Choosing a Cruise

When choosing a cruise, I look at menu options and port of calls. I prefer Princess because of the plant-based food options available. I choose ports that will be warm to escape Chicago’s winter months. The Carribean is always warm and sunny. My favorite activities are visiting the Mayan ruins, Costa Rican rain forests, and older cities such as Old Cartagena and Old Panama City.

I  book a cruise within a month of departure because cabins that are not filled will become cheaper. I also avoid ports that charge higher fees. If you are lucky enough to be able to drive to port, you can cut airfare. Also, there may be discounts available through your line of work.

There is a cost benefit of cruising because food and entertainment is included in the cost of the cruise. Staying in a hotel for a week or more, other than an all-inclusive, can be pricier especially because eating out can be expensive. However, you can drive up the cost of a cruise if you use services such as massages, the casino, internet packages and special drink packages.