Travel Tips on Cruise Travel

• Not quite sure you’re ready to cruise? Do some more research by reading magazines such as Cruise Travel.
• Before booking an international cruise ship, check out the vessel’s sanitation rating using this link: http://www.cdc.gov/nceh/vsp/. The Centers for Disease Control and National Center for Environmental Health run the Vessel Sanitation Program, performing unannounced inspections at least twice yearly. The goal is to decrease gastrointestinal illnesses onboard by inspecting the drinking water supply, pools and spas, food service practices, employee hygiene habits, and employee training programs related to environmental and public health issues.
• If you must take your laptop on a cruise, it’s safest to work only from battery power. Experts say there is a far greater chance of power spikes or drops when using electrical power provided by the ship’s internal power supply.
• Evacuation from a cruise ship can cost $10,000 to $20,000, so do seriously consider carrying travel-related evacuation insurance when booking your cruise.
• Don’t remain in a stuffy cabin if seasickness strikes on a cruise ship. Instead, head up to the deck for some fresh air and sunshine. Concentrate on a faraway object such as a cloud or a passing ship.
• Did you know that ginger capsules and peppermint are considered natural preventatives for motion sickness? Consider trying out one of these before your next short trip where you expect to experience mild discomfort. (Obviously don’t try out this cure on an extended trip, where if it doesn’t work you’ll be miserable for a long time!)
• The per-person cabin rates on cruises almost always assume double occupancy. Single travelers often must pay for the empty bed or be willing to share a cabin with a stranger. Your travel agent can help you find a single room, but these are extremely limited and sell out quickly. Your best bet? Find a friend to come along.
• Deal with sea sickness by staying in the fresh air and keeping your eyes on the horizon. Go to the middle of the ship; the front, rear, and upper decks of the ship experience greater motion.
• Be sure to take your passport and/or your original birth certificate with you on a cruise as a proof of your US citizenship. It’s not always mandatory, but can be helpful. Check with your cruise line on their requirements.
• Cruise ships offer many amenities on a first-come, first-serve basis. Board early so you can schedule your spa appointment before they get booked up. The ship may offer free videos, the best of which are snapped up early. Grab several as soon as you board if you plan on catching up with your favorite stars while sailing.