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Questions You’ve Asked

What time of year can I go on a cruise?
Cruises are available year round, so you are sure to find a cruise any time of year. Caribbean cruises are available year round, while others are seasonal. For example, you can only cruise to Bermuda between April and October.

What about hurricane season?
Between late August and mid-October is generally the season for hurricanes. However, this doesn't mean you should avoid this time of year as some very good cruising deals are available then. Also, you can be sure that the cruise line and Captain on board would never put you at risk. Cruise ships are safer than land-based Caribbean holidays because they can move away from the storm. As well, cruise ships have state-of-the-art weather equipment so that the crew are fully aware of any approaching storms.

How many days are cruises?
Choose any length of time you want. Many are from 3 to 14 days, but a cruise can vary from three days to three months.

Are there different classes of service?
There are no booking class distinctions - all guests can use all of the ship's facilities. Where prices differ is your stateroom category, based on size and location on the ship. In almost all cruises, everyone  enjoys the same courteous service, menus, activities, and entertainment as everyone else on board regardless of their stateroom category.

What if I do not find anything to do during the cruise?
With so much to see and do onboard, this is rarely a problem. Cruising gives you the choice to do as much or as little as you please - lounging on deck enjoying the sun, or exercise classes, dance classes, sports contests and other organized deck activities. You can take in a game of tennis, swim, relax in the spa or try your luck in the casino. You can see a feature movie, attend a lecture by renowned experts, or play backgammon or bridge, for example. Shore excursions and tours are a great way to spend time in port. Or maybe you'd prefer to walk around, shop and explore on your own. The beauty of a cruise is its flexibility - you can do whatever you want.

Will I get seasick?
Probably not. Many popular cruise destinations have some of the calmest waters for sailing in the world. Stabilizers on modern ships and advanced weather information also help to ensure a high level of comfort for guests on board. Additionally, the development of preventative medications have aided in minimizing incidents of motion sickness. If you have concerns, it may be beneficial to speak to your physician and see what he/she recommends.

What kind of evening entertainment is available?
Nighttime is when life aboard a cruise ship really turns on. There's dancing; live entertainment in nightclubs, discos and lounges; feature films; and parties with your new friends. Most ships have casinos where you can try your luck at the slots, or maybe play a little blackjack. There are also many special events you'll want to attend such as the Captain's Cocktail Party, Passenger Talent Night, the Masquerade Parade, the Late Night Buffet (just for one last bite to tide you over until breakfast). And the night can go on as long as you want. Even until the spectacle of a sunrise at sea. Just be sure to get enough rest for the things you have planned for the next day!

Do I have to pay for on board entertainment?
No - the cost of entertainment is included in your cruise fare. You are free to attend all the shows and see as many bands as you want. Many popular movies are shown on board and there is no charge for these either.

What can I do when the ship is docked in port?
So much you'll have a hard time choosing! You can explore on your own or take a guided tour (referred to as shore excursions). Most cruise lines offer organized shore excursions and tours that you can arrange on board. These are guided outings that take you on everything from tours of ancient ruins and city sightseeing, to snorkeling or diving to shopping. Or you may choose to venture off on your own to see what the port has to offer. Either way, you're free to do what you like, as long as you are back in time for departure. Many ports offer great duty free shopping where you can pick up some excellent bargains. Perhaps you'd rather spend the day on a local beach; partake in a game of golf; or climb a waterfall or pyramid. The choices are literally endless and your trip will be what you make of it. In short, cruising is the perfect way to sample a number of new destinations and try all the things you've dreamed of doing, while never having to pack and unpack!

If I don't go on a shore excursion, what else is there to do?
If you don't want to go on an organized tour, you can always venture off on your own. Many destinations offer their own tours, which can usually be arranged close to the port. You can take a leisurely stroll around the port town or city you are visiting. Sample the local cuisine or shop for great souvenirs. Or you can always stay on the ship. Often on days in port, most people go ashore. This leaves areas like the pool deck quiet with no crowds - perfect for soaking in the sun, or taking a relaxing swim in the pool.
You can also choose to go ashore for a few hours and then return to the ship for the balance of the day. You are free to come and go as you please. Just don't be late when the ship is set to sail!
Organized tours can provide great insight in a short period of time into the destination you are visiting. Local guides with a great deal of knowledge and pride about their town host many of the excursions and you can learn many interesting things from them. Tours are well organized and usually well worth the money you pay for them.

How easy is it to make new friends?
A cruise ship is the perfect environment to meet people because everyone is so friendly. The atmosphere is cordial, relaxed and comfortable. And you'll have all kinds of things in common to talk about. Dinner is probably one of the easiest places to make new friends, particularly if you are seated at a large table. You'll also strike up conversations during cocktails; around the pool; along the promenade rail, or in the gym. And don't be surprised if you find yourself making arrangements to meet them aboard ship again next year.

Will there be others with similar interests to me on board?
Most likely! Cruises attract all kinds of people, from every background and different walks of life. Cruise passengers are any age and can be singles, couples, families and friends. You are bound to find several just like you! No matter what you've heard to the contrary, there's no such thing as a typical cruise passenger! Just ask your Cruise Connections agent for advice on the best ship for you based on your preferences and lifestyle.

Is cruising appropriate for children?
Families with children book one third of all cruise vacations. Best of all, children generally travel at a substantially reduced rate. Most cruise lines have specific services and provide supervised activities for youngsters, especially during school holidays. Many have specially designed children's programs that divide kids up into age groups and offer age-appropriate games and sports. Most new cruise ships are built to accommodate children and have dedicated specific public rooms to children's activities and interests.
With all there is for kids to do on board, you can be assured they won't get bored! The cruise staff will help keep them busy and entertained - allowing you the peace of mind to relax because you're on vacation too.

Are cruises a good choice for single people?
Cruising is ideal for people travelling alone because making new friends is so easy. Most ships have parties just for singles early on in the cruise, so you can start to be involved right away. Some ships also have single stateroom accommodations, as well as single rates for double staterooms. In many cases, a cruise line can even find you a roommate (same sex) to share a double cabin if you ask.

Isn't this too good to be true?
The one major complaint heard time and again is that cruises end far too soon! Beyond that, it's hard to find any negatives. With only having to unpack once, and so many great destinations to enjoy, how can you not have fun? The food is fabulous, the entertainment exciting, and there is so much to do that it's hard to know where to start first! The only job you have is to relax and enjoy your vacation. Most importantly, every crew and staff member on board is dedicated to making your cruise vacation the best vacation of your life (until you top it next year with your next cruise!)

What if I still have some questions?
There are some excellent guidebooks available on cruising (Fodor's, Frommer's, Berlitz, etc.). These should be available at your library or local bookstore. There are also great magazines for the consumer on both cruising and travel in general. Popular cruise magazines include Cruise Travel, Ocean & Cruise News and Porthole. These are available at bookstores and also by subscription and provide lots of great information and reviews you might find interesting and helpful. CLIA - Cruise Line International Association also has some good information about cruising in general on its website - www.cruising.org

What else do I need to know to ensure I have a great cruise?
If you go into your cruise vacation with a positive attitude you will have a good time. Cruising, and any holiday for that matter, is all about what you make of it. The cruise line provides choices beyond compare with something for everyone. With 100 to 3,000 people on board they work very hard to keep everyone happy. But we all know that you can't please all of the people, all of the time. Recognize that everything can't be just the way you want it. Get to know the crew members - dining room staff, cruise director and staff, your cabin steward, etc. It's their job to ensure you are well taken care of, but it never hurts to makes friends with the people that clean your cabin or bring you dinner. Of course there are people who will never be happy - they are everywhere and seem to make it their job to be unhappy. Just make sure you are having a good time!

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Travel America Inc is a vacation incentive company based in California which specializes in the business of travel premiums and incentives. Travel America Inc offers comprehensive travel incentive programs which include high quality Air Travel Certificates, Hotel Vacation Certificates, & Cruise Vacation Certificates. Travel America Inc aims to help businesses motivate employees and increase sales through effective employee sales incentive travel programs.