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A cruising holiday has always been thought of as
the height of luxury and only for those with a very large bank balance. But
things have changed over the last twenty years out of all recognition. We're
all wanting to try new experiences and become more adventurous about where
we go for our holidays and cruising is an ideal way of sampling new
countries and seeing some of the most interesting and educational places in
the world.
When you're deciding where in the world you want to go, perhaps the first
question you need to ask is 'who in the world do I want to go with?'
Although cruising was always for the more mature couples it's now popular
with honeymooners and even parents with young families. Some of the ships
have fantastic activities for children of all ages and can keep them
entertained all day, every day if that is what you're looking for.
You need to decide on your budget. Cruising is historically not a cheap
alternative but, having said that, there is a lot of competition around and
now is probably an ideal time to get real value for money. Remember that
there is a wide choice of cabin from the most expensive with balconies and a
separate lounge through to the inner bowels of the ship (not good if you
suffer from claustrophobia or sea sickness). If you're in a wheelchair you
must check access with the company. Some of the doors are very narrow and
create a lot of problems for any disabled people. Although you may feel that
you're only going to be in your cabin for a short period each day, my
opinion is that if you're going to 'splash' out on such a holiday it's no
use 'spoiling the ship for a ha'peth of tar'. In other words have a degree
of comfort; you won't regret it.
Cruises around the north of the northern hemisphere are becoming more and
more popular but aren't practical in the depths of winter; it's just too
cold. Even the Mediterranean can be really quite dull and chilly so if you
want sunshine you have to move towards the areas that will
guarantee it; usually that's the Caribbean or Mexico where cruising is a way
of life.
To really get the most out of the trips on land and the cruise as a whole,
you really need to be quite fit. The ship often has to anchor some way from
the ports and they then ferry the passengers on smaller craft. Just getting
on and off these can be a challenge if you're not very mobile.
If you have a particular interest you could well find that there are cruises
with celebrities aboard. They may be giving demonstrations or talks or may
simply be there to mingle with the passengers. On these holidays the ships
have more days at sea and are designed to be able to cater for everyone's
needs at any time of the day or night.
Many people still like to dress for dinner and on many of the ships there
will still be at least one formal dinner which will require long dresses or
dinner suits. For younger people this is no longer such an attraction and so
many of the companies who are targeting these people take this into account.
It's certainly something worth asking about. |
Highway Hypodermics
