Start planning your trip!
Start planning your trip!
Don't be guiri!
For people who have never booked a holiday on a cruise ship before, it can be a little daunting to know where to begin when doing so. Word of mouth is all well and good, and actually it is a good idea to do a little research online, firstly to find reputable travel agents who are experienced in arranging cruise-style holidays and also to read accounts from other travellers who have already been on the trip that you are planning, you never know, there may be something that you have overlooked that would make this a holiday that is not for you!
Here are a few matters to take into account when planning your first cruise.
Over ninety percent of cruises are still booked through the travel agents as opposed to online, which is remarkable considering how many ‘normal’ holidays are booked on the Internet. Holidaymakers seem more than comfortable buying their travel insurance, booking their flights or arranging car-hire online, so why the difference with cruises? Perhaps it is because cruises are very expensive if people are spending a lot of cash they want to be absolutely sure that their holiday is going to be perfect, or maybe it is just the fact that booking a cruise can be complicated. Also, as with anything that people do for the first time, there will be a host of questions needing expert answers and people looking for advice.
Choosing your cabin, destinations, flights and transfers, it is a lot to organize with no help at all, and so easy to make a mistake, that many cruise lines do not even give customers the option for booking online as they know from experience how complicated it can be. Also, cruise liners will only be able to advise you on the specific cruises they have on offer, whereas a travel agent can help you choose which particular cruise line is most suited to your own needs.
Take time to speak with a few different travel agents to find one who you are happy with, shop around until you are satisfied you are dealing with an agent who knows exactly what they are speaking about, and make sure you write a list of questions that are important to you and make sure you get answers to each of them. Here are a few ideas for information that you need to know.
Firstly, where do you want to go? Jot down the countries that you are wanting to visit and see which cruises cover the destinations that are of interest to you. The more popular your destinations, the greater choice of cruise liners you will have to pick from. The Caribbean, Scandinavia, the Canary Islands and the Baltics are all areas that are covered by many cruise companies.
How long do you wish to travel for? There are long haul cruises that cover many destinations and shorter ones that concentrate on a smaller area, like the Canary Islands for example, taking in Lanzarote, Tenerife, Las Palamas and Fuertaventura. Also, bear in mind that some cruises require an overnight stay in a hotel if you are joining the cruise in a foreign location. Take a look at the new Conquistador hotel if you are heading to the Canaries.
Which ship will be best suited for my holiday? Each cruise ship, has their own style and ambience and are focused on attracting specific types of people. Gone are the days when cruising was solely aimed at the well-to-do older ladies and gentlemen for whom dining at the captains table would be the ultimate attraction for their holiday! Be sure to ask about on-board entertainment and also find out about mealtimes and what kind of foods will be served. Larger ships have all manner of ways to keep you occupied while on board, from swimming pools to libraries, ice-rinks to health spa’s and nightclubs to ballrooms, it’s up to you to check which is right for you.
How long before my holiday should I book? The earlier you book your cruise the better! Cruise liners offer special discounts such as early bird discounts and even vouchers to be used on-board to spend on drinks and day trips. Also, there will be a greater choice of cabin available for those early bookers.
What will I get for my money? It is vital to know what you will have to pay for on-board the ship. It is normal for food to be included, plus the use of facilities that are provided, however some will charge for fine dining, spa treatments and use of sports facilities. Also, find out if port taxes are included in the cost of your cruise. Port taxes are the amount various ports charge the ship for being docked there. Most ships do not carry money, so any additional costs you incur on your trip, will be added to an account which you then pay at the end of your holiday, be clear as to what you will and will not be charged for.
Remember, to make the most of your holiday, find out everything you can before you go, this way, you’ll be cruising through your vacation and having the splendid experience you deserve!
Bon Voyage!
From time to time we all need to cut back, and sometimes it can feel as though the holiday budget could be better used elsewhere. But holidays are important for our overall wellbeing and it’s essential to get away from the daily grind every now and then in order to help you fully relax, before coming back feeling reinvigorated and revitalised. Whether you’re after local breaks in the UK or cheap holidays abroad, there are plenty of different tips and tricks to help you find your perfect break.
Firstly, try to book well in advance. This is particularly advisable if you’re booking a scheduled flight, as those low fares only go up in price the closer you get to your departure date. This is a useful tactic for package holidays too, as tour operators will typically offer early bird deals on holidays departing a year or so in advance – especially during new brochure or season launches.
If you’re considering a far-flung getaway such as the Dominican Republic in the Caribbean, Lake Cain Hills holidays in Florida or perhaps a once-in-a-lifetime trip to the Maldives, booking ahead is most certainly the safest option. That way you get extra time to pay off the cost of your trip, plus you’ll have longer to plan what you want to do and save some spending money too.
The alternative where package holidays or hotels are concerned is to book late, and this remains a firm favourite among many holidaymakers. Late deals can present huge savings on the original cost of the holiday, but availability is obviously limited so you will need to keep an open mind and be flexible in order to go with the best deals.
However you book, there are plenty of bargain breaks to be had both home and abroad. Which one will you choose?
The thriving seaside town of Brighton on the south coast of England is an incredible destination no matter what the time of year. Whether you’re travelling with family, friends or your loved one, there’s a vast array of activities, attractions and events to keep you occupied.
Music, theatre and performance are a big part of the evening entertainment in this buzzing location. From the popular cabaret events presented by Proud to the multitude of popular bands and touring stage productions, you could easily find something that appeals. Spend a cheap weekend by the seaside and enjoy a concert before sampling the nightlife on offer. Eliminate the stress of late night transport and stay for the evening in comfort at your chosen accommodation.
1. Zappa Plays Zappa – 11.11.12 @ Brighton Centre
Dweezil, the son of the late legend Frank Zappa, showcases his father’s work in his latest tour. Reminisce with the fabulous guitar sounds of the master; Zappa Plays Zappa is a perfect tribute to one of the greatest guitarists to enter the music scene. From the early 60s rhythms to the 80s, enjoy an evening of pure rock genius.
2. Happy Mondays – 30.11.12 @ Brighton Centre
With a successful comeback tour last year under their belt, the Happy Mondays return once more with the full original line up. Revel in the classic Madchester sounds as the ever-bouncy Bez keeps you entertained on percussion.
3. Keane – 2.12.12 @ Brighton Centre
Join the indie boys as they continue their UK & Ireland tour. With international success and catchy tunes for their audience to join in with, it’ll surely be a quality gig for the indie rockers in town.
4. Tinchy Stryder – 29.11.12 @ Concorde 2
This is the rescheduled gig by the “Star in the Hood”, Tinchy Stryder. He’ll be entertaining his Concorde audience with his unique grime sounds this November.
5. Electric Six – 11.12.12 @ Concorde 2
The six-piece US band that bought us the instantly recognisable “Danger! High Voltage” back in 2003 return with an eclectic mix of tunes from their 9 studio albums.
6. Driving Miss Daisy – 12.11.12 – 17.11.12 @ Theatre Royal
After a sell out run in London’s West End, this heart-warming adaptation of the Oscar-winning smash continues its limited season tour.
7. The Vagina Monologues – 22.11.12 @ Theatre Royal
Starring household names, Clare Buckfield, Hayley Tamaddon and Corrie favourite, Vicky Entwistle, the West End success story is back with its raucous comedic performance; a perfect treat for every lady in your life.
8. An Evening of Burlesque – 24.11.12 @ Theatre Royal
Enjoy another spectacular straight from the West End and all the sultry, breathtaking frivolity that comes with it.
9. Dolly Parton’s 9 to 5 – 10.12.12 to 15.12.12 @ Theatre Royal
This new musical direct from Broadway, with its all-star cast, is based on the hit movie of the same name and will wow audiences everywhere with its perfect mix of music and comedy performance.
10. Rocky Horror Picture Show – 20.12.12 to 5.1.13 @ Theatre Royal
Everyone’s favourite rock n roll musical is back with its vivacious night of fun and scandal. Join in and dress to the nines; don’t forget the Timewarp moves!
If you visit Brighton this winter you will enjoy the heaps of live entertainment on offer. You know you want to 😉
There are a number of things that needs consideration when you plan a safari, from the kind of safari to what kind of animals you want to see. And when we talk about safari, the place that comes to one’s mind is Africa, which is in-fact the best place to experience an action packed safari. Each national park and reserve in Africa has something unique to offer and a safari vacation in Africa is an experience of a lifetime.
A safari vacation is the answer to an action packed escape from your daily life, but one needs to plan wisely as it’s not like your regular vacation. To help you enjoy a hassle free safari trip, here are some quick tips:
1. While on a safari you never know when you get to see something spectacular so always keep your camera nearby.
2. It is Africa but then too you need some warm clothes, early mornings can be chilly and you will surely need some warm clothing.
3. Binoculars are an essential item when packing for a safari trip, there can be times when you see something at a distance and want to see it closely that is the time when your “bins” will prove helpful. Carry them!!
4. Make the most out of the trip; don’t crib about not being able to see a lion just like the way they show in BBC documentaries. Make the trip enjoyable by noticing birdlife, insects etc.
5. Travelers are advised to carry bug and mosquitoes spays, especially if it’s an overnight safari.
6. Check whether you are required to take any vaccines before traveling to the place you are planning to visit.
7. Don’t forget taking sun block as the sun in the day is scorching and can give you a good sun-tan.
8. Cut down on your packing as most of the lodges provide you with free laundry service. Whoa!! What better than that.
9. Last but not the least always keep an extra battery for your camera as we are sure you don’t want to miss picture opportunities.
10. Always book your travel with a reputed operator. If budget is a concern book your flight tickets well in advance as fishing for last minute deals in not everyone’s cup of tea.
The development of outdoor activities is presented as an excellent choice in any season, especially in summer when the weather is right for activities such as camping fun.
Camping is an activity that takes place outdoors, it consists of pitch tents or tents in places far from civilization usually in mountains and valleys, this practice is common in people who like contact with nature.
The development of a campsite must be based on certain rules in order to avoid any inconvenience, some useful tips to consider before you go camping are:
• Bring canned food for several days.
• Have on hand a repellent for the insects away.
• Keep matches.
• Always keep in mind to bring a flashlight and batteries.
• Have a first aid kit.
• Bring an extra blankets.
• Have warm clothes in the luggage.
• Never forget the sunscreen.
• And, very importantly, never forget a razor.
Although it is advisable to carry many more items firsthand, these are the most important in cases of emergency.
