Thinking about a Cruise Vacation? Some Myths, Facts and Tips

Many people I have talked to believe a cruise is an expensive vacation; an extravagance they could never afford. I used to believe that same myth. The truth is, if you know where to look, a cruise is one of the most inexpensive vacations you will experience as well as one of the most relaxing times of your life. Take a look at some of these common cruising myths followed by the truth. You just may be able to go on that vacation of your dreams! I did.

Myth: Cruises are expensive.

Fact: Some are too expensive for many, but if you know when to book your cruise you can get a great price. If you want to cruise in the summer months or over a major holiday, you may pay a much higher rate than during school months. If you are flexible in your travel plans you can find a 5 day cruise for less than $300 per person. Other than alcohol and soft drinks, most of what you do is included in the cost of the cruise. We never paid for food, but there are specialty restaurants that charge on board. Also, after a deposit, you can make payments on your cruise. You don't have to pay for the whole thing up front, in most cases.

Tip: We did buy a card that let us have unlimited soft drinks, but we rarely used it. We packed a smaller suitcase with bottled water and our favorite soft drinks in 20 ounce bottles. Our room steward was happy to bring us a larger ice bucket to keep a few drinks at a time cold. At the end of our cruise, we had an extra suitcase in which to pack our souveniers. With our next cruise, we will forgo the drink card and just buy a few soft drinks when away from our room. Milk, coffee, tea, chocolate milk, lemonade and a variety of juices are available at all times at no charge. Room service is free, also.

Myth: You can't have a quiet vacation on a cruise ship.

Fact: There are a few party spots on a cruise ship, but they are the same party places you'd have on land. The ships are so huge that the chances of running into the same people repeatedly are slim, unless you have a common interest. Example - If you love Bingo, you will find other Bingo lovers during those events.

Tip: We are empty nesters and were concerned there would be noisy kids everywhere. We have nothing against kids - we are grandparents! - but in our minds we saw hundreds of kids running wild. The ships have wonderful events for kids that keep them busy any time they are not with their parents and most parents opt to use their services, after all, the parents are on vacation also. Most ships have a library with books and games and you often will find you are the only one walking along the deck. The top deck was one of our favorite places on our ship. Grab a book, a drink and relax. Remember, the ships are huge!

Myth: There is nothing to do on a cruise ship

Fact: Where do I start! Most ships have a spa, full gym, hair salon, multiple swimming pools, hot tubs, bars, internet cafe, competitions, classes, game shows, Vegas-style shows, comedians, casinos, duty-free shops, dance lessons, clubs, kids and teens clubs and events, karaoke and I could go on and on. The casinos have competitions, or just gamble on your own. The game shows were fun and the Captain's question and answer time was great. When the ship is in port there is a wide variety of shore excursions in which to participate and at most ports of call you will find a marketplace at the dock.

Tip: My husband asked me what I wanted to do differently on our next cruise. My response: do more. There really is plenty of time to relax so take advantage of the onboard activities. Budget at least one shore excursion, if you can. We spent part of a day snorkeling with stingrays! It was awesome!

Myth: I will have to dress up.

Fact: No, you won't. There is a formal evening in the dining room. That night we opted to stay in our casual clothes and eat at the grill. Still free, by the way. Each ship has a dress code and inappropriate attire will be addressed by the staff in all public venues. For instance, you are to wear a "cover up" going to and from the pool. Just use common sense and you will be fine. Our attire for the cruise was shorts and shirts. Men - don't wear your muscle shirt into the dining room and ladies, your daisy dukes don't belong there either.

Tip: While you are looking for a cruise, check the dress code. That way there will be no surprises.

Myth: Everyone gets sea sick.

Fact: Unless you are in bad weather, your cruise will be smoother than a plane ride. We have some friends who took their first cruise and experienced bad weather most of the time. That happens, sometimes. But, for the most part, cruising is smooth sailing - pun intended. Pack some over-the-counter motion sickness medication for just in case, but most never need it.

Tip: For your first cruise request a stateroom in the center, lower part of the ship. The laws of physics guarantee this is the best place to be. It is also the quietest place. If you are on either end of the ship, you will hear the engines (rear) or the anchor. (front) Sorry, I don't know the sea terms, but the info is still correct.

Myth: I need a passport

Fact: Not necessarily. Talk to a cruise agent for the most recent legal requirements. Currently, if your cruise leaves and returns to the same port in the US, you many not need a passport. You will need your birth certificate and a photo ID.

Tip: There are circumstances in which you shouldn't cruise, advanced pregnancy, being one of them. Your cruise agent can again advise you for every situation.

Just a tip: Try self-disembarkation. This means, carry your our luggage off the ship. If you can easily handle all of your bags in one trip, do not leave your bags outside the door for the staff to take off the ship - take it ashore yourself. You will save a lot of time.

I think if you explore the idea of a cruise for your next vacation, you will be pleasantly surprised. We loved it so much we are doing it again this year. I can hardly wait!

If you have any advice or tips for future cruisers, please leave a comment.

For more information check out http://www.carnival.com/ or email bchristian@carnivalpvp.com or any travel agent.