St, 152, number 10, Maadi, Cairo, Egypt.
Choosing a destination
This is the first thing you have to think about. There are plenty of options, so what are you looking for? There are some great cruises that sail onto beautiful and tropical beaches, or you might prefer to stroll in medieval cities in the Mediterranean coast? Or maybe, you would like to try something different and go for a river cruise on the Nile, to Alaska or Southern Asia! The exciting thing about choosing a cruise is that you can combine multiple destinations.
Best time of the year
Once you have decided where you want to go, you shall start considering when to book your cruise. Sure, it depends on your vacation flexibility and other factors; if it is a high or low season, what are your priorities and budget? Even though there is no right answer for when is the best time of the year for cruising, here is some food for thought: Summer and school vacation periods are popular among families, yet if this is not your case and having children around is something you would like to avoid, then fall does the work; the weather is still pleasant and the little ones are back to school.
If you are choosing a low season, you should also consider if the seas can be rougher because this can mean cold weather, and if that’s something you do not want, then reconsider your chosen period. In short, summer usually means families, children, and young adults, whereas winter and fall are somehow the opposite.
Departure Port
So now you are getting closer to your perfect cruise. But before, you need to think about your departure port. If you live close to it, you can drive. But if you don’t and you have to take a flight, this has to be taken into consideration for your budget, as some can be more expensive than you have thought before. Bear in mind that some cruises are only one way, so you have to think either in booking a return cruise or the return flight home from a destination you were not primarily thinking about.
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Choosing your cruise line
Now that you have the steps below settled, decide the length of your trip. The options are many, and some cruises might take up to 4 weeks. But we guess that for your first cruise you might want to try something more modest. You can choose something as short as a 3-day cruise, for example, but to truly enjoy the experience in a moderate way, it would be recommended a 1-week cruise. To answer this important cruise line question, your chosen destination will help you in deciding for the proper company. Cruises have different business models; some are more family-oriented, whereas others are great for couples, so one should fulfill your expectations. Each cruise line usually posts their schedules on their websites and a list of travel agents they work with.
Types of cabin
Time to select your stateroom. They are called by different names, but generally they are balcony cabins, inside cabins with no windows, and cabins with windows or portholes. Prices and sizes between them differ. Inside cabins are usually the cheapest, and many people do not mind it since they don’t spend a lot of time in their rooms. Of course, this depends if you are traveling with children, for instance, or require special needs. Other people say that once you choose the balcony option, you won’t want to sail in another way, as watching the sunrise or sunset from your private space can be priceless—but remember to look at the ship’s layout as you want to be on the right side. Also, take into consideration where your cabin is located in terms of: is it close to passageways, elevators, or public areas? If so, get ready for some noise. Therefore, choose it carefully.
Shore excursions
Next, what are you going to do when you arrive on land? When you are going to book your cruise, check their itinerary online and start researching what amazing things you can see as soon as you arrive at the ports. Be sure to book some in advance because they can be fulfilled quite quickly. If you are going through a tour agent, they can take care of everything for you.
Extra points to consider
Not all cruises are all-inclusive, and even some of the best packages might exclude drinks. Some offer beverage packages, and if you want to enjoy a glass of wine or cocktail along with your meals or while admiring the sunset, then you should consider it as they can be a good option for saving. But beverage packages do not have to be alcoholic-oriented. You can purchase non-alcoholic packages that are good for families and children.
Relax!
That is all! You have done everything; congratulations! Now relax because you are going on your first cruise! Hopefully the first one many. Get ready for memorable experiences with Nile Cruise Vacation!