Travel Blog # 250

I've been pondering what I could possibly publish on my travel blog for the big # 250.

Then I noticed that I was planning on booking my next cruise.

Why do I love cruising so much, especially since at first I didn't like the idea since they didn't stay in the ports long enough?

Well, the simple fact is, cruising is often more about the ship than it is about the destinations. In many cases, that is. There are the smaller ships, mostly the boutique ships and riverboats, which are able to get more into the heart of many cities, and they often get to a new one every day. That makes it a whole lot faster to get places, and you're able to go to more destinations because of it. Whereas most ocean liners, and super jumbo cruise vessels, some holding in excess of 5,200 passengers alone, the ships are so massive, with so many things to do onboard, there is often not much need to actually disembark. For that matter, many people stay onboard the whole time, or at least in some of the ports of call.

Although there are many more things to do when the ships are at sea, and the shops and casino are open then but not while in port, there are still things to do while the ship is docked. The buffet is still open, and likely the main dining rooms. The social hosts keep playing games and events. Many people like the option to go to the pool now that it's not crowded.

And there is one thing I really liked when I first went aboard, and when the ship is very sparsely populated. Those are ideal times for photography. Nobody, or at least very few, standing in front of signs and sculptures. Long, empty corridors. Lots of lights and stairs and fun glass elevators which really allow you to find all sorts of nooks which are worth photographing. Also, since the ship is nearly vacant, these are the best times to go on a ship tour, if you didn't plan on joining a group one, if one was available.

I'm going on a cruise that stops in St. Thomas, USVI, this year. Since I already know the island very well, I'll be going exactly where I want to throughout the day while my ship is docked. But, other than that, and the experience of visiting a couple other island which are new for me, I'm sure I'm going to have a great time onboard my massive sailing vessel.

I look forward to seeing you there!