To cruise or not to cruise, that is the question. Cruising the open sea or staying on an island are both tantalizing options. But for an overall better deal, choose a cruise instead of jet-setting to one destination.
When planning, first consider the season. Vacationing in the Caribbean tends to be best during the winter and fall seasons, helping to avoid crowds and extreme weather. While there may be snow in the winter where you live, rest assured there is nothing but sun and occasional showers in the Caribbean. Assuming everyone is heading north to snowboard during the holidays, head south for a splendid tropical vacation.
Unlike the pricey rates of island resorts, cruise ships charge one, low price, which includes nightly shows, room and board, travel to numerous islands and excellent service. Keep in mind however it is customary to tip your waiters and housekeepers at the end of the vacation. While this may be a bit of a surprise to those unfamiliar with sea expeditions, it’s not so different from tipping at restaurants or hotels while lodging on an island.
For those who like to eat early or enjoy a midnight snack, the eateries on cruise ships are almost always open at any hour. With food ranging from Asian to home-style country food, there is cuisine for any lifestyle. Worn-out patrons can even order the exact same meals for in-cabin dining. Entertainment is also abundant on cruise ships, with shows ranging from comedians and dancers, to plays and magicians. Guests can even enjoy casinos, gyms and salt water pools that are refilled daily. Because cruise ships dock more than once, cruisers can enjoy daily excursions to new and exotic places. Although it’s recommended to book an excursion with your ship, there are often cheaper tours offered by locals near the dock, allowing you to experience local culture away from the tourist destinations. Rent a bike or scooter, or hail a taxi to get away from tourist epicenters.
Even with its appeal, going on a cruise has disadvantages to consider beforehand. Food tends to be the same daily. Purchases on the ship will be expensive and the main itinerary is planned out in advance. Sea-sickness is very possible, and can make for a very uncomfortable trip. But cruise liners anticipate sea-sickness, and offer medicine and medical aid for those who were not able to plan ahead. Bigger ships tend to rock less, so falling ill is usually uncommon. Though the same food is offered day after day, the selection is so large and unlimited you will probably not be able to taste everything before the end of your trip. And even though you will pay more for souvenirs and other purchases onboard, you make up for it with the affordability of booking a cruise. Overall, cruises are the better bang for your buck.