So you've chosen your vacation destination - booked the tickets, found a hotel, and bought the guidebooks or downloaded the apps. Whether you like to plan your itinerary in advance or play it by ear, there are a few things you should research in advance to make your arrival - and your trip - go smoothly.
1. Best way from the airport to the city - This should be your first order of business - figuring out the most efficient and/or least expensive way to get to your hotel before you find yourself being hounded by taxi touts at baggage claim or standing in the rain waiting for a bus that comes every two hours. London's Heathrow Express is a great compromise between an exorbitant taxi ride and a long Tube ride with transfers, but other cities may have cheap cab fares (find out approximately what you should pay before you get in the car) or excellent public transportation systems connecting with the airport. Check out any guidebook for the best info and check if your hotel offers pick up service for a good value.
2. How much money to start with and in what denominations - Now that you know how to get to your hotel, you'll need to pay for your transfer. No matter the exchange rate, you should find out how much money you will need at the beginning. Lonely Planet's Cost Index is great for determining about how much cash will cover a taxi ride, a meal or two, and other expenses for your first day or so. Some countries will give you large bills that are hard to break - try entering an odd amount like 130 to get some smaller bills or visit a newsstand to get change.
3. What's the tipping culture - So you're in the taxi, money in hand to pay the driver, do you tip? In many countries, like Turkey, people don't generally tip taxi drivers, perhaps rounding up to the nearest lira or two, so a 38 TL fare would cost 40 TL (taxi drivers here are so loathe to give change they may eat the cost of a 52 TL fare and give you change for the 50). Likewise for restaurants and cafes, 10% is standard in many places outside of the US and often included in the bill. Figure out what's appropriate and do as the locals do to avoid stiffing or overcompensating for service.
4. A few key phrases in the local language - This is a necessity in some countries, and always a courtesy to know a few words of a foreign language. "Please" and "thank you" and "where is the bathroom?" will always be useful, while "another one" and "check" will usually result in good things.
5. When to leave for the airport when you depart - It's hard to think about going home when you're enjoying vacation, but knowing how much time to allow for your departure can help you to maximize your last day. While your airline might tell you how far in advance to arrive, better to ask someone who really knows how long to budget, like your hotel concierge.
6. What's legal - Learning about the local laws can save you headaches and money. In some cities, it's fine to bring a bottle of wine or beer into a park for a picnic, but in others, public drinking can get you fined. In some cities, jaywalking comes with a steep fine, while it is overlooked completely and frequently done in others. Knowing what's legal can also help you avoid (or seek out, depending on your proclivities) potential danger areas such as red light districts.
7. What days museums are free or discounted - Visiting a museum on a free day might allow you to see something you'd otherwise miss due to the admission price, and free nights are often packed with locals and fun events. Find out what days you can get free to help plan your itinerary.
8. The real value of a transit or tourist pass - Many cities have a museum or tourist card that you can purchase to get free admission at many sites for a set time. But before you invest in a pass, check out if you really want to go to the included places and if you'd have enough time to really enjoy visiting them all. Similarly, public transportation passes can be great in a city like New York, where a Metrocard can save you time and money, but if you prefer to walk or cab around town, you might skip it.
9. Where to get help if you need it - Registering with the U.S. Department of State when traveling abroad seems unreasonable, but it is very important in case of a disaster in locating citizens, as well as to help Americans abroad in trouble. Leave your travel details with friends back home, carry the contact details for your embassy and credit cards and check your insurance policy for coverage away from home.
10. Can't-miss tips from locals and travelers - Here's where social media can really help you have a great vacation - before departure, ask your travel-savvy friends on Facebook and Twitter what their don't-miss recommendations are for what to see or where to eat. Even if they are well-known attractions, having a tip from someone who's been there will help you prioritize.
Now that you know what you need to know about where you're going, let's get you booked today at www.kingarthur.myttn.com !
Monday, February 28, 2011
Friday, February 25, 2011
Cruising: What to Do if.....
Your luggage doesn't arrive at the ship-If you opted for the cruise line's air/sea package, it's the cruise line's responsibility for getting your luggage to the next port. If you bought them separately, well, it's your problem then, but I'm sure the airline will do what they can.
You miss the ship-Again, the air/sea package will have the airline get you to the next port. If the ship is just pulling away as you get to it, however, see the ship's port agent immediately.
Your cabin is too noisy or has no air conditioning or has plumbing problems-Tell your cabin steward immediately, or if he doesn't help, tell the hotel manager.
You do not like your dining room seating time-Only if there is room in the earlier or later seating do you really have an option. Ask the maitre' d' for help.
You want a smaller table instead, such as for two-Again, see the maitre' d' about it.
A port of call is deleted from that cruise's itinerary-The captain has final say in the matter, and he will not sail to a port if the seas are too rough or if there is some major event at the port, such as a recent terrorist attack.
You are unwell or get hurt onboard-There is a qualified medical staff onboard, although a surgery would probably require you to get airlifted to a proper hospital.
You have a problem with a crew member-Tell the hotel manager or chief purser and insist on a full written report of the incident(s) which would be done by the staff (deputy) captain.
The ship's laundry ruins your clothes-Tell your cabin steward then report it to the purser's office as a formal complaint. Note, however, the laundry papers that you filled out before say that they cruise line is responsible to the tune of only $1 or so per item.
You have unknown charges on your bill-Look over your bill carefully and see the purser if there is a problem. Ask to see the charge slips themselves. Make sure to get a copy of the bill after the changes have been made, too.
Of course, if you have a wonderful time, or there is something or someone that you specifically enjoy, make sure to tell about that too! Tell a supervisor, tell the person involved, tell the cruise line in a letter..... They take all comments very seriously, and they also love it when you come to them as a recent booking with www.kingarthur.myttn.com . So do it today!
You miss the ship-Again, the air/sea package will have the airline get you to the next port. If the ship is just pulling away as you get to it, however, see the ship's port agent immediately.
Your cabin is too noisy or has no air conditioning or has plumbing problems-Tell your cabin steward immediately, or if he doesn't help, tell the hotel manager.
You do not like your dining room seating time-Only if there is room in the earlier or later seating do you really have an option. Ask the maitre' d' for help.
You want a smaller table instead, such as for two-Again, see the maitre' d' about it.
A port of call is deleted from that cruise's itinerary-The captain has final say in the matter, and he will not sail to a port if the seas are too rough or if there is some major event at the port, such as a recent terrorist attack.
You are unwell or get hurt onboard-There is a qualified medical staff onboard, although a surgery would probably require you to get airlifted to a proper hospital.
You have a problem with a crew member-Tell the hotel manager or chief purser and insist on a full written report of the incident(s) which would be done by the staff (deputy) captain.
The ship's laundry ruins your clothes-Tell your cabin steward then report it to the purser's office as a formal complaint. Note, however, the laundry papers that you filled out before say that they cruise line is responsible to the tune of only $1 or so per item.
You have unknown charges on your bill-Look over your bill carefully and see the purser if there is a problem. Ask to see the charge slips themselves. Make sure to get a copy of the bill after the changes have been made, too.
Of course, if you have a wonderful time, or there is something or someone that you specifically enjoy, make sure to tell about that too! Tell a supervisor, tell the person involved, tell the cruise line in a letter..... They take all comments very seriously, and they also love it when you come to them as a recent booking with www.kingarthur.myttn.com . So do it today!
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Extra Costs to Your Cruise
After the September 11 attacks, many people have stopped cruising, and because of that cruise lines have significantly lowered their rates to encourage travelers. However, to help them recuperate some of the losses due to lowered fares, they have raised their prices on some items. However, some ships are much more all-inclusive than others, namely the smaller ships don't have you pay for all of the extras.
Port charges, tax, and gratuities are the three largest add-ons for your cruise before you even get on the ship! Shore excursions, soda and alcohol (unless you have a pre-paid plan), internet access, and spa treatments are other things that can add to the cost. Here is a short list of some of the other add-ons, all of which, of course, are optional, but often recommended and/or of special interest to you:
Alternative dining $10-35
Baby sitter $5-7 per hour per child
Bottled water $2.50-7
Washing $1.50-3 per piece
Dry cleaning $3-8 each
Fitness class $10 each
Hair care $20-40
Ice cream $2-5.75
Soda $1.50-3
Photographs from onboard photographers $10-27.50
Tuxedo rental $85
Dinner wine $7-500
Even though there are some additional expenses, some of which cannot be avoided, there is still very little reason why they would cost more than a comparable hotel in a major city! Enjoy your next cruise, especially after you saved so much money by booking on www.kingarthur.myttn.com
Port charges, tax, and gratuities are the three largest add-ons for your cruise before you even get on the ship! Shore excursions, soda and alcohol (unless you have a pre-paid plan), internet access, and spa treatments are other things that can add to the cost. Here is a short list of some of the other add-ons, all of which, of course, are optional, but often recommended and/or of special interest to you:
Alternative dining $10-35
Baby sitter $5-7 per hour per child
Bottled water $2.50-7
Washing $1.50-3 per piece
Dry cleaning $3-8 each
Fitness class $10 each
Hair care $20-40
Ice cream $2-5.75
Soda $1.50-3
Photographs from onboard photographers $10-27.50
Tuxedo rental $85
Dinner wine $7-500
Even though there are some additional expenses, some of which cannot be avoided, there is still very little reason why they would cost more than a comparable hotel in a major city! Enjoy your next cruise, especially after you saved so much money by booking on www.kingarthur.myttn.com
Saturday, February 19, 2011
River Cruising: Why and Why Not
River cruising is one interesting alternative to the typical ocean-based cruises that have become so common. Why should you consider taking one, and why should you consider looking elsewhere?
Why River Cruise?
You'll wake up in a different place each morning, usually very near the center of town.
There is no need for that annoying tendering and taking small boats.
River cruising is at a more relaxed pace, allowing you time to unwind.
River cruising, unlike ocean cruising, is most often so smooth you won't feel much any rocking at all.
The food is great, but so is the service.
Meals are included, and sometimes so are lunch and dinnertime wines.
Almost all rooms have a river view, rather than interior wall views.
Some shore excursions are included.
You usually said during the day and dock at night, allowing you more sights.
Dress code is usually casual.
There are no casinos or art auctions.
There is probably no television, and almost certainly no bingo.
Why Not River Cruise?
Since river water levels often change, sometimes they're too shallow to cruise on.
The beds are less than 6 feet long.
Wearing white is a bad option if you are on the top deck or behind the funnels.
Smokers often mix with nonsmokers, despite whatever rules or set aside locations are put in place.
The passengers very possibly speak different languages.
So, if you decide a river cruise might be something that really interests you, why not check out some options at www.kingarthur.myttn.com today?
Why River Cruise?
You'll wake up in a different place each morning, usually very near the center of town.
There is no need for that annoying tendering and taking small boats.
River cruising is at a more relaxed pace, allowing you time to unwind.
River cruising, unlike ocean cruising, is most often so smooth you won't feel much any rocking at all.
The food is great, but so is the service.
Meals are included, and sometimes so are lunch and dinnertime wines.
Almost all rooms have a river view, rather than interior wall views.
Some shore excursions are included.
You usually said during the day and dock at night, allowing you more sights.
Dress code is usually casual.
There are no casinos or art auctions.
There is probably no television, and almost certainly no bingo.
Why Not River Cruise?
Since river water levels often change, sometimes they're too shallow to cruise on.
The beds are less than 6 feet long.
Wearing white is a bad option if you are on the top deck or behind the funnels.
Smokers often mix with nonsmokers, despite whatever rules or set aside locations are put in place.
The passengers very possibly speak different languages.
So, if you decide a river cruise might be something that really interests you, why not check out some options at www.kingarthur.myttn.com today?
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Honeymoon Cruising
Honeymooners often opt to cruise for not only the usual cruise reasons, but also because as newlyweds, they can also get special treatment, attention, and services. Once you're married for a while, a cruise is also an excellent way to celebrate an anniversary.
No ships that I am aware of have a bridal suite, like many hotels do. but most, if not all, have double, queen-, or king-sized beds for the happy couple. They also have tables for two in the dining room, and many of the public dining areas, in case you do not want to share your meals with other people. Book and request the tables early, as they are very limited.
Many cruise ships depart on Sundays, so the more common Saturday weddings will not be impacted. In fact, the cruise line can also arrange for you to stay that night in a hotel near the ship.
Sure, you can share your honeymoon on one of the amazingly gorgeous behemoth floating cities, but for a more intimate honeymoon experience, you might want to look into opting for a smaller vessel, such as those by Seabourn, Regent, Silversea, or Windstar.
The forward part of the ship, although a little noisy with wind, is the most secluded and not the best lit area of the ship. What a great place to get a nice little cuddle.
A cruise line's honeymoon packages often include:
a private captain's cocktail party for honeymooners only
a set of crystal champagne or wine glasses
complimentary champagne or wine
honeymoon cruise certificate
champagne and caviar for breakfast
flowers in your suite/cabin
complimentary cake and even
special t-shirts
Not all are available on all ships, of course. Check ahead to see what you get offered, or have to pay a little extra for.
To avoid and confusion or complication, take a copy of your marriage certificate with you since your passports will probably not have been amended yet.
If you will be getting married at a port, such as Bermuda or Hawaii, and will be taking your wedding dress with you, you should be able to hang it up in the dressing room on the side of the main auditorium stage.
So, when you're ready to book that honeymoon cruise, make sure to do it at www.kingarthur.myttn.com first!
No ships that I am aware of have a bridal suite, like many hotels do. but most, if not all, have double, queen-, or king-sized beds for the happy couple. They also have tables for two in the dining room, and many of the public dining areas, in case you do not want to share your meals with other people. Book and request the tables early, as they are very limited.
Many cruise ships depart on Sundays, so the more common Saturday weddings will not be impacted. In fact, the cruise line can also arrange for you to stay that night in a hotel near the ship.
Sure, you can share your honeymoon on one of the amazingly gorgeous behemoth floating cities, but for a more intimate honeymoon experience, you might want to look into opting for a smaller vessel, such as those by Seabourn, Regent, Silversea, or Windstar.
The forward part of the ship, although a little noisy with wind, is the most secluded and not the best lit area of the ship. What a great place to get a nice little cuddle.
A cruise line's honeymoon packages often include:
a private captain's cocktail party for honeymooners only
a set of crystal champagne or wine glasses
complimentary champagne or wine
honeymoon cruise certificate
champagne and caviar for breakfast
flowers in your suite/cabin
complimentary cake and even
special t-shirts
Not all are available on all ships, of course. Check ahead to see what you get offered, or have to pay a little extra for.
To avoid and confusion or complication, take a copy of your marriage certificate with you since your passports will probably not have been amended yet.
If you will be getting married at a port, such as Bermuda or Hawaii, and will be taking your wedding dress with you, you should be able to hang it up in the dressing room on the side of the main auditorium stage.
So, when you're ready to book that honeymoon cruise, make sure to do it at www.kingarthur.myttn.com first!
Saturday, February 12, 2011
Onboard Chefs and Galley Workers
Unless you have a superstar visiting guest hosting a major event, which is only occasionally onboard a cruise ship, you may not really consider the amazing accomplishments and incredibly abilities of onboard chefs and the other galley workers.
Celebrity chefs either come onboard for a special event, namely a theme for boutique foods, or a celebrated chef actually opening his own restaurant onboard. Most likely the restaurant would be an additional cost, potentially of $25 or more, per person. most likely, the smaller cruise lines would have a special chef-hosted or chef-created restaurant.
The executive chef, who is occasionally a celebrity chef, plans the menus, orders the food, organizes the staff, and arranges all of the meals on the menus, making sure not to repeat meals every week or longer! He also purchases local foods and makes them into a special of the day.
The galley is never quiet, always preparing for the next day or a meal later that same day. Some of the galley departments include:
Fish/Seafood Preparation
Meat Preparation
Vegetable Preparation
Sauce Preparation
Soup Preparation
Cold Kitchen (cold dishes, salads, sandwiches, buffet carvings)
Bakery and Pastry
Pantry (cheese and fruits are prepared and sandwiches are made)
Dishwashing (they would put the local fast food places to shame)
Of course, there is only one way to experience such exciting and delectable cruise cuisine, and that's to first book it at www.kingarthur.myttn.com. Bon appetit!
Celebrity chefs either come onboard for a special event, namely a theme for boutique foods, or a celebrated chef actually opening his own restaurant onboard. Most likely the restaurant would be an additional cost, potentially of $25 or more, per person. most likely, the smaller cruise lines would have a special chef-hosted or chef-created restaurant.
The executive chef, who is occasionally a celebrity chef, plans the menus, orders the food, organizes the staff, and arranges all of the meals on the menus, making sure not to repeat meals every week or longer! He also purchases local foods and makes them into a special of the day.
The galley is never quiet, always preparing for the next day or a meal later that same day. Some of the galley departments include:
Fish/Seafood Preparation
Meat Preparation
Vegetable Preparation
Sauce Preparation
Soup Preparation
Cold Kitchen (cold dishes, salads, sandwiches, buffet carvings)
Bakery and Pastry
Pantry (cheese and fruits are prepared and sandwiches are made)
Dishwashing (they would put the local fast food places to shame)
Of course, there is only one way to experience such exciting and delectable cruise cuisine, and that's to first book it at www.kingarthur.myttn.com. Bon appetit!
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
The Ss to Ws of Life Onboard
Here are some more interesting tips and pieces of life onboard a cruise ship. See what more you can learn from these:
Security. Due to recent terrorist activities and threats, security onboard (and getting onboard) have been heightened dramatically. Your stateroom will likely have a safe, but you can also use a safety deposit box at the purser's office if necessary. Each person must also carry his shipboard id card, which allows admission to the craft, as well as the stateroom.
Ship Etiquette. Some ships have designated areas for smoking, while others do not allow smoking anywhere onboard. You are not allowed to video any of the professional entertainment (for copyright reasons), or take photographs of most of the dancing and performance numbers (for safety reasons). Oh, and nobody wants to see you in shorts or a bathing suit in the dining room.
Ship Injuries. Hold on to railings as often as possible, especially on stairwells. Watch for raised thresholds into some areas too, especially your cabin's bathroom. Rubber sole shoes, not leather or high heels, are safest, although not always the most fashionable. NEVER throw your cigarette or ashes over your balcony. They may start a fire a floor or two below!
Shopping. Shopping lectures about the next port of call are basically sales pitches for specific stores which give commissions back to the person and cruise ship. Keep that in mind, because some of the information can still be quite valuable.
Spas. A relaxing massage may be just right before bed, but the spas close early, usually before suppertime. Exercise gear, saunas, steam rooms, and beauty salons all inhabit the same area of the ship. Granted, they are separated. Massages, body scrubs and wraps, and facials are only some of the services available there.
Sports facilities. Basketball, jogging, miniature golf, shuffleboard, volleyball, and ofter water and golf events are also available on many ships.
Television. You might not get many station options, but you will always have something to watch, including many recordings of recent shipboard games in the main theatre.
Wine and Liquor. Although you can buy your own bottles from ports, you cannot open them onboard, and they will be confiscated and tagged and returned to you before you leave. You can, however, take your ship-bought glasses of beer and wine wherever you want onboard.
When you're ready to experience the amazement that is a cruise, make sure to first book it at www.kingarthur.myttn.com !
Security. Due to recent terrorist activities and threats, security onboard (and getting onboard) have been heightened dramatically. Your stateroom will likely have a safe, but you can also use a safety deposit box at the purser's office if necessary. Each person must also carry his shipboard id card, which allows admission to the craft, as well as the stateroom.
Ship Etiquette. Some ships have designated areas for smoking, while others do not allow smoking anywhere onboard. You are not allowed to video any of the professional entertainment (for copyright reasons), or take photographs of most of the dancing and performance numbers (for safety reasons). Oh, and nobody wants to see you in shorts or a bathing suit in the dining room.
Ship Injuries. Hold on to railings as often as possible, especially on stairwells. Watch for raised thresholds into some areas too, especially your cabin's bathroom. Rubber sole shoes, not leather or high heels, are safest, although not always the most fashionable. NEVER throw your cigarette or ashes over your balcony. They may start a fire a floor or two below!
Shopping. Shopping lectures about the next port of call are basically sales pitches for specific stores which give commissions back to the person and cruise ship. Keep that in mind, because some of the information can still be quite valuable.
Spas. A relaxing massage may be just right before bed, but the spas close early, usually before suppertime. Exercise gear, saunas, steam rooms, and beauty salons all inhabit the same area of the ship. Granted, they are separated. Massages, body scrubs and wraps, and facials are only some of the services available there.
Sports facilities. Basketball, jogging, miniature golf, shuffleboard, volleyball, and ofter water and golf events are also available on many ships.
Television. You might not get many station options, but you will always have something to watch, including many recordings of recent shipboard games in the main theatre.
Wine and Liquor. Although you can buy your own bottles from ports, you cannot open them onboard, and they will be confiscated and tagged and returned to you before you leave. You can, however, take your ship-bought glasses of beer and wine wherever you want onboard.
When you're ready to experience the amazement that is a cruise, make sure to first book it at www.kingarthur.myttn.com !
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
The As to Ss of Life Onboard
Cruise Ships are such incredible vessels, and vacationing aboard one of them is such an incredibly opportunity. Here are only some of the facilities available onboard many of these massive vessels.
Air-conditioning. Often a little cooler than you're used to, but after a day in the hot sun it's really refreshing.
Art Auctions. It might be nice to pick up a souvenir, but watch out for the shipping rates. Besides, it's often reported that so many of the works of art are copies of others.
Baby-sitting. For an hourly fee, sitting may take place either in your room or in the kids' areas.
Beauty Salon and Barber Shop. Make your appointments as soon as possible.
Bridge Visits. Not often allowed anymore.
Cash-free. Everything gets set up into an account which is charged to your credit card on the last day of your cruise. Make sure to check the paperwork for accuracy.
Casino Games. Lessons are available.
Comment Cards. I think they should be mandatory. Cruise lines do want feedback, for both good and bad experiences and staff interactions.
Daily Program. Usually delivered the night before, the program tells about entertainment, social events, and hours of various departments and sections.
Disembarkation. The least favourite part of the cruise. Put your luggage outside your room the night before, and prepare yourself for an early breakfast before being corralled into a crowded room for an hour or more.
Gift Shops. Souvenirs, gifts, toiletries, logo-clad items, and jewelry.
Health/Fitness Facilities. Every ship has them, but sometimes they are a bit difficult to find. Spa services and specialty exercise classes such as pilates are extra.
Laundrette. Some ships have them. Others opt for doing your laundry for you. Most often it's for a fee, of course.
Library. Every ship has one, although some are open all day while others are open only a couple of hours.
Lido Deck. Buffet, pools, hot tubs, and many activities.
Lifeboat Drill. It's mandatory for everyone. You will probably have to wear your life preserver, which is not comfortable and does not look all that attractive. However, if you are the ONLY one not wearing it, then who will look bad?
Mail. You can get stamps and postcard from onboard your ship. They will be mailed out at the next port of call.
Medical Service. Although available on all ships, some have more and better-qualified people.
Movies. In room, on a large outdoor screen, or in a special movie theatre.
Photographs. They're often all over, or in a special very well-traveled area of the ship. Photographers are not allowed to take tips, but you might be able to give them a little gift, or perhaps a group gift for the photography department.
Religious Services. Some ships have chapels. Some ships have non-denominational services. Some even allow religious leader guests to host denominational services.
Room Service. It's so far free on most ships. And often available 24 hours a day.
Sailing Time. Although it's posted as to when the ship will depart a port, you really must be back at least a half hour before then.
As if that's not enough, wait for the next blog! While you're waiting, put some of this new found knowledge to work when you book your cruise at www.kingarthur.myttn.com!
Air-conditioning. Often a little cooler than you're used to, but after a day in the hot sun it's really refreshing.
Art Auctions. It might be nice to pick up a souvenir, but watch out for the shipping rates. Besides, it's often reported that so many of the works of art are copies of others.
Baby-sitting. For an hourly fee, sitting may take place either in your room or in the kids' areas.
Beauty Salon and Barber Shop. Make your appointments as soon as possible.
Bridge Visits. Not often allowed anymore.
Cash-free. Everything gets set up into an account which is charged to your credit card on the last day of your cruise. Make sure to check the paperwork for accuracy.
Casino Games. Lessons are available.
Comment Cards. I think they should be mandatory. Cruise lines do want feedback, for both good and bad experiences and staff interactions.
Daily Program. Usually delivered the night before, the program tells about entertainment, social events, and hours of various departments and sections.
Disembarkation. The least favourite part of the cruise. Put your luggage outside your room the night before, and prepare yourself for an early breakfast before being corralled into a crowded room for an hour or more.
Gift Shops. Souvenirs, gifts, toiletries, logo-clad items, and jewelry.
Health/Fitness Facilities. Every ship has them, but sometimes they are a bit difficult to find. Spa services and specialty exercise classes such as pilates are extra.
Laundrette. Some ships have them. Others opt for doing your laundry for you. Most often it's for a fee, of course.
Library. Every ship has one, although some are open all day while others are open only a couple of hours.
Lido Deck. Buffet, pools, hot tubs, and many activities.
Lifeboat Drill. It's mandatory for everyone. You will probably have to wear your life preserver, which is not comfortable and does not look all that attractive. However, if you are the ONLY one not wearing it, then who will look bad?
Mail. You can get stamps and postcard from onboard your ship. They will be mailed out at the next port of call.
Medical Service. Although available on all ships, some have more and better-qualified people.
Movies. In room, on a large outdoor screen, or in a special movie theatre.
Photographs. They're often all over, or in a special very well-traveled area of the ship. Photographers are not allowed to take tips, but you might be able to give them a little gift, or perhaps a group gift for the photography department.
Religious Services. Some ships have chapels. Some ships have non-denominational services. Some even allow religious leader guests to host denominational services.
Room Service. It's so far free on most ships. And often available 24 hours a day.
Sailing Time. Although it's posted as to when the ship will depart a port, you really must be back at least a half hour before then.
As if that's not enough, wait for the next blog! While you're waiting, put some of this new found knowledge to work when you book your cruise at www.kingarthur.myttn.com!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)