Cruise Vacations
My wife and I went on a cruise vacation this summer, and it was one of the best experiences of our lives. Because there are many cruise travel destinations and cruise packages, we first contacted a cruise travel agent who supplied us with a lot of information and travel tips about the whole cruise experience. He told us that cruise lines cater to different crowds, including singles, honeymooners, and families, and each cruise provides different activities and facilities on ship. Because we were going on our honeymoon, we steered away from a family cruise and choose one geared just for people like us. I was a little worried that we would spend all our time on ship, but the cruise agent said that cruise vacations often offer land and shore excursions where you can get off the ship and explore the different lands and cultures during your vacation. Before deciding on the cruise package, the cruise agent suggested that we plan our trip during a favorable time of year in terms of price and weather. The price of a cruise is less in the off season (fall and spring), but the fall is hurricane season in the Caribbean, so this is something to consider. In the end, proper planning helped us have a wonderful cruise experience.
Part II: Discussion
What do you think is the attraction for people to go on cruise vacations? What kinds of activities does a cruise provide that you might not be able to experience on a different type of trip?
Making Hotel Reservations
Before I go on vacation, I always make hotel reservations in advance so I have a place to stay. I usually look online for cheap hotels or other accommodations. Sometimes, I book a nice hotel that has a number of amenities like a swimming pool, exercise room, or kitchenette. These rooms often come furnished with a microwave oven and a small refrigerator. If I eat at a restaurant at the hotel, I just have the meal billed to the room and pay for the room charge and meals at the same time. Other times, I just look for cheap hotels or motels that provide the basic necessities. If I really want to save money, I reserve a bed at a youth hostel. The price is cheaper, but I have to share a room with other patrons, which doesn't bother me at all.
Part II: Discussion
What are the main factors that determine where you choose to stay on your vacation (e.g., price, location, hotel amenities, room decor, hotel reputation, etc.)? Rank these things from highest to lowest and discuss your reasons.