Are you planning to take a cruise this year? Spending time on a cruise ship is an experience unlike any other. It’s like living in the most amazing, entertaining floating town you’ve ever visited. You’ll see awesome sights and meet fun people, but there are some things you should know about before booking that trip.
Don’t Go Too Cheap
When booking When you’re booking cruises from Los Angeles or other ports, make sure you choose the right one for you. Not all are the same so check the amenities each room offers before booking. If you tend to get claustrophobic, be sure and choose a room that has a window or better still, a balcony. Get a friend to come with you to split the cost.
Get the All-Inclusive Plan
Be sure to book a cruise that offers everything in one package, including all your meals. Buying your food on the ship can be pricey, so make sure you know everything your ticket includes, including drinks and those fast-food places on board.
Pack Evening Clothes
The dining room will have a dress code, so be sure to pack formal wear along with nice shoes. If you dress in the kind of clothing you’d take on a camping trip, you won’t be permitted to enter the dining room, so bring something nice. The dining room serves gourmet cuisine that you won’t want to miss.
Pack Ginger for Seasickness
If you get motion sickness easily, you’ll likely suffer from seasickness, so pack plenty of ginger in the form of dried pieces of ginger or ginger candy. You can also find ginger tea. All forms will help ease nausea. Try training your brain to not get sick before you go or book a cabin that’s higher up. You’ll feel the rocking of the ship less that way.
You’ll Have Plenty To Do Onboard
Every cruise ship has an activity director whose job is to create fun games and other ways to keep people entertained. There’s a swimming pool and shows and even a casino on some ships. There will be movies to see, and simply exploring will also be entertaining. Cruise ships tend to be beautiful, and you’ll want to see every inch during your free time.
Be Sure and Plan Your Off-Shore Activities
Your cruise ship will stop at a few ports, and tours will be offered, but living on a ship is like living in a floating, small town with lots of people who likely want to do the same activities as you, so be sure to book those tours in advance, or you might wind up staying on the ship.
Don’t Plan To Spend Much Time on the Internet
There is internet available at a cost on most cruise ships, but you’ll have to pay for it, so plan on staying off the internet while you’re on board. Part of a truly restful vacation is unplugging anyway, and going on a cruise is a great way to truly relax. Also, turn off the data on your phone. Your cruise ship will have a satellite, but the signal will be bouncing as you travel, and you’ll wind up paying high roaming fees. Instead, look for wifi hotspots on docking days.
Pack Cold Remedy and Other Medications
Nobody wants to get sick on vacation but with all the excitement and lack of sleep as well as change in environment and diet you may feel a cold coming on, so be sure and pack cold remedies and other over-the-counter medications you might need. The ship’s pharmacy is costly.
Avoid the Elevators
Not only will the elevators be crowded, but they’ll also be slow, so plan on taking the stairs instead. It’ll be a great way to get in some excellent exercise, and the gym will likely be too crowded anyway.
Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll be sure to have a wonderful vacation!
