LIFE ON BOARD
Every day you will receive a ship newspaper and the ship's day sheet. The day sheet will list everything that is happening onboard that day, including whether the evening meal will be formal or casual. Have fun reading it and planning your day or just recycle it and plan to do nothing!
A word about the ship photographer, you will be photographed as you enter the ship and many other times during your vacation. Imagine walking down a secluded path on a private beach in paradise, turning a corner and nearly bumping into the ship photographer! He's everywhere, ready to snap pictures to record your journey. Every evening you can go to the photograph gallery and view your photos. If you like them, you can buy them. If not, just leave them there and eventually they will disappear. There is no obligation when you let the photographer take your picture. These pictures are usually excellent and are a great way to save your memories.
TIPPING
Tipping may vary from ship to ship but the cruise lines are good about letting you know what they expect. Here is the most common approach: gratuities are added automatically to your onboard account up front. Most cruise lines add $10 per day per person for gratuities. If you feel you received better service than expected, you can tip more.
In most cases you are expected to tip your cabin steward, waiter and assistant waiter. Everyone else is optional. Usually bar tabs include gratuities, but if you have a wonderful bar server who took the time to form a relationship with you, you can tip them too! You can usually find tipping information regarding your particular ship on-line, in a brochure, or just call us and we'll get it for you! It is good to know what to expect so you can have the cash with you beforehand if that is the ship policy.
Another important thing happens the last night. Read on.
DISEMBARKATION
Darn, the dreaded day is going to arrive, despite your best efforts to ignore it! Disembarkation actually starts the night before. If you didn't guarantee your onboard account with a credit card, you must pay off your onboard account. If you have used a credit card, this is just like express checkout in a hotel, nothing to do. You must also leave your packed suitcases outside your cabin door to be taken by the stewards to prepare for disembarkation. Be sure to keep the nightclothes you will sleep in, your clothes for the trip home, and anything you will need to get ready in the morning. Be sure you have a carry-on that can hold these items, as you will not see your suitcases again until you are off the ship.
In the morning you will have one last wonderful breakfast and then you will leave your cabin for good. Make yourself comfortable in any one of the public lounges until the number or color you have been given is called. If you have one of the earlier flights, you will be called quickly. If you are driving, staying for a post-cruise vacation, or have an evening flight, you will be one of the last to disembark. Please remember that you may be out of your room for an hour or two before you disembark. When your number is called, you will disembark and go into the terminal where you will find your luggage. Finding your luggage has been organized. The luggage has color-coded tags, and you find the row with your color and locate your bag. Putting something bright or obvious (such as ribbon) on your bag is also a good idea. Another good idea is to wrap your bag handle with colored duck tape; this will not get pulled off. You will find the tape a good option for the cruise and the air travel.
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
What to expect when cruising
This is the first post of a two week series on what to expect when you cruise
DOCUMENTS
When your documents arrive be sure to check them over very carefully. Make sure that all of the information is correct and fill out any paperwork that is required. Make sure you have your valid passport, or valid copy of birth certificate and photo ID. Passport expiration dates must be at least six months after your return date. Documents will also include information about appropriate clothing for the climate you are visiting and what is acceptable for dining and other onboard activities. The documents will also advise you which on-board nights are formal, semi-formal or casual.
AT THE PORT
Boarding a ship is similar to boarding an airplane. You may wait in line before you reach the check-in counter where you will check your luggage and provide your birth certificate and photo ID or valid passport. Then you will be invited to board.
BOARDING
Boarding a ship for the first time, or the tenth, is one of the most exciting moments of a cruise. Sailing away is another one! A crew member will escort you to your cabin. Do not be surprised if your luggage is not in your cabin. It will show up. There will be an envelope in your stateroom with your dining table and seating. If you would like to change either assignment, take the envelope with you and speak to the maitre'd in the dining room. Otherwise, memorize the number so you will know which table to ask the dining room escort to take you to at dinner.
GETTING ACQUAINTED WITH THE SHIP
After you get settled in your stateroom, it's time to tour the ship. Check out the excursions offered during the week at the Shore Excursion Desk, located near the purser's desk. If you see something you really want to do, reserve your spot! It may fill up later and you could miss out.
While you're in the lobby area of the ship, follow the ship's instructions and open your onboard account. Purchases onboard can't occur without this. Most ships run on a cash-less system except in the casino, which is cash-only. This is very liberating, especially when you are spending your day in a swimsuit! Simply bring a credit card, or post an amount of cash to the cashier after you board the ship. From then on, you will use your room key to pay for anything you purchase on the ship whether it's drinks, excursions, souvenirs, massages. You can check on the amount you have spent anytime during the cruise and a summary of your charges will be put under your door on the last night of the cruise. Be sure to review it carefully and report any errors immediately.
The first time you wander the ship is a memorable experience. You won't believe this will be your home for your entire vacation!
LIFEJACKET DRILL
There are two events on a cruise that most people wish did not have to happen. They are the lifejacket drill, and disembarking (more on that later.)! The lifejacket drill, sometimes referred to as the "muster drill", is important and is for your safety. The Coast Guard requires this drill to take place within 24 hours of sailing. On the day you board, there will be information about where to meet when the lifejacket drill horn is blown. When the horn blows seven times, everyone must get their lifejacket and go to their assigned muster station and put on their lifejacket. Crew members will be there to help and each passenger must be checked off of a list before the drill is over. Bring your camera to the drill and use this great opportunity to get pictures of friends and family wearing a huge orange vest!
DOCUMENTS
When your documents arrive be sure to check them over very carefully. Make sure that all of the information is correct and fill out any paperwork that is required. Make sure you have your valid passport, or valid copy of birth certificate and photo ID. Passport expiration dates must be at least six months after your return date. Documents will also include information about appropriate clothing for the climate you are visiting and what is acceptable for dining and other onboard activities. The documents will also advise you which on-board nights are formal, semi-formal or casual.
AT THE PORT
Boarding a ship is similar to boarding an airplane. You may wait in line before you reach the check-in counter where you will check your luggage and provide your birth certificate and photo ID or valid passport. Then you will be invited to board.
BOARDING
Boarding a ship for the first time, or the tenth, is one of the most exciting moments of a cruise. Sailing away is another one! A crew member will escort you to your cabin. Do not be surprised if your luggage is not in your cabin. It will show up. There will be an envelope in your stateroom with your dining table and seating. If you would like to change either assignment, take the envelope with you and speak to the maitre'd in the dining room. Otherwise, memorize the number so you will know which table to ask the dining room escort to take you to at dinner.
GETTING ACQUAINTED WITH THE SHIP
After you get settled in your stateroom, it's time to tour the ship. Check out the excursions offered during the week at the Shore Excursion Desk, located near the purser's desk. If you see something you really want to do, reserve your spot! It may fill up later and you could miss out.
While you're in the lobby area of the ship, follow the ship's instructions and open your onboard account. Purchases onboard can't occur without this. Most ships run on a cash-less system except in the casino, which is cash-only. This is very liberating, especially when you are spending your day in a swimsuit! Simply bring a credit card, or post an amount of cash to the cashier after you board the ship. From then on, you will use your room key to pay for anything you purchase on the ship whether it's drinks, excursions, souvenirs, massages. You can check on the amount you have spent anytime during the cruise and a summary of your charges will be put under your door on the last night of the cruise. Be sure to review it carefully and report any errors immediately.
The first time you wander the ship is a memorable experience. You won't believe this will be your home for your entire vacation!
LIFEJACKET DRILL
There are two events on a cruise that most people wish did not have to happen. They are the lifejacket drill, and disembarking (more on that later.)! The lifejacket drill, sometimes referred to as the "muster drill", is important and is for your safety. The Coast Guard requires this drill to take place within 24 hours of sailing. On the day you board, there will be information about where to meet when the lifejacket drill horn is blown. When the horn blows seven times, everyone must get their lifejacket and go to their assigned muster station and put on their lifejacket. Crew members will be there to help and each passenger must be checked off of a list before the drill is over. Bring your camera to the drill and use this great opportunity to get pictures of friends and family wearing a huge orange vest!
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Travel tips for seniors
All travelers should plan carefully to ensure their health and safety while away. However, older people have a few extra concerns.
Pre-trip planning
Suggestions include:
•Consult with your travel agent for suggestions. For example, many tour operators specialize in accommodating the needs of travelling seniors.
•Find out about the medical facilities in the areas you will be visiting.
•Research important factors such as climate, language and culture. Buy a guide book and read it before you go.
•Make arrangements for wheelchairs, guide dogs and seating needs well in advance.
•Organize travel insurance with pre-existing illness coveager if needed.
•If you are concerned about your health, arrange to go on a package tour.
Reciprocal health care agreements
Australia has a reciprocal health care agreement with some countries, which means emergency care is available. Non-emergency health care is only offered if delaying medical attention until returning home is unreasonable. Check with Medicare for an up-to-date list of countries participating in reciprocal health care agreements. Remember that travel health insurance is still needed.
Pre-trip medical check-ups
Suggestions include:
•Consult with your doctor for a complete medical check-up. This is especially important if you have coronary heart disease, hypertension or any other chronic condition, or if you have recently undergone surgery or experienced a heart attack.
•Discuss any particular health concerns you may have, such as dietary changes and the possible impact of different eating habits on your specific condition.
•People with diabetes will need medical advice on how to safely stagger their medications to fit a different time zone.
•Consider having your flu and pneumonia vaccinations before you go on your trip.
•If you intend travelling to areas where infectious diseases are present, make sure you are fully vaccinated.
•Visit your dentist for a check-up.
•Visit any other health care providers you consult with on a regular basis, such as your optometrist.
Contact Donna for all your travel arrangments: www.dmttravel.com
Pre-trip planning
Suggestions include:
•Consult with your travel agent for suggestions. For example, many tour operators specialize in accommodating the needs of travelling seniors.
•Find out about the medical facilities in the areas you will be visiting.
•Research important factors such as climate, language and culture. Buy a guide book and read it before you go.
•Make arrangements for wheelchairs, guide dogs and seating needs well in advance.
•Organize travel insurance with pre-existing illness coveager if needed.
•If you are concerned about your health, arrange to go on a package tour.
Reciprocal health care agreements
Australia has a reciprocal health care agreement with some countries, which means emergency care is available. Non-emergency health care is only offered if delaying medical attention until returning home is unreasonable. Check with Medicare for an up-to-date list of countries participating in reciprocal health care agreements. Remember that travel health insurance is still needed.
Pre-trip medical check-ups
Suggestions include:
•Consult with your doctor for a complete medical check-up. This is especially important if you have coronary heart disease, hypertension or any other chronic condition, or if you have recently undergone surgery or experienced a heart attack.
•Discuss any particular health concerns you may have, such as dietary changes and the possible impact of different eating habits on your specific condition.
•People with diabetes will need medical advice on how to safely stagger their medications to fit a different time zone.
•Consider having your flu and pneumonia vaccinations before you go on your trip.
•If you intend travelling to areas where infectious diseases are present, make sure you are fully vaccinated.
•Visit your dentist for a check-up.
•Visit any other health care providers you consult with on a regular basis, such as your optometrist.
Contact Donna for all your travel arrangments: www.dmttravel.com
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Clothing for Summer Travel to Europe
Your are heading to Europe this summer, and are afraid of looking like tacky tourists – what are the best ways to add some style but stay packable?
Fashion designers in this country always look to countries in Mediterranean Europe for their inspiration. From a European’s point of view we simply dress, while they dress with style. In fact, you may be stopped at the door of many fashionable places if you are not properly dressed. In this country we are noted more for a casual appearance that if worn abroad will draw attention and garner the label ‘tourist’.
To avoid this, start with a solid core of basic items in classic styles that can easily be mixed and matched to create a variety of looks. These should be in neutral tones (khaki, olive, navy, grey). Reversible items are a good pick to lighten your load. Items that make the switch from casual daywear to elegant evening wear will give you the maximum versatility.
For Women
Choose dresses and skirts. Our Little Black Travel Dress can be worn casually during the day. Accessorize with a string of pearls or other jewelry, and you’re ready for an elegant evening out.
Despite its name, our Tropical Microfiber Blazer is a perfect choice for Mediterranean Europe, especially during the summer months as it can get very toasty there.
Choose comfortable shoes for walking, visiting museums, climbing around on ruins, etc.
Accessorize with jewelry, (costume Jewelry) scarves, hats and wraps.
For Men
Blazers/Sport Coats paired with complementary slacks. Under your blazer wear colored or striped collared shirts. Avoid white.
As far as casual attire, think “business casual.” Polo shirts paired with khakis etc. Avoid shorts.
In general, European men wear more fitted clothes. Leave those trendy, baggy, American styles at home.
Avoid baseball caps, especially worn backwards, running shoes or socks w/sandals. Look instead for stylish but comfortable walking shoes and accessories.
Fashion designers in this country always look to countries in Mediterranean Europe for their inspiration. From a European’s point of view we simply dress, while they dress with style. In fact, you may be stopped at the door of many fashionable places if you are not properly dressed. In this country we are noted more for a casual appearance that if worn abroad will draw attention and garner the label ‘tourist’.
To avoid this, start with a solid core of basic items in classic styles that can easily be mixed and matched to create a variety of looks. These should be in neutral tones (khaki, olive, navy, grey). Reversible items are a good pick to lighten your load. Items that make the switch from casual daywear to elegant evening wear will give you the maximum versatility.
For Women
Choose dresses and skirts. Our Little Black Travel Dress can be worn casually during the day. Accessorize with a string of pearls or other jewelry, and you’re ready for an elegant evening out.
Despite its name, our Tropical Microfiber Blazer is a perfect choice for Mediterranean Europe, especially during the summer months as it can get very toasty there.
Choose comfortable shoes for walking, visiting museums, climbing around on ruins, etc.
Accessorize with jewelry, (costume Jewelry) scarves, hats and wraps.
For Men
Blazers/Sport Coats paired with complementary slacks. Under your blazer wear colored or striped collared shirts. Avoid white.
As far as casual attire, think “business casual.” Polo shirts paired with khakis etc. Avoid shorts.
In general, European men wear more fitted clothes. Leave those trendy, baggy, American styles at home.
Avoid baseball caps, especially worn backwards, running shoes or socks w/sandals. Look instead for stylish but comfortable walking shoes and accessories.
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