Cheap All Inclusive Cruises

Description

Listen to a free companion podcast! On a cruise vacation, getting there is half the fun—or more. Even if you’re a land lubber, this guide will get you ready and eager to set sail. You’ll learn what to expect and how to enjoy every minute—on board or in port. As the authors write, “The captain does the driving, the chef does the cooking, the bartenders do the pouring, and the stewards make your bed.” You unpack once and then relax and enjoy. Discover how to pick the cruise for you and choose great things to do, with: Reviews of the best cruise lines and specifics such as the best ships for families, best romantic cruises, best party cruises, best small ship cruises, and more Overviews of popular cruise ports in the Caribbean, Alaska, the Mediterranean, the Mexican Riviera, Hawaii, and New England and Eastern Canada Special icons that point out Bargain Alerts, Heads Ups (warnings about tourists traps, unsafe neighborhoods, etc.), and Kid-Friendly options Info on onboard entertainment and activities, food, spa offerings, shopping, gambling, and children’s activities Recommendations on the top attractions and best shore excursions at popular ports Details on everything from passport requirements to packing tips, and from embarkation day to clearing customs Like every For Dummies travel guide, Cruise Vacations For Dummies 2007 helps you make the most of your vacation. It includes: Down-to-earth trip-planning advice Info on the best ships for every budget Tips on sightseeing at ports of call Handy Post-it Flags to mark your favorite pages Whether you’re looking for adventure on the high seas or laid-back fun in the sun, get your sea legs and get set for smooth sailing with this friendly guide.

Reviews

I was a dummie about cruises, no more

by Laura V. Dierking from Georgia, USA on 2010-03-03
This was a great book. I am dreaming of a cruise and after going over this book I now know I will pick just the right cruise. It lists all the cruise lines (at 2007) and gives details on everything. Thank you for a great book.

Cruise Vacatoins For Dummies

by Chester Adkins from on 2010-02-04
This has been a very helpful book for us. We are going on our first cruise and the information is great.

review

by Patricia A. Dwyer from springfield, mo on 2009-11-19
great info for someone like me who has never been on a cruise. it will help me know which lines are a good fit and which to avoid because the people on them are not my type of fun.

Cruise for Dummies

by Michael J. Burton from Detroit Area, Michigan, United States, Planet Earth on 2008-06-22
An excellent book if you have never been on a cruise, once you have gone it is kind of useless.

A Thorough Guide But Too Much Like Advertising For The Cruise Lines

by Chris Luallen from Nashville, Tennessee on 2007-10-06
For those interested in taking a cruise this book serves as a very thorough guide. It discusses pretty much all of the available cruises. It talks about planning your cruise and what experiences are available on board - spas, shows, activities and, of course, lots of food. It also covers the excursions available at the different ports of call and where each cruise line goes to, with an emphasis on the Caribbean, Alaska and the Mediterranean.The only reason I am deducting a star is that the writers give only rave reviews for every cruise line. It seemed like they were often just advertising for the cruise companies rather than offering objective opinions that would be useful for its readers. This made it hard to figure out which cruise lines were best because the writers made each one sound so wonderful. So readers seeking to narrow their options might want to go online to the websites where people offer reviews on their cruising experiences rather than rely on this book.But for all the nuts and bolts information on planning a cruise, what places you can cruise to and what activites are available, both at sea and on shore, this book is an excellent choice.

Description

This most comprehensive guide on the cruise vacation and all its aspects lists the major ports of call, details on attractions, restaurants, shopping, and recreation, as well as guidelines on how to make the most of an eight-hour stay in port. The history of each vessel, vital statistics, physical details, evaluations in the form of stars, and price categories for over 280 ships are presented. Numerous photographs of ships, decks, and interiors are included, along with actual shipboard menus and daily activity programs.

Description

Each year, over 11 million people take a cruise vacation. Cruising has become one of the fastest growing vacation alternatives in the 21st century. The experience of cruising is unlike any other. If you have never cruised before, imagine being pampered at a luxurious resort and waking up each morning to a brand new, stunning view of the world. But your first cruise can be a little confusing, and you may not know what to expect or what to do. You could spend much of your vacation just figuring out how the cruise vacation works. Do not waste a moment of your precious vacation time if you want to take the plunge and go on your first cruise. This new book will be your traveling companion and answer the myriad of questions that arise when planning a cruise. By reading this book, you will learn what to expect while on a cruise. You will learn how to choose a cruise line, ship, and cabin, how to choose a cruise vacation, how to pick a destination, how to avoid cruise scams, how to book online, how to cruise on a budget, how to watch for hidden costs, how to book excursions, how to pack, how to get to the cruise terminal, how to get married onboard, how to connect back to home, how tipping works, how to plan a reunion or family cruise, and how to get off the ship. You will become knowledgeable about cruising myths, planning timelines, cruise insurance, cruising terms, travel agents, air/sea packages, sailing ship and river cruises, pre and post-cruise travel, what clothing to bring, special needs passengers, singles on cruises, seniors on cruises, cruise costs, group cruises, last minute packages, passports and other critical documentation, travel rules and regulations, luggage, daily newsletters, room service, sports and exercise areas, seasickness, duty free port shopping, entertainment, libraries and game rooms, bars and lounges, private receptions, the spa, compulsory safety drills, life rafts, on board activities, the purser s desk, cruise cards, the dreaded norovirus, security, formal nights, pictures, your cell phone, walkie talkies, your final bill, and U.S. customs. In addition, we will answer the questions you might be too embarrassed to ask, such as: Why a cruise vacation? What is a guaranteed cabin? Which dining time is best? What should I expect? What will my cabin be like? Will I get wet when I go snorkeling? All this and more than you need to know for your first cruise will be covered in this new book.

Reviews

A must read

by S. Nash from on 2009-07-10
I was blown away by the details, suggestions, and information provided in the book. Your First Cruise is well written, complete guide, and must read for anyone thinking of taking a cruise. Chatfield takes you outside the boat with his ideas, suggestions, and insights. Following his advice you are sure to have a wonderful time and make it an experience to remember. Taking you beyond the cruise to your return home, he offers sound advice for any traveler.

A no-nonsense, get-to-the-point guide to cruising

by Reader Rachel from on 2009-05-08
Mention the word "cruise" and up rise images of your dream destination - sandy beaches with snorkeling and fishing, a hot rainforest with exotic animals, the snow sports of Alaska. Going on a cruise sounds like heaven; it's the planning part that gets in the way. Fortunately, T. Brian Chatfield lays out the basic--and not so basic--steps to help first time cruisers combat problems before they set foot on the boat. Chatfield breaks it down into two manageable sections: a) what you need to know about taking your first cruise, and b) what you need to know about the cruise lines. This two-pronged approach allows readers first to gain footing in choosing the right type of cruise, how to prepare, what to expect, and what to pack; followed by question-and-answer sessions with representatives from 11 cruise lines detailing where they sail, what they offer, and a round-up of their services. Chatfield covers the topic of cruises with a passionate thoroughness. His research and fine execution give readers the option of reading cover to cover or skimming specific sections that pertain to their situations. Your First Cruise shines as both a resource and an enjoyable read, a rare combination. I have never been on a cruise. After reading this book, I see that's going to change.

A fine choice for any library strong in travel

by Midwest Book Review from Oregon, WI USA on 2009-01-12
Set sail on a cruise and discern all the savvy details in advance, from tipping to itineraries, with a book that is based on information from 11 of the largest cruise companies. The book helps consumers understand differences between cruise lines and offered programs, helping readers compare the different cruise lines and understand what will happen on a first cruise. A fine choice for any library strong in travel; especially collections catering to seniors.

Cruising to a great read!

by Tim Connors from FL on 2008-10-20
A voyage to see the majestic glaciers of Alaska. A slow ride through the Panama Canal or possibly a week long jaunt to the golden coast of Italy. And what better way to see these and many other wonderful sights than from the bow of a ship.Gone is the era of Captain Stubing and his nautical adventures on the "Love Boat" replaced by water borne tributes to luxury and pampering. In "Your First Cruise", by T. Brian Chatfield, a finely detailed examination of the planning, preparation and all paths that lead to "shove off" is offered, as well as many minute details that range from off beat destinations and far from the beaten path activities in your port of call to packing advice and customs regulations and duties in many of the exotic ports.Mr. Chatfield has, it seems, and lucky him, to have taken many a voyage and kept incredible notes from each. His in-depth knowledge of each of the cruise lines, their quirks and offerings, destinations, rules and refreshment policies, coupled with the numerous resources he has compiled at the end that include websites for everything from traveling families to what scams are currently in play inside the cruise industry, offer the neophyte "cruiser" a wealth of information that all but books the cruise for you. "Your First Cruise" is a must have for both the world traveler and someone looking into their first water excursion.RATING: 4 stars

A Great Find For All First Cruisers!

by Ginger L. Robinson from on 2008-10-08
A Complete Guide to Planning and Attaining the Perfect Cruise Vacation Author: T. Brian Chatfield Reviewer: R. Ginger RobinsonI am one of the 40% of people who have not experienced the joy of a cruise, however I heard the rave reviews of friends and family members regarding the cruises they have taken and have always been intrigued. I have to admit, now that I've read this guide, I'm a bit more than intrigued, I have wondered how I can make a cruise a reality for myself and my immediate family as well. From the opening of the first chapter, Mr. Chatfield engages the reader with captivating history about the cruise history industry. History isn't normally something anybody would run to hear, but the presentation of this information is as though he is speaking to you, his good friend. The ins and outs of the cruise industry and how it affects you as a consumer continue to flow succinctly from chapter to chapter with down to earth advice such as how to choose the cruise that is right for you and your pocket, how the cruise staff works to keep you protected to even more in depth insight of avoiding falling prey to cruise scams. Brian Chatfield pulls out information that I have to admit I hadn't thought about such as securing passports, what types of items are safe to purchase while on your trip, and even how to choose the correct luggage for any flights you may have to take. He gives honest and refreshing information as to the pros and cons of this type of trip and even the cons seem as though they are manageable. When I saw how many pages this book had, I thought surely such insignificant information could be given in brochure form or most assuredly less than twenty pages, but the immense wealth of information contained in these chapters is like an unearthed treasure trove not to be ignored. Brian Chatfield presents honest tactics to secure your trip with checklists of the steps that need to be taken care of before, after and during your trip. This book comes complete with information on cruise ship industries, both the small and larger ships and the benefits of booking cruises with either. There is contact information and a listing of what you can expect on these particular ships. There are carefully thought out plans to make a cruise happen for every reader presented in a candidly refreshing and easily readable manner. I always thought "how to" books had a pointless quality, yet after experiencing firsthand mismanagement of situations that could have been alleviated with the proper advisement and planning, the extra help is welcome. Upon completion of this book, I felt prepared to plan and take a relaxing cruise. Out of 5 stars, I give this complete guide 5 stars.

Description

The CruiseMinder Journal is ideal for anyone planning to take a cruise. First, it offers pre-departure suggestions such as what to take, tips for packing, a packing checklist, an agenda for planning daily activities, pages for emergency information, addresses for writing home, and much more. Once underway, the roomy daily diary pages are just the right size to chronicle up to 31 days' adventures at sea or ashore. There are also pages for noting details about the ship, the crew, and new friends, too! In the back of the book is a nautical glossary and reference maps of the world. Of course, there are pages to attach photos and also a vinyl pocket for additional photos, cards, receipts, etc. Once home, the CruiseMinder will be a lasting and priceless souvenir of any ocean-going experience! This delightful journal sports a deep purple & gold cover with a spiral binding for ease of writing. Nautical graphics on most pages make it extra fun to use...and a great gift, too!

Features

• ISBN13: 9780963796851
• Condition: New
• Notes: BUY WITH CONFIDENCE, Over one million books sold! 98% Positive feedback. Compare our books, prices and service to the competition. 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed

Reviews

Not an up to date Journal

by willy from on 2010-03-23
The Journal is ok, but the calendars are out of date. Amazon found no error, and wants to charge me shipping to send it back.

Wonderful organizational tool for your cruise

by Alice Berger from North Carolina, USA on 2009-07-07
You've just booked the cruise of a lifetime, and although it may be months in the future, you know you've got a lot of planning to do before your big trip. The CruiseMinder Journal was created with all your needs in mind.Divided into four sections, this journal is designed to make sure you stay organized. The first part is the anticipation section, which includes information on packing, planning your agenda, a mini address book for postcards you'll send, and anything you'll need to do once you get home again. The next section is your daily diary, where you can record any activities you participated in, along with general thoughts about the day. The third section allows you to record information about the ship, the crew, expenses incurred, and any new friends you've made while on the cruise. And the reference section has helpful nautical terms and maps.The journal pages are of high-quality paper, with a spiral binding and sturdy cover. An introductory section explains how to use this journal for maximum effectiveness. This pretty and useful little book will record the details of your cruise for a lifetime of memories.Reviewer: Alice Berger, Bergers Book Reviews

Awesome cruise planner & diary!

by Gadget Girl from Alexandria, VA on 2008-07-18
This Cruise Planner was my bible in planning an 18-day transatlantic cruise. There were plenty of extra pages to list our tour information, things we wanted to see, and other important info. We were able to list our medical insurance & travel insurance information, itinerary and wardrobe planning, packing checklist, addresses for writing home as well as gift ideas for people and homecoming reminders (pick up the dog, pay bills, etc). While onboard the ship, I took notes about where we ate, what we did in port. This was great because after so many port stops you forget what the significance of things you took pictures of, the name of that great restaurant you want to recommend to friends, etc. There are also sections to list ship information (ship statistics, captain, crew members) and a "new friends address book." I was also able to log our purchases by category and date in the 4 page expense journal...This book is so awesome - I highly recommend for your cruise vacationing, especially cruises of longer than 7 days or very port-intensive trips where you are doing a lot of private or on-your-own shore excursions. I will be buying a new journal for every cruise I take.

A winner

by Peregrina from Boston, MA United States on 2008-02-25
Before my last vacation, I bought three different travel planner/journals to try out; one was computer based (and I did use it for some data organizing but found that printing it out wasn't as handy or as easy to pack as a notebook) and two were notebooks. One of the notebooks is still buried at the bottom of some pile of papers while the CruiseMinder Journal became my constant companion. It took all my planning notes before the trip and became my journal during the trip.Since I wasn't up to designing my own travel journal, CruiseMinder had the features I thought that I would want and use: places for organizing trip basics like emergency info, reservation numbers, phone numbers; a planner/agenda section for organizing day-by-day activities; packing lists; an addressbook; a place to keep track of expenses; a large section of formated journal pages with plenty of room for my own day-by-day notes.The CruiseMinder is simple and practical. There are no avant-garde cutsey quotes or distracting artwork. The typefaces are simple and legible. There are ruled lines everywhere I need to write. The paper is heavy enough that 1)you can write in pen on both sides of the pages and 2) it doesn't pull out of the plastic coil binding. The fact that it is spiral bound made it a lot easier to stuff notes and receipts between the pages as the trip went on.I am very disorganized so the CruiseMinder was very helpful for me to keep all the necessary information in one place. In fact, I'm here today buying another CruiseMinder for my next trip.

Description

THE PURSERDiscover the most intimate secrets of life aboard a cruise ship. Take part in the daily activities of the officers and crew. Meet the passengers who, for better or worse, become part of the ship’s lore. Experience life at sea…!_____________________The Purser: A recent college graduate joins a cruise ship in the Caribbean as assistant purser with the intention of doing some traveling. "For a couple of years," he tells himself. As the years pass he becomes used to the life of a seaman, a life he enjoys, a life that provides for all his needs, except for the love and companionship of a woman. One evening he meets a passenger. For the purser she represents the real world, as opposed to a world of cocktail parties and elegant dining, shows and Calypso bands, sea breezes and tropical islands. He forgets, however, that he met her aboard the ship's world of fantasy. In the ensuing conflict between his desire to be with her and his love for the sea he realizes that, as with the rest of the men aboard, it is too late for him to go back, for he is now a seaman and the sea is his only home.About the Author: Walter Aschiero holds degrees in computer information systems and modern languages. He has served as purser aboard cruise ships of Bahamian, Finnish, Italian and Norwegian registry. In addition to ships and the sea, his interests include literature, mountaineering, martial arts, and a lifelong passion for the fine art of tea.

Reviews

A Seaman's Tale of Unrequited Love

by Greg Fenderson from Sea Cliff, New York United States on 2009-06-05
This light read is a well written description of what life aboard a cruise ship was like for one young man before mega-ships. The author weaves a tale around what we're lead to believe his life was like as a Purser aboard this vessel that plies the Caribbean from its Miami homeport; we see the outcome of his infatuation with a passenger early on, before he does, sadly, and we're left to ponder what might have been. Ahh, but what sweet memories...

Description

Who doesn’t dream of experiencing the ultimate cruise vacation? To plan such a vacation, however, you need a few handy tips, which the 80-page eBook, “How To Have An Unforgettable Cruise Vacation” is full of. Packed with hot tips about exciting cruising hot spots, this excellent book teaches you how to plan the ultimate cruising trip so that you and your family can have a great vacation.These Are Some Of The Tips You Will Find In The Book : * Why Take A Cruise? * What Is There To Do On A Cruise? * Where To Go On A Cruise * Cruises With Themes * Taking A Cruise: A Checklist * Choosing The Best Cruise Lines * Making Your Cruise Plans * How Do You Book A Cruise? * Booking A Cruise For Less * Booking Your Cruise Online * The Best Times To Take A Cruise * Cruise Lines At Your Service * To Insure Proper Service * Getting Your Drink On * Doing It On Your Own * Best Ways Of Planning Your Best Cruises * How To Find Cruise Travel Deals On The Web * Your Cruise: Do You Use A Travel Agent Or The Web? * A Word About Travel Agents * A Great Cruise Deals Waiting On The Last Minute * Mediterranean Cruises: Soak In The Sun * Mediterranean Cruises: Finding The Deals * Mediterranean Cruises: Carnival Cruises * Mediterranean Cruises: Places To Visit * Mediterranean Cruises: Making The Most Out Of Your Cruise * Alaska Cruise: Cold Place, Warm Nature Loving Person * Have A Break, Have Thrill And Excitement With Alaska Cruise * Carnival Cruise Lines: Traveling In Style * Carnival Cruise: Experiencing A Cruise Vacation With The Most Popular Cruises On Earth * All-In-One Vacation Getaway Through Celebrity Cruise Line * Have Fun On-Board With Carnival Cruise Line * Vacation With Carnival Cruise Lines * Disney Cruise Line- Serving Your Child’s Satisfaction * Cruises Designed For Kids * Single Cruises: The Best Place For Singles To Find A Companion * Cruises For Everyone * Common Myths About Cruises * Cruise Ship Jobs- Cater Great Opportunity * How To Save Money On Your Cruise----------------------------------------------------Dear ebook Readers:We are dedicated to providing our customers with cutting edge information with the latest and most popular ebooks & hot topics at very affordable prices. Our mission is to create positive change in your life. We carry hundreds of unique titles including "Literary Classics" under many categories for your convenience. Please click on the name "prime ebooks" at the top of the page, next to the title, or write "prime ebooks" at the search box and you will be taken to our main page in Amazon, where you will be able to check all the interesting, unique and informative titles that we carry at Amazon Kindle.

Description

This most comprehensive guide on the cruise vacation and all its aspects lists the major ports of call, details on attractions, restaurants, shopping, and recreation, as well as guidelines on how to make the most of an eight-hour stay in port. The history of each vessel, vital statistics, physical details, evaluations in the form of stars, and price categories for over 280 ships are presented. Numerous photographs of ships, decks, and interiors are included, along with actual shipboard menus and daily activity programs.

Features

• ISBN13: 9781589807105
• Condition: New
• Notes: BUY WITH CONFIDENCE, Over one million books sold! 98% Positive feedback. Compare our books, prices and service to the competition. 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed

Reviews

Book to decide your next destination

by Reader Views from Austin, Texas on 2007-01-12
Reviewed by Olivera Baumgartner-Jackson for Reader Views (1/07)Theodore W. Scull's "100 Best Cruise Vacations" is a well-researched and well-organized book on cruising, which should prove valuable to anybody looking for an idea for their next cruise.The first-time cruisers will undoubtedly find useful the detailed information on itinerary, the ship, passengers, officers, crew, dress codes, cabins, fare and contact info for the cruise line. One of the most useful pieces of information, in my opinion, is what exactly is or is not included in the fare price. This information could be particularly confusing for somebody leaving on their first cruise and the comprehensive info provided by Mr. Scull will help to avoid any unpleasant surprises. The information included in the itinerary section is pretty limited, but will provide necessary basics for somebody trying to decide whether the ports to be visited will be of interest to them.The cruise veterans will definitely be able to use all of the above mentioned information, but more importantly, some of the cruises listed are on less well-known cruise lines or to not-so-usual destination. So those who have already cruised a lot just might discover a cruise or two that they have never thought of or even never heard of.The book covers cruises on all seven continents as well as a handful of round-the-world experiences - the dream of most cruise addicts. Detailed descriptions of activities and amenities on each of the ships will definitely make the decision on which to choose considerably easier.In view of the fact that this latest edition has been published in 2006, I found it slightly disappointing that several of the new itineraries on different cruise lines have not been included. Another useful addition would have been the deck plans or cabin plans for at least a couple of vessels.Overall I found "100 Best Cruise Vacations" to be a useful resource for anybody trying to decide where to go next - or even for somebody who is still trying to decide whether cruising would be to their liking. Just be warned - most people get addicted after their first cruise - and if they chose the first one well, chances of getting addicted are probably close to 99%...

Description

This compact collection of cruise wisdom holds everything you need to know for a perfect vacation at sea. Jim West has logged millions of nautical miles as a cruise director and doles out the answers to cruise questions with wit and style. This new edition includes two new chapters with tips directed toward cruises in the Caribbean and Alaska.

This smart little book offers helpful advice both for those embarking on their first cruise as well as salty veterans. The Essential Little Cruise Book covers everything form how to choose a cruise that's right for you, picking a travel agent and cabin, what to bring, cruise etiquette, and how to cure sea sickness: "Old-fashioned cures that sailors have sworn by: If you do begin to feel sick, go outside, look at the horizon, and stay in the middle section of the ship. Also, eat some dry crackers or bread sticks, and stay away form liquids." With more than 500 cruises under his belt as a cruise director, author Jim West provides insight and tips that can greatly improve a cruise vacation.

Reviews

Good cruise handbook

by Mena from Michigan on 2008-10-06
Have cruised several times before, however thought it would not hurt to review things to keep updated or if we missed something. Plus my parents were taking a cruise for first time, so shared the book with them also. Lots of helpful information! For the price I would say it was worth it. Reminder in the book on packing cannot be stressed enough and is so true. (Pack less, you don't need that much stuff) I liked the fact that the person writing the book has some years of experience.

Best little Cruise Book!

by K. Davis from NC on 2008-10-05
My Fiance and I were rookie cruisers, and I bought this to help us out. It is great! It has lots of helpful hints and "do not forgets" for first timers and veteran cruisers alike! Buy it if you have any questions about cruising!

Outdated, simplistic, but useful

by One Happy Retiree from on 2008-07-05
A new edition is due by Fall of 2008, and is needed. This remains a VERY useful guide for first-time cruisers; for those with several cruises under their belt [given the amount of food on a cruise ship, this may be a double entendre] this little book is probably of minimal use.

Not Particularly Useful

by Richard K. Baker from Phoenixville, PA, USA on 2007-06-08
The gist of this book is: "Have a good time, no matter what. Avoid bugging the staff, your problem's not that big." Very little in the way of stuff which could enhance your cruise or keep you out of trouble.

The Essential little Cruise Book

by Robert A. Leon from on 2007-03-01
I am returning this item. Its a small little book with just general information nothing specific or insightfull.

Description

If you're one of the over five million people who will go on a cruise vacation this year, you may be wondering how you to choose between the many cruise lines, ships, and destinations that are available today. You may be looking for a cruise geared towards adults, one where both you and the grandkids can have fun, or a cruise on which singles are catered to as much as couples. The key to a great vacation is knowing what you want and where to find it, and author Kerry Smith has put all the information you need in one convenient place. Looking for an Alaskan cruise in an intimate, old world-style ship, or a huge ocean liner that can keep all ages happy during a Caribbean family reunion? Cruise Vacations for Mature Travelers helps you, the traveler, determine what kind of cruise experience fits your personality and then tells you how to find it, describing every cruise line and detailing its fleet, ship by ship, so you can choose the perfect vacation! The book also includes tips on budgeting your trip, all the options for booking through travel agents, directly with the company, or online, and even helps you choose the best time to travel and the most comfortable cabins. A cruise vacation is an adventure. Make the most of it with Cruise Vacations for Mature Travelers! AUTHORBIO: KERRY SMITH is the author of Walt Disney World for Mature Travelers. He is a columnist for the Orlando Sentinel, and the editor of Florida Retirement Lifestyles.

Reviews

This is a gem

by Pensive from Massachusetts, USA on 2009-12-29
I agree with the previous review; this book is a gem, whether you are a "mature traveler" or not. Written by a travel agent, it is very easy to read, yet provides a well organized briefing on everything that you need to consider in deciding upon, booking, and going on a cruise. When I bought the book we were very excited about the idea of doing a world cruise on one of the more luxurious lines...at great cost. After reading the book I have a much better appreciation of the various options available, and the strengths and weaknesses of each one. Had we gone directly to a travel agent without reading this first, their glowing enthusiasm (driven by the prospect of a big commission with relatively little work) might have led us to book first and do our research later. Instead I feel like I have just had the chance to spend a couple of days with a very knowledgeable, patient agent, running through all the things we need to consider, and making us much more savvy about what to expect. For the record, I am not a newbie traveler, having taken over 300 flights a year in my consulting life...but I don't have extensive sea cruising experience. Although the book was written in 2001 I found it still very current. In particular, the summaries of the various cruise lines and what they offer seemed to be very relevant and useful, even if it did not list the most recently built ships. Bottom line: $10.00 and several hours spent with this book should return rich rewards in helping you sort through the maze of cruise offerings to find the right one for you, and then get your money's worth.

Don't Let the Title Turn You Off

by from on 2001-06-16
This book is not about "old people" - it is instead an extremely well written and informative book for people who just happen to be over 50, who want to go on a cruise, and have a LOT of fun. To quote the author ... "For this book, mature travelers refers to adults who know what they want, both from a vacation and from life. Some overworked forty-year-olds want to prop up their feet and unwind for seven full days while the active retirees water-ski." You want to dance up a storm all night? He'll tell you the ships that offer that kind of nightlife. You don't want to be around children? He'll tell you that, too. The author walks you through the entire process of identifying the right type of cruise for your personality, which ships give special attention to the older person who is traveling with a spouse or alone; how to book one, how to prepare for one, what to do once on board, and finally an overview of the various cruise lines and ship profiles. I have purchased 5 books about cruising this past month from Amazon. Some I found a little bland; some were too hysterical and overwhelming in their detail. This one and the Berlitz book by Douglas Ward were the best for me. I felt Mr. Smith gave me all of the necessary details but in a writing style that was far more personal and interesting. Please don't let the title turn you off - I was worried about it too - this book is terrific!