Carnival Cruise Holiday

The Bahamas is arguably the most popular cruise destination for U.S. travelers, and is especially popular with first-time cruisers from the U.S. Only 75kms from mainland USA, the outer islands that make up the group can be reached within a matter of hours. This makes the Bahamas an excellent choice of location for a short Bahamas cruise break of two, three or four nights away from home.

Some 700 islands make up the archipelago of the Bahamas, of which only around 50 are inhabited. Cruise lines generally focus on just two Bahaman ports - Nassau and Freeport.

Nassau is Bahamas' capital, and is located on the island of New Providence. It is a beautiful compact city that is easy to explore inside a day's shore excursion. The city's charm is in its architecture - and of course its people. Late 18th century and early 19th century colonial buildings stand as reminders of Bahamas' British past. Parliament Square in downtown Nassau offers a unique perspective on the city's architecture, watched over, as always, by a grandiose marble statue of Queen Victoria.

But Nassau is not just about history. It has a vibrant modern side too. Quality shops, fine restaurants and golden beaches, up onto which the inviting warm transparent waters of the Caribbean lap, are all there to be sampled. Activities such as snorkeling, diving and passenger submarine rides make for an exciting time in this tropical paradise. The nightlife in Nassau is buzzing too, with casinos and nightclubs offering the best of Bahamian life.

A Bahamas cruise to Freeport on the island of Grand Bahama offers tropical paradise that is very close to home. Easily accessible on a two-night Bahamas cruise, Freeport is a city that welcomes cruisers and tourists with open arms. Duty-free shopping is one of the biggest draws of Freeport, and the city itself features a 10-acre international bazaar - a real shopping paradise in the tropics!

The nightlife in Freeport is world-renowned. Casinos, nightclubs and live entertainment in Freeport are amongst the best in the Caribbean, and make for a great night out when you're on a Bahamas cruise.

For travelers looking for a Bahamas cruise of a longer duration than four nights, some cruise lines offer special extended cruises, several of which incorporate a port call at a private island owned by the cruise company.

Bahamas cruises generally depart from ports in Florida. Port Canaveral, Fort Lauderdale and Miami port are the big three which offer cruises to the Bahamas. So, if you're looking to take a short romantic break, or just fancy a change of scenery for the weekend, why not get yourself down to Florida and book a Bahamas cruise. Bahamas cruises are reasonably priced, and I guarantee you that the experience will be one that lives long in the memory.

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It's the dream of many vacationers to be able to sail on board a luxury cruise liner and enjoy all the activities and ports of call while leaving the travel worries to the captain and crew. These kind of vacation cruises can be just what the doctor ordered when you need to get away for a while. But the whole idea of cruising may be foreign to some and so we have put together some tips on how to plan for the perfect cruise vacation:

* First you need to know what a typical cruise package contains. Most often your cruise will include ship accommodations, meals, activities, entertainment and most standard facilities on the ship. Your cruise ticket will often not include the airfare or other travel arrangements needed to get you to the cruise ship and back home again, or the extra amenities on board like massage facilities and internet access. It also does not usually cover any guided tours arranged for the ports of call that the ship visits on the cruise. And you will be responsible for all tips and gratuities on the trip.

It's important to know all of this to be able to plan your vacation cruise correctly, because you will need to bring along sufficient funds to cover any extra expenses needed on the trip if you expect to make it a pleasurable trip. Some folks that all they have to do is just show up for the cruise and everything is already paid for from then on, but this is often not the case, especially with discount cruise vacations. So be sure to check with your cruise line and get very familiar with all that is and is not included in your cruise fare.

* Having the right documentation while you are sailing is important too, especially if you happen to be visiting ports outside of your own country. So get any necessary visas, passports, and other important papers that may be needed well before you leave in order to comply with the laws of the countries that you will be visiting.

* Bring along the appropriate attire for the weather that you will encounter on the trip and also for the various activities that you plan to engage in while on the cruise. All cruise lines encourage casual attire during the day, but on some luxury cruises certain cruise lines have dress codes for the evening that can range from elegant casual to formal, so be sure to find about these in advance and have the right clothes ready if you choose to join in.

* Seasickness is a worry for a lot of people, but actually this is one area that does not usually present a problem these days as the cruise ships are so large and stable that you really can't even detect much motion as you sail along. On the off chance that you do develop seasickness though, just bring along some dramamine and that should easily take care of your needs.

Just a few simple plans made in advance can make sure that you are able to enjoy your perfect cruise vacation and return home refreshed and energized.

by Jim Johnson

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Taking a cruise for your honeymoon provides an opportunity for you to start your married life in a state of relaxation by exploring the unknown and enjoying all the amenities a cruise has to offer. Cruise lines are building bigger ships every year and with the additional ships, they are vastly expanding their ports of call. There are cruise itineraries for all tastes from Alaska to the Caribbean to Europe, cruise lines have it all. Cruising presents the comfort of five star luxury accommodations and provides unending excitement, adventure, the opportunity to get to know each other and to make new friends aboard your sea adventure.

A honeymoon cruise package may include:
1. Champagne and Strawberries in your Stateroom upon boarding
2. Canapés or other treat delivered to your cabin on the evening of your choice
3. An exclusive Honeymooner's party for you and the other newlyweds aboard the ship
4. Honeymoon Photographs
5. Champagne breakfast in bed on the morning of your choice

Destination options are limitless and depend upon your taste - be it the romantic hills, historical monuments, beaches, tropical rain forests, foreign history, the list is endless. All cruise lines offering honeymoon packages have exquisitely appointed suites, gyms, swimming pools, spas, salons, shopping and casinos to pamper the cruiser and energize the mind, body and spirit. You have the option to take a short weekend honeymoon with a three or four night cruise, or extending it to a long and luxurious getaway aboard a seven, 12 or even 30+ night cruise! If you and your new spouse are the really adventurous types some cruise lines are now offering around the world cruises that last for 3 to fours months.

There's no need to be concerned that you won't know what to do or what to bring on a cruise, there are many resources available online and directly with the cruise line to assist you in packing, activities planning and leisure options. And fear not, should you forget to pack an item for your honeymoon, the cruise ship will have shops onboard at which you can purchase anything from basic necessities to luxury items and souvenirs for friends back home. Considering the option of only having to unpack once, visiting multiple locations, and being able to spend some quality time with your new spouse aboard a self-sufficient floating city, you can't go wrong planning a cruise for your honeymoon!

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How many of you have seen the classic Chevy Chase movie, "National Lampoon's Vacations?" If you haven't then you should, but if you have (and are probably laughing right now), then you'll remember the mishaps the Griswold family went through traveling across country to Wally World Theme Park.

Well, family vacations don't have to be that way. With a little planning, you can ensure little headaches, relaxation, and most important, fun!!

With that being said, here are some top tips for having a great family vacation%u2026

**Plan ahead. Get all the guides, maps, & information you can get your hands on. If you travel with kids, sit down and plan out things to do, see, and so forth. It can be a fun thing to do before you leave and get everyone excited about the trip. For kids, renting movies (Disney, Vacation movies) can be fun also. Although the Griswold's had a heck of a time and planned ahead, be sure you know what to do in crazy circumstances- have a plan.

**How are you getting there? Taking your own car may pose problems. We typically fly, but if you decide to drive, weigh out the options of taking your own vehicle or renting one. Now, if your family car is newer, has a DVD player, and plenty of room, then it may be the best way to go to keep everyone busy. Otherwise, look into flying or renting a car for the trip.

**Does everyone have stuff to do? Keep the kids and spouse pre-occupied during the trip. Books, games, movies, toys, and so on are must have items. Remember, waiting in airports can be boring and long drives can be rough with antsy kids in the back. I am an adult and even I have a tough time. Don't forget things to do while you're there as well. **Did you take care of the mundane details? Is the family pet taken care of? Did you consider travel insurance? What about other important documents? Did you get discount tickets and coupons? Who is watching the house, getting the mail, etc%u2026? What is everyone packing and is there room for all that stuff? These are important details many people wait until the last minute or forget to handle causing them to rush around or make cell phone calls from the road. Don't stress by figuring it all out in advance.

**Did you prepare your budget? Maybe you have a ton of money to take, which is what everyone wants. Don't overdo it though. You can have an awesome vacation without a high-end budget (especially in Florida). I have seen people who go on champagne vacations with a beer budget. Remember, credit cards have to be paid back and the trip is only temporary. We agree, travel is a must, but be smart.

Are you ready to go? Be sure you plan your trip, find the best deals, shop for travel necessities before hand, and have fun doing it- there is a lot to do, but if you make it a headache it will be. If you make it fun and include everyone, then you'll feel like you're already on vacation! Most of us work all year for a vacation. We see little time of each other and vacations are a great way to spend quality time together. Ensure you don't become the Griswold's with just a little planning!!

Some people might look for complete solitude during a tropical island vacation to get away from it all, but no matter how blissful beach holidays can be, some long for great night life as well.

For those of you who wish to go to an island where there are also some exciting night life activities, check out this list of 5 of the world's top tropical destinations where you can sunbathe by day and party by night.

Ibiza, Spain
This is The Place to go for the best night life and party scenes. From its bars, to its clubs, to its fun-loving people, Ibiza has long been the world's best destination for parties and more parties.

So what do you do in Ibiza? First, remember that there's always something new going on. So know first what's hot for the day or the week you're visiting and make sure you make the best of any event in town.

If you'd rather not do this research and prefer to be spontaneous, then just go to any of its many clubs and you're practically guaranteed a great night out.

True to almost every night hangout in Spain, life doesn't really start until the bell strikes 12! So make sure you get a siesta in because with everything that Ibiza offers, that's about the only sleep you'll get!

Phuket Thailand
The exotic splendors of Bangkok's palaces may not grace Phuket, but if you want to be by the beach all day and party all night in Siam, then Phuket is a great place to be.

For those who really want to party, Patong is where the island's bars, clubs and discotheques are. If you've got the kids with you, you might also want to visit Phuket Fantasea on Kamala Beach, which is the islands version of a festival and cultural event -a place to sample Thai theater, eat great Thai food, play games, and go shopping.

On the other hand, if you want to go some place a bit tamer, Karon Beach is an excellent place for restaurants with some good food and great cocktails . And if you want a classier and MUCH quieter ambiance, go to Bangtao bay.

Negril, Jamaica
Relieve the lifestyle of the 60's as well as immerse yourself in exotic Jamaican culture when you go for a tropical island vacation in Negril.

Night activities in Negril are really laid-back island living but fun. There are usually no schedules, no fixed time, no fixed place. You literally just have to follow the music and that's where the action is going to be for the night-a night of dancing, reggae appreciation, drinking and great conversations.

Sydney, Australia
If you want the feel of a big cosmopolitan city at night yet be lounging on the beach by day, we recommend a tropical island vacation in Sydney where you'll never run out of things to do.

For a bit of the arts and a wonderful experience know what shows are on in the Sydney Opera House Theater. Or if you go there in the summer, the acclaimed Sydney Festival is one cultural event not to be missed.

For a bit of local lifestyle on the other hand, check out the bars and clubs that locals frequent. There are many tour companies that offer night tours for this purpose which you might want to take part in if you want to know Sydney's secret night hideaways.

Nassau, Bahamas
This is a popular destination for night revelers and it's very easy to see why---Nassau could easily be described as the Caribbean's nightlife capital.

There are first of all, the casinos that thrill-seekers frequent. These casinos come with all the fun and excitement that even people who do not play will find very interesting.

Then there are the discotheques and clubs where you can experience the Bahamians love for life and fun on the dance floor. There are also cultural shows for those who want something a bit more sedate.

A tropical island vacation in Nassau will undoubtedly give you 24 hours of fun on your island holidays in the Caribbean

1. Be waited on hand and foot.
2. Ride a helicopter over a waterfall.
3. Visit five ports, but unpack just once.
4. Cool off with a frozen margarita.
5. Take a yoga class.
6. Enjoy scrumptious food around the clock.
7. Dance under the stars.
8. Parasailing high above the ocean.
9. Jump into a pool.
10. Shop on board for French perfume and Swiss watches.
11. Treat yourself to a facial.
12. Hold a family reunion.
13. Get married in your favorite port.
14. Have Baked Alaska en route to Anchorage.
15. Disco 'til dawn.
16. Take your toddler to day-camp at sea.
17. Sleep 'til noon.
18. Go to a wine tasting.
19. Make new friends, reminisce with old friends.
20. Take a themed cruise: bingo, movies, sports, ...
21. Renew your wedding vows.
22. Laugh 'til it hurts at a comedy show.
23. Hold a business conference (maybe tax deductible) onboard a ship.
24. Dine in a tuxedo or formal gown.
25. Relax in a hot tub.
26. Go to a fashion show.
27. Be a star on Talent Night.
28. You don't need a designated driver.
29. Study at sea - genealogy, marine biology, ...
30. Turn your day from 9 to 5 to 9 to Ah-h-h!
31. Consume Caspian Caviar.
32. Snorkel in crystal clear, coral-filled waters.
33. Enjoy the best of Broadway.
34. Send your teeager to a "rock the boat" party.
35. Flex your pecs at the health club.
36. Doze in the sun.
37. Try your hand at electronic blackjack.
38. Polish your golf swing with the pros.
39. Shoot craps.
40. Capture dazzling sunsets on film.
41. Walk a mile on deck.
42. Scuba dive along a reef.
43. Get a full house under a full moon.
44. "Spike" with all your might in a volleyball tournament.
45. Watch for a green flash.
46. Play a fast game of racquetball.
47. Request a song at the piano bar.
48. Indulge in a massage.
49. Swing to the beat of a big band.
50. Eat gourmet food every night and never see a price.
51. Meditate at sunrise.
52. Meet your favorite sports stars.
53. "Disappear" during a magic act.
54. Escape from reality.
55. Play bridge or backgammon.
56. Shoot "hoops" surrounded by blue sky and sparkling water.
57. Sip a mint julep while listening to ragtime.
58. Browse through a well-stocked library.
59. Golf - by computer or in person - on the world's best courses.
60. Spot an exotic bird or flower.
61. Wander through ancient ruins.
62. Ride horseback through jungles.
63. Be-bop with top jazz musicians.
64. Rent a moped at the dock.
65. Paddle down river in a kayak or canoe.
66. Explore a centuries-old castle.
67. Mingle with celebrities.
68. Be tempted by world-famous chefs.
69. Jet ski across turquoise waters.
70. Picnic under a palm tree.
71. Take sailboarding lessons.
72. Take your sweetie on a second honeymoon.
73. Call home from your cabin.
74. Learn Italian, French, or Spanish.
75. Charter a sailboat.
76. See whales, dolphins, and flying fish.
77. Water ski in clear blue water.
78. See America - down its coastlines and up its rivers - or take in some of these:
79. The Greek Islands.
80. Australia / New Zealand.
81. Africa.
82. Alaska.
83. The Bahamas.
84. Baltics.
85. Bermuda.
86. Canada.
87. The Caribbean.
88. Europe
89. Far East / Orient.
90. India.
91. Indonesia-Bali / Southeast Asia.
92. The Mediterranean.
93. Mexico.
94. The Panama Canal.
95. The South Pacific.
96. Scandinavia.
97. Seychelles.
98. South America.
99. Tahiti.
100. The United Kingdom.
101. Then try around the world !

Do Everything Or Nothing At All

Tired of taking the family to Disneyland for vacation?

Then why not try an Alaska cruise? They offer beautiful scenery, cruise luxury and Alaskan adventure for those who want it.

But not all Alaska cruise trips are alike. You first need to decide what you want on your cruise. If you like to be pampered in the lap of luxury then you'll want to take advantage of one of the many Alaska luxury cruises. Here you can relax in the spa, have a wonderful massage and enjoy all the amenities of a first class resort. You will dine on the best foods, available at almost any hour. Just like most cruises, Alaska cruises are the ultimate in pampering guests.

Alaska cruises have something for everyone in the family. Along with the usual cruise amenities of pools, games, exercise, meeting new people and fun, Alaska cruises offer interesting scenery you won't find at home. On your cruise, not only will you'll be amazed by majestic glaciers but you might spot brown bears, eagles, humpback whales or sea lions.

If you want adventure, there are many cruise packages that can satisfy your needs as well as offer typical cruise amenities.

One popular Alaskan adventure is sea kayaking. You can pick from tours in choppy waters or, for the more tame at heart, a calmer course is offered. Sea kayaking gives you an opportunity to get outdoors and see a lot of the coastline which is abundant with local wildlife.

Hiking is another popular excursion that you can try once your cruise ship docs. You can choose from any number of guided hikes using different trails and going out for different lengths of time. It's a great chance to get out in the wilderness and experience nature Alaska style. If this isn't enough for you, you can even work in some rock climbing while you are off ship.

The best time to take an Alaska cruise is in the summer where you will be able to enjoy Alaska in fairly mild weather. There are 2 basic paths that cruises take one goes throught the inside passage which visits Alaskan panhandle ports and the other through the Gulf of Alaska visiting more glaciers and northern points. Be sure that you check the weather and pack accordingly!

For Americans summer has always been the time to go out on holidays and enjoy the beach and the Sun. what could be a better place for that than the Caribbean Islands with their lovely beaches, blue waters and the most pleasant sun. In fact the Caribbean has been such a huge hit with American tourists that today the tourism industry is one of the biggest industries of the place.

There are numerous islands in the Caribbean, but some have been all-time favorites with the tourists. The biggest destinations are the islands of Anguilla, Aruba, Bahamas, Curacao and the British Virgin Islands. A visit to any of these islands will leave you with happy memories, you can hardly ever forget.

Bahamas

Bahamas has always been a very popular destination for the American tourists because of its proximity to the country. Still having a feel of the British colonial days in its buildings and architecture, the Bahamas is also very tropical in spirit. Known for its beautiful beaches pine forests, Bahamas is the perfect place to sit back and relax.

If you are in the Bahamas you should never miss the Rand Nature Center where you get to see the exact recreation of a Lucayan Village, which has everything, from the chieftain's house to the dwelling huts. And if you are a food freak you got to taste the local snacks from a Bahamian straw market.

The Atlantis Resort is located on Paradise Island, near Nassau in the formerly-British Bahamas just a hop from Florida.

The guidebook "Caribbean With Kids" calls the Atlantis on Bahamas "one of the most lavish properties in the entire Caribbean": which is saying something, considering what the region offers.

The Atlantis Bahamas grounds have waterfalls, streams, lagoons filled with sea creatures, underwater viewing areas: with 11 exhibit lagoons and 11 million gallons of water, the resort claims it has the "largest marine habitat in the world".

The world's largest marine habitat, the largest casion in the Bahamas (and the Caribbean), a 15 million dollar marina, lagoons, waterfalls and the underwater ruins of Atlantis itself....Atlantis Bahamas Resort has achieved a distinctive combination of comfort and adventure unlike any other vacation destination.

Atlantis on Bahamas is a deluxe high rise with 2300 rooms and casino situated on the beach. Three towers make up the complex, the Beach, Coral and the newest is Royal Towers.

Anguilla

One of the best family destinations in the Caribbean, Anguilla is famous for its neat beaches many of which are non-commercial. And of course you have the rare opportunity to share the waters with dolphins in Dolphin Fantaseas - one of the biggest attractions of Anguilla. Another place to b e in is Scilly Cay - which provides the perfect setting for barbecue and snorkeling. But the most special thing about Anguilla is her people. They are among the warmest in Caribbean and they go all the way to make you feel comfortable and at home Aruba

"One Cool Family" is the program organized by the Aruba government to pull in new tourists as well as bring back those who have already been to this lovely island. Such schemes emphasize how important tourism has become in these places and when the government is coming up with such ideas you can rest assure there would be enough effort to provide you with the finest holiday ever.

Apart from the exotic beaches and the clear blue seas other attractions of Aruba include Boca Prins, the perfect destination for dune sailing and land sailing. Of course there are arrangements for the regular activities like snorkeling and scuba diving.

Curacao

Just two and half hour from Miami, Curacao is unlike any other Caribbean island. Of course it has got the beaches and the lovely seas, but this dominion of the Kingdom of the Netherlands is also special because of its diverse mix of history and culture. The experience you have at Curacao is, in that sense unique among the Caribbean islands. If yours is a family which is into adventure this can be the perfect destination as you can head for the Hato Caves to witness the amazing dry land sea caves complete with underground pools, cave drawings and fossils which date back to millions of years. But if you are more interested in just lying back and enjoying your vacation you can do that too while enjoying the best of Curacao culture that has a strong influence of the Dutch.

British Virgin Islands

Once a haven for the pirates, the British Virgin Islands is today the perfect place for diving and snorkeling. It also provides you with the very best opportunities to sail. And if you have been a fan of Stevenson's Treasure Island, you can actually see for yourself from where it was inspired - the Norman Island. With calm waters, swimming is also one of the favorite activities among tourists.