I love cruise vacations! They’ve gotten a bad rep the last few years (just google “Poop Cruise 2013” if you aren’t sure what I’m talking about…), but I’ve been on plenty and have always had a great time! If you’re still hesitant, see my list below for all the reasons why you should give cruising another shot!
1. They are easy! Once you’re on board, you’re done having to worry about traveling until you have to get off the ship and go home. That’s a huge perk considering airport lines seem to be multiplying by the day.
2. You get a chance to travel to multiple locations without ever having to leave your cabin! For the most part the ship will sail over night, so you are free to explore your destination during the day, hop back on the ship around dinner time, and while you slumber you’re traveling to your next location! How great is that?!? I went on one cruise where I got to check off 6 new countries from my bucket list!
3. If you’re a little uneasy about staying in foreign hotels (where 5 stars doesn’t always translate to American 5 stars), then cruising is for you. All of the cruises I’ve been on have been impeccably clean and up to American standards. My husband and I are planning on visiting Cuba this year, but given the conditions in Havana, we’ve chosen to book a cruise so we are able to sleep on board without having to worry about the state of Cuban hotels.
4. If you’re a picky eater but want to travel, cruising is perfect! There are always a ton of food options on board, and since a lot of Americans cruise, there are almost always American options (read: burgers and fries). This was crucial for me and my brother when we were little and not exactly the most adventurous eaters.
5. There is a lot of on-ship entertainment and it’s almost all free! You name it–pool parties, art auctions, movie screenings, comedy shows, miniature golf courses, basketball courts, gyms, spas, bars, casinos, the list goes on and on! You literally can’t get bored on board unless you want to be! (Note: this list is typical of large Royal Carribbean/Carnival type cruises. Small river boat cruises will not have as many amenities as the large commercial ships.)