How to Book a Cruise
- Determine which area of the world you want to enjoy. Are you looking for a sunny beach during the winter? Ancient ruins over summer vacation? Off season bargains in top locations? The hardest job is often to figure out what you want.
- Do some research, go to the library, speak to friends who have visited the places you’re interested in. Search the internet for reviews of destinations by past visitors and for tips on what to see and do, and what to avoid.
- If your trip is important to you, see a professional cruise specialist. If you don’t cut your own hair, do your own taxes and handle all your own legal work you shouldn’t book your own cruise. Let a professional who is knowledgeable about the different ships, itineraries, decks, services and price strategies help you. Even if they charge a small fee, it is well worth it – frequently an agent will get you better pricing than what you see on the internet, and they will back you up in the event of any problems. They can recommend shore excursions, assist you with pre- and post-cruise planning, make sure your cabin is the best one on the ship to fit your individual needs, etc. There’s a lot of value added in using a travel agent just as there is in using a realtor to buy or sell your home.
- Once you’ve booked your cruise, read up on the countries you’re going to visit. Not only will it help you gain a better understanding of the places you’ll visit; even historical novels or historical romances will help you understand the people and the customs of the countries you visit.
- Get your paperwork in order, keep it all in one envelope, put that envelope in the pocket of your carry-on luggage. That way everything will be in one place when you’re running out the door and trying to remember if you shut off all the lights, discontinued the newspaper and put a hold on the mail.
