Once only for the wealthy, cruise vacations have skyrocketed in popularity in the recent decades due to its accessibility, monetary value and emphasis on family fun. A cruise vacation provides wonderful leisure fun coupled with adventure and fabulous food. Whether a novice cruiser or a seasoned veteran, this article includes some very helpful tips to ensure the most fun on your upcoming adventures.
Getting your Bearings on Board
Make copies of all important travel documents (driver’s license, passports, credit card), and keep them locked in the room safe for the duration of the cruise. For extra precaution, scan these documents and email them to yourself. If anything happens, all the information you need is available.
Pack a small carry-on bag or backpack with your travel documents, a change of clothes, bathing suit (for warm weather cruises) and any medications needed. This allows you to begin your cruise vacation immediately without waiting for your bags to arrive in your stateroom. This carry-on also comes in handy during departure (packed with the same essential items) as typically luggage is left outside the staterooms the night before for easy and efficient disembarking.
Learn the layout of the ship soon after unpacking. A deck plan may be included in the cruise information packet, if not, ask the reception desk. Take it in hand to find the bars, restaurants, night clubs, shops, swimming pools, theater, gym, etc. In addition, walk the perimeter of the decks to find optimal viewing for any scenic cruising. This way you won’t stumble upon any surprises the last day.
Keeping your Stateroom Smelling Fresh
Don’t forget a can of air freshener. In the small confines of a standard cabin (with no windows for fresh air), any unpleasant odor can be stifling. Another great tip is to place fabric softener sheets in the luggage to keep everything in your suitcase smelling fresh (this even works on your non-cruising vacations). You’ll appreciate the sweet smelling sheets on your return trip home, since your luggage includes your dirty laundry. Finally, while the steward cabin provides housekeeping several times per day, bring along some post-it notes to help communicate your needs. Place them on the vanity mirror to ensure the message is seen.
Keeping your Sea Legs
Rough seas can make anyone suffer from seasickness, and just a moving ship can cause nausea in those prone to motion sickness. While most modern cruise ships are equipped with stabilizers, seasickness can happen, and its best to be prepared. Sea-bands, which works as acupressure, is a safe and effective way to prevent and ease nausea. Another great tip is to drink club soda with bitters, although the taste is not appealing to all or sip on ginger ale. Ginger is a great, natural anti-nausea remedy. And a final remedy for seasickness: eating green apples.
The last tip for cruising – indulge (within reason!). It’s vacation, so why not try that calorie-loaded rich chocolate mousse. Or pamper yourself with a European massage, and take the excursion of a lifetime. These moments will make your cruise more memorable.
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