The Travel Teacher

What is your opinion about the cruise Industry?  Maybe I can shed some light.

Starting with Noah’s Ark, people have floated on the water.  All kinds of vessels, all kinds of bodies of water.  We just love floating around the world. 

Contrary to those who have served in the Navy, today’s cruising is very comfortable, informative, entertaining, and can be the ultimate vacation.  But it is like a pair of shoes, if it doesn’t fit you, you won’t be happy.  How do you know if it fits you? 

First of all, you need professional assistance.  As the highest certified professional in the industry, I am constantly monitoring all the cruise lines and all the ships in each company.  Just because your neighbor or Aunt Suzie cruised on a particular ship does not mean it is right for you.  I build a personal relationship with you to find out as much as I can to put you on the best fit.  Each time you cruise, those criteria may change and I have to know how to change you.  So, let’s start with the basics.

There are about 4 different classes of cruise lines, in my humble opinion.

• Luxury
• Premium
• Mass Market
• Assorted miscellaneous types

LUXURY - From very small yacht-type vessels to very large ocean liners, these are set apart by the ratio of staff to passengers.  Also, the inclusions such as wine with meals, stock bars in the cabins, suite-type accommodations, included shore excursions, high quality linens and bathroom amenities. Some overnight in ports of call.   Many longer cruises that are better suited to the older passengers, Just simply, like a more luxurious resort or hotel, the level of service is superior.  Definitely an adult only atmosphere.

PREMIUM - A small number of companies in this category.  Ships of various sizes, interesting ports of call with some overnights, high ratio of passengers to staff, may have some limited children’s programs, champagne on boarding, high quality service and food.  Pricewise, a step down from the Luxury brands

MASS MARKET - Larger ships, more family orientated, lots of onboard activities, many places to eat, busy and active ambience and priced for the maximum population.  Many newer ships and new builds coming all the time.  Great for goups of all types with meeting room capabilities.  Generational groups with activities for all ages. 

ASSORTED MISCELLANOUS TYPES - In this category you have

• River cruises both in the US and around the world
• Sailing vessels
• Paddle wheelers
• Small ships in many places around the world
• Theme ships such as Disney Cruise Lines
• Expedition-type ships
• Barges in the US and France-self guided or escorted

We will explore these in depth in future postings.  In the meantime, remember to get a CLIA (Cruise Line International Association) certified professional such as myself to assist you.  I know the industry and the industry knows me!!!

It’s time to pack, call the Butler.

What??  You don’t have a Butler?  Neither do I, so let me share a few ideas I have learned as traveler.  And if you want to share your tips, please do.

•       Bottled water.  Take 3 or 4 bottles with you in your packed luggage.  This will tide you over until you can find a local source.
•       3 oz. paper cups.  Use these with bottled water for brushing your teeth.  No matter how SAFE the location, don’t trust the water.  If you mistakenly wash your tooth brush under a faucet, throw it away.  A tiny sip of bad water can ruin a trip.
•       Small umbrella.  For rain?  No, for a door on a bathroom that doesn’t have one
•       Rain ponchos for rain.  The less you carry on your shoulder, the less pain.
•       Money pouch or wallet with strap to go under your clothes.  KEEP IN THERE.  Never put valuables in a back pack or bag over your shoulder
•       Make copies of every document you take - credit cards, passports, medical cards, etc.  Take one set and leave a set at home with someone.
•       Red eye flights.  Those airline pillows are worthless.  Take an old down pillow, cut it in half and take it in your carry one for a good night sleep.
•       Eagle Creek cubes, half cubes and quarter cubes are the best for corralling groups of things.  Such as, all your electronic charges and cords; medicines and vitamins;  mosquito repellent and sun screen; shaving gear; socks; underwear and a multitude of other items that tend to get scattered all over the suitcase.
•       Eagle Creek dress shirt packing folders.  Keeps shirts and blouses folded.
•       “Pack it” compression bags.  Put that down pillow in one, roll it up and squish the air out to put it in your carry on.  Also good for underwear, sweaters, sweatshirts and any other bulky things that can be wrinkled and still usable.
•       Syringes.  In some countries, needing a shot can give you a concern.  So take your own in a paper towel roll and tape shut the ends. 

Those should give you some ideas.  Do I ever get packed right?  No, but maybe someday!!!