[Travelandtourism] 5 Things Not To Do On Your First Cruise!

[cheryl echevarria]

Story from Cruise Critic and also my input as well.

1. Don't overdo it your first day onboard. Most mainstream cruise ships are 
bigger than you think -- even if they're not among the largest afloat. Most 
modern ships are composed of deck upon deck of cabins and public spaces and 
can accommodate thousands of people. The last thing you want to do is wear 
yourself out trying to unearth every nook and cranny of the ship before your 
vacation is really even underway. It's easy to want to see and do it all on 
the first day -- but avoid the temptation.

2. Don't try to eat at every specialty restaurant. Most major cruise lines 
have made a habit of building multiple for-fee specialty restaurants into 
newer ships, and while these restaurants can be fantastic, you could end up 
shelling out a fistful of cash by the time your cruise commences. Plus, you 
risk missing some of the special items found in the ship's main dining room. 
Like Seafood and Lobster Night.

3. Don't stay in your cabin for hours at a time. While a few short naps are 
nice (especially if you have a balcony to veg on), if you spend too long of 
a stretch in your cabin, you're sure to miss out on some fun onboard 
activities. It took me a couple days to realize that I was missing things 
like movies on the big screen, trivia sessions and game shows When cruising, 
there's something going on every hour of the day, and the only way you're 
going to have the best time possible is to venture out of your cabin and get 
involved.

4. Don't think you're too cool to participate in corny cruise activities. 
Sure you can sit in your cabin all day or loaf about on the pool deck, but 
the real fun comes when you dip your toe in the cheesy cruise waters. I will 
sing karaoke and bingo,  but I have all the extra fun and games that even 
playing spectator at some of these events resulted in gut-busting good 
times. And don't forget, cruising's much better when you meet new people --  
and these cruise-line organized activities are the best way to do so.

5. Don't forget to be nice to the crew. These guys work hard for your 
enjoyment. Remember to smile at them and thank them for their hard work. You'll 
be rewarded with personalized service and great conversation. It was awesome 
to have crew members addressing me by name and stopping in the halls to chat 
me up at every turn. Be sure to set the right tone from the beginning, and 
your effort will surely be reflected in your experience

Please don't forget Echevarria Travel for you next cruise and any vacation. 
Call 631-456-5394
Leading the Way in Independent Travel!

Cheryl Echevarria
http://www.echevarriatravel.com
631-456-5394
reservations at echevarriatravel.com

Affiliated as an Independent Contractor with Superior Travel, located in 
Baldwin, NY. www.superiortravel.com

Affiliated as an Independent Contractor with Absolute Cruise & Travel, Inc.