What is included in the cruise price?
Generally, the cruise price includes drinks like coffee, tea, and water; standard meals; room service; the use of gymnasium equipment; and most shipboard entertainment.
What is not included in the cruise price?
Generally, the cruise price does not include specialty drinks like sodas, specialty coffees, and alcoholic beverages; meals in alternative restaurants; spa and salon services; exercise classes like yoga and Pilates; casino gaming; organized shore excursions; photographs; medical services; gratuities; and gift shop purchases.
What are port charges?
Port charges are small fees a cruise ship must pay to use a port of call. Port charges are also known as NCF or non-commissionable fares to the trade. They include the following:
Taxes and fees assessed by the government and other agencies
Costs of entering or leaving ports
Costs incurred while in port, including waste removal
What's the general age range for cruisers?
Different cruise lines appeal to different age groups. Average passenger age ranges are as follows:
Carnival: 30 percent under age 35; 40 percent ages 35–55; and 30 percent over age 55
Celebrity: Ages 30–55
Crystal: Age 60+
Disney Cruise Line: 20s and up
Holland America: 40s to 60s
Norwegian: 50s
Princess: Age 50+
Windstar: Ages 35–55
Royal Caribbean: 30s to 50s
Can unaccompanied minors cruise?
Unaccompanied minors cannot cruise. In fact, on Carnival, Celebrity, Crystal, Holland America, Norwegian, Royal Caribbean, and Windstar cruises, each stateroom must have at least one adult age 25 or older as a guest. On Disney Cruise Line and Princess cruises, each stateroom must have at least one adult age 21 or older. Exceptions are generally made for married couples under age 25 (or 21).
What's the minimum cruising age?
Most cruise lines ask that children be at least six months old to sail. Check with your cruise line before you book if you have very young children.
What's the onboard drinking age?
Most cruise ships maintain a minimum drinking age of 21 while in international waters or at foreign ports. However, some ships have a minimum drinking age of 18.
Which cruise line is right for me?
Different cruise lines and ships appeal to different people. Those wanting an upscale, casual environment with few passengers often turn to Windstar, whereas those looking for a “traditional” cruise experience often enjoy Holland America sailings. We suggest you visit the Cruise Reviews Online to research the different cruise lines and decide which is right for you.
Why does it cost so much to book a single-passenger stateroom?
Each cruise line bases its stateroom rates on double occupancy. When you travel alone, you will pay an extra “single supplement” fee to make up for lost revenue.
Ron Trimper
Travel Agent
Vacations and Cruises
The Way to Go Travel in Kansas City
http://www.thewaytogotravel.com/
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Saturday, June 25, 2011
Can booking through a travel agent actually cut my costs?
Absolutely!! Agents have close relationships with cruise lines, which means that they can often score you upgrades and extras., that you wouldn't have access to on your own. Furthermore the cruise lines pay agents commissions, so their assistance doesn't cost you a dime.
The biggest benefit of enlisting an agent, beyond monetary savings, is their knowledge and advice. A savvy agent should be able to help you sort through the dozens of major lines -- and the countless itineraries each offers -- to find one that's right for you.
Bon Voyage!!
Ron Trimper
Vacation Specialist
The Way To Go Travel
816-392-5880
http://www.thewaytogotravel.com/
The biggest benefit of enlisting an agent, beyond monetary savings, is their knowledge and advice. A savvy agent should be able to help you sort through the dozens of major lines -- and the countless itineraries each offers -- to find one that's right for you.
Bon Voyage!!
Ron Trimper
Vacation Specialist
The Way To Go Travel
816-392-5880
http://www.thewaytogotravel.com/
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Do not shop for Travel Insurance based on Price Alone
Every traveler is looking for the best deal and no one likes to feel they’ve paid more than they should have, but when it comes to insurance it’s hard to judge what an insurance benefit in hand is worth until you need it. Shopping for travel insurance based solely on price may leave you wishing you’d spent a little more.
Think about the costs associated with these scenarios
What happens if ... even worse ... Why Travel Insurance is priceless
You are badly injured while traveling abroad and hospitalized You brought the kids along With emergency evacuation coverage you'll have coverage for expensive evacuations and some plans return your children home and/or bring someone to your bedside.
Your luggage has been lost by the airline Your tuxedo was in it and the wedding is tomorrow The airline has limited responsibilities for missing luggage, but travel insurance baggage coverage provides reimbursement for replacement clothing and other necessities (like a tuxedo rental).
Your tour operator goes out of business You pre-paid by check and their doors are locked tight With travel insurance protection for financial default, your pre-paid money can be refunded to you.
Your parents call with bad news while babysitting the kids Your child has been in an accident and you need to get home now With trip interruption protection, you can leave your trip and be refunded your un-used pre-paid travel costs and have additional funds to make emergency flight arrangements to get home.
Your connecting flight is delayed due to an ice storm Your wife and kids are very tired and the airline cannot reschedule your flight until tomorrow at the earliest With travel delay protection, you can be reimbursed for a hotel room and transportation, so everyone can get some dinner and a good night's rest while the storm blows over.
Your honeymoon destination is hit by a hurricane The resort you pre-paid for is completely destroyed With travel insurance protection that provides 'cancel for any reason' coverage, you'll receive all your pre-paid non refundable trip costs and can reschedule your honeymoon.
Of course, putting together a comprehensive list of everything that can go wrong on vacation is impossible, but it’s also impossible to put together a comprehensive list of everything that can go wrong with your health, or your home, or your car – that’s why you have insurance protecting those things back home.
Travel insurance is no different – it provides coverage for the things that might go wrong
Think about the costs associated with these scenarios
What happens if ... even worse ... Why Travel Insurance is priceless
You are badly injured while traveling abroad and hospitalized You brought the kids along With emergency evacuation coverage you'll have coverage for expensive evacuations and some plans return your children home and/or bring someone to your bedside.
Your luggage has been lost by the airline Your tuxedo was in it and the wedding is tomorrow The airline has limited responsibilities for missing luggage, but travel insurance baggage coverage provides reimbursement for replacement clothing and other necessities (like a tuxedo rental).
Your tour operator goes out of business You pre-paid by check and their doors are locked tight With travel insurance protection for financial default, your pre-paid money can be refunded to you.
Your parents call with bad news while babysitting the kids Your child has been in an accident and you need to get home now With trip interruption protection, you can leave your trip and be refunded your un-used pre-paid travel costs and have additional funds to make emergency flight arrangements to get home.
Your connecting flight is delayed due to an ice storm Your wife and kids are very tired and the airline cannot reschedule your flight until tomorrow at the earliest With travel delay protection, you can be reimbursed for a hotel room and transportation, so everyone can get some dinner and a good night's rest while the storm blows over.
Your honeymoon destination is hit by a hurricane The resort you pre-paid for is completely destroyed With travel insurance protection that provides 'cancel for any reason' coverage, you'll receive all your pre-paid non refundable trip costs and can reschedule your honeymoon.
Of course, putting together a comprehensive list of everything that can go wrong on vacation is impossible, but it’s also impossible to put together a comprehensive list of everything that can go wrong with your health, or your home, or your car – that’s why you have insurance protecting those things back home.
Travel insurance is no different – it provides coverage for the things that might go wrong
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Do you have a travel agent?
What a Travel Agent Can Provide You Expert guidance - With years of industry experience, we have both the knowledge and firsthand experience to help you decide which destination or resort is best for you. We can provide you with a wide variety of travel options from a number of different travel suppliers to countless popular destinations. Plus, we have all the travel information you need - from the best attractions to see, the most exciting activities to do, and the most affordable way to get there...we've got it covered!
Value - We understand that you may feel limited by your vacation budget. That's why we're dedicated to helping you receive the best possible value. Best of all, you'll receive all of our professional guidance at no extra cost!
Personalized service - As your personal Travel Agent, we'll devote time and effort to making sure you're happy with your travel options. If you need any assistance, we're just a phone call or e-mail away, so you'll receive the immediate attention you not only need, but also deserve.
Customer advocate - In the rare case that something on your trip doesn't go as planned, we'll be here to resolve the problem, so you can relax and enjoy.
Time savings - We know exactly where to go to get the information that you need and can find your travel options within seconds. Planning a vacation with us will save you both time and money because with some effort and organization, we'll handle all your travel arrangements.
Unbiased information - You can be assured that we'll do our best to make your travel experience as wonderful as possible. When you book travel through us, we work for you - not the travel supplier, so our main concern is always you and your unique needs.
Prior to booking online, you may want to contact us to utilize our professional advice and firsthand experience with many of the most popular destinations, resorts and cruise lines. We're dedicated to offering you the best prices and advice, while maintaining an emphasis on customer service, so don't hesitate to contact us so we can start planning your next travel adventure!
Ron Trimper
Travel Agent
The Way To Go Travel in Kansas City
rtrimper@thewaytogotravel.com
Value - We understand that you may feel limited by your vacation budget. That's why we're dedicated to helping you receive the best possible value. Best of all, you'll receive all of our professional guidance at no extra cost!
Personalized service - As your personal Travel Agent, we'll devote time and effort to making sure you're happy with your travel options. If you need any assistance, we're just a phone call or e-mail away, so you'll receive the immediate attention you not only need, but also deserve.
Customer advocate - In the rare case that something on your trip doesn't go as planned, we'll be here to resolve the problem, so you can relax and enjoy.
Time savings - We know exactly where to go to get the information that you need and can find your travel options within seconds. Planning a vacation with us will save you both time and money because with some effort and organization, we'll handle all your travel arrangements.
Unbiased information - You can be assured that we'll do our best to make your travel experience as wonderful as possible. When you book travel through us, we work for you - not the travel supplier, so our main concern is always you and your unique needs.
Prior to booking online, you may want to contact us to utilize our professional advice and firsthand experience with many of the most popular destinations, resorts and cruise lines. We're dedicated to offering you the best prices and advice, while maintaining an emphasis on customer service, so don't hesitate to contact us so we can start planning your next travel adventure!
Ron Trimper
Travel Agent
The Way To Go Travel in Kansas City
rtrimper@thewaytogotravel.com
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Do you have a reservation?
Today's vacation hint:
Eating out while on vacation is part of the pleasure. Most all-inclusive resorts allow you to book a certain number of a la carte dinners depending on how long your stay is (for example, 4 for a 7-day reservation). The various themed a la carte restaurants (i.e. Mexican, Japanese or Italian) are a nice change of pace from buffets, but reservations can fill up quickly. To get your ideal time slot, book them as soon as you arrive. Some are adults-only, so be sure to confirm if kids can tag along before you book.
Bon Appetite!!
Ron
The Way To Go Travel
rtrimper@thewaytogotravel.com
Eating out while on vacation is part of the pleasure. Most all-inclusive resorts allow you to book a certain number of a la carte dinners depending on how long your stay is (for example, 4 for a 7-day reservation). The various themed a la carte restaurants (i.e. Mexican, Japanese or Italian) are a nice change of pace from buffets, but reservations can fill up quickly. To get your ideal time slot, book them as soon as you arrive. Some are adults-only, so be sure to confirm if kids can tag along before you book.
Bon Appetite!!
Ron
The Way To Go Travel
rtrimper@thewaytogotravel.com
Friday, June 10, 2011
Q: Who can you trust on your next all inclusive? A: Your Travel Agent
Which all-inclusive resort is right for you? Ask an agent....honest. Experienced travel agents like myself have visited many of these resorts . Combined popular vacation spots like Cancun, Los Cabos and Playa del Carmen, in Mexico and Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic and Negril in Jamaica literally have hundreds of all-inclusives to choose from. How do you know which is just right for you? Seek out an expert, your travel agent. No cost to you!!
Remember: You need to take strangers' reviews with a grain of salt (every all-inclusive property has at least one person complaining about the hard beds or the same food on the buffet). Contact a respectable travel agent and get the real story on your next vacation from someone who has been.
Cheers,
Ron Trimper
Travel Agent
The Way To Go Travel in Kansas City
rtrimper@thewaytogotravel.com
www.thewaytogotravel.com
Going all inclusive? Bring (our buy) your own cup!!
Cheers,
Ron Trimper
The Way To Go Travel
rtrimper@thewaytogotravel.com
Friday, June 3, 2011
What not to wear on a plane
Knowing what to wear -- and, more importantly, what not to wear -- on a plane is crucial. Just ask Lady Gaga. About a year ago, the pop star donned Alexander McQueen "armadillo shoes" and a wild outfit of black and yellow tape on a transatlantic flight. During the voyage, Gaga began to experience symptoms of deep vein thrombosis, a life-threatening condition commonly caused by a combo of in-flight risk factors like low cabin pressure, dehydration, immobility during a long trip and cramped seats (so says the American Council on Exercise); attempt to endure this environment in a confining getup of tape and 12-inch stilettos, and you've got trouble.
Deep vein thrombosis occurs when blood clots form in veins, elevating the potential for a pulmonary embolism. Symptoms include swollen or red limbs, but individuals suffering from deep vein thrombosis often exhibit no symptoms. Luckily for Gaga, the star knew something was wrong. When Lady Gaga complained that her legs were swelling up during the flight, the cabin crew convinced her to change into something a little more comfortable (and a little less likely to incite an artery blockage).
Chances are you don't own a yellow and black tape outfit or 12-inch-high heels. But if similar things are lurking in your closet (you fashionable devil), I hope you've chosen to reserve such apparel for appropriate occasions, like directing traffic during a Mardi Gras parade -- and certainly not air travel. Just as Gaga and other demigods of impractical couture should keep their costumes off the tarmac, those of us who fall into the jeans-and-sneakers category of fashion ought to also think carefully about what we wear on a plane.
Tight clothing. Do: Natural, breathable fabrics.
We learned our lesson from Lady Gaga. Tight clothes can restrict blood flow in the already-confining space of an airplane seat. Is the reward of showing off your fantastically toned thighs worth the risk of deep vein thrombosis? Ditch the jeggings and don loose-fitting natural fiber garments (clothes made from cotton or linen are a great choice) to give your skin some breathing room.
.
Heels are restrictive, and they're been said to cause a long list of maladies, from chronic foot pain to hammer toe. Plus, unless you're one of Charlie's Angels, they don't exactly facilitate a clean exit in case of emergency. Hiking boots are a good bet, as wearing the bulky shoes as opposed to packing them frees up some suitcase space -- and you'll be comfortable walking miles in these shoes through endless airport terminals. Also consider slip-on shoes, which are wonderful for easing your way through security.
.
You've been in Europe for two weeks, you've only packed so much, and by your date of departure you've run out of clean pants and shirts. It may be tempting to throw on something that more or less passes the sniff test and head off to the airport. But remember: Odors are intensified on a plane, where passengers are cramped in close quarters and stale air is recycled throughout the cabin.
The perfect seatmate is one who doesn't smell like anything. To achieve a Zen-like lack of scent, be sure to reserve a clean outfit for the plane ride home. And go easy on the cologne. Better yet, don't wear any. Scent is subjective. You may adore the delicate bouquet of CK One, but your seatmate could find its aroma noxious. In particular, folks with allergies or asthma could have a reaction to strong perfumes.
In 2005, Southwest Airlines crewmembers booted passenger Lorrie Heasley from a flight because she was wearing a politically offensive T-shirt, reported CNN. The shirt depicted the faces of President George W. Bush, Dick Cheney and Condoleezza Rice above the caption "Meet the Fockers." After the incident, a Southwest spokeswoman told the Reno Gazette-Journal that the airline has the right to deny boarding to anyone wearing "lewd, obscene or patently offensive" clothing.
Two years later, Southwest's flight crew cum fashion police threatened to remove a second female passenger from a flight for wearing clothes considered inappropriate for a family airline. According to TODAY People, Kyla Ebbert, who was wearing tight shirt and a mini-skirt, salvaged her seat by offering to pull her skirt down and pull up her top, thereby minimizing her cleavage (oh, the horror!).
Whether or not you agree with what Southwest deems "inappropriate," you'll want to avoid wearing potentially offensive clothing to guarantee a tranquil travel experience. Steer clear of T-shirts splashed with curse words or controversial statements and anything that tends to raise eyebrows in public.
Fliers must brave a multitude of temperature changes throughout their journeys. There's the sweat-inducing jog through the sunny airport terminal, the warm 20 minutes while the plane sits on the tarmac pre-take-off and that in-flight arctic chill (against which paper-thin airline blankets do nothing). Layers are a traveler's best weapon against such varying conditions. Furthermore, the more apparel you tie around your waist or throw over your shoulders, the fewer clothing items you need to ball up and stuff into your suitcase.
Deep vein thrombosis occurs when blood clots form in veins, elevating the potential for a pulmonary embolism. Symptoms include swollen or red limbs, but individuals suffering from deep vein thrombosis often exhibit no symptoms. Luckily for Gaga, the star knew something was wrong. When Lady Gaga complained that her legs were swelling up during the flight, the cabin crew convinced her to change into something a little more comfortable (and a little less likely to incite an artery blockage).
Chances are you don't own a yellow and black tape outfit or 12-inch-high heels. But if similar things are lurking in your closet (you fashionable devil), I hope you've chosen to reserve such apparel for appropriate occasions, like directing traffic during a Mardi Gras parade -- and certainly not air travel. Just as Gaga and other demigods of impractical couture should keep their costumes off the tarmac, those of us who fall into the jeans-and-sneakers category of fashion ought to also think carefully about what we wear on a plane.
Tight clothing. Do: Natural, breathable fabrics.
We learned our lesson from Lady Gaga. Tight clothes can restrict blood flow in the already-confining space of an airplane seat. Is the reward of showing off your fantastically toned thighs worth the risk of deep vein thrombosis? Ditch the jeggings and don loose-fitting natural fiber garments (clothes made from cotton or linen are a great choice) to give your skin some breathing room.
.
Heels are restrictive, and they're been said to cause a long list of maladies, from chronic foot pain to hammer toe. Plus, unless you're one of Charlie's Angels, they don't exactly facilitate a clean exit in case of emergency. Hiking boots are a good bet, as wearing the bulky shoes as opposed to packing them frees up some suitcase space -- and you'll be comfortable walking miles in these shoes through endless airport terminals. Also consider slip-on shoes, which are wonderful for easing your way through security.
.
You've been in Europe for two weeks, you've only packed so much, and by your date of departure you've run out of clean pants and shirts. It may be tempting to throw on something that more or less passes the sniff test and head off to the airport. But remember: Odors are intensified on a plane, where passengers are cramped in close quarters and stale air is recycled throughout the cabin.
The perfect seatmate is one who doesn't smell like anything. To achieve a Zen-like lack of scent, be sure to reserve a clean outfit for the plane ride home. And go easy on the cologne. Better yet, don't wear any. Scent is subjective. You may adore the delicate bouquet of CK One, but your seatmate could find its aroma noxious. In particular, folks with allergies or asthma could have a reaction to strong perfumes.
In 2005, Southwest Airlines crewmembers booted passenger Lorrie Heasley from a flight because she was wearing a politically offensive T-shirt, reported CNN. The shirt depicted the faces of President George W. Bush, Dick Cheney and Condoleezza Rice above the caption "Meet the Fockers." After the incident, a Southwest spokeswoman told the Reno Gazette-Journal that the airline has the right to deny boarding to anyone wearing "lewd, obscene or patently offensive" clothing.
Two years later, Southwest's flight crew cum fashion police threatened to remove a second female passenger from a flight for wearing clothes considered inappropriate for a family airline. According to TODAY People, Kyla Ebbert, who was wearing tight shirt and a mini-skirt, salvaged her seat by offering to pull her skirt down and pull up her top, thereby minimizing her cleavage (oh, the horror!).
Whether or not you agree with what Southwest deems "inappropriate," you'll want to avoid wearing potentially offensive clothing to guarantee a tranquil travel experience. Steer clear of T-shirts splashed with curse words or controversial statements and anything that tends to raise eyebrows in public.
Fliers must brave a multitude of temperature changes throughout their journeys. There's the sweat-inducing jog through the sunny airport terminal, the warm 20 minutes while the plane sits on the tarmac pre-take-off and that in-flight arctic chill (against which paper-thin airline blankets do nothing). Layers are a traveler's best weapon against such varying conditions. Furthermore, the more apparel you tie around your waist or throw over your shoulders, the fewer clothing items you need to ball up and stuff into your suitcase.
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Flying this summer? Here are some valuable tips
• Book your ticket ASAP. If you must book last minute, remember, you have options. The key to securing the best deal is flexibility in travel dates--ask your travel agent to check into special fares or consider flying into an alternate airport and renting a car. If your vacation includes international travel, make sure you have a valid passport. Your travel agent can advise you on the new rules and how to apply.
• Arrive early. Difficult airport parking, long lines at security checkpoints and the possibility of the airline overselling the flight and bumping passengers, should all be considered when deciding what time to arrive at the airport. Give yourself plenty of extra time. Need some incentive? Keep in mind that those who arrive earliest for an overbooked flight stand the greatest chance of staying onboard.
• Keep a close eye on all your belongings. Just as flights are becoming extremely crowded, airports can also be fraught with thieves. Be aware of your surroundings and maintain a close watch over tickets, wallets, purses, and other belongings at all times.
• Avoid getting bumped. 1) Get an advance seat assignment. Passengers with seat assignments are typically only bumped if they arrive late and their seat assignment is released. 2) Check-in online. Most airlines allow you to do so within 24 hours of departure. Seat assignments that were not available at the time of ticketing may be available when checking in online. 3) Don't be late. If all else fails, get to the airport early. Some airlines reserve a portion of their seat assignment inventory for airport check-in. If you are denied a seat assignment at check-in, put your name on the "standby" seat assignment list.
• Remember 3-1-1. Regulations limit the amount of gels and liquids passengers can take through security in their carry-on luggage to travel-size toiletries of three (3) ounces or less that fit comfortably in one (1) quart-size, clear plastic zip-top bag and the one (1) bag per passenger must be placed in the screening bin.
• Know your limits. Pack light and know baggage limits. Some airlines now charge for a second piece of checked luggage.
• Plan itineraries and arrange accommodations well in advance. Reservations for hotels, restaurants and rental cars get booked quickly during peak travel times. Your travel agent can help you get the lowest rate and make sure your rental car has room for your family, luggage and whatever souvenirs you bring home.
Bon Voyage!!
Ron Trimper
Travel Agent
The Way To Go Travel in Kansas City
www.thewaytogotravel.com
rtrimper@thewaytogotravel.com
• Arrive early. Difficult airport parking, long lines at security checkpoints and the possibility of the airline overselling the flight and bumping passengers, should all be considered when deciding what time to arrive at the airport. Give yourself plenty of extra time. Need some incentive? Keep in mind that those who arrive earliest for an overbooked flight stand the greatest chance of staying onboard.
• Keep a close eye on all your belongings. Just as flights are becoming extremely crowded, airports can also be fraught with thieves. Be aware of your surroundings and maintain a close watch over tickets, wallets, purses, and other belongings at all times.
• Avoid getting bumped. 1) Get an advance seat assignment. Passengers with seat assignments are typically only bumped if they arrive late and their seat assignment is released. 2) Check-in online. Most airlines allow you to do so within 24 hours of departure. Seat assignments that were not available at the time of ticketing may be available when checking in online. 3) Don't be late. If all else fails, get to the airport early. Some airlines reserve a portion of their seat assignment inventory for airport check-in. If you are denied a seat assignment at check-in, put your name on the "standby" seat assignment list.
• Remember 3-1-1. Regulations limit the amount of gels and liquids passengers can take through security in their carry-on luggage to travel-size toiletries of three (3) ounces or less that fit comfortably in one (1) quart-size, clear plastic zip-top bag and the one (1) bag per passenger must be placed in the screening bin.
• Know your limits. Pack light and know baggage limits. Some airlines now charge for a second piece of checked luggage.
• Plan itineraries and arrange accommodations well in advance. Reservations for hotels, restaurants and rental cars get booked quickly during peak travel times. Your travel agent can help you get the lowest rate and make sure your rental car has room for your family, luggage and whatever souvenirs you bring home.
Bon Voyage!!
Ron Trimper
Travel Agent
The Way To Go Travel in Kansas City
www.thewaytogotravel.com
rtrimper@thewaytogotravel.com
Catalonia Playa Maroma in The Riviera Maya
Ron Trimper
The Way To Go Travel
in Kansas City
Travel Agent
816-392-5880 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 816-392-5880 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
www.thewaytogotravel.com
rtrimper@thewaytogotravel.com
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