Caribbean cruises are the most popular of all cruise destinations. And there are good reasons that they are the cruise destination of choice. Caribbean cruises offer you intriguing ports of call, beautiful white sandy beaches with azure blue water, all while enjoying the supreme service aboard your magnificent cruise ship. Caribbean cruises offer many activities for all age groups, so it makes a great family cruise vacation. And don't worry about cruise terms, we've included it here.
During family cruise vacations there are activities all day long and they're free. You have already paid for it in the price of Caribbean cruise. You get all your meals, your cabin, and entertainment included in the price of you family cruise vacation. This is one of the many reasons Caribbean cruises are such a great value.
The best aspect of Caribbean cruises is that once you board your ship you unpack once for the entire trip. No schlepping bags from airport to hotel over and over again. You will be in a new island almost every day with the travel between each port done at night, while you sleep. What could be easier?
Most of the top cruise lines offer Caribbean cruises. Royal Caribbean, Princess, Celebrity, Holland America and Carnival all offer a great variety of Caribbean cruise vacations. There are very formal Caribbean cruises or the fun and casual party cruise. Caribbean cruises are good if you are looking for adventure, golf or scuba cruises. Or maybe you would like to go on a relaxing cruise to enjoy the sea on a sailing cruise. You could plan a Caribbean cruise as a second honeymoon, even the first honeymoon, or a family reunion, or a special anniversary. You don't even need an excuse to take a Caribbean cruise, do it just for fun. Or do it because there is five feet of snow and you need to see the sun and the sand.
Be sure to inquire about any discounted cruises for special groups, like teachers, police or fireman, or nurses. Many times a cruise line sees a certain cruise at a certain time of the year is filling up slowly so they offer special discounts to these groups. And if you belong to one of these groups band together, says as teachers from Pennsylvania and get additional discounts.
Now that you have decided to take a Caribbean cruise here is a glossary of terms used on Cruise ships. It's the cruise terms or cruise lingo.
* Aft is the rear or near the rear of the ship
* Amidships is the middle of the ship
* Bow is the very front of the ship
* Bridge is the navigational control center
* Colors are the national flag flown by the ship
* Deck Plan is an overhead diagram of the cabins and the public rooms
* Dock is where your ship will “park” when in port
* Forward faces the front of the boat
* Gangway allows you access on and off the ship
* Knot is a nautical mile
* Leeward means out of the wind
* Pitch is how much the ship will roll (not very much, if at all)
* PAX is cruise terms for passengers
* Book a cruise is to make a cruise reservation
* A Cruiser is you, the passenger
* Port is the left hand side of the ship while facing forward (bow).
Easy to remember since port and left have four letters
* Stack (sometimes called smoke stack) is the ships “chimney”
* Starboard is the right side of the ship while facing forward (bow).
* Stateroom or berth is your cabin
* Steward’s are personnel on the ship for your cabin and dining room
* Stern is the very back of the ship
* Daily Activity Log lists the various activities on board
Now that you can know your Cruise terms, all you have to do is call your cruise travel agent and book one of the many Caribbean cruises that are offered. Book as a family cruise vacation, your honeymoon or anniversary or just because you want to experience Caribbean cruises.
Happy Cruising!
Showing posts with label cruise line info. Show all posts
Showing posts with label cruise line info. Show all posts
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Friday, December 5, 2008
The Caribean Cruise Facts
As the internets prime voyage professionals, they believe it’s owlish to tell every of their potential clients to do an evaluation preceding to making a choice between some of the cruise. While searching for a fastidious voyage secernment at every times check discover a 2nd or 3rd voyage secernment leaving on the kindred fellow and leaving from the aforementioned port. Make certain that you match up to aforementioned ships started on around the aforementioned time in order to intend an apples-to-apples outlay comparison. Standard price dissimilarity between kindred voyage lines are supposed to be cipher meet most dollar two hundred to dollar fivesome hundred. If you are effort a disparity of more than fivesome hundred dollars, you may desire to consider the lesser evaluate for the reason that the secernment amongst the kindred voyage lines is not worth that much money.
By similar, it is meant that Royal Caribbean, Norse and Carnival. All threesome of these voyage lines fights head-to-head and the disparity in the midst of them are not that immense in spite of of what you read. This is in general the artefact it is. All threesome of these voyage lines control same business models. Each of them fights for the kinsfolk mart and with the waiver of the ships themselves; they are extremely comparable to apiece other. An unjust comparison would be evaluating Royal sea with, let us say, Holland America. Holland America is on familiar terms as a finest secernment and accommodates to the fifty fivesome and senior geezerhood
group. The young couple would more than probably not prefer a Holland America voyage to verify their kids on a vacation. While determining a voyage proficient to support you, communicate them if they hit been on the cruises themselves. If they hit not been, how can they perhaps make discover how crack the voyage is? If you are going to decide on imitative \"reviews\"Feature Articles, ready in mind to verify them with a granule of salt. There are many paid reviews discover there that cannot be believed. You requirement to encounter an proficient that makes you feel at assist to communicate and provides knowledgeable answers to your questions.
Tag:[royal caribbean cruise line royal cruise line cruise line vacation trip]
By similar, it is meant that Royal Caribbean, Norse and Carnival. All threesome of these voyage lines fights head-to-head and the disparity in the midst of them are not that immense in spite of of what you read. This is in general the artefact it is. All threesome of these voyage lines control same business models. Each of them fights for the kinsfolk mart and with the waiver of the ships themselves; they are extremely comparable to apiece other. An unjust comparison would be evaluating Royal sea with, let us say, Holland America. Holland America is on familiar terms as a finest secernment and accommodates to the fifty fivesome and senior geezerhood
group. The young couple would more than probably not prefer a Holland America voyage to verify their kids on a vacation. While determining a voyage proficient to support you, communicate them if they hit been on the cruises themselves. If they hit not been, how can they perhaps make discover how crack the voyage is? If you are going to decide on imitative \"reviews\"Feature Articles, ready in mind to verify them with a granule of salt. There are many paid reviews discover there that cannot be believed. You requirement to encounter an proficient that makes you feel at assist to communicate and provides knowledgeable answers to your questions.
Tag:[royal caribbean cruise line royal cruise line cruise line vacation trip]
Saturday, June 14, 2008
More Cruise Line Vacation Packages Offered
Holiday on cruise line ship is a memorable thing that you will never forget. 70% of our earth is ocean but how many of you have experience on cruising to Mediterranean ocean, Pacific Ocean and many more. I want to share my experience to my loyal cruise line info blog. I have gone many cruise line adventures such as Royal Caribbean Cruise Line which the main destination to explore the beauty of Caribbean Ocean. I sure, It is a little bit confuse if you lack of knowledge. Actually there are more destinations for cruise line. But you need to plan first to ensure smooth plan during adventure.
If you ask me where to get that kind of best cruise line adventure resources, spontaneously I will answer directlinecruises.com. It is one of the best cruise line holiday agents that offer special cruise line package at affordable price. The most popular package is Celebrity Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line. Both cruise lines have their own attraction and uniqueness in its own class. It is very cool adventure. Once a life experience that every one should attend. Register for your seat now by contact the directlinecruises customer services. Share with me your experience when you come back from your vacation.Happy holiday and enjoy.
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Canada Cruise Line Another Luxury Destination
I just came back from my holiday in my hometown and I very excited to share my experiences. I went to beautiful beach and feel the sun bath accompanied by soft wind. What a luxury moment of holiday.
As my interest is going holiday by cruise line, so in this post I am pleasure to share with you one of the greatest information special dedicated for cruise line fans. In last post I have posted about Caribbean cruise line and Hawaii Cruise line. But this time, you have more choices. Let me give an example, have you heard about Canada Cruises? I believe you are familiar with Canada rights. It is peace country that has beautiful, deep and Blue Ocean suitable for cruises.
Interested to join cruise line in Canada? You can contact official agent which is direct line cruises. It is well known agency and popular for arranging Celebrity cruises and Carnival cruises with special discount price. If you choose Carnival cruises package you will be brought to Alaska,Bermuda,Canada,Caribbean,Europe, Hawaii and many more exotic destinations. Deal direct by contact their customer service by email or phone. Before make booking, make sure you understand the term and condition for certain package so that no bad issue happen later. With experience more than 10 years serve people in cruising industry, I believe service provides is the best among the best. Perfect cruise lines vacation with extra ordinary cruise lines agency. Happy holiday.
Monday, May 28, 2007
Cruise - 7 Perks Of Luxury Cruising
Have you ever been on a cruise vacation? If not, you have a treat in store for you! This article provides 7 great, essential facts why you should make it happen and feel comfortable with your decision. Also, free weekly cruise newsletters with deals you thought didn’t exist at
Luxury cruising is an experience unto itself, the kind of exceptional vacation that you will never forget. Why is it so exceptional? Read on to find out why we believe a luxury cruise is such a good value and a wonderful experience that everyone can enjoy.
1. Affordable combination of sea and land vacation
Luxury cruising is a very affordable combination of a sea vacation with a land vacation. You get to experience the fun of being on a cruise ship as well as visit several different port destinations, each with a different set of adventures waiting for you to discover. When you compare the cost of a luxury cruise with comparable costs of the same travel itinerary, accommodations, food and amenities, it is easy to see that the cruise is a very good value.
2. Visit several locations, but only unpack once
Have you ever gone on a vacation where you stopped at two or three different locations, each time having to unpack your things then re-pack when it was time to move on? When you take a cruise, you only have to unpack once but still get to experience several different locations along the way. The ship is your "home base", always there at the end of the day with your familiar cabin, a fresh change of clothes, a great meal, and more activities to enjoy after you leave port.
3. Do as much or as little as you like
Luxury cruising allows you the freedom to build the kind of vacation that is just right for you. If you like to be active and adventurous, you can stay busy with shipboard opportunities as well as port excursions and exploration. If something more relaxed is to your liking, you can do that, too, spending long lazy hours by the pool, relaxing on deck, or enjoying a quiet corner in the ship library.
4. Take the whole family
A common misconception is that luxury cruising is an "adults only" vacation. Most cruise lines welcome families and provide varying levels of accommodations and special programs for cruisers of all ages. Some cruise lines even specialize in families, building the entire ship and cruise itinerary around family needs. Whether you want to spend time together as a family, or turn the kids loose in supervised program while you enjoy some adult time, a family-focused cruise offers something for every member of the family.
5. Exceptional service
If you have never been on a cruise, it is a bit hard to grasp the exceptional level of service that is found on most cruise ships. From your cabin steward to your waiter, everyone is focused on serving you and making your vacation as enjoyable as possible. The cabin steward will keep your cabin spotlessly clean, often leaving fun towel sculptures and special touches for your amusement, while your waiter will make a point of getting to know your preferences and strive to give you what you want before you even know you want it.
6. Meet people from all over
A luxury cruise attracts passengers from all over the country and all over the world. You will have the chance to meet people during onboard activities and on shore excursions, but perhaps the most fun is getting to know your seat mates at the dinner table. It is typical to be seated at a table of eight people, with whom you will share conversation, laughs, and wonderful meals throughout the cruise.
7. Get away from it all
When you take a luxury cruise, it is not so easy to check your e-mail, call into the office, or otherwise keep tabs on what is going on at home. It can be done, of course, but being on a cruise ship is a unique opportunity to leave the rest of the world behind and truly get away from it all. Your only job, while onboard and in the ports of call, is to relax and do exactly what you want to do. Nothing more, nothing less, with no interruptions like phone callsArticle Submission, voice mail or e-mail.
Luxury cruising is an experience unto itself, the kind of exceptional vacation that you will never forget. Why is it so exceptional? Read on to find out why we believe a luxury cruise is such a good value and a wonderful experience that everyone can enjoy.
1. Affordable combination of sea and land vacation
Luxury cruising is a very affordable combination of a sea vacation with a land vacation. You get to experience the fun of being on a cruise ship as well as visit several different port destinations, each with a different set of adventures waiting for you to discover. When you compare the cost of a luxury cruise with comparable costs of the same travel itinerary, accommodations, food and amenities, it is easy to see that the cruise is a very good value.
2. Visit several locations, but only unpack once
Have you ever gone on a vacation where you stopped at two or three different locations, each time having to unpack your things then re-pack when it was time to move on? When you take a cruise, you only have to unpack once but still get to experience several different locations along the way. The ship is your "home base", always there at the end of the day with your familiar cabin, a fresh change of clothes, a great meal, and more activities to enjoy after you leave port.
3. Do as much or as little as you like
Luxury cruising allows you the freedom to build the kind of vacation that is just right for you. If you like to be active and adventurous, you can stay busy with shipboard opportunities as well as port excursions and exploration. If something more relaxed is to your liking, you can do that, too, spending long lazy hours by the pool, relaxing on deck, or enjoying a quiet corner in the ship library.
4. Take the whole family
A common misconception is that luxury cruising is an "adults only" vacation. Most cruise lines welcome families and provide varying levels of accommodations and special programs for cruisers of all ages. Some cruise lines even specialize in families, building the entire ship and cruise itinerary around family needs. Whether you want to spend time together as a family, or turn the kids loose in supervised program while you enjoy some adult time, a family-focused cruise offers something for every member of the family.
5. Exceptional service
If you have never been on a cruise, it is a bit hard to grasp the exceptional level of service that is found on most cruise ships. From your cabin steward to your waiter, everyone is focused on serving you and making your vacation as enjoyable as possible. The cabin steward will keep your cabin spotlessly clean, often leaving fun towel sculptures and special touches for your amusement, while your waiter will make a point of getting to know your preferences and strive to give you what you want before you even know you want it.
6. Meet people from all over
A luxury cruise attracts passengers from all over the country and all over the world. You will have the chance to meet people during onboard activities and on shore excursions, but perhaps the most fun is getting to know your seat mates at the dinner table. It is typical to be seated at a table of eight people, with whom you will share conversation, laughs, and wonderful meals throughout the cruise.
7. Get away from it all
When you take a luxury cruise, it is not so easy to check your e-mail, call into the office, or otherwise keep tabs on what is going on at home. It can be done, of course, but being on a cruise ship is a unique opportunity to leave the rest of the world behind and truly get away from it all. Your only job, while onboard and in the ports of call, is to relax and do exactly what you want to do. Nothing more, nothing less, with no interruptions like phone callsArticle Submission, voice mail or e-mail.
Cruise - 7 Facts About Cruising
Have you ever been on a cruise vacation? If not, you have a treat in store for you! This article provides 7 great, essential facts why you should make it happen and feel comfortable with your decision. Also, free weekly cruise newsletters with deals you thought didn’t exist at Five Star Cruising
More and more people are discovering the fun and value of cruising, but many more still have not heard the good news. Now more than ever, a luxury cruise is easily affordable and accessible to everyone. Don’t believe it? Then read on for our list of seven important facts about cruising.
1. Cruising is a good value
Some people never consider taking a cruise because they think it is too expensive, but this is simply not the case. When you compare the cost of a cruise with the cost of comparable travel, accommodations, food and activities, you will quickly see that cruising offers great value for your vacation dollar.
2. Cruising is never boring
If you think you might be bored while on a cruise, think again. There are so many options and activities that you will never be able to participate in them all. And don’t worry about being in the close quarters of a ship; there really is plenty of space to move about so you’re not likely to feel confined or claustrophobic.
When it comes to nightlife, a cruise ship offers many options. Common choices include Broadway-style entertainment, dance bars, quiet piano lounges, casinos, movie theaters and arcade game rooms. There truly is something on board to suit every entertainment taste.
3. A cruise ship is not divided into different classes of service
Long gone are the days of first, second and third class passengers, or the wealthy receiving better treatment than others on a cruise. While there are differences in the sizes and locations of staterooms, this is no different from a hotel that offers different types of rooms at different price levels.
Regardless of the size or cost of your stateroom, you have full access to the ship’s facilities and amenities, and the ship’s crew will do everything in their power to make your experience exceptional. In return, it is accepted practice to tip those people, such as stewards and waiters, who have served you personally throughout the cruise. Check with the cruise line for information about suggested tip amounts.
4. Most cruise passengers do not get seasick
The motion of a cruise ship at sea is generally mild, so most people do not experience seasickness. If you are prone to motion sickness on other forms of transportation (cars, trains, airplanes, etc.), though, take the same precautions on a cruise as you do for other types of travel. There are several over the counter motion sickness medications, or your doctor may prescribe something stronger if needed. And if you do get onboard and find yourself feel nauseous, don’t worry – the ship’s medical staff will happily provide you with medication to help.
5. A cruise ship is a great family environment
Nearly every cruise line offers special programs and accommodations to families, and some even specialize in entire cruises designed completely around the needs and wants of a family. On these family-focused cruise lines, you will find special supervised areas of the ship where your children can go to do age-appropriate activities while you enjoy adult time.
6. Each port is a new adventure
Every port you visit is different, and each one will have excursions, activities and places to discover. Just as on board the ship, you will not be able to do everything there is to do at each port. You can choose a paid tour excursion or you can explore on your own. Many cruise lines have cooperative arrangements with hotels and resorts in the ports they visit so that cruise passengers can use hotel facilities like swimming pools, fitness rooms, spas and other amenities.
7. You don’t have to buy a special wardrobe
There is no need to buy fancy clothing or a tuxedo to go on a cruise, although some cruises do require formal dress in specific on board restaurants. Your general packing list does not need to be much different from any other vacation; simply include clothing that is appropriate for the climate and expected weather conditions. And don’t worry about items like hair dryers, shaversArticle Submission, and other personal appliances – they all work just fine on board a luxury cruise ship!
More and more people are discovering the fun and value of cruising, but many more still have not heard the good news. Now more than ever, a luxury cruise is easily affordable and accessible to everyone. Don’t believe it? Then read on for our list of seven important facts about cruising.
1. Cruising is a good value
Some people never consider taking a cruise because they think it is too expensive, but this is simply not the case. When you compare the cost of a cruise with the cost of comparable travel, accommodations, food and activities, you will quickly see that cruising offers great value for your vacation dollar.
2. Cruising is never boring
If you think you might be bored while on a cruise, think again. There are so many options and activities that you will never be able to participate in them all. And don’t worry about being in the close quarters of a ship; there really is plenty of space to move about so you’re not likely to feel confined or claustrophobic.
When it comes to nightlife, a cruise ship offers many options. Common choices include Broadway-style entertainment, dance bars, quiet piano lounges, casinos, movie theaters and arcade game rooms. There truly is something on board to suit every entertainment taste.
3. A cruise ship is not divided into different classes of service
Long gone are the days of first, second and third class passengers, or the wealthy receiving better treatment than others on a cruise. While there are differences in the sizes and locations of staterooms, this is no different from a hotel that offers different types of rooms at different price levels.
Regardless of the size or cost of your stateroom, you have full access to the ship’s facilities and amenities, and the ship’s crew will do everything in their power to make your experience exceptional. In return, it is accepted practice to tip those people, such as stewards and waiters, who have served you personally throughout the cruise. Check with the cruise line for information about suggested tip amounts.
4. Most cruise passengers do not get seasick
The motion of a cruise ship at sea is generally mild, so most people do not experience seasickness. If you are prone to motion sickness on other forms of transportation (cars, trains, airplanes, etc.), though, take the same precautions on a cruise as you do for other types of travel. There are several over the counter motion sickness medications, or your doctor may prescribe something stronger if needed. And if you do get onboard and find yourself feel nauseous, don’t worry – the ship’s medical staff will happily provide you with medication to help.
5. A cruise ship is a great family environment
Nearly every cruise line offers special programs and accommodations to families, and some even specialize in entire cruises designed completely around the needs and wants of a family. On these family-focused cruise lines, you will find special supervised areas of the ship where your children can go to do age-appropriate activities while you enjoy adult time.
6. Each port is a new adventure
Every port you visit is different, and each one will have excursions, activities and places to discover. Just as on board the ship, you will not be able to do everything there is to do at each port. You can choose a paid tour excursion or you can explore on your own. Many cruise lines have cooperative arrangements with hotels and resorts in the ports they visit so that cruise passengers can use hotel facilities like swimming pools, fitness rooms, spas and other amenities.
7. You don’t have to buy a special wardrobe
There is no need to buy fancy clothing or a tuxedo to go on a cruise, although some cruises do require formal dress in specific on board restaurants. Your general packing list does not need to be much different from any other vacation; simply include clothing that is appropriate for the climate and expected weather conditions. And don’t worry about items like hair dryers, shaversArticle Submission, and other personal appliances – they all work just fine on board a luxury cruise ship!
Caribbean Cruise Deals
The Caribbean is that part of the world where diversity rules. You have miles of sandy beaches and crystal clear waters on one hand, and mountains, volcanoes and tropical forests on the other. There are quaint little towns and villages dotting the countryside, and along with them there are bustling metropolises. What better way to sample such varied fare than on a cruise? And the Caribbean Cruise Deals are just as tempting.
The main attraction lies in the fact that there\'s a cruise to suit every pocket. You have the budget tours and you have the luxury voyages. The itineraries are more or less the same in both; what they differ in are the amenities being offered. So in a budget tour you may be covering the Bahamas in a medium-sized suite, while in a luxury cruise, it is most likely that you would be watching the sun set over the Bahamas from the privacy of your own private balcony while being tended to by your personal butler.
The best Caribbean Deals are to be had when luxury comes at a reasonable price. The off peak season in the Caribbean is from June to November, and it is during this time that almost every cruise line offers heavy discounts. Part of the lean season, September to November to be precise, is the time when hurricanes and tropical storms are in rage. One can save hundreds of dollar per person on the cruise. It is just a matter of being on the alert, keeping abreast of the latest in the cruising world and booking a seat at the very start of the lean season.
For those looking for a few days of luxury at the sea, there are many offers. It is just a matter of checking the cruise profile and the ship profile, and ensuring that you are getting your money\'s worth. Say you have two cruises offering the same amenities at more or less the same price. You can always settle for the one which will ferry the least number of persons, so that you have a cozy intimate atmosphere on the ship, or the one that\'s taking you to offbeat places. This is how it will be easier to decide whether to go for Royal Caribbean International or Windjammer or The Yachts of Seabourn., when all offers look alluring.
A trip to the Caribbean is always an inviting one. Coupled with a chance good dealFind Article, a Caribbean cruise has all the potential of becoming an event of a lifetime.
The main attraction lies in the fact that there\'s a cruise to suit every pocket. You have the budget tours and you have the luxury voyages. The itineraries are more or less the same in both; what they differ in are the amenities being offered. So in a budget tour you may be covering the Bahamas in a medium-sized suite, while in a luxury cruise, it is most likely that you would be watching the sun set over the Bahamas from the privacy of your own private balcony while being tended to by your personal butler.
The best Caribbean Deals are to be had when luxury comes at a reasonable price. The off peak season in the Caribbean is from June to November, and it is during this time that almost every cruise line offers heavy discounts. Part of the lean season, September to November to be precise, is the time when hurricanes and tropical storms are in rage. One can save hundreds of dollar per person on the cruise. It is just a matter of being on the alert, keeping abreast of the latest in the cruising world and booking a seat at the very start of the lean season.
For those looking for a few days of luxury at the sea, there are many offers. It is just a matter of checking the cruise profile and the ship profile, and ensuring that you are getting your money\'s worth. Say you have two cruises offering the same amenities at more or less the same price. You can always settle for the one which will ferry the least number of persons, so that you have a cozy intimate atmosphere on the ship, or the one that\'s taking you to offbeat places. This is how it will be easier to decide whether to go for Royal Caribbean International or Windjammer or The Yachts of Seabourn., when all offers look alluring.
A trip to the Caribbean is always an inviting one. Coupled with a chance good dealFind Article, a Caribbean cruise has all the potential of becoming an event of a lifetime.
Western Caribbean Cruise
We were on the Radiance of the Seas for the western Caribbean cruise on November 28/04. This was our second cruise with Royal Caribbean with our first last year on the larger Adventure of the Seas. After one cruise with RCI, I expected roughly the same standards with the Radiance and in general, I wasn't disappointed.
Staterooms:
Our stateroom was an inside aft cabin and we were not disappointed. It was roomy enough and the lighting was adequate. Closet space and drawers were also sufficient for our use. We noticed that the double beds here were actually a bit better than the one we had on the Adventure since we couldn't really feel the split between the two separate beds like we did last time. If there's one thing that can be improved is the shower curtain. The one installed was not adequate in keeping in all the water from the shower. The shower on the Adventure utilized a double glass door system which was far superior. Otherwise, the cabin was nice and dark for sleeping at night. Although we heard a little noise from the cabins next to us, it was minimal. We didn't miss having any window or balcony at all since we were hardly ever in our stateroom. We were either at port or elsewhere on the ship and went back to our cabins just to relax or sleep. We would definitely book an inside cabin again with RCI unless we had a free upgrade.
Dining:
The main Cascades dining room was nice and meals were good. Breakfasts had the same menu every morning. Lunch at the dining room was okay. The dinners were good but not every meal item was a winner. There was the odd appetizer and dessert that was not up to par. One thing that my partner noticed was that the portions of the main courses seemed to be smaller than those served on the Adventure. We usually went upstairs to the Windjammer to get more food after dining at the Cascades. In some parts of the Cascades room, the tables were placed too cramp so walking to out own table was tricky at times. The self serve Windjammer was good. It usually had more variety of food than served downstairs at the Cascades. Breakfast and lunch were busy at the Windjammer but during evenings, most people chose to dine at the Cascades. The two other optional restaurants onboard Portafino and Choppe House were available at $20 US per person but we never tried them since the meals already included at the Cascades and Windjammer were fine by us. Other passengers who did go to these optional rooms told us that they were nothing special. There was another cafe available during late evenings called the Seaview and they provided fare such as sandwiches, salads and burgers. This was a nice feature. One thing we did object to was that they charged for the coffee and tea there. There was also a specialty coffee place on the main centrum of the ship and they also charged. We had more availability of free beverages on the Adventure.
Service:
The service by the stateroom attendants and dining room staff was top notch as expected.
Entertainment:
The evening shows at the Aurora Theatre were a mix of the ship's own crew of dancers and singers plus some outside comics and singers. In general, the shows were quite good. We would have liked them to mix up the entertainment each night rather than allocate music, comedy and magic into different evenings. Rather than an entire show of magic, we would have preferred each night featuring a variety of entertainment. Live music around the ship was a nice added touch.
Amenities:
Although smaller than the Adventure, the Radiance had fine amenities including the gym/spa, mini golf, pools and the shops. There was internet access but at 50 cents per minute, the service is a bit steep. There were things to do during the days at sea such as art auctions, cooking demos and dance classes. However, we felt that there was more offered on the Adventure. As for embarking and disembarking, there was no problem on the Radiance. The 6th level contained the casino and for non-smokers, this was a problem. The ventilation in the casino was not great and as a result, cigarette smoke travelled to adjacent areas near the casino. My partner wanted to avoid going on the 6th level whenever possible.
In summary, we enjoyed our cruise on the Radiance of the Seas. However, comparing it to the larger Adventure of the Seas, we would rate the larger ship a bit higher. We liked the huge promenade on the Adventure which was not available on a smaller ship like the Radiance. Given a choice in the future, we would opt for the larger ship. For first time cruisersFree Articles, the Radiance would still be a good ship to vacation on. This is simply the case of where veteran cruisers would expect more especially if they have been on higher end ships.
Staterooms:
Our stateroom was an inside aft cabin and we were not disappointed. It was roomy enough and the lighting was adequate. Closet space and drawers were also sufficient for our use. We noticed that the double beds here were actually a bit better than the one we had on the Adventure since we couldn't really feel the split between the two separate beds like we did last time. If there's one thing that can be improved is the shower curtain. The one installed was not adequate in keeping in all the water from the shower. The shower on the Adventure utilized a double glass door system which was far superior. Otherwise, the cabin was nice and dark for sleeping at night. Although we heard a little noise from the cabins next to us, it was minimal. We didn't miss having any window or balcony at all since we were hardly ever in our stateroom. We were either at port or elsewhere on the ship and went back to our cabins just to relax or sleep. We would definitely book an inside cabin again with RCI unless we had a free upgrade.
Dining:
The main Cascades dining room was nice and meals were good. Breakfasts had the same menu every morning. Lunch at the dining room was okay. The dinners were good but not every meal item was a winner. There was the odd appetizer and dessert that was not up to par. One thing that my partner noticed was that the portions of the main courses seemed to be smaller than those served on the Adventure. We usually went upstairs to the Windjammer to get more food after dining at the Cascades. In some parts of the Cascades room, the tables were placed too cramp so walking to out own table was tricky at times. The self serve Windjammer was good. It usually had more variety of food than served downstairs at the Cascades. Breakfast and lunch were busy at the Windjammer but during evenings, most people chose to dine at the Cascades. The two other optional restaurants onboard Portafino and Choppe House were available at $20 US per person but we never tried them since the meals already included at the Cascades and Windjammer were fine by us. Other passengers who did go to these optional rooms told us that they were nothing special. There was another cafe available during late evenings called the Seaview and they provided fare such as sandwiches, salads and burgers. This was a nice feature. One thing we did object to was that they charged for the coffee and tea there. There was also a specialty coffee place on the main centrum of the ship and they also charged. We had more availability of free beverages on the Adventure.
Service:
The service by the stateroom attendants and dining room staff was top notch as expected.
Entertainment:
The evening shows at the Aurora Theatre were a mix of the ship's own crew of dancers and singers plus some outside comics and singers. In general, the shows were quite good. We would have liked them to mix up the entertainment each night rather than allocate music, comedy and magic into different evenings. Rather than an entire show of magic, we would have preferred each night featuring a variety of entertainment. Live music around the ship was a nice added touch.
Amenities:
Although smaller than the Adventure, the Radiance had fine amenities including the gym/spa, mini golf, pools and the shops. There was internet access but at 50 cents per minute, the service is a bit steep. There were things to do during the days at sea such as art auctions, cooking demos and dance classes. However, we felt that there was more offered on the Adventure. As for embarking and disembarking, there was no problem on the Radiance. The 6th level contained the casino and for non-smokers, this was a problem. The ventilation in the casino was not great and as a result, cigarette smoke travelled to adjacent areas near the casino. My partner wanted to avoid going on the 6th level whenever possible.
In summary, we enjoyed our cruise on the Radiance of the Seas. However, comparing it to the larger Adventure of the Seas, we would rate the larger ship a bit higher. We liked the huge promenade on the Adventure which was not available on a smaller ship like the Radiance. Given a choice in the future, we would opt for the larger ship. For first time cruisersFree Articles, the Radiance would still be a good ship to vacation on. This is simply the case of where veteran cruisers would expect more especially if they have been on higher end ships.
The Caribbean needs you but you need a passport
Most people don’t realize it, but the law will change come January 8, 2007, that requires all travelers to the Caribbean to have a valid passport. Gone are the days of traveling with just a driver’s license and birth certificate.
Currently 7 million Americans go to the Caribbean without a passport. There has been relatively little publicity about this change. Can you imagine the potentially disastrous impact of all these Americans trying to get their passports at one time? Once Americans leave the US, they won’t be able to get back.
The time is now to get your passport and beat the end of the year rush. It is easy to get and it gives you freedom to travel wherever and whenever you choose.
To obtain a passport for the first time, you need to go in person to one of 7,000 passport acceptance facilities located throughout the United States with two photographs of yourself, proof of U.S. citizenship, and a valid form of photo identification such as a driver’s license. You can also visit http://iafdb.travel.state.gov/ for locations.
Remember that each applicant needs to apply in person for the following reasons: applying for a U.S. passport for the first time, if you have an expired U.S. passport and it is not in your possession, if your previous U.S. passport has expired and was issued more than 15 years ago, if your previous U.S. passport was issued when you were under age 16, or if your currently valid U.S. passport has been lost or stolen. All passports must be valid for at least 6 months after your date of arrival.
Forms and more information can be found at http://travel.state.gov/passport. For other travel tips visit http://www.specialoccasiontravel.com
Currently 7 million Americans go to the Caribbean without a passport. There has been relatively little publicity about this change. Can you imagine the potentially disastrous impact of all these Americans trying to get their passports at one time? Once Americans leave the US, they won’t be able to get back.
The time is now to get your passport and beat the end of the year rush. It is easy to get and it gives you freedom to travel wherever and whenever you choose.
To obtain a passport for the first time, you need to go in person to one of 7,000 passport acceptance facilities located throughout the United States with two photographs of yourself, proof of U.S. citizenship, and a valid form of photo identification such as a driver’s license. You can also visit http://iafdb.travel.state.gov/ for locations.
Remember that each applicant needs to apply in person for the following reasons: applying for a U.S. passport for the first time, if you have an expired U.S. passport and it is not in your possession, if your previous U.S. passport has expired and was issued more than 15 years ago, if your previous U.S. passport was issued when you were under age 16, or if your currently valid U.S. passport has been lost or stolen. All passports must be valid for at least 6 months after your date of arrival.
Forms and more information can be found at http://travel.state.gov/passport. For other travel tips visit http://www.specialoccasiontravel.com
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