Tag:

cruise

CruiseMSCRoyal at Sea

MSC Cruises for members: so exciting!

by Royal Holiday
written by Royal Holiday

You’re invited to come on board and experience the Italian cruiseline, MSC with great discounts for Royal Holiday members.

If the idea of a cruise vacation sounds alluring, we recommend trying MSC, famous around the globe for the elegance and modern features of their ships. MSC’s ships sail on exciting routes worldwide and have 24 hour entertainment and leisure options: from Broadway style shows, spa services to pamper yourself, swimming pools, jogging track, mini golf, bowling, basketball courts and tennis courts, solarium, gym, authentic Italian cafes, duty free shops, specialty restaurants with delicious food from around the world to bars, nightclubs and much, much more.

In addition, the service on board is impeccable. Friendly and knowledgeable staff are dedicated to granting all passengers’ wishes.

Whether the trip is romantic, a family vacation or one with friends, MSC has the route and cruise of your dreams. Some itineraries that you can book with your membership are: Caribbean, Cuba, Mediterranean, northern Europe and the Arab Emirates.
MSC
Enjoy attractive discounts exclusive for Royal Holiday members

Get 5% to 20% off on added services to your cruise, purchased when making your reservation:

1. Tours (Explorer Package)

Includes a selection of three of the best excursions available on each cruise at a very attractive price. Remember that the offers have limited availability and are valid only in certain ports. Ask your Royal Holiday advisor for more information.

MSC

2. All inclusive unlimited drinks package

Choose from a wide range of drinks, from soft drinks and fine wines to beer from top brands. Enjoy them unlimitedly, anytime, anywhere.

MSC

3. Spa package 

Available in the MSC Aurea SPA, with sumptuous beauty salon facilities, a gym with the latest technology and a team of experts: from massage therapists, pedicurists, to stylists, personal trainers and yoga instructors, all ready to help you feel pampered.

MSC

Some services:

– Wellness selection:
Balinese massage, solarium, welcome cocktail, access to the thermal area during the cruise

– Wellness product kit in your cabin (for face, hair and body)

– Relaxation amenities in your cabin (bathrobe and slippers included)

– Access to an exclusive sun deck to enjoy the sun peacefully (available only for adults)

– Free thermal suite and access to private elevator to MSC Aurea Spa

– 20 types of massages, 19 body treatments and facials

MSC
You can also take advantage of discounts at restaurants, internet packages and transportation packages. Find out how from your Royal Holiday advisor.

Use your Royal Holiday membership to take the journey of your dreams on board of an MSC cruise. It will be an unforgettable experience!

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
CruiseCruise TipsDestination TipsRoyal at SeaRoyal Caribbean

The 8 Best Expert Tips To Survive Your First Cruise

by Royal Holiday
written by Royal Holiday

Going on a cruise is an adventure like no other in more ways than one. The trip itself is the destination, and the destination in itself is a moving fortress with many delights and wonders waiting to be discovered. There are those who have gone to many cruises and continue to do so due to the many advantages they have found while traveling the high seas aboard this floating castles. A cruise ship holds adventures and enjoyment for everyone, no matter who you are, you will for certain have the time of your life and will forever be changed by your first trip abroad. However, there are some tips and tricks to consider if you want to make the most of it. Here we have some expert advice to ensure your first cruise is unforgettable, or to live your next one to the fullest.

  1. Don’t fly on the day you depart.

A common mistake people makes when booking their cruise, is not leaving any room for error or unexpected delays. This is especially true when going on cruises that depart from Europe and you live in the United States or vice versa. Flights may get delayed or luggage may go missing and without any wiggle room you may miss your departure and ruin your whole vacation. Fly a day ahead if possible and avoid this type of problems.

  1. Be prepared if you suffer from motion sickness.

A cruise ship is not the same as a small boat of course. You will not feel waves the same way as in a small fishing raft, but if you are especially sensitive to motion sickness, you may want to take extra precautions. Do not wait until you start feeling sick to take motion sickness pills or whatever method you decide to go with. Don’t let something like that ruin your experience by making sure you are prepared before hand, especially on days the waters are choppy.

  1. Be aware of what you eat.

The food is one of the greatest things about being on a cruise. Just make sure you don’t go overboard with the 24-hour availability of all those amazing dishes. Make sure you pace yourself and eat accordingly and don’t ruin your trip because you ate too much and got sick or feel bad afterwards because you gained a few pounds. If you have specific eating habits, you will find healthy options for sure so you don’t have to change the way you normally eat. It is common that people get sick from mixing and matching foods they don’t normally eat all the time and overindulge just because they are readily available. Be mindful of your options.

  1. Explore the ship.

Is advisable to do this even before you book your cruise, but on the first day and even as you are well into your voyage, explore your surroundings. Ships are miniature cities with a lot of great secrets waiting to be discovered. Check out all the amenities and know where to go and how to get there quickly.

  1. Be aware of schedule activities.

Don’t miss out on the fun just because you didn’t know about the lobster eating contest or the karaoke night! There are many activities scheduled for your days at sea; make sure you are aware of what’s going on and ready to participate. The trips are specially designed to entertain you so just make sure you check out the schedules on onboard activities for the whole family.

  1. Keep in mind a diverse Dress Code.

Pack like you would for a vacation. Remember there are nights when dressing up is encouraged and days when the weather pretty much forces you to dress down to the bare minimum. Have comfortable shoes to walk about and don’t think just because you are in the Caribbean that you won’t need a sweater. Nights may get cold at times and rain may start at any moment, so an umbrella or some rain gear will not be a bad idea to pack.

  1. Disconnect from the world.

There are so many amazing things to do that you will not be missing your constant checking of your Facebook status or your email inbox. Unplug from the world and spend quality time with yourself and your loved ones. You will not regret using this opportunity to truly disconnect.

  1. Socialize and be surprised.

Cruises are some of the best places to make new friendships. You will meet a lot of great people who may be experts at this experience or newbies just like you. Give yourself the opportunity to be amazed by stories and listen to possible recommendations that may be just what you were looking for. Cruises are a great bonding experience.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
CruiseCruise TipsDestination TipsRoyal at SeaRoyal CaribbeanRoyal Holiday

Find Out the Best Tips for Each Royal Holiday Cruise Route

by Royal Holiday
written by Royal Holiday

Many people dream of going away on a cruise and having the time of their lives, but for some the day it comes it may not be all they had in mind. Planning is everything and getting all the details right will make the difference between an ok experience and a cruise of a lifetime. Royal Holiday offers cruises all around the world to places as exotic as the Greek Islands or as remote as Alaska. In each amazing route you will lose yourself in the amazing scenery and landscapes from beaches to mountains and sunny paradises to frozen wonderlands. To make sure you have an absolutely amazing time on the cruise of your choice here are the tops tips for each of Royal Holiday’s routes.

Alaska

Crown Princess

With Royal Holiday you can visit Alaska on the Crown Princess, but be sure to follow these tips to guarantee an absolutely amazing vacation. To truly enjoy the wildlife and scenery be sure to book your trip, although you will find the routes available, and if you choose this destination it’s important to be aware of the weather and how this may be a difficulty when planning certain activities. If you are decided on enjoying the mountains, glaciers and the Arctic tundra then you have to analyze if you prefer “high” 50s and 70s temperature for the region, but crowds at every stop, and some rain then it’s best to travel in June, July or August. Now if you are more interested in less crowds and cheaper prices then you may consider going in May and September, although it is important to remember that the weather will be more unpredictable so activities may be cancelled more often, and if you’re one for getting seasick than you may reconsider these months due to the choppy waters in the Gulf of Alaska. On the other hand, September does offer the best time of year to see the Northern Lights.    

Image courtesy of Royal Holiday at royal-holiday.com

Image courtesy of Royal Holiday at royal-holiday.com

Greek

MSC Cruceros – Orchestra and MSC Cruceros – Magnifica

The Greek Islands are for everyone, and will give each traveler an experience they won’t forget. Even if you a history-lover or more of a shopper, you’ll find both ancient ruins to visit and places to learn about the Crusades in the Middle Ages, and stores and galleries that will seem like heaven. Not to mention to gorgeous beaches. Although July and August are the most popular time of year to take a cruise in the Greek Islands, you may want to remember that the temperature can reach up to 100 degrees, whereas you’ll find more pleasant weather in June and September. If you are a wine-lover, besides enjoying the benefits of less people and cooler climate when visiting in September, you will also find that it is grape harvest time at Santorini’s vineyards. While on the Orchestra you will stop by Santorini, one of the most iconic ports in Greece and be able to enjoy your love for wine, while doing some shopping in the city of Oia. So when packing for the Greek Islands prepare for the sun, and once you arrive the crowds especially during high season. Lastly, in Greece there tends to be a high price fluctuation due to tax increases, always verify the prices online before you travel.

Image courtesy of Royal Holiday at royal-holiday.com

Image courtesy of Royal Holiday at royal-holiday.com

Bahamas

Royal Caribbean – Majesty of the Seas

With Royal Holiday you can take advantage and save money by booking of shoulder-season cruise rates when planning your vacation for April, September or October. When roaming the islands be sure to take full advantage of the meals prepared on deck and included in your package, and then visit the island. You can always rent a taxi and make your own tours. Of course take advantage of the duty-free shopping, but be aware that what you buy is not anything you could get back home for the same or similar price. Finally, just be sure to pack country-club casual clothing, bathing suits and plenty of sunscreen, as well as keeping an eye out for the rising crime especially at night or in remote places.

Southern Caribbean

Carnival – Splendor

While visiting the South Caribbean you’ll find that the high season is December through April, but the best time of year to visit won’t vary since climate is usually quite similar throughout the year. The only warning is to be aware of hurricane season that goes from June through November. You might want to plan your trip for late summer and early fall so that you get the best deals. Everyone who is offering their services will be expected to be paid, so be sure to have an idea of what they cost, as well as the norm 10% to 15% tipping protocol. Be sure to look for Netherlands and French goods that are imported and have great deals. Finally, always ask for a receipt when you pay, to make sure that later there are no confusions of not having paid yet.

Image courtesy of Royal Holiday at royal-holiday.com

Image courtesy of Royal Holiday at royal-holiday.com

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

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.
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
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.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Before you cruiseCruiseCruise TipsRoyal Holiday

How to Pack Like a Pro for Your Upcoming Cruise

by Royal Holiday
written by Royal Holiday

Before you set off on a Royal Holiday-sponsored cruise ship for days of fun in the sun and evenings spent living like royalty, make sure you have all of the essentials you need to enjoy your stay. Careful preparation minimizes the stress of traveling and allows you to focus on the adventures ahead.

Prioritize the Carry-On Bag

Your carry-on bag should contain all the items that you may need in a hurry when traveling. Include medications, toiletries, and a change of clothes in the bag. Toss in a swimsuit and dinner attire too. If your luggage is delayed on the plane, you can still start enjoying your time aboard if you planned ahead by placing your must-have items in a valise.

Investigate Dress Codes

Royal Holiday cruise ships offer a variety of activities to keep guests active both day and night. Pack your suitcase with the essentials for a day at the pool, a nightly walk on the sands of the Caribbean, a formal dinner and musical show, or a hike through the wetlands. Review the itinerary prior to packing, and pick out your favorite shoes, dresses, and suits so you are ready for all the excitement a cruise offers. You can always purchase essentials aboard ship, but prepare in advance for the events offered on your cruise in order to pack like a pro for this exciting adventure.

Evaluate Weather Conditions

Keep yourself comfortable throughout the duration of the cruise by packing temperature appropriate clothing. A cruise through Alaskan waters requires a winter coat and comfortable gloves, whereas a jaunt to Mexico or Puerto Rico calls for a bikini, a few tank tops, and flip flops in your luggage. Walking shoes are a must, regardless of the location, so you can make the most of shore excursions without tiring out your feet.

Mix and Match

Try not to overload your suitcases in case you want to bring home souvenirs from some of the fabulous destinations Royal Holiday has arranged for you. Instead of packing shorts, pants, and a shirt for every day, mix and match outfits to allow for more room in your suitcase. Choose shoes that coordinate with several outfits and avoid bringing heavy boots or shoes that take up a lot of space. You can also take advantage of the laundry services your cruise ship offers to freshen up your staple outfits throughout the week.

Remember the Basics

Even though you should not have a care in the world when cruising to your favorite destination, you need to remember to bring along basic items that cannot be purchased on board. Make a checklist of any medical equipment and medications you must have while traveling. Insert a medical card in your wallet in case of an emergency. Throw in your phone, tablet, computer or camera chargers, and batteries as well as memory cards you may need while browsing the Web on board or snapping shots of the ocean. Keep all toiletries wrapped in plastic bags to avoid any spills while your luggage is transported.

Keep Documents Close By

The last thing you want to do when boarding a big and beautiful cruise ship is hold up the line while searching for your cruise documents. Keep your ID, cruise confirmation and boarding pass handy in a purse, fanny pack or carry-on bag so they are easily accessible. Some cruises also require a passport or birth certificate, proof of immunizations or a visa, so plan ahead and pack these essential items within easy reach.

Preserve Jewelry and Accessories

Cruise ships offer plenty of opportunities to get dressed up and show off your sense of style. You don’t have to leave your favorite jewelry at home when you want to flaunt some fashion. Pack jewelry carefully, though, to avoid a tangled mess when you unpack in your cabin. Purchase a travel jewelry organizer to keep necklaces from clasping together, or thread earrings through buttons and separate them into pill containers. Place necklaces in drinking straws to avoid knots or tape them onto an index card so they don’t get tangled while traveling.

Minimize Wrinkled Clothing

An evening in a formal dining room on a cruise ship provides a special occasion to break out your dressiest attire. Make sure you look your best when dressing for evening events by minimizing wrinkles and creases in your packed garments. Iron all dress shirts, skirts, dresses, and pants prior to packing, and fold up your formal attire in tissue paper. Place tissue paper throughout the suitcase to minimize creases and wrinkles, and gently push each clothing item into place on top of one another. A firmly packed suitcase ensures your wardrobe is cruise ship ready and reduces excessive movement of your bag’s contents that can wrinkle your day wear and evening wear and transform your clothes into an crumpled mess when you open your luggage.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Before you cruiseCruise TipsRoyal Holiday

Top Tips for Cruise Ship Travel

by Royal Holiday
written by Royal Holiday

One of the most comfortable experiences that travelers can enjoy is traveling by sea. Cruise ship travel allows passengers the freedom to try a variety of dining experiences, themed ships and activities for the youngest in the family, and engage as much or as little as possible with fellow passengers. A royal holiday should put you at ease, pamper the body and stimulate the senses. Once on board, travelers can sun by the pool, enjoy shows and dancing and take part in a range of activities or amenities. Get the most from your cruise ship travel with the following tips.

Before Booking

Look at the itineraries and cruise destinations available on various cruise lines. Every traveler is unique. If sunny shores beckon, a Caribbean cruise may be a wonderful option. For art, culture and history, a European cruise might be a perfect choice. Take into consideration the needs of all travelers and the types of activities that they would like to participate in. An enjoyable vacation is one where everyone can have a good time.

Make sure that all appropriate documentation is on hand and make a copy for safe keeping. Some destinations require a passport. Plan ahead if you will need to get necessary documentation together.

Review cancelation and refund policies for all elements of your trip. Look at the policies for the cruise line, hotel at a port, airfare or any pre-booked activities. Life and weather does not always go according to plan. It may pay to have additional flexibility and travel insurance when traveling as a group or for those with the likelihood of last minute changes.

Booking

couple on deck of shipEarly booking is your best bet for getting the cabin you want at the price you want. Experienced travelers recommend booking 6 to 12 months in advance of the cruise to get a discount of up to 25 to 50 percent off of published rates. With early booking, you can choose from a wider selection of itineraries, cabins and dates. It will also be easier to snag cheaper rates for flights and hotels for the port that you leave from.

Book late for an extra discount. If you didn’t plan in advance, you could still get a discount on trips departing in 60 to 90 days. To fill cabins, cruise lines can drop prices, and you can pocket the difference. Understand that your cabin choices and itinerary will be more limited. Airfare and hotels with most likely be at full price and last minute fares are non-refundable.

Ask about a discount. Frequent cruise ship travelers that politely mention their status and ask about related discounts can receive an additional 5 to 15 percent off their price. Those 55 and older may qualify for a 5 percent savings. Long-term membership with a cruise line, such as with Royal Holiday, can help lock in fares for future travel plans.

Consider travel during the shoulder season. Shoulder season will offer you good weather but fewer crowds. Cruise ship travelers can get up to 10 percent off of high-season rates. It will be easier to plan excursions and spa treatments- anything that requires pre-booking- with fewer fellow travelers competing for the same slots. Also, airfare and hotels prices may be reduced as well. The shoulder season for some popular destinations include:

Bermuda: April and October

Alaska: May and September

Europe: September to December; Mid-March and April

Caribbean: September, October, December non-holiday weeks, and early January until President’s Day.

Learn What is Included

As a novice traveler, you can easily rack up extra charges on some of the major cruise lines. No one needs a surprise on their credit card. Some dining options, drinks, and activities may not be included in your quoted price. Spa treatments such as massages, an alternative dining experience, a can of soda or a photo taken by cruise staff can add additional charges to your bill. Contacting a travel agent will help you to ask about any fine print associated with “free” upgrades or an all-inclusive package.

Know Before You Go

Look into the weather and activities before leaving home. Prebook desired activities and spa treatments online before leaving home to ensure your scheduled appointment. This is important during peak travel times. Also, be comfortable at any port of call. Look into their weather to pack appropriately before setting off. Use a free packing list to get organized and not leave essentials behind. This is a must when responsible for packing for others.

Make your royal holiday a vacation to remember. A little preparation helps to make the most out of your trip.

 

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Cruise TipsDestination TipsMSCRoyal Holiday

Embark on the MSC Ópera with Royal Holiday

by Royal Holiday
written by Royal Holiday

Once you land in Havana, MSC Opera gives you three full days to explore this audacious, yet beautiful island. Havana boasts from castles built in the late 16th century to modernist present-day high-rises.MSC-cruceros-royal-holiday

reserveThere’s so much to see in Havana! Walk along the Malecón, the sea wall that runs along the Havana coastline. Rent an old car and be driven around Havana in style. See a cabaret show at the iconic Tropicana. Take a guided tour of the Havana Club Rum Factory. Sip on a mojito at Hemingway’s “Bodeguita del Medio” favorite bar.  Enjoy an evening of yesteryear at Habana Café. Or take a walking tour with “Havana Frans”, a Dutch jazz photographer who lives on the island.

Habana Cafe

Habana Cafe

Then embark on the MSC Ópera offering everything from spacious new cabins with balconies, restaurants, 8 bars, casino, mini-golf, pools to a Spray Park packed with fun water features, the lavish MSC Aurea Spa, a new Walk Through Shops area, at deck 6, and more.

Ports of call: Montego Bay in Jamaica, George Town in Cayman Islands, Cozumel in Mexico and back to Havana, Cuba.

See all the routes on our website.

Take advantage of your Royal Holiday membership and reserve today!

Cuba is waiting for you!

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
CruiseRoyal at SeaRoyal Holiday

Enjoy to the max the Royal at Sea program

by Royal Holiday
written by Royal Holiday

Royal at Sea brings you unforgettable experiences on board majestic cruises to the world’s most beautiful corners. Get ready for a 24/7 floating adventure-fun journey with everything from recreational activities, nightlife, theatre, spa, casinos, art galleries, extreme sports, to aquatic parks with water slides and surf wave simulators. Enjoy all this and more just by being a Royal Holiday member.

On board activities

On board activities

Taking a cruise means, among other things, tasting scrumptious buffets and a-la-carte menus serving culinary international specialties to entice your palate, day and night. Most cruises offer the All-Inclusive plan, with unlimited meals and beverages.  It’s a great vacation option for families wanting to spend time together during a holiday, or for honeymooners in search of a romantic getaway.

variedad-cruceros-actividades-royal-holiday

Allure of the Seas, Royal Caribbean

Your Royal Holiday membership comes with a number of holiday credits that let you choose the cruise, route, cabin, entertainment-type on board, and length of travel (3 to 11 days).

Allure of the Seas, Royal Caribbean

Allure of the Seas, Royal Caribbean

The Royal at Sea program takes you to Alaska, the Bahamas, Bermuda Islands, the Caribbean, Europe, Hawaii, the Mediterranean, South America and the Mexican Riviera.

Alaska Cruise

Alaska Cruise

Remember to know your ports of landing once you select your cruise.  Whether you the adventure, shopping, nightlife, working out, extreme sports, or sunbathing type, there’s a route and a landing port with activities and adventures for you.

Being a Royal Holiday member lets you choose from over 1,000 cabins in 50 routes and 4 continents navigating on these prestigious cruise lines like Carnival, MSC Norwegian Princess and Royal Caribbean.

 

Mediterranean cruises

Mediterranean cruises

Find a Cruise

Reap the benefits of your membership and conquer the 7 seas!

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail