Travel Destinations

The term “cruise vacation” probably brings to mind finding your swimsuit and sandals. But there are a few key things you can take care of before your cruise vacation that can really boost your enjoyment. First ensure that you have obtained a valid passport when traveling outside the US. Next book your spa and shore excursions online. Lastly assess your credit and cash situation to make sure you aren’t caught off guard during your dream cruise. These may seem like small steps but they can add up to a cruise vacation disaster if you don’t take care of them.

Because of recent changes in the law you should get a passport ASAP-especially if your cruise vacation takes you outside US borders. A valid passport is required to reenter the country from Canada Mexico and the Caribbean. Those who have traveled a lot should make sure that it won’t expire soon and that there are blank pages in it. You don’t want to realize upon reentry that your passport just expired.

If you don’t have one get one as soon as possible and pay the extra money to expedite the process. Once you receive your new passport make several copies of it. If it is lost or stolen you will be very glad you took this step. Give copies to your emergency contact back in the states and put one in your suitcase.

A month or so before your cruise vacation you’ll receive your documents. These contain vital information about the amenities on your ship shore excursions and all the activities available. You can probably make your reservations online. Those who wait until they board their cruise ship to do this will find a long line and inconvenient times available. If you book ahead you can step on board knowing that your spa appointment was not booked during dinner.

Many people book a cruise vacation to celebrate a milestone like a birthday honeymoon or anniversary. To make your festivities extraordinary check with your cruise line to see what kinds of special packages are available. It’s a great idea to do this well in advance of your trip so that there is plenty of time to make arrangements. It’s best not to risk disappointment by waiting until you are at sea to request twelve dozen orange roses.

A few months before your cruise vacation take a look at your amount of available credit. You’ll want to know as soon as possible if you must open another card pay down your balance or move money around. Upon check in you can expect a hold on your credit card for incidentals during your trip. Liners could set holds ranging $50-200 per day on your card.

A quick call will confirm your cruise line’s policy. If your trip itinerary includes a stay at a hotel or car rental there will be multiple holds on your cards during your vacation. It may take several days until all these holds are adjusted to reflect your actual expenses. This could mean that your card is declined in the interim an embarrassment you want to avoid during your trip.

It is also a good idea to bring enough cash for your trip. While you’ll use your credit card a lot there are times when cash is important. Because of the high rate of fraud many merchants will not take traveler’s checks. ATMs are usually available on ship but sometimes they run empty and you can count on a high fee. On shore some smaller merchants and street vendors will not take credit cards. Bring smaller bills for cash tips to your cruise line staff. Bringing cash means you can enjoy your dream vacation and avoid inconvenience.

Getting organized for your cruise vacation isn’t that difficult. A little advanced preparation will ensure that you enjoy your cruise vacation from the moment you step on board. Get a valid passport make your reservations in advance secure plenty of credit and cash. These small steps will pay off in maximum cruise vacation enjoyment. Oh and don’t forget to pack your swimsuit.

Best Deals for Vacation Reservations and making your Travel Arrangements right here.

Technorati Tags: Cruise, Cruise Ship, Cruise Ship Vacation Planning, Cruise Ship Vacation Resources, Cruise Ship Vacations, Cruise Ship Vacations Deals, Cruise Vacation, Ship, Vacation, vacations