duminică, 26 august 2012

Important Planning Strategies For Mediterranean Cruises 2013

By Marc Lindham


Mediterranean cruises 2013 are already booking for a variety of destinations. A Mediterranean cruise is a great way to see many of the sights of this beautiful European region, all in a single vacation. Here are some important planning strategies to help travelers ensure that they are adequately prepared for an enjoyable multi-destination cruise while getting the best deal upon booking.

Popular cruise lines catering to both eastern and western Mediterranean ports include Holland America, Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises and Royal Caribbean. A typical multi-destination Mediterranean cruise visits ports such as Southampton, Malaga, Venice, Barcelona and Rome among others specific to the chosen itinerary. The focus is usually on a particular region of the Mediterranean, and the season can determine specific elements of the itinerary, as well.

Though cruises are associated with a degree of decadence and luxury, there are budget-friendly tricks to booking a Mediterranean cruise at an affordable price. Booking well in advance is one way to save some money. For those with the ability to travel at a moment's notice, last-minute deals are a great way to save money on any type of travel as companies attempt to fill empty seats or rooms.

When considering vacation budget, it is important to remember that cruises, while often all-inclusive, may require air travel to the departure port. This cost must be counted in addition to the cost of the cruise, itself, along with entertainment and incidentals while docked in destination ports.

Advanced planning serves a secondary purpose on a Mediterranean cruise, and that's the maximization of time spent in-port at each destination. Port guides are available for popular destinations, allowing the traveler to plan out in advance which sights and activities to include during time spent ashore. Naturally the chosen cruise line will offer access to detailed information for each port, as well.

The itinerary of the cruise will dictate how much time is allotted at each destination. Sometimes this does not allow for time to visit each and every attraction. With advanced planning, time spent in port can be streamlined for maximum efficiency. Port guides assist with this preplanning as well as offering destination-specific tips regarding local dialect and culture, preferred travel methods and monetary exchange.

While port guides come in handy for all cruise ship travelers, they are of particular use to those who prefer to tour the destination independently from a group. For those who prefer a guided tour of the area, however, this can usually be arranged ahead of time through the ship's concierge. Tours and preplanned activities while in port are often accompanied by pick-up and drop-off, eliminating the need for independently arranged transportation.

Known for its rich culture, breathtaking natural scenery, ancient historical sites and welcoming attitude toward visitors, a visit to the Mediterranean region is often described as a life-changing experience. The time is right and the options are many for those considering booking a Mediterranean cruise 2013. With a little planning, there are great deals to be found. This is especially true for those booking early. Upon confirmation of itinerary, use these tips to make them most efficient use of time spent in-port.




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