Depending on the size of the ship there can be plenty to do. Most ships have at least one pool and multiple hot tubs. You can always go for a swim, take a soak, or just sunbathe to work on your tan. Most ships have mini golf available where you can work on your putting skills. On the deck, there are usually sports courts where you can play a game of basketball. Rock climbing is also very popular.

There are nightly shows for your entertainment. I’ve seen comedians, music groups, song and dance crews, and they all have been delightful. It’s a different venue each night so you won’t be bored. In the morning, movies are shown in the theater.

There are all sorts of different bars and dance clubs on the ship as well. You can dance the night away, each night. There are themed dance nights which range from salsa to ballroom.

Art auctions are also very entertaining. You are served free champagne and get to view beautiful art without having to make a purchase. During the day Bingo is played in the community area as well.

There are plenty of things that you can keep yourself occupied on the ship. You won’t have a dull day. You can meet great people and have so much fun.

Interested in taking a cruise? Be sure to read our cruise ship reviews by visiting http://www.CruiseShipReviewer.com/ today.

Group cruise basics

The first step is to find a travel agent that understands booking a group and work with them in tandem to find the best possible option and deal for your group cruise vacation. The person who works with the travel agent will become the designated “tour conductor.” Tour conductors work with a travel agency to make all the travel and onboard arrangements; their primary jobs are recruitment and communication.

Off-peak sailings sometimes offer more generous terms, with some cruise lines offering groups a free fare to every 10th or 14th person. Generally, higher-end cruise lines require fewer paid fares to qualify than do the more mainstream cruise lines.

But what if you can’t round up enough friends or family members to get group benefits? There is still a way you can get group benefits. Many large travel agencies hold what is known as “block space” on ships. That means that they have reserved space at group rates, and can at times offer attractive pricing. Sometimes these agencies hold aside several of the group cabins for individual clients who might be able to depart on the group date – it’s called “piggybacking.” It’s a great way for people to take advantage of a group cruise rate without being in a group.

Group cruise perks

Some cruise lines also offer special perks available only to group cruisers. For example, many cruise lines are now awarding “group amenity points” based on the number of people in the group: the more people, the more points, the more perks. Amenities can include such things as private hosted cocktail parties, cabin upgrades and shipboard credits.

The details of group-travel offerings vary widely by cruise line, itinerary, time of year – even the nature of the group. Don’t be daunted. Travel agencies that specialize in group cruises can help find you find the best sailings and negotiate the best possible deal.

Anita Dunham-Potter is a Pittsburgh-based travel journalist specializing in cruise travel for Princess Cruises. Anita is a weekly travel columnist for MSNBC.com, Consumer Traveler, and her blog at http://ExpertCruiser.com. Additionally, she is a contributor to Fodor’s cruise guides.

Most of the time people going on their first cruise almost always overpack for their trip. When packing for a 7 day cruise to the Caribbean remember that regardless of what time of the year it is you will be wearing shorts almost the entire trip. The majority of your luggage should consist of shorts, swim suits, t-shirts walking shoes and sandals.

This will cover most of the attire that you will need while on your trip. Talk to your cruise agent to find out what kind of events will be going on during your cruise that might require any formal attire. Try to keep your bags to a two count minimum. One suitcase and one carry on bag is all that you need.

Your carry on bag should also be considered your lifeline during your voyage. Be sure to place all essentials and hard to replace items in your carry on. Medications MP3 players and any other difficult to replace items should be with you all the time. It’s also a good idea to place a couple of changes of cloths in your carry on bag.

This can be a real life saver if your suitcase comes up missing and doesn’t make it to the ship right away. Having the extra clothing in your carry on will get you by until the situation gets resolved.

When selecting a carry on bag a backpack makes an excellent choice. It is also ideal for use during shore excursions during your voyage. For more tips for first time cruisers check out How to pack for your 7 day Caribbean cruise. Remember when packing for your cruise that less is always better.

Most people who prefer 3-day cruises belong to the working class group, since they do not have the luxury of taking long vacations. If you are a first-time cruiser, mini cruises are a great way try if cruising is for you.

Aside from these reasons, another advantage of taking 3-day cruises involves the cost. They provide the cheapest way to go on cruise holiday.

Even those who have a full-time job that needs to go to the office will still find 3-day cruises as a best weekend getaway. You do not need to miss long hours to days of work. Most cruise ships leave at around 5 pm, so you only need to take a few hours off work in order to board the ship on time. At the same time, 3-day cruises usually return to port early Monday morning around 7 am.

If you make the necessary preparations prior to your scheduled travel you can even leave straight from the office and to the port. All you need to do is to pack at least the night before and organize everything that you need to bring through a checklist. It will save you a lot of time if you pack all your clothes, travel documents and other miscellaneous things at least the night before. Moreover, if you re-pack your things the night before your scheduled arrival, you can head straight to the office. Be sure to bring a set of work clothes with you. Make sure that it stays free from wrinkles and creases so you would still look smart and presentable when you report for work on the first day of the week.

If you are looking for wild parties aboard cruise ships, mini cruises work best for you. Since most of guests who join these kinds of cruise belongs to the working class, it also follows that most of the guests belong to the younger age group.

You will also get the chance to visit one port of call when you go on a 3-day cruise. Most cruise ships departing from a US port is bounded by the Passenger Vessel Services Act of 1886. This act states that a foreign-flagged cruise ship needs to visit at least one non-US port in order for it to disembark in another foreign port.

Bookacruiseship.com is a blog dedicated to writing about cruising experiences. Visit us if you want to find out more about cruising guidelines especially for first time cruisers, cruise planning tips for the best cruise deals, world cruise and cruise ship reviews.

We invite every cruise enthusiasts to share their own stories on cruising, your cruise ship reviews as well as your tips and suggestions on cruising. Just visit http://bookacruiseship.com/submit-your-articles.

More homeport cruising

Being able to drive to a cruise offers great convenience, not to mention tremendous cost savings by not having to buy airline tickets. All total, there are some 30 close-to-home departures in the United States and Canada. With so many ships in these close-in markets, in 2010 the competition for your cruise dollar will be fierce.

Bigger cruise ships

Cruise lines have gotten the message from travelers and they are delivering more for 2010 – more space, more options, and more fun on the largest cruise ships ever to hit the high seas. Larger ships mean a wider variety of features and amenities from which to choose.

Cruise ship makeovers

The refurbishment of the older ships makes sense for cruise lines, since most aren’t investing huge sums of money to build newer vessels. By “remodeling” what they already own they can add all of the features of the new ‘mega-builds’, which many cruisers appreciate. Older ships are emerging from their new makeovers with new balconies, improved pool areas, updated children and teen areas, more dining venues, and larger spa facilities.

Greener cruise ships

Cruise lines are taking advantage of the latest environmental technology to reduce their carbon footprint. A number of lines have launched initiatives including advanced wastewater purification, shore power, LED lighting, solar power and products made from recycled materials.

More adults-only areas

A number of cruise lines are increasingly catering to passengers seeking al fresco tranquility with the introduction of quiet, adults-only areas on their ships. These areas are usually in quieter parts of the ship and offer relaxation with abundant plush loungers and access to spa treatments, Jacuzzis and bar service.

More enrichment

Cruise lines continue to offer more and more sophisticated programming. Many cruise lines offer informative shipboard talks by famous lecturers on a variety of topics. Additionally, a number of premium and luxury cruise lines also invite arts and culture specialists to lead educational programs. Lectures aside, there are abundant enrichment offerings onboard and the list of options keeps getting bigger. Cruise travelers can take classes in languages, cooking, Web design, advanced digital photography, art history, maritime history, calligraphy, even pottery. There are even active enrichment programs like dance classes and theater.

More theme cruises

Are you a baseball fanatic, into politics, crazy about rock or jazz music? Believe it or not, you can indulge these passions – and a host of others – on a cruise vacation. Theme cruises are growing in popularity as they provide an entertaining and enriching venue for guests sharing the same interests. Best of all, the shared exuberance fosters an easy spirit of camaraderie, making for a great cruise vacation and sometimes lifelong friendships.

More wellness options

Cruise lines are chasing the fitness trend and have incorporated more comprehensive fitness options into their shipboard offerings, including larger pools, and gyms with state-of-the-art equipment that offer popular workout programs like aerobics, Pilates, circuit training and yoga.

Of course all the activities are balanced by the total relaxation guests find in modern shipboard spas. New indulgences include such treatments as an bamboo massage, Thai poultice massage, exotic coconut rub, body wraps, and acupuncture, to name a few. These are just some of the many therapeutic options available should you wish to turn your cruise vacation into a complete health makeover at sea.

More epicurean delights

While the typical cruise ship remains a vessel of culinary indulgence fueled by 24/7 buffets, pizza stands, and ice cream parlors around every corner, many cruise lines have added more gourmet fare for the more sophisticated palate. Most lines offer alternative dining venues where, for an additional fee, guests can indulge in premium fare with many of the menus designed by famous chefs.

With all the new ships, new onboard amenities, educational, health, exercise, and epicurean offerings it’s clear that cruise lines are working hard to make the cruise vacation experience the best it can be. And, that will surely make guests want to come back for more.

Anita Dunham-Potter is a Pittsburgh-based travel journalist specializing in cruise travel for Princess Cruises. Anita is a weekly travel columnist for MSNBC.com, Consumer Traveler, and her blog at www.ExpertCruiser.com. Additionally, she is a contributor to Fodor’s cruise guides.

First of all it is more complicated to book a cruise than other forms of vacations where you just can book airplane tickets and and a hotel room on line. There are a lot of decisions to make and its possible to do some mistakes if you are unexperienced and do not want to spend a lot of time to figure everything out. The safest is to use a travel agent, and you should make sure the travel agent is an experienced cruise specialist.

A cruise travel agent can help you find a cruise that is right for you considering your interests and what you want to get out of a cruise. You can sit down with the agent and find out the possibilities and discuss what will be best for you. It is many possibilities out there and it is almost impossible to know about all of them without a lot of experience.

It is possible to save a great deal of money using an agent. The agents often have good relationships with the travel suppliers and often have access to deals unavailable to others. And even in cases where it looks like you can get a greater deal elsewhere, an agent can help you analyze the different promotions. The cheapest deal is not always the best. The travel agent can also open up more choices and lower prices than the cruise line offer when it comes to addons as pre or post cruise hotel nights.

A cruise travel agent with experience can help answer all your questions about cruising, the different cruise lines and specific cruise ships in addition to questions considering the cruise lines cancellation policy and fine print in the agreements.

If something inadvertently go wrong, you have someone on your side to help you resolve the problem. A good travel agent will negotiate with the cruise line, or the other part, on your behalf. This is an extra safety. If you are unlucky and something happen its good to have someone on your side that have your best interest as their first priority.

If you are planning a cruise, feel free to visit CruiseReviewsGuide to read cruise reviews and gather more information about cruise vacations.

Aswan is towards down south of Egypt and the beauty of river Nile can be seen from this city too. The inland of Aswan is covered by tropical plants and palm trees on high dessert hills. One of the major tourist attractions at Aswan is the massive Aga Khan’s mausoleum.

The Old Cataract hotel has also caught attention of tourist over time, because of the special mention of it in Agatha Christie’s novel “Death on Nile”. Other places which must be visited in Aswan are the Obelisk, granite quarries, the Lake of Nasser which is considered the larges man-made lake. To get a glimpse of the ancient architecture visit the Philae temple, this is also a burial place of Orisis; here evening light and sound shows are conducted for the visitors. The most interesting part of Philae temple is that it is also considered the most romantic place in Egypt and a portion of land is sprawled with beautiful flowers. Because of its romantic charm it is quite popular among the tourists.

The street market of Aswan called the Sharia as Souq is also another popular place which attracts a lot of tourists. Here tourists can buy bargain and buy Egyptian products to take back home. They are particularly famous for perfumes and spices.

Aswan the great city of Egypt is a perfect starting point for the voyage on Egyptian Nile Cruises! John Petersons has been contributing to leading magazines for the past 10 years. He’s also an accredited researcher on the subject for leading research institutes in the US.

There are a lot of balcony state rooms on-board where you can experience the comfort and excitement of cruising. Every state room on the Princess cruise ships are equipped with a television, refrigerator, bathroom with shower, a hair dryer, a private or safety box, a big closet and of course an electrical outlet with volt-amp reading of 110V. Basic amenities like bath and beauty items are all provided in the staterooms. These are just the basics as you can also add extra features to your standard amenities. You can request for fresh fruits or cloth bathrobes. Aside from the balcony state rooms, Princess Cruise ships also have Interior Double state rooms. At such great value for money, passengers are supplied with basic amenities in a sufficient amount of space. There are two twin beds in the interior state room which can be combined to form a queen size bed if you so choose.

The Ocean View state rooms of Princess Cruise lines provide passengers with an amazing view that adds to the perfect cruising ambiance. There are two twin beds in this roomy space, converted to queen size bed if the passenger prefers. Basic amenities and some extra stuff like bathrobes and bed turn down are provided. The Ocean View Deluxe staterooms are ideally for passengers who prefer some more space. The additional space will provide a better view of the ocean. Same basic amenities are given to occupants of these state rooms. The ocean view Double state rooms with balcony provide the occupants with a personal balcony complete with useful patio furniture for lounging in. As usual, basic amenities come with the state room occupancy with twin size beds, television, fridge, etc.

The mini suite plus a balcony is one of the cruise ship accommodations where the passengers are provided with a private balcony for where to enjoy the breathtaking ocean scenery. The interior of the room is spacious and is supplied with all the basic amenities. In addition, the mini suite has extra luxuries for passengers like a separate sitting space or area, a glass of champagne for welcoming the passenger, a sofa bed, lavish pillows and mattresses, another television set, a desk, bath tub and shower head for massaging.

There is also a family suite which can accommodate up to 8 people. The family suite is basically two state rooms interconnected by the living room. Basic amenities are provided. The suite with balcony is spacious and luxurious. There are balcony furniture pieces, mini bar, walk-in closet, use of thermal suite, with laundry and cleaning services and internet use. The Grand suite with balcony is the most luxurious accommodation room of all. All basic and deluxe services are provided to occupants of this room plus a corner tub fixed with whirlpool water jets.

To more information about princess cruises and other cruise lines. Or to find out more about the different princess cruise ships available for your next trip. Please visit Cruises.com.au, Australia’s cruise centre for the latest news & cruise deals.

Things to consider. Unfortunately, most of us need to consider a budget when planning any vacation… a honeymoon is no different. Thinking about money while on your honeymoon does not set the mood for romance, which makes cruising a very attractive honeymoon option. It’s more of an all inclusive type of vacation without unexpected costs of food, taxi’s and entertainment. Variety is another good reason to pick a cruise for your honeymoon! To visit the different locations you do on a cruise would cost twice as much any other way. Would you rather say you went to Venice for your honeymoon, or Venice, Rome and the Greek Islands. Or instead of St Thomas, you could say St Thomas, St Maarten, St Lucia and Antigua.

Another point to consider when planning your honeymoon cruise is the time of year you want to go. For most of you, this is easy. Directly after your wedding of course. Now I’m not saying to plan your wedding date around your honeymoon (although probably not a bad idea), however at least consider the following:

• Spring break (certain cruises are popular for spring breakers)
• Hurricane or typhoon season (depending on the location)
• And weather seasons (can impact your flights to and from the cruise)

I’ve seen countless honeymooners miss their cruise because they were stuck in Chicago or Frankfurt airport due to weather delays. Therefore, factor in delays when planning your flights. What ever you do, fly in a night or two before your cruise date and stay at a hotel, friends or relatives. Having this extra time up your sleeve will relieve a lot of stress during flight delays and ensure you make your cruise on time.

I hope this gives you a head start in your honeymoon planning.

To make the most of your cruise, read my book Cruise Ship Secrets at http://cruisingsuccess.com/ It will help you with beating sea sickness, cruising with kids, saving money, what to expect onboard, what to pack, and a lot more.

Peter Kell
Author of Cruise Ship Secrets

Think about the length of the trip. You can go on short ones that are only three days, or you can go on longer ones that last up to 10 days. Obviously, this is going to affect the overall cost so go on a short one if you don’t want to spend a lot of money and just need a quick getaway. You’ll also want to consider going with other people. Now, it can be fun to go by yourself, but if you can go with a group of friends it will be a total blast. Just be sure that you try to meet new people even if you go to friends, because you can always make new ones on the cruise.

There are several different cruise lines out there, such as Carnival and Cruise West. Depending on what specials they’re running, you can get some pretty good deals so try to get a very low price. You’ll be amazed at what they have to offer sometimes. Also, it’s a good idea to take into account what kind of ship you will be going on. The larger ones have a lot more things to do, but they’re usually more expensive and they usually cover a lot more distance. So it all depends on what you want to get out of the trip.

Mark J Sinclair is an expert on cheap baby shower invitations and he knows all about photo backdrop paper too.