Author

Royal Holiday

Destination TipsRoyal at SeaRoyal CaribbeanRoyal Holiday

5 of the best islands to travel and surf

by Royal Holiday
written by Royal Holiday

The ocean, the spots, the people, the atmosphere. All of this makes surfing a very attractive and popular water sport around the world. We have seen movies about it; we have seen tournaments in  the coasts of our country; we know somebody that surfs or is into surfing; we have heard about crazy surfer stories; we have enjoyed seeing people surf the waves and sometimes we have tried to surf ourselves at a vacation time we spent at the sea.  There are even artificial waves in resorts and cruises so people can enjoy the excitement.

Surfers enjoy the most beautiful places and get the adrenaline rush needed to be happy for the rest of the day. There are some islands that are the perfect places to go surf and to enjoy what the place has to offer. We are taking a look at only 5 of them that are in the top of mind of surfers around the globe.

Bali: they say Bali is a living postcard and it closer to a fantasy than to reality. It has white sand beaches, coral ridges, a lush jungle with stone temples and a good amount of monkeys, apart from all the cultural dance performances, the yoga meditations and, of course, the surf spots. For surfers, it is a paradise on earth due to the consistent waves that come from the Indian Ocean. It has been a surfer’s paradise since the early 70s  and the mixture of the surfing world with the local Hindu culture and the charm and feeling of the local people, make Bali one of the best, if not the best, destination to surf and travel.

Tavarua, Fiji: it is an island and resort with the shape of a heart, it is 29 acres big and it is close to Viti Levu, the main island in Fiji. Clear waters make this island idyllic to relax and forget about everything. Fishing and surfing are amazing in this island. For surfers it has easy access to the waves and it is home to the very popular “Cloud Break” surf spot that is voted as one of the 10 best and most Challenging waves in the world. Tavarua Island faces south by southwest into the South Pacific and is perfectly positioned to catch all swells coming up from the Southern Ocean.

Oahu, Hawaii.  Oahu is the third largest island  in Hawaii, and the one where most people from Hawaii live and work, almost  1 million inhabitants.  This is the island where the capital, Honolulu is located, the historic and well known Pearl Harbor and the infamous Waikiki beach. History and beauty are just around the corner in this island if you want to go to special landmarks like the historic Chinatown, the Punchbowl, a crater-turned-cemetery, Pearl Harbor and the  USS Arizona Memorial. For surfers, well it is just paradise and history.  Since the early 30s with the Waikiki beach boys and the many competitions around the island, makes it perfect to really live the surfing life.  It is home to the Triple Crown of Surfing competition and festival held every winter in November where the pros meet to showcase the best surfing in the world.

Image courtesy of DJHeini at Flickr.com

Image courtesy of DJHeini at Flickr.com

Barbados.  This island is in the eastern Caribbean,  and it is part of the British Commonwealth. Bridgetown, the capital, is a paradise for cruises and a mandatory stop for almost any cruise ship. It features things like shopping places, colonial buildings and one of the Western Hemisphere’s oldest synagogues. When it comes to surfing, The island’s location far out in the Atlantic Ocean is key to the waves that  travel thousands of kilometers on the bottom of the sea to just release  all the power during its long journey over Barbados’ coral reefs. The surfing is consistent and waves are guaranteed all year around in this island. There are truck rentals available to carry all the equipment and look for the best waves.

Santa Catarina, Brazil.  Santa Catarina has this European vibe that makes you want to stay. You can find amazing beaches in the best tropical weather and resorts of all kinds. It is a trendy city with education levels that amaze any tourist and very low crime rates comparing it to the rest of Brazil. It is an escape from the busy metropolis like Sao  Paulo or Rio de Janeiro. It used to be a surfers paradise  and now hosts all types of tourists. Beaches like Joaquina and Campeche offer more than 40 surfable waves in the months of March, April, September and October.

Image courtesy of Dauro Veras at Flickr.com

Image courtesy of Dauro Veras at Flickr.com

If you are interested in water sports like surfing or kitesurfing, these are some islands you can include in your travel schedule. Surf, enjoy and relax at these amazing islands around the world and enjoy the adrenaline that water can bring while you are there.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Before you cruiseCruiseCruise TipsDestination TipsRoyal at SeaRoyal Holiday

10 things you need to know about cruising in Alaska

by Royal Holiday
written by Royal Holiday

What pops into your mind when you hear ‘Alaska?’  Landscapes. Wildlife.  Fresh air.  The Northern Lights.  The Iditarod.  The last thing for many would be a cruise.  Exotic does not necessarily apply to warm tropical climate.  Alaska is by far one of the most exotic and unique places anyone can visit.  From late April to September Alaska offers travelers a once in a lifetime chance at witnessing something truly majestic everywhere they look.  The Caribbean, with its white sunny beaches and blue ocean could not hold a thumb to a glacier or mountains filled with gorgeous trees wherever you look.  But you can’t just pack up and get on a boat.  There are some recommendations you need to consider before traveling to the Last Frontier.

  1.    Pack for cold brisk whether.

Tourist season usually lasts for about four or five months and the weather is by no means tropical.  While it will get a little warm on occasion, Alaska weather is usually no higher than the 70s during tourist season.  You should definitely take clothing that will keep you as warm as possible.  Cruises are usually windy and this can make it feel a little bit more chilly than usual.  A jacket, sweater, and windbreakers are definite items in any suitcase.  Plenty of sock just in case.  Cruise ships offer aquatic venues so taking a pair or two of shorts won’t do any harm.  Since it could get a little warm on occasion and you are visiting a coastal destination, some bug repellent and sunblock should also be in your briefcase.

  1.    Ask for a view.

The landscape is unique in Alaska.  You might only find such views in two or three more places worldwide.  It would be a shame to miss it because you are stuck with an interior room instead of cabin with a window.  Definitely spring a little more of the green for a chance to see spectacular views that you will never forget.

  1.    Book early.

Alaska is quietly becoming a preferred travel destination and the closer you wait to book for your expected arrival the less chance of getting a good spot on the ship is.  Booking earlier will allow the traveler to pick where he or she will be most comfortable and will most surely save some money.

  1.    Research itinerary.

Get a little research done before you pick where you want to go and what destinations you want to visit.  It’s also important to take a look at the different tours offered to you by local agencies and the cruise ship.  Every destination has its advantages so taking a little time to check out what each has to offer could prove for a valuable experience.   Royal Holiday Cruises has several amazing destinations to choose from.

  1.    Pick your season.

    Image courtesy of greenzowie at Flickr.com

    Image courtesy of greenzowie at Flickr.com

Tour season in Alaska usually runs from the end of April until September.  Depending on your interest there will be a better moment for you to visit.  The Northern Lights have a good chance at being seen in September.  If you want to get a look at the Alaskan wildlife then the latter part of summer is your best bet.  For those who are not very fond of cold weather but still really want to experience Alaska, July through August have the warmest weather of the season.  It’s really a matter of what you expect to see.

  1.    Update your passport.

This is a must if your cruise departs from Vancouver or if it’s one of the places you plan on visiting.  Otherwise you won’t be able to set foot there.  Canada and the US both require a biometric passport.

  1.    Enjoy the land.

Make sure you take some time to get off the cruise ship.  Alaska has some amazing hiking trails and wildlife that you can only experience on foot.  Furthermore, most cruises arrive at quaint homely places that are definitely worth walking around.

  1.    Unplug.

One of the beautiful things about nature is that it isolates you from the noise and fast pace of the city.  If you are addicted to chatting, tweeting, liking, instagramming then you better get ready for some withdrawal syndrome.  Wi-Fi connectivity and cellphone service could be hard to come by and you know what? That’s just fine and dandy.  Disconnect and enjoy the sites that the Land of the Midnight Sun has to offer.

  1.    Buy from the locals.

No matter where your cruise docks you have to visit the local shops.  It’s very common to see family owned businesses in every place you arrive.  Tourism is a huge part of the economy so why not help the locals.  The locals can give you a lot of interesting information on a town and its customs.

  1.   Have your camera ready.

A capital sin of visiting Alaska is not having your camera on hand.  Any time of the day is a great time to capture a jigsaw puzzle quality picture.  Make sure you have a big enough memory card and snap away. It would be a shame that you missed a chance of photographing an orca or that beautiful mountain landscape because you took too long to take out your camera or it was low on memory.

Whether you are a seasoned cruiser or a rookie to ocean leisure, an Alaskan cruise should definitely be on your bucket list.  Beaches are abundant in this world.  Glaciers, that’s a different story.  The Last Frontier is calling.  Answer.  You won’t regret it.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Destination TipsRoyal at SeaRoyal Holiday

You are invited to the nature island of the Caribbean

by Royal Holiday
written by Royal Holiday

Sometimes you start planning your next holiday trip and suddenly you realize that the places you are thinking on going are the same as many others think about. You try very hard and the greatest idea appears: Why not going to the Caribbean? Then you decide to look up on the Internet, for instance, on Trip Advisor, and they will show you Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, St. Maarten, Cuba, and some other popular destinations. And then you feel those places will be crowded for sure, and then you research a bit more, and eventually read a post here, on Royal Holiday when we tell you that there are more than seven thousand islands in the Caribbean, each one of them very unique. We think anyone would love a place where multiple experiences are at one place: abundant outdoor spas, a pristine natural environment, a colorful Caribbean sea of volcanic waters. So let’s dig deeper on the advice of that previous post and think on that place, Dominica, when natural sights look like they ripped off of the most beautiful postcard you have ever imagined.  

The call of nature

“Isle of beauty, isle of splendor”, this is the first line of Dominica’s national anthem, and it describes the intensity of the beauty of an island known as “the nature island of the Caribbean”. This is the reason why travelers from all around choose Dominica, where the splendor of nature turns and twists, rises to the mountain tops and then tumbles to waterfalls and valleys.

Image courtesy of Liam Quinn at Flickr.com

Image courtesy of Liam Quinn at Flickr.com

Things to do

Dominica is an ideal place to hike, bike or trek, for instance, at the newly opened Waitukubuli National Trail which is composed by 14 sections in a trail that runs 115 miles south-north, bisecting the length of the island.

If your thing is diving, Dominica claims to be one of the best diving destinations in the world. Soufriere Scott’s Head Marine Reserve, in the southwest offers unique volcanic underwater features with reefs and corals, volcanic vents and immense sea walls, an amazing scenario to watch sea turtles, sperm whales, flying gurnards, frogfish, seahorses and other species rarely found in other diving areas of the Caribbean.

When it gets to slow down, one of the natural spas of Dominica will be there for you. Hidden in the forest near Wotten Waven are the fumaroles, bubbling waters and cascades of the outdoor spas, either perched on a hill or at the bottom of a river, they will give you the best of their therapeutic properties, a very relaxing experience.      

Of course, if you visit a Caribbean island, you expect to see stunning beaches. Since Dominica is a volcanic island, many powder-fine white-sand beaches found mostly in the north and the east. If you are looking for a crowded-on-holiday beach (in Dominican terms), then Woodford hill Beach is the one. But if you want a beach more for relaxation, Hodges Beach is a bit farther but will worth it. L’Anse Noir is the favorite for the most adventurous, sitting on a cove passing Woodford Hill, will be the place to find the right wave of the island.

And save some time to walk around Roseau, Dominica’s capital city, on of the best preserved collections of 18th century architecture in the Caribbean. The center of Roseau offers you civic, military and religious buildings, old sugar cane estates and mills, and the colorful ‘Ti Kaz, little houses almost all wood framed and brightly painted. The historic city has a good selection of places to eat, from beachfront Mexicans to old-style French bistros.

And a rum punch or an ice cold beer while you play with the sand and have the sea in your sight is another major reason to go around. “The Pirates Bar” certainly is a good choice. Just a few minutes on the road from Roseau to Scotts Head, is a beach bar specialized in fresh juices and local rums. You should try a Soca Rum and pineapple juice. And later on, the night falls on Dominica and the streets light up with people looking for a good time. Nightlife at Roseau is lively, full of bars and hangouts featuring folk music (cadence-zouk, jing ping), reggae, jazz, soca and calypso, where fun is guaranteed.   

General facts of Dominica

Dominica (pronounced dom-in-ee-ka), is the latest island of the Lesser Antilles since is still formed by volcanic activity; it lays in the center of the Caribbean archipelago, locked between Guadeloupe to the north and Martinique to the south. This little island (just 29 miles long and 16 miles wide) is a former British colony which attained its independence in 1978 (they also drive on the left side of the road!). The official language is English, the capital is Roseau and the economy depends mainly on agriculture.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Royal CaribbeanRoyal Holiday

Unusual aquatic sports that will amaze you

by Royal Holiday
written by Royal Holiday

If you plan to go to the beach, or a place with a lake, a canal, or a river for your next vacation, you will be probably thinking about what kind of aquatic sports you could enjoy while having a good time in your destination. You would perhaps think of some popular sports. For example, if you like to practice some sports in the water, you would probably go for swimming, diving off springboards or platforms, snorkeling, or even water polo. If your preference is more on the side of sports on the water, you will probably go for some sport related to skiing, boating, surfing, canoeing, fishing, parasailing, rafting, and so on. Or if your preference is to go underwater, you will indeed want to try other kinds of sports such as diving or finswimming.

But even though they can be a lot of fun to practice, these sports are but the most popular ones, and do not really give you a clear idea of the many options that you have at hand to enjoy your time when you travel to destinies where you have access to good bodies of water. And in fact there are plenty of options to practice some other aquatic sports during your vacation. Maybe you will enjoy that new sport so much that you will even become more serious about it, and start practicing it in a regular way when you are back home.

The following two sports may give you an idea of some unusual sports that you can take into account when you plan your next vacation. They take place in destinations that you will surely enjoy after you devote some hours to practice them.

Bog snorkeling

Bogs are not usually considered as specially good attractions for tourists when they travel around the world. After all, what could one want to see in a bog? Probably not much, most people would think. However, a group of Welsh friends thought otherwise in 1976, when they started talking about the possibility of practicing snorkeling not in the sea, in a lake, or in a river, as most people would do, but in a bog. Yes, that is right, in a bog. Since those early days, bog snorkeling has grown up so much that the World Bog Snorkeling Championship began to be held annually since 1986 near Llanwrtyd Wells in Wales, United Kingdom, the birthplace of bog snorkeling.

The main idea behind bog snorkeling is that, in the shortest possible time, competitors be able to complete two consecutive lengths of a water-filled trench. The trick, however, is that this trench, with a length of 60 yards (55 m), has been cut through a peat bog. To complete it, competitors must rely on flipper power exclusively, so conventional swimming strokes are not allowed. Wetsuits are not compulsory, but competitors are required to wear snorkels and flippers.

Image courtesy of Ethreon at Flickr.com

Image courtesy of Ethreon at Flickr.com

Bug snorkeling is practiced mainly in Wales, but some events also take place in Australia, Ireland, and Sweden.

Fierljeppen

For sure, you have seen different events of pole vaulting at some point in your life. After all, it is one of the four major jumping events in athletics, and a regular sport in the Olympics. But pole vaulting is no fun at all if you do not practice it on the water, or at least that is what the Frisian people, in the Dutch province of Friesland, have thought for centuries.

Netherlands is famous for being located under the sea-level, but one consequence of this is that the country has many waterways. In order to get around these waterways easily, farmers began to use poles to leap over water drainage channels, so they could have access to different plots of land. Thas was the origin of Fierljeppen (from the West-Frisian terms for “far”, fier, and “leaping”, ljeppen), a sport whose first official match took place in 1771, but that was properly structured in 1957.

aquatic sports

Image courtesy of bertknot at Flickr.com

To practice this sport, you only need a long pole (between 26 and 43 feet / 8 and 13 meters long) and a body of water. The pole must have a flat round plate at the bottom, which prevents it from sinking into the muddy bottom of the river or the canal. Contrary to pole vaulting, in Fierljeppen you do not run with the pole in your hands. You run towards the pole, which is in the water, jump, grab it, and then climb to its top trying to control its movements over the body of water. You finish by landing on a sand bed located in the side opposite to your starting point.

Fierljeppen is practiced mainly for fun and for the entertainment of tourists in the Netherlands nowadays. However, an official National Fierljeppen Manifestation (NFM) still takes place annually. There are also numerous clubs in the country, and six leagues where championships are contested.

 

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Destination TipsRoyal CaribbeanRoyal Holiday

Exploring island adventures for your next vacation

by Royal Holiday
written by Royal Holiday

We’ve all dreamed of running away to an island and spending a few days (weeks or even months) completely away from the hectic life we usually lead. A vacation on an island is an adventure in itself, but some of the ones we’re going to mention here are definitely worth putting on your bucket list.

Image courtesy of Steve Calcott at Flickr.com

Image courtesy of Steve Calcott at Flickr.com

Let’s begin a Polynesian atoll, Aitutaki, Cook Islands. If you’re into kayaking and having some adventures this is the island for you. Have an amazing journey while kayaking from islet to islet. It will definitely seem like you just stepped into those calendar pictures. The crystal blue water, the breathtaking sunsets and of course, we can’t leave out, the adventure waits. While you’re there you probably won’t know where to start to enjoy this paradise either kayaking the seven-mile-long lagoon, snorkeling with starfish, sponges and giant clams, or biking and hiking through to Maunga Pu, the highest spot on the island.

Continuing with some more adventures why not give St. Kitts a try. This still unexplored location lacks what most of its neighboring islands are swarming with: infinity pools and posh spas. Here is a place you can go and still enjoy the nature and magic. The plan here is to go hiking in the 3,792-foot dormant volcano, Mount Liamuiga. Be warned it’s an underdeveloped island that will not offer the best signage and only has one main road, but it will give you a two to three hour hike up the mountain to appreciate its crater’s peak and green carpeted volcano.  Too much to handle? Well, there’s always Guadeloupe, a French overseas territory. This place is revered by bicyclists from all over the world as a haven for cycling routes. With it’s smooth roads you’ll find nothing but challenging but doable terrains. The locals are huge fans of cycling and even hold a race every year, the Tour de la Guadeloupe. Many of the Tour de France riders love spending their time here, but that shouldn’t throw you off. This is an experience where you can set your own pace and it is well worth the visit if you’re a bicycle enthusiastic.

If you’re all about being in the water, well you can give Barbados a go with its incredible surfing retreat. The waves are so amazing that they even hold a yearly contest, Reef Classic Barbados, where people from all over come to show their skills on those huge waves. If that’s those waves are out of your league, you can always check out the Six Men’s Bay on the west coast or the smaller, perfect-for-beginner waves in the south at Freights Bay. There are waves all year round and if you’re up for it, you’ll find just the right spot for you. Now, if you prefer being under the water, the Maldives is the place to be, with it’s unexplored and seldom visited reefs. Now the Maldives, of course can also include luxurious spas and incredible relaxing hotels, but if you can manage to get away from those for a minute you’ll be able to explore its reefs and underwater sea life.

For some less conventional island destination plans, you can also check out Cayos Cochinos, Honduras. Here you can vacation and help scientists with an underwater survey. These government-protected waters hold a collection of eight-mile coral cays that are said to be the home of innumerable kinds of species. This ecosystem is the least disturbed ecosystem in the Bay Islands. The reefs are constantly monitored by scientists and volunteers through Biosphere, an organization that does this important job. If you decide to sign up you can either bunk with the scientists, but don’t expect much on the accommodations side, or if you prefer you can book a room at the Plantation Beach Resort.

There are more options of course. Have you ever considered sport fishing off the coast of Mexico? At Isla Holbox, Mexico you can find a completely preserved island that mostly dedicates itself to fishing and diving. Here you can definitely immerse yourself in the local culture. Even give fishing a try by joining the locals out in a skiff to try your luck at finding baby tarpon. There are so many things to do here that you’ll never have a dull moment, from swimming in a sinkhole filled with fresh water to kayaking into the mangroves. You can even snorkel with migrating whale sharks in the summer. Here you can enjoy the silence, lazy strolls and local culture.

Image courtesy of Joseba Barrenetxea at Flickr.com

Image courtesy of Joseba Barrenetxea at Flickr.com

Finally, if you want to give kiteboarding a whirl you can head over to the Bahamas. Spanish Wells has become the perfect destination to learn how to kiteboard with its almost marshmallow sand. You can also enjoy great nightlife under the stars and eat amazing lobster meals.

Islands will always be full of adventures and opportunities to get closer to nature, the ocean and underwater experiences. So let your wanderlust lead the way and head off to the nearest island for an experience of a lifetime.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Destination TipsRoyal at SeaRoyal CaribbeanRoyal Holiday

Fantastic Adventure Islands. A short text on where to go to escape and have fun.

by Royal Holiday
written by Royal Holiday

What do you think is the perfect vacation to escape from it all? Some think it is going to an all-inclusive hotel to relax and being pampered with cocktails and good food. Others think that the perfect vacation is to go deep into the jungle and experience wildlife first hand. A good handful of people think that escaping the heavy and dense city life is going to paradise islands. Better yet, islands where you can have an adventure and have it all to yourself and really forget you live a normal, 9 to 5 working life surrounded by concrete and people.

Here are 3 adventure islands around the world and some activities that can be done to feel you are really getting away from it all.

Image courtesy of John Finn at Flickr.com

Image courtesy of John Finn at Flickr.com

  1. Aitutaki Cook Islands:
    it is located in the Central-south Pacific Ocean. A beautiful Polynesian Atoll where you can get lost among the chain of islands that are close to one and other. Also snorkel or scuba dive in the reefs. The smiling locals, pink ukuleles and translucent lagoons will greet you when you arrive.  The adventure part is to go on two different types of plans. First, you can kayak or paddleboard on the 7 mile long lagoon. You can leave your boat or paddle on a deserted island and then go snorkelling around the reef to encounter cobalt blue starfish, giant clams and yellow barrel sponges. The other plan is to go biking along the back roads to feel the fresh air and the constant freedom of hot summer winds. It is mostly flat but on occasions you will have a small uphill. Remember to hydrate yourself and stop every now and then to take pictures and to rest.  There are bike rentals with baskets so you can go into town and stash your fridge with the necessary things for your stay.
  2. Cayos Cochinos, Honduras:
    ever thought about going to Honduras?  Cayos Cochinos (or Cochinos Cayes) are a group of two small islands, Cayo Menor and Cayo Grande, which are located 30 miles off the northern shores of Honduras. It as an area of 2 kilometres and with a population of only about 120 people. The islands are a marine protected area and it has a scientific research station in Cayo Menor. The coral reef that you will find here is part of the world’s second largest coral reef system known as the Meso-American Barrier Reef. According to national geographic “”The waters around this collection of coral cays are a marine biologist’s dream: protected by the government, off-limits to commercial divers and fishermen, and busy with creatures that may not yet have names.”   You can stay at the scientific research station and share bare-bone wooden bungalows. But if you are looking for a more tourist style trip, you can stay at the Plantation Beach Resort in Cayo Grande. Take a hike through the jungle and reach the lighthouse at the very top of the island and enjoy the fine native kitchen that has to be ordered in advance to yachts nearby. You are obliged to do some snorkelling around reefs and corals that are allowed to visit. Be amazed with the ocean wildlife and some animals that you have never seen in your normal TV shows.

  3. Santa Lucia. St. Lucia:
    the adventure comes in the form of bike riding. You ride through the jungle. As Michael Allard, owner of Bike St. Lucia says “ it is jungle biking, not mountain biking” and  David “tinker” Juarez two time Olympian states “ This is probably the sweetest bike ride in the Caribbean”. Many people stay by the beach and don’t adventure into the jungle. Much of the island’s central and northern interior is part of the St Lucia Forest Reserve. St. Lucia has many jungles, forests and natural parks that only the adventurous ones dare to see. Many bike routes for pros and rookies as well are part of this adventure island designed for bikers. Again, according to Michael Allard, jungle biking is not just for experts. “The pros come for the higher trails, but we also have people who arrive here barely having been on a mountain bike before”.

    Image courtesy of Jean-Pierre Chamberland at Flickr.com

    Image courtesy of Jean-Pierre Chamberland at Flickr.com

What are you waiting for? Book your holiday trip, take your bike out of the dusty garage or rent a kayak and hit the islands of adventure.

Escape from it all by doing something really different in the middle of natural parks and untouched reefs. Swim aside rare animals and Bike down hills and around islands. Always remember to be safe and not go beyond your limits and skills. You want to have a vacation to remember not an injury that you will never forget.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Before you cruiseCruiseCruise NewsCruise TipsRoyal at SeaRoyal CaribbeanRoyal Holiday

Have the best cruise vacationing with the best tips and tricks

by Royal Holiday
written by Royal Holiday

Vacationing is always an opportunity to relax and enjoy some time away from everything, but if could help improve your experience and avoid any hardships, why not? Especially when on a cruise, it’s important to make sure you’re prepared to have the absolutely best experience.

Preparing for the cruise

  • When looking around be sure to analyze all of your options. Most times it will actually be cheaper to book with a travel agent than directly with the cruise line. Anyway, specialized travel agents in cruises will definitely be able to point you in the right direction, so all you have to do is choose a preferred destination.
  • A great way to prepare financially for a cruise is to save up for a few months until you have enough to go and book your cruise and look for last minute booking availabilities. You’ll find amazing discounts.
  • Being prepared for when you land is just as important as booking the cruise itself. Book online (if possible) any on-shore tours in advance, or find local tours that could be even cheaper than the cruise ones. Another good option is a taxi for sightseeing. Always keep in mind that if you decide to book one that is not directly related to your cruise, be back in time, because they will not know to wait for you and will leave you stranded.
  • Looking for the best of the best, go for newer ships.
  • Keep in mind a few tips as to whom you’re travelling with. If you know of anyone that works on a cruise, that’s one to look at. Always look into the age group for the cruise and enjoy yourself the most as possible by planning the trip with friends or family.
  • Scope out the terrain, especially for Alaskan cruises. Make sure your cabin is facing all the beautiful scenery.
  • Finally, go with the flow. Don’t overplan.

What to pack (and not pack)

  • You will be on a cruise that has quite a bit of amenities, including laundry. So, analyze what you really need to take or things you can maybe do without.
  • The previous point will also help you save some room for the things you want to buy while you’re vacationing.
  • Of course, don’t forget your passport! Always triple check before you leave.
  • Some essentials for the ride (just in case): earplugs, watch, suntan lotion and aspirin. All of these will come in handy for your trip, as they will be useful for different moments of the trip such as keeping with the cruise timetables, taking some sun on the deck or on shore and of course for those party nights.

The day of

  • Make sure to arrive on time.
  • Make sure you plan accordingly so that late flights, or other inconveniences don’t get in the way of you arriving on time. There are other options, like flying to the next port, but of course you’ll have to cover the extra expenses.
  • Once you get in don’t be worried if you see lines. Many times some passengers have specific things they have to do find out, so don’t rush to get on every line you see.
  • Prepare from ahead of time what kind of cabin you want because once you’re on it is quite difficult to upgrade or change cabins. So, when choosing consider taking a room at the front of the cruise, because even though you’ll have to walk a bit more, you won’t feel the engine.  
  • Your luggage will arrive, but give it time. Sometimes it may arrive in the evening, so don’t worry.
  • If you have any problems with your cabin, don’t overly concern yourself. The most important thing is to remain relaxed, notify someone and keep enjoying your stay.

When the adventure begins

  • Always make sure you packed cash and a credit card, so you’re ready just in case you want to make any onboard purchases.
  • Remember that watch you were supposed to pack; well this is when it comes in handy. You will be assigned a dinnertime, boarding time at each of your stops, as well as other activities on the cruise, so be sure to always arrive on time.

    Image courtesy of Don McCullough at Flickr.com

    Image courtesy of Don McCullough at Flickr.com

  • Be sure to be attentive when the crew is explaining the evacuations and safety norms. They could save your life in case of an emergency.
  • Waiters and crew members usually have a tough job and have vacations once every 8 months, so be sure to treat them well. Offer them a good tip on the first day and that will assure great service.
  • If you want to spend more time at a particular port, you might want to consider flying there, spending a few days and then jumping on at that port.

At the end of the day, what you really want to do is have an amazing and unforgettable vacation, so don’t let the little things affect you. Enjoy yourself and be safe.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Destination TipsRoyal at SeaRoyal CaribbeanRoyal Holiday

The 5 best party destinations in the Caribbean

by Royal Holiday
written by Royal Holiday

Part of taking a break from real life is to find the best ways to have fun. It doesn’t really matter what you like to do, you just have to find that special thing to do that will give you joy, happiness and that can keep your mind in a place where it can only find positive vibrations. Going on vacations is one of those things you decide doing every once in a while that will provide those positive vibrations for you for sure.

When it comes to deciding where to go and what to do, many ideas can come up. There is so much to do and so many options around the world to choose from, it is sometimes really hard to decide. One of the things you have to decide first is what activity you want to do, and second, you need to decide where you want to do that activity that makes you so happy. Some people prefer peaceful destinations with relaxing activities, some prefer spending their free time from work practicing their favorite sport and some others have a very special preference that involves excitement, music, sharing time with friends, dancing and lots, lots of fun. All these things together can only mean one thing. It means partying and enjoying the amazing things you find in places where the nightlife is something really spectacular. Nightlife activity is something any places and cities in the world are real experts in. But what if what you really want is a combination of sun, beach, warm weather, palm trees and party time? In that case, the Caribbean is the territory you should pick for your next vacations. The Caribbean islands offer a fantastic nightlife, so if you are going to be in the neighborhood and you decide that partying is your thing on your next vacation, then here is the list of the top 5 partying destinations in the Caribbean you don’t want to miss.

Aruba

Oranjestad is definitely the place for partying in Aruba, along with the major resorts. Palm Beach will also offer a great variety of clubs and bars where you can even find local bands performing, while you bar-hop or taste the delicious restaurant options. Additionally if you are in the mood for a party tour, you can take a local party bus, famous for its colorful parties.  Aruba has also many casinos that offer great comedy and cabaret shows and dancefloors.

Curaçao

The party center in Curaçao is Willemstad with its Salinja sector. Bars and Casinos offer great after dark entertainment that will last till sunrise. In Curaçao you will be able to see incredible parades, and be part of a carnival energy environment, where you can dance and party all night long, even on Sundays.

Jamaica

Music is the king on this island, especially reggae and soca. Bars on the streets and on the beaches will offer great live entertainment and music performances. Hotels and resorts are also always full of nightlife plans and shows with local artists. Montego Bay has different options, from romantic evenings in restaurants and sunset cruise with dinner, to clubs and bars with the best reggae your will ever listen to.

Image courtesy of dubdem sound system at Flickr.com

Image courtesy of dubdem sound system at Flickr.com

Barbados

Barbados is the rum island. There is a rum shop everywhere you look in Bridgetown. Reggae is the music that turns up the volume in bars and dance clubs. There are British-style pubs, fantastic restaurants and live music with local musicians performed in many places. Barbados is not only great during the day. It can be a real nightlife island as well.

Image courtesy of DonDré at Flickr.com

Image courtesy of DonDré at Flickr.com

St. Maarten

With more than a dozen casinos on the Dutch side, St. Maarten can get all the life you can imagine by night. There are numerous beach bars and all kind of restaurants with live reggae and soca musicians. The Maho district is the best place to find all the fun you are hoping for in casinos. If you are looking for some drinks or some dancing, you will find plenty of bars and clubs in Simpson Bay. And then there is the option for cabaret shows that are performed at the Casino Royal Theater, in case you are looking for a more sophisticated taste.

Image courtesy of Carol Dolin at Flickr.com

Image courtesy of Carol Dolin at Flickr.com

 

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Royal at SeaRoyal CaribbeanRoyal Holiday

New and exciting extreme aquatic sports

by Royal Holiday
written by Royal Holiday

The definition of an extreme sport is a type of activity , which is also called action sport, that involves a high level of danger. Stunts and difficult movements are the main idea and  the degree of risk, injury or even death is present at all times.  The most common extreme sports are aggressive rollerblading, skateboarding, freestyle motocross, bmx and surf. While these are urban sports , there are other new and exciting sports popping up everywhere, especially in the water.

We give you a small guide to understand some water extreme sports that are now being practiced around the world and that someday you can get to try out.

Wakeboarding: it is a sport where you ride a wakeboard over a surface of water.  It is a combination of skiing, snowboarding and surfing. The idea is that the rider is towed from a motorboat at speeds of 20 – 30 mph depending on the rider’s need and comfort. The boat creates a wake and this wake is used by the rider to do stunts and jump combinations to make it an extreme sport. As a variation, the boat is not always necessary and cable systems and customized water crafts are often used.

Flyboarding: it consists of a board with a high-octane contraption that sends the rider flying into the air.  It has a long pipe which sucks the water supply and leaves a trail behind as the riders burst into the air at full speed. It is designed to reach stability in the air and then dive into the water. The rider can perform tricks as he feels comfortable in the air and do special movements as grabs and spins.

Kitesurfing: it uses a modified surf board and while it is held on to a kite that harnesses the power of the wind to gain speed and air. There are many types of kite surfing including freestyle riding, racing, freeride and jumping and kitesurfing in the waves. It is considered an extreme sport as it involves a huge amount of speed and tricks can be done with it. It is similar to skateboarding and snowboarding and some of the tricks are borrowed from these two sports.  Big air jumps, grabs and spins are the basics for this type of sport. Also high speed sailing is common and a lot of world records have been broken, reaching speeds of almost 94 kphs.

Image courtesy of Zach Dischner at Flickr.com

Image courtesy of Zach Dischner at Flickr.com

Blob jumping: not considered a sport but more of a water activity or hobby. The idea is to place a giant, partially inflated air bag on the water, also known as a blob, and jumping on it to catapult another person into the air. You will not see any competition of any type, as it is not the most stylish way to reach air, but you can certainly do tricks and spins while you are at it. Flips are very common in this hobby and most water attractions are getting into the trend. It is dangerous and fun at the same time, and if you do it with style you can reach you adrenaline levels very easily.

Subwing: this sport is relatively new. It consists of carbon fibre hydrodynamic wing that is hanging from a boat and the person hangs on to it. It seems dangerous as nobody want to be left behind in the ocean or be trapped in a reef. You can reach speeds of 2 to 4 knots and it has a user manual. You can try to makes some spins while you fly across the water , but be sure to know what you are doing as the water and ocean deserve respect while you are underwater.

Surfing: the most popular and old extreme sport in the world. The rider uses a board to cut through waves. The current trend is to do big wave surfing, which consists of looking for the most amazing and biggest waves to surf and come out clean and alive. Only professionals should attempt this kind of surfing as the strength of the ocean can hit you very hard if you haven’t mastered the skill of surfing at its full. Common competitions are seen in San Francisco, Chile, Mexico, Oregon and Baja California.

Be sure to be on the look for these sports on your next vacation to the ocean. Some of them can be tried by normal human beings with no expertise, but other are better left to be done by the pros and people who know what they are doing. If you are driven to extreme sports, be sure to check with your adrenaline boost and remember to be safe at all times. Don’t go crazy on your new sport as it can bring injuries and even death. That is why they are called extreme water sports

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
CruiseCruise DealsCruise NewsCruise TipsRoyal at SeaRoyal CaribbeanRoyal Holiday

Surprising prices to pay for cruises. Travel cheap and save a good amount of money.

by Royal Holiday
written by Royal Holiday

Cruises can be very luxurious and very expensive.  They range from cheap cruises that are not listed in the top lists for impressive cruises to the ones that are the biggest and most amazing vessels you can find.  It all depends on what you want, when you want it, who are you travelling with and what are you willing to do on board. Of course, you can get very expensive plans and activities, but you can also find cheap and enjoyable things to do while on the mini floating city you are travelling on.

First, be smart to book your room. Most boats don’t want to sail with half empty spaces and 50% accommodation rates. It is similar to booking a travel tour. The nearest the departure date, the cheapest the bookings are. Of course, you can book in advance, but since you are looking for the best prices, be patient and wait for last minute prices discounts. You will find yourself in a world where prices can go down as far as 60% on your room and your travel expenses.

Second, book your own air fare. Don’t do it through the cruise line since they charge you their fee and their commission, so it can be as high as 50% more for the flight. Do it yourself. DIY is a trend now so keep up with it and don’t be lazy to look for your own tickets. If you don’t know how to do it or never done it before. Use a trustworthy travel agent that can help you with your air tickets to the cruise destination. You will be saving a good amount of money just by doing this.

Third, sign up for alerts and try to book through an expert or a person that knows the cruise world and its business model like the back of his or her hand. Booking through an expert and waiting for alerts can save you up to 120 USD and can get you an extra 100 USD shipboard credit. Also, you can find refundable deposits and amazing deals on activities and on board sweepstakes. Children activities can also be cheap if you know what your children like to do and not pay for everything at the same time.

Fourth, look for a good cabin away from crowded places and far away from main attractions. This could sound a little bit strange but you can get big savings by just walking a little bit more on the ship. Of course, ask for a map of the ship so you don’t get lost and miss out on good things. All of the cruises have elevators and user friendly corridors and routes to get where you want to go in less than 20 minutes. Don’t be lazy and sign up for 15 minutes walks to get anywhere around the boat.

Image courtesy of Tom Jutte at Flickr.com

Image courtesy of Tom Jutte at Flickr.com

Fifth. Cruise in the off season. Depending on your country and where you are going, choose an off season to travel. When children are at school; in the hurricane season in the Caribbean, or in September in Alaska. These types of seasons attract less people, thus giving you the advantage of a late booking with amazing cabins and fees. Vacations like spring break or summer holidays are the most expensive. Why don’t you take a cruise in May or October ? Hurricane season in the Caribbean is always a season that everybody avoids. Try not being afraid of these seasons as the boats are totally safe and disaster is not very often in these types of vacations.

As for the last advice. Look for repositioning cruises. What does this mean? Well, it is when cruise lines move ships to very popular destinations just before the season start. As a complement for the previous point, you can sail on these type of ships and have the experience of a lifetime sailing across an ocean or down continental coasts just by hoping on ships that are being moved from one part to another. You can find these type of deals at any booking website and they come ever so cheap as the route is not designed as a touristic or seasonal trip.

These six tips can help you book a cheap vacation for you and your family and save you a lot of money in cruise deals. It is thought that cruise liners are for rich people , but now you have some advice and a starter to go and find the best vacation you can ever have and at very affordable prices. Don’t wait for people to tell you how cruises are. Go and book your cabin and plane ticket, ask your agency and use these tips. You will not regret it.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail