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Colin Hartness

There’s magic in everything that team Disney touches and their cruise line is no exception. Michael Eisner himself commissioned a talented group of ship designers, cruise experts and Disney creators to produce cruise ships that would appeal to adults and children of all ages. The result was two nearly-identical ships, Disney Wonder and Disney Magic.

The ships are distinctively Disney, with the famous mouse silhouette prominently placed on the smokestacks and appearing frequently throughout the ships. That’s not all; a fifteen-foot statue of Goofy is the figurehead on Disney Magic while Donald Duck adorns the front of Disney Wonder. Of course, cast members masquerade through the ship in costumes of the famous Disney characters. Disney art is featured on the walls and images of Disney characters appear everywhere. Disney excels at promoting everything Disney so expect onboard shops to be full of Disney memorabilia.

Disney Cruise Line offers three, four, seven and ten day cruises that sail from Disney’s own Port Canaveral near Orlando to popular spots in the Caribbean, including St. Maarten, Nassau, Antigua, Cozumel, St. Thomas, Grand Cayman Island, St. Lucia, and Key West. All cruises stop at for a day at Castaway Cay, a private island developed by Disney solely for the enjoyment of Disney Cruise Line passengers.

The cruise can easily be combined with a stay at Walt Disney World; passengers can stay at Disney World for several days before or after a cruise for one price that includes transportation on, what else, a Disney bus to or from Port Canaveral. And with the latest technology, tourists check in only once and the key card issued to them unlocks both their hotel and stateroom doors.

As expected, Disney Cruise Line caters to children with activities for all age groups all day long. In fact, more than 15,000 square feet of ship’s real estate is devoted to children. Teens have a private area of the ship dedicated to their interests that offers video games, movies, and a place to listen to CD’s. Supervised teen sports are also available.

Disney Cruise Lines provides quality nighttime entertainment in a 977-seat theatre each evening with, of course, a family orientation. While other cruise lines mimic Las Vegas entertainment, Disney entertainment is similar to shows at Disney World. As might be expected, there is no casino on board the Disney ships. However, adults can find evening entertainment in a number of lounges and nightclubs.

A special feature of the Disney Cruises is the dining arrangement. Dinners are served at 6:30 and 8:30 pm in one of three family dining areas. Over a three day period, a passenger will have dinner in a different restaurant each night, thus getting to experience the unique ambiance of each one. For a $10 cover charge, those wishing to avoid family dining can opt to eat at the upscale adult-only restaurant, but only after gaining sought-after advance reservations.

If you or your children adore everything Disney, you will certainly enjoy a Disney cruise.

About the Author

Looking for information about cruises? Go to: http://www.whatcruises.com ‘What Cruises’ is published by Colin Hartness - An excellent resource for Cruises! Check out more cruise articles at: http://www.whatcruises.com/archive

Yes, you can create the relationship you’ve been longing for. Doing so takes willingness, and it takes commitment. More than anything, however, it requires the awareness that you create your own reality. No one else is responsible. Just you. So if you really want something other than the reality you’re currently living, fully commit to the seven behaviors below and begin creating something different for yourself. You’re welcome to check out a post from my personal blog (“My story and I’m sticking with it”) to learn how my relationship with my wife, Shonnie, was manifested.)

1. Fully commit to one another. Making a commitment to someone is ultimately a matter of choice. So there’s really no excuse not to fully commit to your partner. What’s more, being committed can be deeply liberating. No more looking around for someone better, no more “should I stay or should I go,” no more exit strategies. You’re in all the way, and you can relax and enjoy it.

2. Be clear about your purpose in life and live it fully. Get in touch with your purpose in life. Why are you here? What would you be doing if you didn’t believe you had to earn a living? What will you ultimately do with this one cherished life that you have been given? Discover your individual purposes and support each other to go for them with gusto.

3. Create a compelling vision for your relationship. Envision what you want to create, your biggest dreams for yourselves—individually and together. Then, on a regular basis imagine that your vision has already come to pass, and feel the feelings that accompany this visualization. Presto, you’re on your way to attracting what you want into your life and making it a reality.

4. Make and keep your agreements with one another. Make agreements about how you will be with one another and what you will do together to move yourselves toward your vision. These can be marriage vows, recommitment vows or any other type of agreements you choose. Create a regular ritual during which you review your agreements, speak them aloud to one another and, with no recrimination, recommit to those that you haven’t upheld.

5. Make your word law. When you tell your partner (or anyone else) that you’ll do something, do it. No excuses. When you get right down to it, your word is all you have. By consistently keeping it, you’ll nurture your self-esteem and engender trust between you and your partner.

6. Really listen to one another. Listening is a skill that few truly master. When our partner is speaking, we’re often thinking about our response to what is being said, discounting our partner’s thoughts because they doesn’t match up with our beliefs, wondering what’s for dinner, etc. Practice really listening to your partner, then mirror back what was said so he/she really knows you got the true intention of the words that were spoken.

7. Acknowledge one another regularly. To create a great relationship it’s essential that we really acknowledge our partner’s achievements, be it something they’ve done, something they’ve said or a way of being they’ve exhibited. Some words and phrases that are meant for speaking aloud often and with feeling:

• Congratulations!
• Well done! Way to go!
• Thank you.
• What I know to be true about you is . . .
• I love you just as you are.
• When I’m with you, I feel . . .

To be continued . . .

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As Valentine's Day approaches, the search for the perfect gift looms large. This year, think chocolate - but not the kind you eat, the kind you wear. Brown-toned gemstones are the hottest jewelry trend going, and make the perfect gift - and this chocolate is calorie-free, so she can enjoy it without guilt.

Brian Schmidt

Cruise travel 2006 will see the launch of a number of new ships. Six of the large cruise lines will be offering new ships. Here’s a quick rundown of the six brand new cruise ships for 2006.

Holland America cruise ship Noordam

With an expected launch date of February 22, Holland America will be offering their new Noordam. Expected to be the last cruise ship in the Vista-class series, Noordam will accommodate 1,848 passengers. The new cruise ship is the first to be designed for Holland America’s “Signature of Excellence” program. A number of design enhancements are included to the public areas and staterooms for the pleasure of cruise travellers. Included is the already very popular Explorations Café’, a coffee bar/Internet café’, game room, library all powered by the New York Times. A first in the last few years, the Noordam will spend its 2006 maiden season sailing wintertime cruises from New York to the Caribbean.

Pride of Hawaii – NCL America’s new 2006 cruise ship

The new cruise ship for NCL America is the Pride of Hawaii. This vessel is a sister ship to the Norwegian Jewel and is actually the first new build from the hull up for the cruise line. Launching in June, the 2,224 passenger ship is expected to be the next step in their “Freestyle Cruising” concept. The interior décor is to have a Hawaii theme. Cruise travel departing weekly on Mondays, Pride of Hawaii will travel the islands calling Honolulu home.

Freedom of the Seas – new 2006 cruise ship from Royal Caribbean

Launching in May, the 3,600 passenger, 158,000-ton Freedom of the Seas will actually be 10,00 ton larger than Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 and become the largest cruise ship in 2006. A number of new and enhanced amenities are expected to please passengers. The addition with the most hype is the surf park feature. Whirlpools are also actually cantilevered over the side of the new cruise ship. The H2O Zone is expected to be a hit as well. Freedom of the Seas is expected to sail 7 day cruises to the Caribbean from Miami.

New Princess Cruises ship Crown Princess

Launching in June, the new for 2006 cruise ship Crown Princess will accommodate 3,110 happy cruise travel passengers. The popular Skywalker’s disco has been redesigned, and the Lotus Spa has been expanded. The International Café has been added for pastries and snacks, and a Princess first ever wine and seafood bar. Other expansions and/or changes have been made to the Wheelhouse Bar, Sabatini’s Trattoria, and the Sterling Steakhouse. With Eastern Caribbean stops at Bermuda and Turks and Caicos, Crown Princess will sail roundtrip out of the Red Hook terminal at New York.

MSC Musica

Launching on July 01, the Italian ship Musica brings MSC strongly into the big ship ranks accommodating 2,550 passengers. A full 80% of her 1,275 staterooms will be outside rooms with 65% will have verandas. Featuring a large spa area, several dining options, a three deck high waterfall and a variety of entertainment venues, Musica will sail the eastern Mediterranean from Venice.

CostaConcordia – Costa Cruises’ 2006 new cruise ship

Based in Italy and owned by Carnival Corporation, Costa Cruises is introducing its largest cruise ship in its fleet. The CostaConcordia, launching July 14, has accommodation for 3,000 passengers. The interior décor is themed around European architecture. Even the room names are European oriented – Grand Bar Berlin, Cafeteria Helsinki, and dining rooms Milan and Rome. For those seeking an interesting activity the ship will have a Formula One driving simulator! The new cruise ship will sail year round in the Western Mediterranean for Rome’s Civitavecchia port.

With so much to choose from, it may be hard to know what new cruise ship to try out first for your cruise travel in 2006!

About the Author:

Brian A Schmidt is the author and web publisher of http://www.a1-discount-cruises.com, your #1 source for cruise information, romantic getaways, cruisewear and great deals! Visit A1-Discount-Cruises to book your cruise vacation! For more interesting articles visit our Article Map pages. See our Cruise Wear pages for cruise and swimwear values. Source: www.isnare.com

Many brides dream of sewing their own wedding gown, either on their own or with help from Mom or Grandma. Unfortunately, many brides feel intimidated and decide that the job would just be too big and complicated. Before you make that decision, take a minute to look into the latest sewing machine technology -- it just might change your mind.

Colin Hartness

For centuries, the Nile River has been at the center of life in Egypt. The ancient Egyptian civilization relied on the flooding of the Nile to create fertile land for farming in an otherwise desert landscape. Excavations along the Nile have unearthed vast quantities of archeological remnants from ancient times and a leisurely cruise along the Nile takes you through this ancient populated area that is so steeped in history. And remember, you are following a royal route; the pharaohs and Queen Cleopatra cruised the Nile!

A cruise along Nile is an excellent way of visiting scattered archeological sights in a country with less than spectacular roads and airline service. In fact, some quality travel agents recommend cruising as the preferred method of transportation in Egypt. The best time of year to enjoy a Nile cruise is winter, from December to February, due to the hot desert climate.

Think of the romance of a leisurely cruise through such an ancient and historic land. The banks of the Nile are lined with ancient monuments and unusual sites, like banana plantations. Excursions to other famous locations, such as the Karnak Temple and the tomb of Nefertiti in the town of Luxor, are available on most cruises. Other towns that can be touring stops are Aswan, Esna, Kom Ombo and Edfu. Knowledgeable local guides are available and are recommended to explain the finer points of each site.

A Nile cruise can be quite economical. For a three-star ship the cost can be as little as $70 per person per night while a deluxe cruise can cost a mere $130 per person per night, double occupancy. The length of the cruise can vary from 3, 4 or 7 nights. Rooms are well-appointed and meals are included. Of course, deluxe and luxury cruise boats also provide a swimming pool, Jacuzzi, bar and recreation facilities, and gift shops. Air-conditioning is a must for the American tourist who is unaccustomed to the possible one hundred degree heat. And remember, since you are cruising on a river than the ocean, the river cruise ship will be much smaller, with anywhere from 100 to 500 passengers.

Generally, meals on a Nile cruise are served at a specific time, with all passengers being served at a single seating. Expect a full range of cuisine from local to international. Some meals, such as lunch and dinner, may be served buffet style. And, of course, luxury cruise companies employ world-class chefs to pamper the palette.

A cruise is an excellent way for the American tourist to visit a unique and different culture since all services are provided. For example, there is no worry about where and what to eat. Also the cruise company arranges all the tours to the major ancient attractions and provides reputable guides who know Egyptian customs. Thus, you do not need local currency for admissions as these have been paid in advance. By taking a cruise, you are buying a measure of safety in a foreign land, provided that you select a reputable cruise company with a good reputation.

Egypt is an ancient land with fascinating monuments and temples that are adorned with mysterious hieroglyphics. What better way to immerse yourself into this unique culture than to experience it by cruising the Nile like the royal pharaohs.

About the Author

Looking for information about cruises? Go to: http://www.whatcruises.com ‘What Cruises’ is published by Colin Hartness - An excellent resource for Cruises! Check out more cruise articles at: http://www.whatcruises.com/archive

It's fun to think about the cheesy Las Vegas weddings of the past. From Elvis chapels to themed nuptials, Las Vegas was the place to go when you wanted to get married fast!

Search for a professional independent wedding planner who will see to your every need, from the planning process to the last dance.

Corsa Roceraz

 

Vacationing in the Caribbean is something that everyone should experience at least once in a lifetime. From beautiful Belize to the truly amazing St.Barts, the Caribbean islands have tons to offer in terms of rest and relaxation. Whether you are traveling with the entire family or are planning a romantic vacation with your special someone, you can rest assured there is an island resort guaranteed to meet your every need.

When planning your Caribbean vacation, the first thing you must do is determine which island you’d like to visit. While this might seem a grueling decision, you can take comfort in the fact that when it comes to the Caribbean islands, you really can’t make a wrong choice. With crystal clear water on all sides and delicious sunshine bathing each one in warmth and luxury, the Caribbean islands are a wonderful place to spend any vacation.

Caribbean vacations can generally fit just about any budget. Whether you have several hundred or several thousand dollars to spend on your holiday, you can find several Caribbean travel packages to suit your budget. When searching for reasonable travel packages to the Caribbean, the best place to look is the Internet. Conduct a search and you’ll see: there are literally thousands of options from which to choose.

Caribbean vacations are a wonderful experience for people of all ages and cruises are the best way to truly experience everything the Caribbean has to offer. You can find the best deals via the Internet but read on below to find out more.

An Eastern Caribbean cruise is the perfect option for both first-time cruisers and experienced travelers looking for a slow and relaxing pace in comfortable surroundings. They are also ideal for people who have never been to the Caribbean before. Eastern Caribbean cruises are great for families because they visit only a small number of ports, so most of the cruise time is actually spent on board the ship and often with two consecutive days as sea.

There is plenty to do on the islands of the Eastern Caribbean. You can visit the famous beaches and try snorkeling, sailing, and or even golf. Shop for souvenirs and luxury goods imported from around the world including jewelry, perfumes, crystal, porcelain, cameras, electronics and more at tax-free prices at the extensive array of shops. And don’t forget to have a cooling drink at one of the many cafes and restaurants. And if you are a gambler then you don’t get left out either because the islands have the largest casinos in the Caribbean.

There is no doubt that the world’s most popular cruising destination is the Caribbean and one of the most in demand tours includes the Bahamas and the eastern islands that define the border between the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. During an Eastern Caribbean Cruise you will probably visit three or four of the following islands: * Nassau * St. Thomas, USVI * St. John, USVI * St. Maarten * San Juan, Puerto Rico * Tortola, BVI * Virgin Gorda, BVI * Cruise Line Private Islands

Eastern Caribbean cruises are very affordable and available year-round for 7 nights. Longer itineraries from 10-12 nights are available during the winter months.

About The Author

Corsa Roceraz is the owner of BYE Cruises which is a premier resource for cruises information. for more information, go to http://www.byecruises.com

corsa@byecruises.com

Frank Hague

Well, living on a Cruise Ship is catching on. Quite a few couples are now subscribing to world cruises and it is affecting the Cruise Ship industry.

In 2006 the Holland America Line is experiencing a 20 percent increase in the number of cruises longer than 12 days. For 2007, the demand for world cruises for Cunard is so great the company is having two world cruises, including the Queen Mary 2’s first voyage around the world, an 80-day journey. Silversea Cruises, a very, very exclusive Cruise Line has just launched a series of voyages of 34 to 123 days and is having its first around-the-world cruise in 2007.

And Crystal Cruises Inc. spokeswoman Mimi Weisband said that they saw a record number of bookings for this year’s 106-day world cruise.

Why is this happening? Nobody likes flying anymore. It is not relaxing, you are stuffed like sardines in a tin can, you have to bring your own lunch, and have to take off your shoes.

Now think about cruising. You’ve got your house with you, wherever you go, just like a turtle. You get taken care of, whatever you need. Medical Care is close by, so are 10 bars and 4 restaurants open 24 hours a day in most cases.

You don’t have to pack and unpack every day as with regular vacations, you can spend leisurely days playing pingpong and shuffleboard and relaxing with longtime friends. The key selling theme for these long cruises is COMFORT.

You can see and do exotic things from 10 AM to 12 PM, go for lunch, and do more exotic things from 2 PM till 7 PM and then have a 10 course supper. After supper there is a free show every night.

Perfect life Rather than sitting in a summer cottage staring at the walls, on a cruise you have your social life built in, with 2000 possible friends.

Cruise lines say another key attraction is that now you can visit plenty of far-flung destinations - such as Hawaii and Tahiti- without dealing with airport security and other hassles. The funny thing is that these Cruises are no longer exclusively populated by retired Seniors, but are becoming populated by entrepreneurial 40- and 50-people, who can turn the ship into a virtual, floating office.

You can successfully run a business from being on a ship, because of Wireless Internet Access worldwide available on these Cruise Ships.

Destinations are also being changed by the Cruise Ship industry; more and more exotic itineraries are being visited, because people like change, and if you have never seen the Pyramids, now is your chance on a 12 day Cruise.

The costs of a world cruise are no longer prohibitive, in 2005 a 100 day cruise could be had for $16,000 per person, that is $160 a day for travel, food, guided tours, shows and companionship.

Some people do this in their 30’s, saying that they want to enjoy this while they can. Others do this after they get a divorce, as a consolation prize to themselves.

As the demand for World Cruises increases, at some point in time entrepreneurs are going to buy a Cruise Ship at a reasonable price and are going to turn it into Condominiums.

Guess who will buy one of the first ones.

About the author:

Frank Hague is interested in Cruise Ships www.condo-cruise-ship.com www.condo-cruise-ship.com www.celebrity-cruise-now.com

Wedding hairstyles range from simply elegant to elaborate and spectacular. Taking a look at magazine pictures or the galleries on wedding websites can either help or add to the confusion, with literally thousands to choose from.

How Do You Decide What's Right For You?

First and foremost, despite the allure of so many beautiful styles to choose from, your wedding day hairstyle should flatter your face and your wedding gown and veil so that years from now when you look at your pictures it is a lovely part of the whole, not something that stands out garishly and makes you cringe.

Ten years ago, the trend was toward elaborate, piled high up-dos that were stacked on top of the bride's head with a simple tiara framing the masses of elaborate curls. For many brides it was a lovely look that accentuated their fairy-tale gowns and suited delicate features. For others, it was a mistake that didn't work with dresses that were the wrong cut and style or faces whose features just didn't work with such a top-heavy style. The look fell apart rather than coming together, but many brides wanted it because everyone else had it. Don't make this mistake - go your own way instead of following whatever the current trend is!

What Is Your Personal Style?

We don't mean when you go to the office - obviously your wedding is a special occasion! Think about when you go out for a special event, or even when you attend someone else's wedding. Do you put your hair up with some whispies around your face, or do you prefer lots of ringlets swirling down your back? Whatever makes you feel special when you go out to celebrate with others is a good indication of what will make you feel special on your wedding day as well - you want to both look wonderful and feel comfortable!

Taking It One Step Further

Now that you have an idea of what you really like, simply take it one step further. If you like upswept hairstyles that frame your face and give you the look of sculpted cheekbones, add some flair with a touch of soft sparkle. This can be achieved with either a bit of glittery hairspray or a few strategically placed hairpins or clips that are jeweled or trimmed with pearls or other embellishments. Just keep in mind that these will need to work with the style of veil or tiara that you are wearing.

If your hair is short, you can dress it up with hair clips, combs or a jeweled or embroidered headband or tiara. The options are surprisingly diverse. And except for the absolute shortest styles, you can go romantically feminine by curling short hair into small ringlets all over your head or sophisticated and sleek by smoothing your hair back with product for a chic wet look. The key is to take a look you love and go a bit more dramatic so that it is you, only "more so" on your wedding day.

Don't Over-Prepare!

It's a mistake that's all too common - brides who second-guess their choice a week or two before the wedding, and in a panic get a haircut or color a week before the wedding. Don't do it! Your hair should look naturally beautiful on your wedding day, and there is nothing natural about a raw, new haircut or color that is too stark and too different on your wedding day. If you are going to consider a color change, make sure it is months in advance so that you have the opportunity to change back if you don't like it without damaging your hair. And a cut should be about three weeks old so that it looks soft, not new and stark.

Finally, wash your hair the night before your wedding, not the day of the wedding, and don't condition! Hair that is too clean and too conditioned will be so soft it won't hold in place, and the style will simply slip out too soon, leaving you with a droopy veil and limp locks half-way through your big day!

Further Reading On Wedding Hairstyles:

World Of Wedding Hairstyles - Get inspiration, expert guidance, and helpful tools from WeddingChannel.com to help you find and create the perfect wedding hairstyle for you.
Choosing a Wedding Hairstyle -The Knot.com offers help on how to wear your hair on the big day.
Brides.com Hairstyles Gallery - Over 150 magazine images from many styles including beach casual, bohemian, classic, glamorous, modern and romantic.
Hairstyles for Brides - A selection of hairstyles that are up-to-date and trendy for this years bride.

Exciting interview with Maria Jude Noble about creating paper flowers. She is a master at this art! See her paper flower designs and read why paper flowers are great for weddings.

For centuries people have been searching for the fountain of youth, a legendary spring that reputedly restores the youth of anyone who drinks its waters. Then there are those like Christina Vita, a model and actress from New York, who says the key to looking and feeling young is prevention. She's now in her 30s, but still looks like a teenager.

Kirsten Hawkins

When someone thinks about cruises, they often think about the balmy beaches of the Caribbean or Hawaii. However, there are lots of other places that people do not often think of that are great places to go on cruises. Cruises are not just for beach side relaxing, but can be used for all kinds of other expeditions in all different types of climates, and even some beach front places that you would not ordinarily think of. Here are outlined some beautiful cruise vacation destinations that you would not ordinarily plan in to your itinerary.

The Greek islands are a beautiful vacation spot, and while they are definitely not left off of people’s vacation agendas, they are not very often associated with the idea of cruises. However, they are a beautiful spot to not only to relax and enjoy the ocean and beaches, but they are also a wealth of rich cultural heritage and amazing ancient architecture. The native people are incredibly hardworking and friendly, and spending a day exploring among the sea side villages would be a great way to meet different types of people and get to know a little bit about yourself as well. Of course, there is also the added bonus of the amazing traditional Greek food.

Northern Africa is home to a lot of cruises, from Libya to Egypt to Morocco. These cruises boast not only beautiful luxurious accommodations on board the ships, but also on the land. These cruises also offer a variety of cultural experiences for the adventurous and even the not so adventurous. Archaeological guides take guests through the ruins of ancient civilizations and to renovated castles that now provide plush accommodations for passengers while on the land. Taking in the local marketplaces is a great place to buy souvenirs, instead of gift shops or on the cruise boat itself.

Antarctica is a place that you would definitely not commonly associate with a cruise vacation. However, it is for this reason that it makes such a wonderful vacation spot. It is the last frontier here on earth. Scarcely populated, the lack of development has left plenty of space for wildlife. While you should definitely pack a bit differently for an Antarctic cruise versus a more balmy environment, it is worth it to see all of continent’s rare inhabitants and to be a part of what is practically a secret society.

Costa Rica is home to a very lush and populated rain forest, as well as some very interesting locals. In addition to providing cruise passengers with a lively and beautiful environment to explore, and some very rare and interesting wildlife, the beautiful beaches and warm climate make Costa Rica a fantastic vacation spot. There are also a lot of volunteer opportunities if you would like to make your vacation a capacity building one, as well as programs wherein you can stay with families who actually live in Costa Rica. This is a great opportunity to learn a lot about another culture and expand your own horizons.

About the author:

Kirsten Hawkins is a cruise and travel expert specializing in Discount cruises and travel. Visit http://www.luxury-cruise-deals.com/ for more information on how to cruise the world for little or no money.

While more people become engaged over the holidays than at any time of year, dewy-eyed young brides-to-be aren't the only ones shopping for diamonds this holiday season. Trend watchers are seeing an upswing in the number of married women looking to upgrade their diamonds and more mature second-time brides seeking a sophisticated look.

Bruce Pickett

 

Luxury cruising is an experience unto itself, the kind of exceptional vacation that you will always remember. Why is it so exceptional? Read on to find out why we believe a luxury cruise is such a good value and a wonderful experience that everyone can enjoy.

1. Affordable combination of sea and land vacation Luxury cruising is a very affordable combination of a sea vacation with a land vacation. You get to experience the fun of being on a cruise ship as well as visit several different port destinations, each with a different set of adventures waiting for you to discover. When you compare the cost of a luxury cruise with comparable costs of the same travel itinerary, accommodations, food and amenities, it is easy to see that the cruise is a very good value.

2. Visit several locations, but only unpack once Have you ever gone on a vacation where you stopped at two or three different locations, each time having to unpack your things then re-pack when it was time to move on? When you take a cruise, you only have to unpack once but still get to experience several different locations along the way. The ship is your “home base”, always there at the end of the day with your familiar cabin, a fresh change of clothes, a great meal, and more activities to enjoy after you leave port.

3. Do as much or as little as you like Luxury cruising allows you the freedom to build the kind of vacation that is just right for you. If you like to be active and adventurous, you can stay busy with shipboard opportunities as well as port excursions and exploration. If something more relaxed is to your liking, you can do that, too, spending long lazy hours by the pool, relaxing on deck, or enjoying a quiet corner in the ship library.

4. Take the whole family A common misconception is that luxury cruising is an “adults only” vacation. Most cruise lines welcome families and provide varying levels of accommodations and special programs for cruisers of all ages. Some cruise lines even specialize in families, building the entire ship and cruise itinerary around family needs. Whether you want to spend time together as a family, or turn the kids loose in supervised program while you enjoy some adult time, a family-focused cruise offers something for every member of the family.

5. Exceptional service If you have never been on a cruise, it is a bit hard to grasp the exceptional level of service that is found on most cruise ships. From your cabin steward to your waiter, everyone is focused on serving you and making your vacation as enjoyable as possible. The cabin steward will keep your cabin spotlessly clean, often leaving fun towel sculptures and special touches for your amusement, while your waiter will make a point of getting to know your preferences and strive to give you what you want before you even know you want it.

6. Meet people from all over A luxury cruise attracts passengers from all over the country and all over the world. You will have the chance to meet people during onboard activities and on shore excursions, but perhaps the most fun is getting to know your seat mates at the dinner table. It is typical to be seated at a table of eight people, with whom you will share conversation, laughs, and wonderful meals throughout the cruise.

7. Get away from it all When you take a luxury cruise, it is not so easy to check your e-mail, call into the office, or otherwise keep tabs on what is going on at home. It can be done, of course, but being on a cruise ship is a unique opportunity to leave the rest of the world behind and truly get away from it all. Your only job, while onboard and in the ports of call, is to relax and do exactly what you want to do. Nothing more, nothing less, with no interruptions like phone calls, voice mail or e-mail.

About the Author:

Bruce Pickett ACC is an award winning travel & cruise consultant, self taught, experienced, & motivated to help people find cruising value. He authored articles on cruising to help people create cruise holidays easily & stress free. Learn 7 essential facts to cruise value and get free weekly tips & a free draw at http://www.fivestarcruising.net Read more articles by: <'/?s=author&a=Bruce+Pickett' class='biggerlink'>Bruce Pickett

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