Wednesday, August 29, 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.

A Mediterranean cruise involves multiple destinations. Popular ports include Rome, Barcelona, Venice, Malaga and Southampton, though a variety of itineraries are available at different times of the year and through different cruise lines. Itineraries are typically focused on either eastern or western Mediterranean destinations. Cruise lines specializing in travel throughout this region include Royal Caribbean Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises and Holland America.

Booking in advance is the best way to save money on a cruise. Even though cruise ships are well-known for providing a high level of luxury and decadence to passengers, it's important to remember that this doesn't mean cruises are excessively expensive. There are budget-friendly travel options, too, especially when booking early. The alternative is to wait until the last minute when vendors are trying desperately to fill empty rooms, but this option is not practical for most people.

Budget considerations are important for most people. So, while getting a great deal is important, it's also essential to remember that the price of a Mediterranean cruise - while many amenities, such as food, beverages and entertainment are included - is not all-inclusive with regard to travel to the destination airport and expenditures while in-port. For many, air travel will be required to reach the departure port. This travel expense is separate from the package price of the cruise itself.

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.

Port guides also offer helpful, destination-specific information regarding the culture, language and preferred travel methods for guests once they arrive. Depending on the itinerary of the specific cruise, there may or may not be time to visit each and every sight. Advance planning helps to streamline time spent in port, allowing for the most efficient use of allowed time there.

For some, booking a prearranged tour of the destination port is the best option. These can typically be arranged though the cruise ship concierge services. For others, a more independent mode of travel is preferred, and this is where the port guide comes in really handy.

Mediterranean cruises are often described as the vacation of a lifetime. With proper planning, great deals can be found, especially by booking early. Once the itinerary is set, many travelers make the most of their time in port by studying appropriate port guides in advance. For those considering booking a Mediterranean cruise 2013, the options are many and the time is right. The Mediterranean region and cultures are known for their rich cultural history, beautiful natural resources, and royal treatment of international visitors.




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