Choosing the Right Cruise Cabin

admin — Mon, 21 Feb 2011 00:25:23 +0000

Article by Kyle Bruening

Choosing the right cruise cabin. All cruise staterooms are designed to be relaxing and comfortable to rest after your
adventures.

Cabins

There are four basic types of cruise cabins: inside cabins, outside cabins, balcony cabins, and suites. Cruise cabins offer
luxurious suites to inside bunk-bed cabins, the choices are numerous. Cruise cabins offer three types of views: inside (no window), window
and balcony. Inside cruise ship cabins are comfortable, practical and peaceful, just like the outside cruise ship cabins, which have the added
feature of a window or porthole

with sea view. Cruise cabins are much smaller than hotel rooms, so if you’re worried about feeling claustrophobic or have more than two people
sharing a room, you may want to consider booking two rooms or a suite.

The price of a cruise ship cabin or stateroom (the terms are interchangeable) is dependent on its size, layout, and location. For the most
part, standard cruise cabins are sensibly decorated and offer comfortable beds, reading lamps, ample storage space, bathrooms that have either a
shower (but no tub) or a small tub with shower, and individual climate control. In addition, most cruise cabins come with a television,
telephone, hair dryer, personal safe and a writing area with a desk and chair. staterooms have wall-to-wall carpeting, individually
controlled airconditioning/heating, dresser or storage space, closet, telephone, and satellite television. Some cruise cabins have VC Rs or
DVD players, and some televisions also have radio/music channels. If you book early you have the added advantage that you have the best
choice of cruise cabins.

Staterooms with balconies have sliding glass doors, giving you access to the outside. Cruise cabins might appear small in size, but you will
soon find all the luxuries you wanted properly fitted into the room. Family-sized suites are cruise cabins for more than two people are
harder or impossible to find the later you book.

While inside cruise cabins are the least expensive, they have no windows and are often quite small. Cruise ship cabins vary from
smallish, economical inside cabins to elaborate penthouse suites, with everything in between. All cruise cabins are created for comfort
with a sensible design where you can move with ease. Cruise

ship cabins are not all created equal; however, they are all designed for comfort, convenience, and practicality.

While most cruise ship cabins are insulated quite well, residual noise can be a problem in high-traffic areas. Most cruise ship cabins have
in-room safes, which is where you will want to store your passport when you are on-board the ship. Most cruise ship cabins are built to
accommodate two passengers. Please remember that cruise ship cabins tend to be smaller than hotel rooms and therefore, as space can be limited it
is worth bringing only those items which you know will need.

Luxury Staterooms

There are several grades of cruise ship cabins on each cruise ship. These lovely Luxury staterooms offer a king size bed, balcony with
loungers and tables and a bathroom with bath and shower. Luxury staterooms also have hot tubs and several extra luxuries. Larger luxury
staterooms offer over-sized balconies some with hot tubs. Luxury cabins may offering custom Italian down bedding & Italian linens, European
white goose feather beds & pillows, Atrium playground with projection theater screen, Cable or Satellite TV, Turkish towels, central Heat
& Air, exclusive European soaps and a butler.

Conclusion

Nonetheless, all cruise cabins are not created equal. The best advice is to be informed about cruise cabin and make the right decision
for you.

About the Author

The Captain (Kyle Bruening) is Senior editor at http://www.theluxuryships.com. He writes informational cruise articles relating to all aspects of cruising. Kyle is a Master Cruise Counselor, has more than 20 years cruise experience with 70 actual sailed cruises. He represents the finest cruise lines that are prefered by
most people. Kyle specializes in assisting people to have fun and relax by sending them on cruise vacations worldwide. 1-877-22-SHIPS

Spas – Choose your type

admin — Mon, 21 Feb 2011 00:25:22 +0000

Article by Chris Ryan

In today’s world, spas are no longer expensive facilities limited to a few treatments like massages and manicures. No longer are spas expensive, reserved retreats for the rich and famous to indulge in. Nowadays spas have become a lot more ubiquitous, more affordable, and incredibly versatile. Many spas offer unique and interesting services never heard of, say for example the fish spas of Asia that let tiny fish nibble at your feet to give them a refreshing exfoliation.

Spas have evolved into numerous different types based on their services and specialties. There are several different types of spa packages that you can pick from depending on your requirements and budget. Here is a brief guide to some of the different types of spas:

Spas can be placed into several different categories:

* Day spa

* Club spa

* Mineral health spa

* Cruise spa

* Hotel spa

* Medical spa

Day spa

Any beauty establishment, such as a hair or beauty salon, wellness centers, and any other facilities that offer a spa treatment can be termed a day spa. Day spas differ from traditional spas in that they don’t require you to travel to their establishment and stay the day. Rather day spa services can be anywhere from 30 minutes to a full day appointment. The usual fare of services offered at a day spa includes massage treatments, body wraps, manicures, pedicures, facial treatment, microdermabrasion treatments and then some.

Club spa

Club spas are spa facilities located in a health club, fitness center or any other wellness establishment. Being part of a larger facility, club spas often also offer saunas, swimming pools, steam baths, and other added services.

Mineral health spa

Mineral water has long been associated with health and wellness, and it is well known as a magic cure. For this reason, there are specialty mineral spas that focus on the use of minerals in their treatments. The best treatment is a mineral bath, as mineral water cures tired muscles and improves blood circulation.

Cruise spa

This type of spa is located on a cruise ship. It has the standard sp facilities with the exception that its like a cruise part with a spa as a bonus. As we all know, cruise trips are a great holiday option and an onboard spa makes it all the more exciting.

May it be any type of spa, it is definitely going to rejuvenate and uplift your mood, body and soul.

Hotel spa

Offered as a standard service in many hotels, hotel spas are primarily geared toward offering some relaxation to tired hotel guests. Hotel spas are popular with tourists as they offer a chance to deal away with tiredness and be at high energy levels.

Medical spa

Much like traditional spas, but with a stronger focus on the medical aspects of treatment, prevention, and cure. In addition to the usual spa services, medical spas offer services in alternative medicine, laser treatment, dermatology, and Botox. At a medical spa you can expect to be treated by trained medical professionals, and the services at these spas are much more intensive than traditional spas that focus mainly on external beauty.

About the Author

5th Avenue Beauty Day Spa Brisbane and massage Brisbane is located in the upmarket suburb of Wilston, just 5 minutes north of the Brisbane CBD. We’ve been pampering women and men since 1998 with our day spa massage services.

Meet People With Themed Cruises

admin — Mon, 21 Feb 2011 00:25:22 +0000

Article by Nicole Scott

Themed cruises can be a great way to meet other people with shared interests or simply a way to relax amidst other families with small children to entertain. Themed cruises tend to be a lot more laidback than a regular cruise. While most individuals have heard of a themed cruise ship before, many are unaware exactly

Cruise

A themed cruise could also incorporate a themed on-shore excursion, which means that a part of your culinary themed cruise could be an on-shore visit to a local market to find a particular ingredient. Another advantage of a themed cruise is that you get to spend time with like minded people, and you learn more about your chosen topic. There are many different themed cruises to choose from, and each cruise company offers different themed cruises.

Take a cruise with a difference on one of these Themed cruise specials. Set sail on a Dance themed cruise, and between exotic ports, spend your sea days learning how to set the dance floor on fire. Experts from the world of art set sail on these specially themed cruises to help unlock the mysteries of painting and sculpture, and the various movements through history. Just ask your cruise consultant to find the right themed cruise for you and your group. Careful consideration is given to the development and timing of each themed cruise, matching the topic to the itinerary to allow for greater appreciation.

Themed
.
Cruises for gay and lesbian guests as well as all kinds of themed single cruise vacations geared toward bringing singles together are a popular way to travel. Family cruising is also growing in popularity, as more families see cruises as a great way to entertain the entire family. Disney cruises to Disney World or Disneyland are among the most popular family cruises, as are holiday cruises and other cruises with families in mind. Singles Cruises Singles cruises are the singular most popular theme cruise to date, and it’s pretty clear why–they’re fun, laid-back and guaranteed to put a spring in your step.

Most cruise line that run singles cruises do their best to ensure that there are equal numbers of rogues and wenches aboard. Despite their wide range of popularity, dancing cruises are often most enjoyed by senior citizens. Dancing cruises tend to offer a number of different dancing halls. In a way, dancing cruises can also be considered romantic. As the success from one cruise grew, it produced a demand for black cruise organizers to provide themed cruises toward the many different niches within the black traveling community.

Seasonal cruises are particularly popular, enabling you to experience Christmas markets and other European highlights such as the Oktoberfest, or simply ringing in the New Year at sea with unforgettable festivities and fireworks. Some theme cruises are based around being entertained. When it comes to theme cruises, sometimes a person doesn’t. There are several cruise lines which offer this popular theme cruises.

About the Author

Nicole Scott is a successful Webmaster and publisher of
www.ExpertsOnCruises.com. She provides more information about

cruise and cruise issues that you can research in your pajamas on her website.

Choosing the Right Cabin for Your Cruise – Exploring Your Options

admin — Mon, 21 Feb 2011 00:25:22 +0000

Article by Chris Everiss

When you’re thinking of booking your next cruise holiday, one of the big decisions is choosing the right cabin. Learn more about your options…

Choosing the Right Cabin for Your Cruise

Choosing the right cabin for your cruise can make a real difference to your holiday on the ocean waves. If you’ve not been cruising before and aren’t sure which type of cabin is right for you, read on to find out more.

Introduction to cruise accommodation

While the specifics of cruise accommodation will differ between companies and individual ships, the guide below will give you a general overview of what to expect.

Inside cabin
An inside cabin is the most affordable cruise liner accommodation and is ideal if you’re on a limited budget or if you plan to just make the most of the facilities and entertainment on offer. Many people use their inside cabins much like a hotel room and with so much to keep you busy on board, you’ll have no problems getting off to sleep.

Outside cabin
If you don’t like the idea of being on a cruise and not having a sea view then an outside cabin could be for you. Waking up every day to the sight of the ocean waves can really enhance your cruise holiday and set you up for a relaxing day on board.

Balcony cabin
A balcony cabin is a step up from an outside cabin and lets you sit outside and enjoy the weather and scenery close at hand. There’s nothing quite like starting and ending your day listening to the ocean below you as you relax with a drink on your balcony.

Suite
For the ultimate in relaxation and a real home from home, a suite is the perfect choice. Suites are at the top end of cruise liner accommodation but are worth every penny for the extra space and splendour. If your cruise holiday is a once in a lifetime trip, booking a suite will provide you with the ultimate on board experience and the epitome of luxury.

Cruise cabin facts and figures
A recent poll by a leading cruise company on Facebook surveyed regular cruise passengers to find out what cabin they usually pick when booking a cruise.

The results were as follows;

Inside Cabin – 22%
Outside Cabin – 19%
Balcony Cabin – 56%
Suite – 4%

The figures from this survey are in line with recent numbers published by Royal Caribbean International which saw 66% of passengers on their new liner booking either a balcony cabin, deluxe accommodation or a suite.

Summary
The choice of cabin you make for your cruise holiday will come down to personal preference or your available budget. Some people are happy to have an inside cabin and make full use of the cruise ship’s facilities and entertainment but if money’s no object you may want to enjoy an early morning coffee or night cap on your own private balcony.

About the Author

Cruise.co.uk which is an online travel agency. Followers of the agency have posted over 90,000 cruise reviews and opinions. The agency’s cruise forums have over 300,000 questions and answers about cruising all asked and answered by the community.

Making the Most of Your Cruise Spa Experience

admin — Mon, 21 Feb 2011 00:25:22 +0000

Article by Anita Dunham-Potter

When you’re sailing the seas, surrounded by nothing more than serene ocean waves it’s tough to get into a more relaxed state of mind. But if ultimate tranquility is what you seek, then head to the ship’s spa. Not sure which spa treatments you would like, or even what those spa treatments are exactly? Facial? Massage? Body wrap? Hydrotherapy? Learn which spa treatment is right for you.

Facials

The first step in a spa facial treatment is a consultation with a spa therapist who will inquire about your skin condition. They will also ask about your skin care regimen and if you are on any medication, have allergies or have had any surgeries. Next comes a cleansing process, followed by an analysis of your skin. Then the spa therapist will apply various treatments to enhance the skin tone. After the treatment you are sure to leave the spa with glowing skin that feels refreshed.

Massage

Are your leg and arm muscles achy? Does all the travel to get to ship, packing and lugging around bags, leave your neck, back and shoulder muscles feeling like tense knots? You need a massage. A massage is essentially a rubdown that relaxes and detoxifies your muscles and soothes the mind. Not familiar with various types of massage? Here are a few basic types:

Swedish massage is a technique in which therapists use their hands to gently knead, tap and rub your muscles. As with most massages, the therapist will use scented oils to help their hands move smoothly easily across your skin. Swedish massage is good for those new to the world of massage since it’s gentle.

Deep tissue massage is an intense massage treatment perfect for the person who’s active or participates in athletic endeavors. A therapist uses the fingers, palms and heels of their hands to deeply knead muscles, which will improve blood and oxygen flow throughout the body that leads to the release of toxins from the body. Deep tissue massage involves fairly vigorous muscle manipulation, which can cause pain during and after treatment, so this is not a good choice for those new to massage. Therapeutic massage is a treatment that targets specific areas of the body especially strained by overuse or just everyday stress. The therapist massages the entire body, but spends extra time on those trouble spots like the neck, shoulders or arms.

Hot stone massage is a combination of deep tissue, therapeutic and Swedish massage with the added benefit of heat from flat stones. The warm stones instantly relax muscles to allow a deep massage without pain.

Exfoliation

Exfoliation or scrub is a treatment that uses granular materials to polish off dead skin cells and reveal the newer skin underneath. A common body exfoliation treatment is the salt glow, in which a therapist applies a mixture of sea salt and oil to the skin. Many spas offer salt glows, but some of the more inventive spas at sea use exotic products that often mimic the destinations visited on the cruise.

Wraps

A spa wrap entails having a therapist slather the body with a mask of mud or algae and then cocooning in a warm plastic, foil, or linens. During a set period of time, usually 30 minutes, the body absorbs the ingredients in the mask. Besides the skin-softening benefits, wraps stimulate the circulatory and lymphatic system to help release toxins. When you’re done, the therapist unwraps you and you shower off the mask.

Hydrotherapy

Water has long known to have power to help ease muscle strains and reduce swelling. A growing number of onboard spas are now offering hydrotherapy treatments. Soaks in Jacuzzi-style tubs, with pressurized jets of hot water strategically located to stimulate circulation and soothe aching muscles. Another treatment is the dry-float bed that’s similar to a waterbed giving the sensation of floating on warm water without getting wet. This is often combined with a wrap treatment.

Spa smarts

If you have any health issues it is important to understand that a number of spa treatments can raise blood pressure. Therefore check with your physician to make sure it’s okay to indulge in a treatment. Additionally, inform your spa therapist about any allergies or skin sensitivities you may have like rosacea or psoriasis. Many spa products contain ingredients with nuts or algae that could trigger an adverse reaction. Lastly, it’s always important to drink lots of water before, during, and after a treatment to avoid dehydration. It’s clear that today’s cruise ship spas offer the ultimate in pampering treatments. Who knows you may disembark your cruise vacation feeling like a new person.

About the Author

Anita Dunham-Potter is a Pittsburgh-based travel journalist specializing in cruise travel and cruise vacations. In addition to writing pieces for Princess Cruises.Anita is a weekly travel columnist for MSNBC.com and Tripso, and she is a contributor to Fodor’s “Complete Guide to Caribbean Cruises 2007

Themed Cruise To Suit Your Individual Tastes

admin — Mon, 21 Feb 2011 00:25:21 +0000

Article by Nicole Scott

No matter what your hobbies, interests or favorites activities are, there is a themed cruise to suit your individual tastes. So, sail away on a themed cruise that offers food/wine tasting, yoga classes, singles dances or art galleries to experience a vacation unlike any other. Taking a themed cruise designed for singles is a fantastic way to meet someone special or at the very least, make some new friends.

Themed

It is true that family themed cruise ships are often considered the most popular of all theme cruises. However, there are not the only themed cruises, which are available. Specialty travel tips: is a themed cruise right for you. All guests of a singles themed cruise are there to meet that special someone, so love will definitely be in the air. Another type of themed cruise that is very popular is one that is planned around food and wine. This type of themed cruise will offer all the same amenities as others, like dances, music, pools and many other activities but the main focus is different types of cuisine and spirits.

Themed

So, if you’ve always wanted to be a culinary expert, this themed cruise is perfect for you. Depending on your interests, you can also take a themed cruise that specializes in art, health and well being, history and culture or music. You might also want to check out a themed cruise that offers classes in financial management, cooking or even one that will teach you how to improve your golf swing. You can still take a themed cruise that will be fun for them and you. While your children are off having fun, you can lounge by the pool, have a massage or take one of the classes your themed cruise offers. You can book a themed cruise on your own by using the internet or calling a line you’re interested in.

It’s always smart to shop around and booking a themed cruise isn’t any different. From Disney cruise vacation for families with children to a single cruise vacation for those looking to meet someone special, themed cruises cover some seemingly obscure hobbies as well as family cruise vacations meant to make everyone happy. Single cruise vacations are another popular theme among themed cruises. Special interest cruises are yet another variety of themed cruises. Costs will not usually differ from the cost of a non-themed cruise, but the available dates for sailing may be more limited.

No matter where your interests and passions lie, from ancient history to flamenco dancing here is something for everybody on these special themed cruises. From learning about Ancient Civilizations and Naval History to lessons in how to discover your Family History, these especially themed cruises have all you will want to make your cruise holiday one to remember. From Classical to Jazz and all points in between, it is always a delight to set sail on a music themed cruise, and enjoy live performances from the best artists in their field on the open sea. There’s a huge choice of themed cruises from a growing number of cruise lines.

About the Author

Nicole Scott is a successful Webmaster and publisher of
www.ExpertsOnCruises.com. She provides more information about

cruise and cruise issues that you can research in your pajamas on her website.

Street Fighter 4 Music

How to Choose the Perfect Cabin for Your Next Cruise

admin — Mon, 21 Feb 2011 00:25:09 +0000

Article by Eric Brooks

Choosing the perfect cabin for your next cruise can make the difference between a fun-filled trip and a miserable experience. I have been on several cruises and booked several of the different cabin types. Each cabin type has it’s advantages and disadvantages. Room sizes and types can vary between cruise lines, but many of the major cruise lines have basic categories that rooms are grouped into.

The cheapest cabins on the ship are usually inside cabins. Because these cabins are located on the inside of the ship, they don’t have windows. The first time I booked an inside cabin I was a little apprehensive about whether I would feel claustrophobic. I was pleasantly surprised to find that the inside cabin still had plenty of room and I didn’t feel constrained at all. For cruisers that enjoy sleeping in late in the morning, an inside cabin provides a nice dark place to sleep. If you are considering booking an inside cabin, you should take a look a deck plan of the ship you will be cruising on. Make note if your potential cabin is located next to a stairwell, because these rooms can be noisier from people using the stairs.

Outside cabins are the next step up and are the same size or slightly larger than inside cabins. Depending on where on the ship the cabin is located, the room will either have a porthole or a larger size window. Although having the ability to peek out the window to see what was going on was a nice perk, I probably looked out the window only two or three times.

The next step up is the balcony cabin. These cabins are usually slightly larger than the standard outside cabin. Your cabin will have a door with access to your own “private” balcony. I have to admit that I was a bit disappointed with our balcony because only a thin sheet of metal separated us from our neighbor. When they were out on their balcony I could clearly hear all of their conversations. However, the experience of sleeping at night with the balcony door open was an unforgettable experience.

The most expensive and luxurious cabins on the ship are the suites. These cabins can range in size from slightly larger than standard balcony rooms to small apartments. If money isn’t an issue and you want to experience the most luxurious way to cruise, these are the cabins to choose. If you intend to spend a lot of time in your cabin, the added cost of a suite may be well worth the cost.

Before booking your next cruise, give some additional thought to the type of cabin you will be booking. Your lifestyle and personal preferences may make a particular room type more appropriate for you. Happy cruising!

About the Author

The author enjoys writing about a wide variety of topics including pet vacuums and vacuum attachments.

Making the Most of Your Cruise Spa Experience

admin — Mon, 21 Feb 2011 00:25:04 +0000

Article by Anita Dunham-Potter

Facials

Massage

Exfoliation

Wraps

Hydrotherapy

Spa smarts

About the Author

Find More Cruise Spas Articles

Planning and Booking a Holiday Cruise from South Africa

admin — Mon, 21 Feb 2011 00:24:55 +0000

Article by Bobby Buys

When it’s time for a vacation, almost every member in your group will have very strong ideas on what constitutes the perfect holiday. Given the rather mind-boggling range of choices, deciding upon the best destination will be far from easy.

A cruise holiday offers distinct advantages over traditional forms of travel, and allows you to avoid all the stress and hassle of planning a memorable vacation.

Advantages of Cruising

Cruises allow you to visit many ports of call. Depending on your preference, you can visit many different destinations or spend time on-board.

Most cruise ships afford a variety of on-board entertainment facilities, allowing you to interact with people from different cultures and catering to the tastes of each member in your group.

A cruise saves you time. Also, since everything will be taken care of by the cruise-liner, you can spare yourself the agony of having to make travel arrangements, pack suitcases or plan meals.

Most cruise holidays offer great value for money and are inclusive of food and on-board activities. Some services could cost extra, but since you’ll know this beforehand, you’re in control of your budget.

The Biggest Cruise Ships

There are a large number of cruise liners with state-of-the-art facilities. According to the Travel+Lesiure Magazine, the most enviable cruises to be on this year are:

A Mexican Riviera cruise on the Splendor with the Carnival Line.

The Caribbean, Mediterranean, and a journey from Southampton, England to Rome on the Solstice or the Equinox with the Celebrity Line.

Northern Europe, Mediterranean from December, Dubai, Bahrain, Abu Dhabi and Oman on the Costa Luminosa;

Rome, Savona, Barcelona, Palma de Mallorca, Tunis, Malta and Palermo on the Costa Pacifica, with the Costa Cruises Line; and

The Baltic region, Canada, New England and the Caribbean on the Eurodam with the Holland America Line.

What to look for on Singles Cruises

admin — Mon, 21 Feb 2011 00:24:44 +0000

Article by Alex Stapledon

Cruises have a a picking of different activities and environments for assorted age groups, created for the assorted holiday needs of a collection of passengers. Choosing the right cruise can be based on the activities offered, or you can look through the different cruises targeting different demographics.

One such sort of cruise is the singles cruise, which has arrived as perhaps a leading choice of cruise and occupies a large section of the international cruises market. It should be noted, a singles cruise can either be a cruise that is only allowing singles to travel or a cruise within a larger cruise ship with special events aside from the usual cruises activities.

Singles cruises are available on many of the main cruise lines including P&O cruises.

Singles cruises are target singles travelling alone that are wanting to meet and holiday with people in similar situations, with the aim of sharing experiences and group activities. Unlike from cruises that mix families, groups and couples, a single cruise tries to focus on social interaction between the different passengers with the activities all designed to support this.

Cruises activities vary in their picks, depending on passenger demographics and the destination. When considering the different age brackets of passengers on cruises, statistics show that the larger part lie within the 30-50 year old bracket while there are cruises aiming for a singles market of the open age range, 20 to 30-year-old age range and an over 50 age range. The variety of activities linked with these various age brackets can adapt a bit depending on the favoured selections by the age groups. For example, 20-something singles are usually more inclined for dancing and party events although those over 50 are offered a range of choices of dinners and day time activities.

So what should you look out for on acustomary singles cruises when it comes to these the applied policies, amenities and associated activities? While like any form of leave, there are differences depending on the destination, travel company and cruise liner restrictions, yet you should find that there are a number of characteristic themes across singles cruises.

Some of the most accepted and standard activities found on a general singles cruise include speed dating events, parties, sport activities, game nights, on-shore tours and cocktail events. What’s more, some singles cruises offer a type of “pre-cruise meeting” meaning introductions can be made prior to the departure date.

Simply by keeping an open mind and maintaining a social attitude, you can get the most out of a singles cruise. Cruises industry experts celebrate a few rules to live by when on a singles cruise that should make the most of the holiday. Including attending all organised functions, from the dinners, parties, day events and pre-departure date events, and meeting and getting to know as many people on your cruise as possible.

Largely, picking cruises as a holiday preference can be an excellent way to capitalise on your holiday for less money while making certain you do not miss out on any of the perks and spoils.

About the Author

Alex Stapledon is a writer for Antiques, Australia’s leading Antiques directory.