Top 10 Tips For Stretching Vacation Dollars on a Cruise Vacation

Here are some tips for planning a value-added cruise vacation:

1.  CLIA member cruise lines offer inclusive pricing.  Accomodations, meals, entertainment, use of most ship's facilities, and transportation from destination to destination are all included in the cruise price.  This means that you are already off to a great start in realizing value for your money spent.

2.  Cruises are offered in every possible price category.  Spend a little or spend a lot; it's easy to pick the cruise line that matches your budget.

3.  Cruises come in every length, from three days to three months.  If budget is a high priority, pick a shorter cruise.

4.  CLIA member cruise lines operate all over the world.  By picking an "off season" destination - the Caribbean this summer, for example,  you can often save money without losing any of the fun, excitement, and pleasure of vacationing in the tropics.

5.  With a weak U. S. dollar, planning a European cruise and paying in advance, in dollars, often represents added value compared to a European vacation paid in local currencies.

6.  On most ships, the price of your cruise is based on your choice of accommodations, nothing else.  Most ships offer a wide choice of inside and ocean-view staterooms, staterooms with balconies, even suites.  If budget is a consideration, choose an inexpensive, inside stateroom and enjoy the same dining, entertainment, and use of the ship's facilities as everyone else.

7.  Most CLIA member ships offer a wide variety of accommodations.  If spacious, luxurious accommodations are your top priority, chooses a cruise line whose suites match your budget.

8.  Cruises are an ideal choice for families, extended families, and friends who want to share a memorable vacation.  Put together your own group of cruisers and ask for a group rate.

9.  There are more than 30 homeports for cruise ships in the United States.  Wherever you live, pick a cruise you can drive to in order to save on the cost of airfare.

10.  Most important, take advantage of the expertise, experience, and knowledge of a CLIA-certified travel agent.  No type of vacation offers more variety than cruising.  You'll enjoy extra satisfaction - and that, after all, is what value really means - by matching your cruise with your tastes, interests, and budget.  And, that is what CLIA's 16,000 travel agents around the country do best.

I'd love to help you plan your next cruise vacation.  Give me a call at 1-888-840-1811 (toll-free) or email me at zeneri@cruiseplanners.com.

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