ionian and Aegean Seas, taking a cruise is a great way to experience multiple islands. A variety of cruise lines sail among the isles on ships large and small. The cruise season is generally spring through fall, but you can find cruises in the winter months, too. Some itineraries focus only on the isles, and others include additional Eastern and/or Western Mediterranean ports.

Let’s take a quick look at some of the most-visited Greek Isles: Corfu, Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete.

Corfu is one of the greenest of the Greek Isles, receiving enough winter rain to sustain pine forests and olive groves. Corfu Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has impressive historic fortresses; Spianada Square, a large town square with historic landmarks, a music pavilion, and a cricket pitch; and restaurants serving delicious moussaka and dolmades.

Santorini, one of the most visually stunning Greek Isles, is part of the rim of a water-filled, steep-sided caldera. Ride a cable car (or a donkey) up the cliff to the town of Fira, where there are shops, galleries, churches, and museums to explore. Or, stretch out on a lounge chair on a black sand beach.

Mykonos is known for windmills, white sand beaches, and sunbathing (which is sometimes clothing-optional). You can ride horses, visit archaeological and maritime museums, or take a boat to the sacred isle of Delos; Greek mythology says Apollo and Artemis, the twin children of Zeus, were born there.

Crete is the largest of the Greek Isles and has scenic mountains, valleys, rivers, and lakes. During the Bronze Age, Crete was the center of the Minoan civilization, and you can see an excavated Minoan palace at the Knossos archaeological site. There are national parks, beaches, and caves to explore as well.

When cruising the Greek Isles, it’s important to wear plenty of sunscreen, drink lots of water, and wear good walking shoes and a sunhat – most of the isles have few trees and little shade.

If accessibility is an issue for you, note that many ports in the Greek Isles use tender boats to transfer passengers from ship to shore and back again. Also, many island towns have narrow or cobblestoned streets that may not accommodate mobility aids.

There’s more to know about sailing the Greek Isles, so to plan your cruise, talk with Anita, your professional travel advisor.

Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/AtthetaTravel

 

Overnight Port Stays Allow More Time on Shore

If you’ve ever had to rush back from a shore excursion to return to your cruise ship on time, you might enjoy a cruise that features one or more overnight port stays. When a ship has permission to stay in port overnight, it’s possible to enjoy a leisurely dinner in an onshore restaurant, attend an evening sporting or cultural event, or dance the night away in a local club. Plus, some daytime activities have a different look and feel at night – think European Christmas markets or Venetian gondola rides.

Many cruise lines offer overnight port stays, including Azamara, Celebrity, Oceania, Princess, Regent Seven Seas, Silversea, Virgin Voyages, and Windstar. Overnight stays are more likely on longer cruises that call on larger port cities. And, the cruise lines offer nighttime shore excursions that arrange special experiences for you.

These are just a few of dozens of ports where it’s possible to stay overnight on a cruise:

Reykjavik, Iceland. The sun is up for long hours during the summer months, so an overnight stay gives you plenty of time to see waterfalls, geysers, and the famous Blue Lagoon.

Copenhagen, Denmark. The rides, music stages, and restaurants of Tivoli Gardens amusement park literally sparkle at night. An evening tour of the Christianshavn neighborhood via canal is lovely, too.

Dubrovnik, Croatia. Walk the Old Town at night to imagine you’re back in medieval times; take a break in a charming bar to sip a glass of rakija, a local anise-flavored spirit.

Oranjestad, Aruba. Seaside bars and clubs are fun to visit in the cooler air of the evening. You can also try your luck at a glittering oceanfront casino.

Buenos Aires, Argentina. Dinner at an authentic parrilla (grill restaurant) is a treat, as is a visit to Plaza Dorrego – grab a table to enjoy a beverage, listen to music, and watch tango dancers.

Kyoto, Japan. Take an evening tour of Gion, the city’s best-known geisha district. In this historic neighborhood, you can visit teahouses where geishas entertain with music and dance.

An overnight port stay also lets you enjoy the quiet early morning hours of the place you’re visiting; in fact, your ship may not depart until noon or later.

In addition to overnight stays, some cruises include late-night port departures, which also give you a chance to enjoy an evening on shore. To consider all of your options for more time in port, talk with Anita, your professional travel advisor.

Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/AtthetaTravel

 

Where to Go on an Expedition Cruise

Cruise ships visit enduringly popular ports of call, with time to enjoy fabulous onboard amenities while you sail between ports. But if you have an adventurous side, a different type of cruise may have just as much appeal.

Expedition cruises sail to remote and beautiful places around the globe, including some that are difficult to visit any other way. Some are well-known “bucket list” destinations, like Antarctica and the Galapagos Islands; others, like Tristan da Cunha and Zamami, may not be as familiar to you (at least, not yet).

Tristan da Cunha, a British territory, is a small group of extremely remote, mountainous islands in the South Atlantic. The islands have no airstrip or hotel, so it’s only possible to visit by ship. In addition to natural beauty, Tristan da Cunha has amazing biodiversity and is a haven for sea birds; it’s the world’s only known breeding site for two types of petrels.

The Bissagos Islands are only 30 miles from the coast of West Africa’s Guinea-Bissau, but the islands' people have preserved their own unique customs and traditions. On these unspoiled islands, you can explore wide beaches and mangrove forests, see remnants of colonial architecture, and meet a colony of saltwater hippopotamuses.

In the North Atlantic, midway between Scotland and Iceland, the Faroe Islands are a Danish territory with Viking heritage. Sunny days are rare on these windy islands, but the alpine wildflowers and puffin birds will charm you. Active pursuits include hiking to secluded waterfalls, biking, birdwatching, fishing and even surfing.

The archipelago of Japan includes more than 14,000 islands that stretch from subarctic to subtropical zones. Zamami, a subtropical island about 40 miles from Okinawa, is occupied by lush vegetation (and a few people). Narrow strips of white sand edge a series of bays with strikingly blue water. You can snorkel along coral reefs or hike up Mount Takatsuki to an observation deck with memorable views.

There are many more adventurous places to visit via expedition cruise; ask your professional travel advisor for additional recommendations. But remember that expedition cruise ships are small (it's better to visit remote places with few facilities). While they are very comfortable and even luxurious, they don’t have all the entertainment, dining options, or other features found on larger cruise ships. On an expedition cruise, the focus isn’t on the ship – it’s on the remote spots you’ll visit.

Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/AtthetaTravel

 

Medical Care on a Cruise Ship

We hope this is something you won’t really need to know, but if you ever become ill while on a cruise, medical care will be available on board. All cruise ships have onboard medical facilities staffed by trained, qualified professionals. And while the scope of care they can provide varies a bit from ship to ship, most can treat and manage a range of conditions.

You should visit the onboard medical center for the same reasons you would visit your primary care physician or an urgent care center at home, such as cold or flu symptoms, muscle strains, cuts and scrapes, or abdominal discomfort. Onboard medical centers usually stock over-the-counter medications like pain relievers and seasickness remedies, as well as some prescription medications (but if you take prescription medication, remember to bring enough of your own supply for the length of your cruise).

You should also go to the medical center for conditions that would have you calling 911 or going to a hospital emergency department at home, such as shortness of breath, chest pain, severe injury, and high blood pressure or blood sugar levels. If you need diagnostics or treatment beyond what can be provided on the ship (for example, onboard medical facilities usually don’t provide invasive testing, surgery or long-term care), the medical team will work to stabilize you and arrange a transfer to a medical facility on shore.

Note that most insurance plans don’t cover medical services and treatments you receive outside the country, whether you’re on a ship or in a medical facility on shore. This is a compelling reason to consider purchasing travel insurance, which would help cover out-of-pocket costs if you need extensive medical treatment, to be evacuated from the ship, or even to return home. Your professional travel advisor can help you select a travel insurance policy.

Hopefully, you’ll never need to use the services of an onboard medical center, but it’s comforting to know it’s there. While cruising, you can help protect your health by following safety guidelines, eating well, staying hydrated, and getting enough rest.

If you have a chronic medical condition or specific medical needs, ask Anita, your professional travel advisor, to help you check the capabilities of the medical facilities on cruise ships you’re interested in. And, visit your physician before you pay the final installment of your cruise fare, just to make sure you’re in good shape to sail away.

Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/AtthetaTravel

Icon of the Seas Delivers on Its Promises

Before Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas debuted, the cruise line said the new holder of the title “World’s Largest Cruise Ship” would provide fantastic family vacations. And, the Icon is delivering on that promise.

With eight distinctive neighborhoods, dozens of restaurants and bars, seven pools, a six-slide waterpark, a shape-shifting waterfall, multiple stage shows, and an ice arena – plus other long-time Royal Caribbean favorites like a rock-climbing wall, surf simulator, and mini-golf course – it’s clear that everyone in the family can have fun on board.

As the first ship in Royal Caribbean’s new Icon Class, Icon of the Seas has some features that have never been seen before. These include the Pearl, a beautiful kinetic sculpture in the atrium of the Royal Promenade. You can take a flight of stairs right through the Pearl: the interior is lined with more than 3,000 glass panels that play with light and color.

A ship designed for family entertainment needs family-sized accommodations, and the Icon delivers on this as well. More than half of the 28 stateroom categories have designs that are new to the Royal Caribbean fleet, and most were created with families in mind. For example, the Family Infinite Balcony stateroom can sleep up to six. It features an alcove with bunk beds for the kids and a separate sleeping area for adults, as well as a family-friendly split bathroom design.

For the ultimate family cruise experience, the Icon offers the Ultimate Family Townhouse, a three-level suite that accommodates up to eight in 1,772 square feet. It has a multi-level curving slide, a theater with a karaoke machine, and table tennis on the spacious patio. Plus, there are two balconies, a musical staircase, three bathrooms, and amazing ocean views through floor-to-ceiling windows.

But, the most unique feature on the Icon may be the Chief Dog Officer, a first for Royal Caribbean. She’s a Golden Retriever named Rover, whose duties include spreading love, joy, and happiness among passengers and crew.

While the Icon of the Seas is a great ship for families, anyone who loves (or wants to try) cruising is welcome to come aboard and enjoy. The ship sails seven-day Eastern Caribbean and Western Caribbean itineraries, roundtrip from Miami, which include a day at the cruise line’s private destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay. Talk with Anita,  your professional travel advisor, about making your reservation to sail on this spectacular new ship.

Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/AtthetaTravel