10 Sanity-Saving Strategies for the Cruiser's Soul
"You've never really traveled the Caribbean until you've cruised the Caribbean." This is what one loyal reader recently proclaimed. So for all of you cruising fans out there, I give you "10 Sanity-Saving Strategies for the Cruiser's Soul." Enjoy!
Cruising the Caribbean can be a stressful journey or a soul-reviving adventure. The following 10 strategies will help you to maintain your sanity while satisfying your soul.
Before You Sail
1. Book your shore excursions
Many companies now have 24-hour, fax-on-demand systems that provide round-the-clock information for your cruise. Send for this information prior to your cruise, and then browse through your options and make leisurely decisions, rather than split-second, excursion-desk conclusions. Then, book your tours in advance to eliminate the on-board lines, hassles, and tension.
2. Ask questions
Learn as much as possible about your destinations before you sail. With limited time in port, you need to make the best use of each precious minute, and getting lost or taking a "so-so" tour isn't the best way to relieve stress. Search out "real" people who've "been there" and "done that." Ask for their opinions on the destinations, tours, restaurants, etc. One of the best places to find this "real" information is on the Internet. Newsgroups like rec.travel.caribbean and rec.travel.cruises are excellent places to post questions and/or contribute information. In addition, several web sites such as http://www.sealetter.com and http://www.cruisereview.org offer personal cruise reviews, chat, and message boards.
3. Pack your cruise carry-on
Once you board, it may take a couple of hours for your luggage to arrive. This is not, "get impatient, sit around, and wait" time. This is the beginning of your vacation; it's time to relax and have some fun - NOW. So in addition to your personal items, your cruise carry-on should contain the following: 1) travel documents / I.D. / shore excursion receipts, etc. 2) cash and credit cards 3) camera 4) swim suit and towel 5) change of clothes 6) sea sickness pills / wristbands, etc. 7) sunglasses. Preplanning and packing will make your first few hours a joy instead of a nuisance.
Boarding / Sailing
4. Arrive comfortably early
The purpose of early arrival is to check in leisurely, to participate in welcome aboard activities, and, if possible, to double check dining preferences and shore excursions. Plus, in most cases, the earlier you board, the earlier your luggage will arrive. However, your main goal is to relax. Standing in a boarding line for several hours is not relaxing. So try to arrive about a half an hour after the ship starts boarding when the additional rush has subsided. Then stroll aboard, grab a cocktail, and take a look around the ship.
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