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Make mine a cruise...
 by Simon Fortin
http://www.acruiseforu.com

A cruising holiday has always been thought of as the height
of luxury and only for those with a very large bank
balance. But things have changed over the last twenty years
out of all recognition. We're all wanting to try new
experiences and become more adventurous about where we go
for our holidays and cruising is an ideal way of sampling
new countries and seeing some of the most interesting and
educational places in the world.

When you're deciding where in the world you want to go,
perhaps the first question you need to ask is 'who in the
world do I want to go with?' Although cruising was always
for the more mature couples it's now popular with
honeymooners and even parents with young families. Some of
the ships have fantastic activities for children of all
ages and can keep them entertained all day, every day if
that is what you're looking for.

You need to decide on your budget. Cruising is
historically not a cheap alternative but, having said that,
there is a lot of competition around and now is probably an
ideal time to get real value for money. Remember that there
is a wide choice of cabin from the most expensive with
balconies and a separate lounge through to the inner bowels
of the ship (not good if you suffer from claustrophobia or
sea sickness). If you're in a wheelchair you must check
access with the company. Some of the doors are very narrow
and create a lot of problems for any disabled people.
Although you may feel that you're only going to be in your
cabin for a short period each day, my opinion is that if
you're going to 'splash' out on such a holiday it's no use
'spoiling the ship for a ha'peth of tar'. In other words
have a degree of comfort; you won't regret it.

Cruises around the north of the northern hemisphere are
becoming more and more popular but aren't practical in the
depths of winter; it's just too cold. Even the
Mediterranean can be really quite dull and chilly so if you
want sunshine you have to move towards the areas that will
guarantee it; usually that's the Caribbean or Mexico where
cruising is a way of life.

If you are at all disabled you need to decide if cruising
is the right holiday for you. Even the basics of getting
ashore can demand quite a high level of athleticism when
the ship has to anchor at sea and ferry people ashore.
Although most cruises will include trips for everyone,
again there are some that are physically demanding, whilst
others tire your mind!

If you have a particular interest you could well find that
there are cruises with celebrities aboard. They may be
giving demonstrations or talks or may simply be there to
mingle with the passengers. On these holidays the ships
have more days at sea and are designed to be able to cater
for everyone's needs at any time of the day or night.

Many people still like to dress for dinner and on many of
the ships there will still be at least one formal dinner
which will require long dresses or dinner suits. For
younger people this is no longer such an attraction and so
many of the companies who are targeting these people take
this into account. It's certainly something worth asking
about.

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