There is perhaps no better way to unwind than taking a great vacation. However, many people find that planning for a vacation can be an additional source of stress. A vacation is supposed to be relaxing, but the preparation for the trip seldom is. Questions such as: where to go, what to do, and how to get there will undoubtedly arise when choosing the specifics for your trip.
There are many options to consider when planning a vacation. Some families and individuals consult a travel agent or other travel service to cut down on some of the pre-trip stress. A cruise vacation offers many benefits to the traveler with a variety of options in one location. This is part of the reason why cruises have become an increasingly popular solution for individuals and families who want the most out of their vacation experience.
In recent years, the number of cruise lines, and cruise options, has expanded which is indicative of an overall trend in the travel world. Themed-cruises such as family cruises, singles' cruises and golf cruises are available for travelers seeking a unique brand of fun and relaxation. There are many reasons why cruises are so popular. The following are the top five reasons why people choose cruises.
1. Value.
Cruises offer great value for the vacationer on a budget. Because everything can be purchased in one package, the majority of both your needs and your family's needs, such as transportation and various accommodations, are included in the price. Many packages even offer airfare. If you consider airfare, hotel stays, a rental car, and meals into the cost of a vacation, even a short trip can get expensive. Taking a cruise addresses this problem by consolidating these costs into one package.
2. All-in-One Vacation
There are not many other vacation options which offer the all-in-one experience like a cruise vacation. While on a cruise you can visit multiple destinations while not changing rooms and having to constantly pack and unpack your luggage. A cruise vacation affords you the chance to enjoy your choice of several entertainment and fine dining options, all which are located steps away from your room. Most cruises offer nightly entertainment, which may include comedians, live bands, and other live acts. They also offer dancing, casinos, and additional entertainment options for children. The deck offers sunbathing, swimming, shuffleboard and other outside activities. All of this can be enjoyed while traveling between destinations. When the ship docks, the various locations may be explored and local culture sampled. There is no need to scour the phone book and maps to find restaurants, they are right there on the ship.
3. Food
Speaking of food, most cruise ships hire top quality chefs and cooks for their kitchens. Many of these chefs studied at very prestigious culinary institutes and come highly recommended. For instance, Georges Blanc, a world-renowned master chef from France, has become the signature chef for Carnival Cruise Lines. Most ships offer several cuisine options and several different restaurants. Menu options for every palette make the cruise experience great for families. Kid friendly cuisine, alongside fine dining choices; make family dining an enjoyable event.
4. A Good Family Vacation Option
Cruises offer options for families to stay together while enjoying separate vacations. Many cruises focus on creating a vacation experience for the entire family, offering childcare facilities where children can enjoy activities designed just for them. At the same time, parents can enjoy some grown-up time. Many cruises also offer family friendly entertainment for families who want to spend more time together. While on a cruise families can spend a week, or more, together without getting in the way of each other's plans. Everyone can go their own way and then come together as a family for meals and other events.
5. Pampering
Since relaxation and rejuvenation are often the ultimate goals of any vacation, the pampering options onboard a cruise ship make it an easy choice for the weary traveler. Massage, sunbathing, free childcare, spa treatments, and hot tubs are just a sample of the pampering options that can be expected on a cruise ship. Both parents and children alike get pampered on a cruise. Parents can spend a relaxing afternoon of massage, hot tubs, and sunbathing, while the children can spend a day of running, jumping, swimming and playing while being taken care of by qualified persons, just down the deck from where their parents are. Later, the family can come together for some fine food and relaxation. Finally, everyone can retire to their cabins for a luxurious sleep, getting ready for another day of pampering and fun.
Many people choose cruises for their vacations because of their value, food, pampering, and family friendly, all-in-one atmosphere. Romance, variety, reunions, new experiences, and simplicity also rank high on the list of reasons for choosing a cruise vacation. No matter the reason for choosing one, a cruise is a great value, offering relaxation and fun in a family-friendly atmosphere with good food and entertainment all in one unique location.
