Select, Europe, Cruise
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A European cruise is a great choice whether you’ve been to Europe or whether you’re a first time traveler. It’s an exhilarating experience unlike any other you’ll embark upon, and this is why it’s important to select a European cruise that will meet your needs, expectations and your budget.
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Parts of Europe to Consider
Obtain free travel brochures from a travel agent so you can view the many options. Most travel agents are more than happy to provide them without obligation.;
Work with a trusted travel agent who is eager to make your dreams a reality by helping you select a destination that will meet your expectations as well as your budget.;
Talk to friends and acquaintances that have taken a European cruise, and inquire as to the pros and cons of their trip.;
Visit your local library to learn more about the history, culture and etiquette of particular European cruise destinations.;
Base your final destination decision on points of interest, expectations and affordability.;
Consider an Eastern Mediterranean cruise that encompasses Greece, Italy and Turkey. An Eastern Mediterranean cruise may offer land tours in ports of call such as Lebanon, Cyprus, Egypt or Israel, and the ancient archaeological sites there are a must-see.;
If you’re an art enthusiast or if you appreciate beautiful architecture, select a Western Mediterranean cruise that will take you to Florence, Barcelona and Rome. The western area encompasses the southern coast of France, Italy and Spain.;
A Western Mediterranean cruise to the Italian and French Riviera, Monte Carlo and Mallorca are a perfect for those who want to bask in the sun and enjoy the many beautiful beaches.;
A cruise around the Baltics and Scandinavia is an option to ponder. Ports of call include Helsinki, Copenhagen, Saint Petersburg, Stockholm, Oslo, Riga and Tallinn. There are numerous historical sites of interest as well as breathtaking architecture.;
Consider the Atlantic Ocean islands. These include Madeira and the Canary Islands where you can enjoy pleasant temperatures year-round, and the northern Atlantic islands of Faroe, Shetland and Iceland, which are primarily summer cruise destinations.;
Think about a Black Sea cruise that boards from Athens or Istanbul. Destinations include Bulgaria, the Ukraine and Romania. There you can delve into the rich history of the Soviet Union and experience various cultures simultaneously.;
Ponder a European river cruise that spans the heart of Europe. Most major cities that border a river offer river cruises, and this is a great way to see many European cities on one fabulous trip.;
Because of considerable time zone differences and jetlag, a seven-day European cruise sometimes isn’t long enough. If your time and budget allows, consider opting for a ten or fourteen-day cruise.;
If you’re interested in the Norwegian fjords, be sure to book a cruise that travels to western Norway. People sometimes make the mistake of booking a northern European cruise and miss out on this magnificent site.;
When to Cruise
Find out which times of year are feasible for the cruise of your choice. Not all cruises are available year-round.;
Ask your travel agent or cruise specialist how far in advance you’ll need to book your cruise. Some cruises fill up fast, especially during certain times of the year.;
To avoid disappointment, find out if certain attractions you want to see will be open when you’re thinking of taking your cruise and plan your vacation accordingly.;
Do your homework and find out all you can about the climate of your destination. This will help you decide when to select your European cruise.;
Consider holidays and school breaks when deciding on when to take your cruise. If you have kids, you’ll want to plan around their schedule, and if you don’t have kids, you might want to avoid holiday breaks.;
If a Mediterranean cruise is your preference, fall and spring offer the most pleasant temperatures. Temperatures onshore can be uncomfortably hot in the summer.;
Northern European cruises typically run from late spring to early fall, and late summer provides the most pleasant temperatures.;
If you’re considering a cruise to the British Isles and the general vicinity, early fall and late summer are the most ideal months for sunshine and pleasant temperatures.;
Hurricane season runs from June 1st to November 30th, so be aware that bad weather could affect your travel plans.;
Cost and Budgeting
Form a budget and take it into consideration when booking your cruise.;
Make a final decision on a travel agent or cruise specialist and secure their services. They have the best deals available.;
Make a wish list of amenities and perks you’d like on your European cruise.;
Consider the perks compared to cost. Eliminate luxuries you can live without.;
Pay for any shore excursions and extras in advance for convenience and ease of budgeting.;
If you’re looking for a real bargain and are willing to risk waiting, check out last minute rates approximately sixty days prior to your desired date of departure. This is when most cancellations occur, and you’re more likely to find the lowest possible rates.;
Don’t make the mistake of overlooking the fine print. Something that might seem like a bargain at first glance might not be when you consider what you’re getting or not getting for the money.;
Don’t make the mistake of thinking you can get your money back should you change your mind on taking the trip. Find out about the refund and cancellation policy in advance to avoid unpleasant surprises.;
Cabin Choices
Request a map of the cabin choices and think carefully before making your selection. Consider noise level as well as the view.;
Ask to see pictures of cabin choices to help make your decision easier.;
Request a detailed list of included amenities. You wouldn’t want to be stuck with a cabin that doesn’t meet your minimum requirements.;
Consider how many people are in your party and select your cabin accordingly.;
Reserve your cabin in advance and know what’s included before making a final decision.;
Upgrades are usually made available to former guests first, so take this into consideration when booking your cabin.;
If you want peace and quiet, avoid booking a cabin in a high traffic area. You won’t be happy hearing voices and doors opening and closing all night long.;
Don’t make the mistake of booking a cabin that’s too small for your party. You’ve invested in the trip of a lifetime and you might as well spend a little more to ensure your comfort.;
Don’t assume your cabin will include a porthole window. If you want a view of the ocean make certain your cabin is located on the outer side of the ship.;
Entertainment and Activities
Find out in advance the types of entertainment available on cruises.;
If you have kids, make sure there’s enough to keep them busy on board.;
Sign up for shows and activities in advance to make sure you get in on the fun.;
Sign up early for onshore excursions and find out the cost.;
Budget money for activities that cost extra.;
Cruise ship activities and entertainment are completely optional, and you’ll never be forced to participate in anything you don’t want to participate in.;
Don’t feel that because you’ve paid for a European cruise that you have to include yourself in ship activities. If you want to relax, by all means relax.;
Take the time to wander around the ship. You might discover activities and entertainment you might otherwise have never considered.;
Don’t assume that once you’ve paid for your ticket that everything else is included. Shore excursions aren’t usually free, but they’re usually fairly affordable. Consider the cost of shore excursions when budgeting your entertainment.;
Search http://www.hollandamerica.com for detailed information on various options and considerations on booking a European cruise.;
Visit http://www.weatherunderground.com/tropical for current hurricane information and forecasts.;
Go to http://www.cruises4less.com for information on budgeting the cruise of your dreams.;
Check out http://www.travelocity.com, and take a look at the entertainment reviews.;
Visit http://www.destinationoceans.com for photos and detailed descriptions of popular cruise cabins.;
