What Cruise Brochures Don't Tell You, Part 1

Cruises are a very good deal when compared to most land-based vacations because they include so much: food, entertainment, accommodations, lectures, lessons, fitness center, movies, and unpacking only once!

Cruises usually last a week, but some are as short as two days while others can last a couple of weeks, or a month, or even an around the world cruise totaling over 100 days! Some people even stay onboard certain ships (with the occasional shore venture) the entire year!

Although the NYC attack of September 11, 2001, caused some disruptions in travel, forcing even some cruise ships or cruise lines to go out of commission, most of the cruises are back in full swing, perhaps with adjusted itineraries or other ports or departure. As a result, most freebies on cruise lines are either non-existent or are now payment-required. Drinks and spa treatments have increased in prices as well. Still, though, the vacation is truly worth it.

Most cruises, especially the large ships, are just not relaxing, despite the brochures claims. Which isn't to say that it's a madhouse everywhere aboard. However, even on the largest 5,000+ passenger ships, you can almost always find a little niche where you can sit down and rest, and often it would even be reasonably quiet. On the lido deck late at night, for example. Or at breakfast in the main dining room (not the buffet).

Cruises and cruise ships are so vastly different, from the sheer quantity of passengers, to the size, to the qualities of food, entertainment, service, and facilities.

Even if your cruise price is advertised as a respectable $499 per person, keep in mind: tips not included; shore excursions can be expensive; drinks aren't always included; taxes and fees are extra; transportation to and from the ship are rarely included; and the least expensive rooms are usually in the worst locations of the ship, such as near the night club or laundry room.

European cruises are more money than Caribbean ones because: fuel, food, transportation, shore excursions, and port charges are all higher.

Despite anything that may have been upsetting in this article, and the next, cruises are still wonderful values and very exciting vacations! Make sure to take the first step, though, and book it at www.kingarthur.myttn.com today!