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Before you cruise

THINGS YOU SHOULDN’T TAKE ON A CRUISE WITH ROYAL HOLIDAY

by Royal Holiday
written by Royal Holiday
Royal Holiday Cruises

Welcome aboard, dear Royal Holiday member! At Royal at Sea, we know you’re eager to start packing and embark on your next cruise adventure with Royal Holiday. There’s nothing like spending a few days on a cruise, enjoying the amazing combination of exploring incredible destinations while having the comfort of a hotel on the ocean with stunning views.

However, before you pack your bags, it’s crucial to keep in mind some of the strict policies of cruise ships and make sure you don’t pack any prohibited items. These safety measures are designed to ensure your well-being as well as the safety of crew members and other passengers. If you’re planning your next cruise and wondering what not to bring, here’s a short guide on things you should avoid taking. Safety is always our top priority.

 

 

 

WEAPONS AND SHARP OBJECTS 

cruise - prohibited

Cruise ships have strict policies regarding any type of weapon, whether it’s a firearm or a sharp and pointy object that could be used to harm others. This includes large knives, sharp tools, and any other objects that could be considered a threat. The safety of everyone on board is our top priority, so all such items are strictly prohibited.

 

 

 

ILLEGAL SUBSTANCES

cruise - prohibited

Although the legality of certain substances may vary from country to country, illegal drugs are prohibited in all environments, and cruise ships are no exception. If you need to take prescribed medication, be sure it’s in its original packaging, and bring a doctor’s note verifying its use. These policies can vary depending on the cruise line, so make sure you research the specific rules of the ship you’re traveling on before your trip.

 

 

 

OBJECTS OF GREAT VALUE

jewels

Experience a perfect day at CocoCay Bahamas with Royal Caribbean Cruise

While it’s not prohibited to bring jewelry, electronic devices, or expensive clothing, it’s recommended that you limit the number of valuable items you bring to avoid loss or damage during your trip. If you do bring valuables, make sure to store them in the safe provided in your cabin. For added security, we suggest only bringing what you truly need for your trip. You can also insure valuable items for extra peace of mind.

 

 

 

FOOD AND DRINKS

food and drinks

Most cruise lines prohibit external food and drinks since they offer all-inclusive services. This restriction is in place to ensure food safety and maintain the high quality of food on board. However, some cruise ships may allow small portions of food, especially if you have strict dietary requirements. Check with the cruise company beforehand to verify their policy.

 

 

 

FLAMMABLE OBJECTS

FLAMMABLE OBJECTS

Flammable materials, such as certain fuels and hazardous substances, are completely prohibited. This includes items like gas, lighters, or barbecue fuels. We want to ensure the safety of all passengers and crew members, so these objects are not allowed under any circumstances.

Before you board, make sure to review the specific policies of your cruise line. Some rules may vary slightly, so being informed is essential. Once again, we recommend packing only the essentials to keep your belongings organized. Review the list of prohibited items before boarding to avoid any surprises.

Now that you know what not to pack, it’s time to enjoy your adventure at sea!

At Royal at Sea, we wish you an amazing trip!

 

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Before you cruise

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO GO ON A CRUISE?

by Royal Holiday
written by Royal Holiday
Cruise

Planning a cruise is an exciting activity, from choosing destinations and routes to planning the itineraries to get the most out of everything this trip offers.

However, choosing the right moment to set sail can make the difference between an incredible and a disappointing experience.

Although they are a popular option throughout the entire year, what’s the best time to go on a cruise? There are certain periods that can offer ideal weather conditions, more affordable prices, or greater availability of activities. Here are some tips on when is the best time to go on a cruise.

 

CHOOSING A SEASON

Princess Cruises

The high season for cruises is generally during the summer and school vacations, like during spring vacations and Christmas break. During these periods, cruises are usually more crowded and prices can increase due to higher demand.

On the other hand, high season also offers a wide range of activities on board and the opportunity of enjoying warm and sunny weather in tropical destinations.

As for the low season, which generally includes the months of fall and spring, it can be an excellent option for those seeking to avoid large crowds and get more economical fares. During the low season, it’s more likely to find special offers and promotions, which can make your travel more accessible without sacrificing the quality of the experience.

 

WITH THE DESTINATION IN MIND

Cruise

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The weather is a crucial factor to consider when planning a cruise. Depending on your weather preferences and desired destinations, it’s important to do some research on the best times to visit certain places. For example, the Caribbean destinations are usually nicer during winter time, when the temperature is warm and the probability of rain is lower. On the other hand, cruises through Alaska are more popular during the summer, when the weather is milder and there’s more daylight to enjoy nature. Although this depends on the hemisphere in which you are.

In addition to the weather and availability, you may also want to consider special events and festivities when choosing the date for your cruise. For example, during holidays such as New Year’s, Valentine’s Day, or Thanksgiving, most cruise lines offer themed activities and special celebrations on board. Similarly, cruises during events like the Rio de Janeiro Carnival or the Cannes Film Festival can provide a unique and exciting experience. 

 

PRINCESS CRUISES: YOUR OPTION

cruise

As part of the travel options offered by the Royal Holiday membership, there’s the possibility to explore the world aboard a cruise. This time, we present you with the option of Princess Cruises, which has been sailing the seas since 1965. They boast a fleet of 18 magnificent ships. Onboard their vessels, you can experience various cultures and flavors of the places you’ll visit. On land, Princess Cruises accompanies you to ensure you don’t miss out on points of interest at the destinations, as well as hidden gems.

The best time to cruise with Princess Cruises is your decision because with over 380 destinations to choose from, there’s always an ideal time for each route.

While choosing the travel time for a cruise depends on a variety of factors, including weather, availability, prices, and your personal preferences, any time is a good time to sail the seas. Whether you prefer to avoid crowds, enjoy specific weather, or participate in special events, there’s a cruise time that can cater to your needs. Research your options and choose wisely.

Don’t forget to book with your Royal Holiday membership through our website or contact your Vacation Advisor. It’s time to enjoy with Royal Holiday!

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Déjate sorprender con las maravillas que ofrece el mar

by Royal Holiday
written by Royal Holiday

¿Sabes lo que esconde el bellos Mares de las costas de México? Imagina lo siguiente: Abordas un crucero, llegas a tu camarote, disfrutas de los atractivos que tiene para ofrecerte en su interior, te diviertes en las fiestas nocturnas que se realizan y a la mañana siguiente despiertas, subes a la cubierta y observas a lo lejos a los delfines, los cuales se acercan más conforme pasa la mañana y ahora van saltando a los lados de tu crucero.

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Before you cruiseCruiseDestination TipsRoyal CaribbeanRoyal Holiday

Discover Maui: One Of The Most Amazing Islands On The Pacific

by Royal Holiday
written by Royal Holiday

This island is the second largest in the Hawaiian archipelago. Located in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, Maui has a population of 117,644 inhabitants. It is known for its beautiful and diverse beaches and a crater that surfaces from the ocean and is home to a large variety of marine life. Maui has all the features that make it an amazing destination, its beautiful landscapes can be observed while traveling one of the most iconic roads in the world. The turns, tunnels and waterfalls that embellish the Hana Highway and surround the island, are something to behold.

Lahaina is the capital of Maui, formerly the capital of the entire archipelago and until 1845 it was the most famous whaling port in the Pacific. Now, the port can be visited and the historic district is filled with renovated buildings, museums and more.

The island of Maui is also a perfect place to practice aquatic sports like surfing, windsurfing, scuba diving and snorkeling. On top of that, golf is a big deal as well and the many cultural outings and terrific restaurants make Maui the perfect place to relax and vacation.

Multi-colored beaches.

Maui’s beaches are quite diverse when it comes to marine vegetation, sea life and colorful sands in white, green and black. Waianapanapa State Park is home to one of the black sand beaches while Kapalua beach has golden sand and Kaihalulu displays sands of a reddish variety. This phenomenon occurs due to volcanic eruptions that mix small lava particles with sand and because of the rapid cooling of the lava by the ocean water, while green sand occurs because of volcanic crystals and minerals that are separated by erosion. The colorful beaches are a marvel seldom seen anywhere else in the world. The strategic location of the volcanic activity of Hawaii is responsible for these wonderful sights.

Places to visit in Maui

Haleakala

This is one of Hawaii’s most beautiful natural parks. It extends all the way from the south coast to the east and it sits at 3,055 meters above sea level. The park is a huge volcano covered in lush vegetation that provides visitors with the most amazing sights. The tip of Haleakala Crater is the tallest spot in all of Maui, sitting at 10,023 feet above sea level. Visiting the top is one of the most amazing experiences you can live in Maui, getting the chance to witness all the botanical diversity and the post-card quality landscapes of all colors and sunsets to die for. Excursions and walking trails in Haleakala are activities mainly geared towards tourist. You can find all information about routes, prices and tours, available in one of the three visitor centers located at the entrance to the park. The national park has an area of over 30,000 acres full of diverse sights like tall green forests, waterfalls and desert among others.

Image courtesy of dronepicr at Flickr.com

Image courtesy of dronepicr at Flickr.com

Kaanapali Beach

Is this beach, you may engage in all kinds of aquatic sports like snorkeling, submarine rides, scuba and others. The main appeal of this beach is the chance to actually see humpback whales passing by. This place is quite important due to being so large and different from the rest of Maui’s beaches. The beautiful white sand and the crystal clear water make this beach one of the most beautiful places to see in all of Hawaii.

Ocean Vodka Organic Farm and Distillery

A modern and innovative idea was born at this farm when a family had the idea of combining organic sugar cane with mineral-rich seawater in order to create vodka. The place is located on the western hills close to the Haleakala volcano. The place is perfect for lovers of fine spirits and those interested in tasting this exotic type of vodka. Here you will find a dedicated guide that will give you all the information about the distillery and how their extraction processes have evolved over the years: and of course, a chance to try their famous drink.

Lahaina City.

Lahania is the most important city in the island and used to be one of the most important harbors in the whole archipelago back when it was Hawaii’s capital. The town has a population of 10,000 inhabitants and thanks to the tourism and agriculture; Lahaina has thrived and became a popular destination for travelers.

One of the main attractions people can find here, is a historic trail that goes through the whole city. The path is full of information posted on helpful signs that talk about the history of Lahaina from its beginning in the kingdom of Hawaii and before the land was even known for its harbor.

For more information about beautiful islands, visit our Royal Holiday Cruises blog.

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These tips will help you make the most out of your first cruise vacation

by Royal Holiday
written by Royal Holiday

So maybe you’re tempted with the idea of ​​getting into a cruise ship to live this experience for your next vacation. Here are some tips for your first time on a cruise!

Boarding

  • Make sure you have all of the documents needed to embark weeks before departure: valid passports, travel permits for minors, visas, international driving permits, and so on.
  • Bring all the documentation sent to you by the shipping company: vouchers or reservation and payment receipts, passenger tokens, cabin number, boarding passes, baggage identification labels (placed in suitcases, obviously), and so on.
  • When you get to the port or embarking station you must bring your luggage with the tags on place, except for the carry-on luggage. Then at the counter you must show the boarding tickets, documents and a credit card for additional purchases.
  • You can carry liquids in your suitcase, and in their original packaging. You’re allowed to take these as there is no maximum weight limit per person, if we assume that each one will carry one or at most two regular suitcases. If in doubt, check the baggage policy of your shipping company. No explosives or weapons of any kind are allowed.
  • You will be given an ID card which you will use for everything on board: extra charges, restaurant reservations or sports facilities, excursions, and even to pose for the “official photo”, if you want. I suggest you take a small hand purse or card holder so you will not lose it when you go to the pool, for example. You must identify yourself with it every time you get off the ship at each port, and again to re-board after returning.
  • Some cruise companies already offer an online check in process up to 3 days before the date of your departure.
Image courtesy of Richard Tanswell at Flickr.com

Image courtesy of Richard Tanswell at Flickr.com

Life on board

  • The ships usually have 110/220 volt electricity outlets -with two round plug holes, except for American ships that usually have plugs with a couple of flat holes. You should take a set of adapters just in case, and some extra adapters to charge two things at once (the iron and mobile phone, for instance).
  • It is not allowed to carry alcoholic beverages in your luggage so any drinks you bring from home, or buy on board or at a stop will remain in custody until the end of the trip.
  • You can not travel with your pet, not even guide dogs can board, with counted exceptions. You should consult with the shipping company about your ship and particular route.
  • When you get to your cabin, take a look at all the services you have, you can unpack and hang all your clothes and read carefully the information that every day you will get in your room, in the logbook. There is the schedule of services, activities, shows, news and so on. It will help you get organized each day on board.
  • In your wardrobe you shouldn’t forget to take all kinds of hats or caps, sunscreen and sunglasses because you’ll be surrounded by water, one of the most reflective surfaces.
  • There’s no need to bring beach towels. All cruises will provide them for you to use in the pool area. You’ll find them at the entrance of the corresponding deck or in your cabin. If you find bathrobes in your cabin, do not use them to go to the pool. Keep it for private use in the cabin or go to the spa.
  • To use your mobile phone you’ll have to wait to be near the coast or port because there is no coverage at sea during sailing days. For this you must have roaming activated. Beware of the rates, though! And remember that it is cheaper to send an SMS than to make a call from abroad.
  • Can you smoke? Please note that on some ships it is totally forbidden. Consult before booking. In most, however, they have specific areas for cigarette smokers. Those who smoke cigars or pipes must do so in the rooms for this purpose. Restaurants tend to be areas where you can not smoke, although in some cases they have a smoking section.
  • Each shipping company has an “official language” that may be Spanish, Italian or English. In that language you’ll find the menus and logbooks.
  • At the start of a cruise an emergency drill is conducted. It is very important (and interesting) for you to participate as they will give you instructions on how to act in case of an emergency of any kind. The evacuation route is indicated in each cabin (usually behind the front door).
  • On a ship you’ll eat well, plenty and tasty. The services are plentiful, varied, well presented. But you do not have to eat everything in one day. Do not despair. Try different dishes and take it easy. Do not throw yourself at the buffet, because there will be more. And if not, there will be something else. And if not, you’ll have another service in a few hours.
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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.

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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.

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The 3 most exciting watersports to try out on an island

by Royal Holiday
written by Royal Holiday

Whenever you ask someone what the best vacation would be, a big percentage of the answers will include, warm weather, sun and a beach. Of course there will always be different opinions and points of view, because not everyone has the same tastes and interests, but the beach with the blue water, the sunshine and probably the idea of an island will most likely be everyone´s favorite. The whole idea of taking a vacation in a place like that, in an island like that is all about relaxing and having fun, which is why a place with those specific insights will always be a synonym of vacations. It´s hard to understand how people can live and work in a place where all you want to do is relax. And relaxing means doing what you like, when you like to, with the people you like to. Islands do that to people, and that is the magic about it. Especially Islands where you feel kind of “forced”, in a good way, to enjoy, disconnect from the real world, and why not, get a nice tan. While you do that, you will find that there are many activities that are just perfect for that specific place you chose to get some tropical energy. Tropical islands are the right place to practice and to explore a great variety of watersports that you probably didn’t imagine you would try out some day. These watersports will make your stay in any island so much exciting, entertaining and challenging. You will not only have fun, but you will find new things about yourself that maybe you didn’t know. You will be able to get rid of silly fears you thought you had with water and find a genuine and undiscovered passion for a watersport you had never tried out.

Here is a list of the 3 most exciting watersports you can tryout on an island. In case of deciding to try one of these watersports out, make sure you do it with responsible schools and instructors, especially if it is the first time. Just because it’s fun it doesn’t mean you don’t have to be careful. Watersports require a lot of physical and mental control and concentration. Most of them require some ability and skills. The good news is that just like any other activity, the more you practice it, the better you get at it, and you could even become a “pro” at it.

Surfing

Surfing is one of the most fascinating water sports. It has origins in Polynesia, where this practice was part of its culture. Others say that the first surfers were found in Tahiti and in Samoa, almost three centuries ago. The magic of surfing is that you learn to ride on the wave. Since it is a surface water sport it is very important to know the wind and currents and to know what the exact moment is to get on the board after seeking for a wave. There are many surf schools on inlands. Experimented surfers and instructors are available to teach visitors techniques and tips to find out what it really is to enjoy the waves.

Scuba Diving

The world would only have one version if it wasn’t for scuba diving. The world underwater is certainly something amazing that was able to be explored in detail and individually, because of all the technology that has been developed for scuba diving. The term scuba is an acronym for “self-contained underwater breathing apparatus”. Some say that scuba diving feels like flying, only without the fear of falling. The sensation of freedom and the astonishment you will experience once you are able to see so many animals, so close, so free, so calm, is such a breathtaking experience that you will only want to live the experience over and over again. Scuba diving schools are also always available on islands, especially if they have beautiful diving sites in the area. There are different dive courses you can take. Each one of them will give you a certificate that will be required every time you decide to dive somewhere. Make sure you take it with you.

Image courtesy of Pedro Paulo Cunha at Flickr.com

Image courtesy of Pedro Paulo Cunha at Flickr.com

Kitesurfing

As another surface water sport, kitesurfing differs a bit from the traditional surfing. Kitesurfing includes one more element that is essential to the existence and the uniqueness of this water sport. The Kite is what makes it so special, because it allows the rider to take full advantage of the wind, in order to move forward and to make movements that are the ones that give this sort all the excitement. It combines aspects from different sports such as skateboarding, windsurfing, snowboarding and even paragliding, among others. There are courses available for people who are interested in learning how this sport works and most people easily fall in love with it.

Image courtesy of Cristian Viarisio at Flickr.com

Image courtesy of Cristian Viarisio at Flickr.com

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Before you cruiseCruiseCruise Tips

4 important questions you need to answer before you choose the perfect cruise

by Royal Holiday
written by Royal Holiday

It’s time to plan your next vacation and you like to do it a few months ahead so you can get better prices and availability, which is always a good decision. Now, the big question is where to go and what  to do. For some time you have been wondering what it would be like to go on a cruise and since you have never been on one, you might as well get all the information you can in order to make the best decision, since there are so many options out there when it comes to cruising. When you have decided you want to go on a cruise you have to make sure you gather all the possible opinions from your friends and family, or find reviews and testimonials on the internet so you can be absolutely confident that the cruise you have selected is the perfect one for you. Many people become expert cruisers because the first time they did it, they thought it went so well, they decided cruising was the way they wanted to continue exploring the world. Cruise lines even have special prices and gifts for those who become frequent cruisers, and some even take the same cruise again and again. Other people just decide never to go on a cruise again because they either didn’t like the idea of being on a boat for more than a day or it turns out the cruise they selected wasn’t quite the proper one for them so the expectations they had are completely different than what they found on the cruise and that is when you can become a one-time cruiser, which is pretty sad, because just because you made a bad decision, it doesn’t mean cruising is one of the coolest, completest, fun and exciting ways to explore the planet.  People who are not happy with the cruise they chose, are people that after the cruise ends, will start telling their friends and family all the negative things they experienced on their last vacations, and that is something you should definitely try to avoid, if you don’t want to miss the magic you can experience and the lifetime memories you can take with you forever after choosing and taking the perfect cruise for you. So now that you know the importance of picking “the right one”, take a look at these tips that will make the decision making easier for you.

Image courtesy of Brook Ward on Flickr.com

Image courtesy of Brook Ward on Flickr.com

Who?

The first question to ask yourself is Who will you be taking the cruise with. Depending on the answer you give, the choices will vary, because there are types of cruises for every single type of companions you decide to go with. If it’s with your family, meaning there will be children coming along with you, then you will have cruise lines and options that specialize in family entertainment and activities, destinations, and even type of accommodation that will be right for you. If you decide to go as a couple on a romantic getaway, the family type of cruise is not really what you´re looking for. There are some cruise lines that can offer luxury cruises, specialized in comforting couples, with special cuisine on board, spa options, wine selections and of course romantic destinations that will be also different from those you can select if you travel for example with a group of friends where your biggest interest is to have fun together and share nice experiences.

Where?

The destination is also very important. Where do you want to go? Which part of the world are you interested in exploring? Are you looking for nice warm sunny weather or are have you been dreaming about winter and iceberg landscapes? This may be one of the most important details you may want to be sure of before you decide which cruise to take.

When?

The time of year is crucial in the decision making of which cruise you are going to take for your next vacation. There is a proper destination for every season. If it is the summer, you might want to consider a cold destination like Alaska, where the weather is probably the best in that time of the year. If it is in the winter that you want to travel because you want to escape from the ice cold weather you have at home, then you should probably choose a tropical paradise like the Caribbean. It doesn’t matter when you want to go on a cruise, there will always be a great destination for the exact time that you want to take your vacation.

How?

How is actually for “How much”. Budget is always a big factor when it comes to making decisions, mainly for those that involve leisure. When you decide taking a vacation the top priorities are to have fun, relax and forget about reality for a few days. This means that part of those priorities is the fact that you don’t want to have to worry about anything, especially not money. So take a good look at how much you can afford to spend and what types of cruises fit your budget. There are cruises for all types of budgets. Cruise prices can vary also depending on the number of days you want to take the cruise. The more days you are on a cruise and the more destinations you want to visit, the more the cruise will cost. The type of cabin is also something you can choose depending on how much you want to spend. If the cabin has a window or not, if it has a balcony or not and the type of bed you want in it, will definitely make your cruise more or less expensive. So make sure you take all of these options into account and finding the perfect cruise for you will be a sure thing.

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Before you cruiseCruise TipsDestination TipsRoyal Holiday

7 Tips to make your first cruise your best vacation ever

by Royal Holiday
written by Royal Holiday

Almost everyone has dreamed about cruising sometime, or has at least felt the curiosity of what a cruise would be like. The idea of “living” on a huge ship for a few days or even a week, surrounded by nothing more than gorgeous, clear, blue water and paradisiac islands, is just the perfect thought if you’re thinking about relaxing and forgetting about reality for a while.

Unlimited drinks and cocktails, Ice creams, yummy treats and having at least 4-5 different restaurants where you can find all kinds of delicious international meals, cooked by the best chefs, will be part of the vacation you are absolutely sure you deserve. Try also thinking about the week lasting, warm, sunny weather; the perfect tan you will get by only laying on the deck with your favorite cocktail, a good book, great music, and why not, a couple of new friends you just met on board. It actually sounds like the best plan you can imagine.

Cruising will not only offer you the best way to escape from almost everything, but it also allows you to see new places, mainly islands that you didn’t know existed, cultures you never even thought possible and the kindest people you could ever meet. Nevertheless, cruising has it tricks, and first timers could definitely use some advice and tips to make the stay a lot easier, and of course a lot more fun.

1. Make sure you are an early bird

If you are planning to go on a cruise, try booking a few months before the departure time. Discounts and great offers are available if you plan your trip with time. The price you pay for booking a cruise will vary, depending on the time you decide to pay for it. You will find surprises, either good ones, or not so good ones, therefore planning it with time, will be one of the best decisions to make if you’re decided to go cruising for the first time.

2. Take Baby steps when cruising for the first time

Some people don’t really think about it, but the idea of living on a ship for a few days, or even a week is not always easy, and rather claustrophobic, especially if you’re the type of person who is used to having a very active lifestyle. Make sure the first cruise you take isn’t longer than 4 days. Longer cruises may be a bit more difficult to manage. It doesn’t mean it won’t be the perfect way to rest and relax, but if you want some advice on timing, up to 4 days is perfect for new cruisers.

3. Know your environment

One of the most important things of cruising is learning the layout of the ship, right after you unpack. Most cruises offer a ship tour or you can take a deck plan from the reception desk. Make sure you know where the most important parts of the ship are located. That way you won’t get lost or if you agree to meet a new friend somewhere on the ship, you will know exactly where you have to be, on time.

4. Great attitude always!

People on cruises are just always kind. It’s probably because everyone is in the same vacation mood and that is always contagious. The crew on the ships is also always very friendly, not only because it is their job, but because being kind to someone will always make that someone be kind to you. And that is a general rule, not only for cruises, though…

By being king and having a great attitude on cruises, it is almost a fact you will make new friends to make your vacations even better.

5. Take a pill if you need to.

Feeling “mal de mer” is one of the worst feelings a cruiser could get. It’s not fun at all and it can make you miss all the fantastic things the ship has to offer you, especially the food. So don’t be ashamed if you are not feeling well. Make sure you take pills with you such as Dramamine or Marezine or something like that and just take one if you need it. It will make your stay a lot happier.

6. Don’t miss the daily bulletin

It is very common for large cruise ships to prepare a daily bulletin with important information such as the daily show descriptions, the daily events on the deck, or any important news you should be aware of like, next day trip, weather conditions or exact location of the ship. All this information will probably also be available on the onboard TV channel, so try to stay tuned or read the bulletins so you know exactly what is going on every day on the ship.

7. Mind the dress code

Cruise lines usually give cruisers a few tips on what type of clothes to pack for the cruise. This is very important and useful information because not every day is the same on a cruise and there might be a few events where you will surely want to dress up nicely just for the fun of it. There might be a “gala” night, like having dinner with the captain, where you will want to look nice and feel fancy. It’s not that you have to pack your entire wardrobe, because you might want to keep it simple, but take the cruise lines advice if they suggest you should take a cocktail dress for the ladies with you, or a tie for the gentlemen.

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