Tips for First Time Cruisers



Do you like traveling but prefer to have the itinerary planned for you? Then taking a cruise may be the perfect fit for you. Cruises are great for family or honeymoon trips. I have gone on a couple of cruises with my family and they have all been fun. Cruises are very relaxing because you do not need to worry about food, lodging, or transportation because it is all included once you have one booked. Here are some tips for cruise riders:

✮ Tips for You
1. When packing for a cruise, it is important to pack formal attire because that is the dress code for formal dinner nights. You can look up the schedule for your cruise and see how many formal nights they have.

2. You do not have to attend formal nights as you are not expected or required to be present. There are other places to eat on the boat or you can enjoy room service. Room service is free on most cruises!

3. Craving a home-cooked meal? You are allowed to request in advance a particular meal that you would like for dinner that is not on the menu at no extra charge. If the chef knows how to make it, why not!? My family and I once ordered Sinigang (Filipino sour soup) and it was delicious.

4. The rooms are cleaned daily so when you are done with dinner, you will find a tidied up room.

5. Bring anti-motion sickness medication because your body may not be used to the constant movement of the boat, especially if you are prone to motion sickness. For some people, it is best to take it right before the boat even begins moving or leaves the dock (which I find effective).

6. Excursions are not included in your package unless you booked it with your cruise. If you decide later on that you would like to add an excursion, guest services can help you out.

7. Pack an extra sweater or two because the air conditioning can be on high power and nights on deck can become chilly as you ride the waves.

8. Explore the ship! There are tons of things to do such as sun bathe, swim in the pool, take a jog around the deck, shop, play at the casino, and more.

9. Watch a show or two (i.e. comedy show)! Definitely take advantage of these because they are fun and entertaining. Since space on the ship is limited, you can enjoy a show that is intimate and get good seats.

10. Make new friends! Cruises are made for socializing and meeting new people from different places.

If you have not planned ahead, you can still find some last minute cruises online. What's also great about cruises is that sometimes you can find better deals closer to the travel date. It also does not hurt to ask if there are any special deals offered to students, seniors, and military.

Photography by me.






Cruise to the Bahamas and Grand Turk in 2010.

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