cruising 10 best reasons

Cruising: 10 Best Reasons

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For those of us who have cruised, “why cruising?” has been a question asked to me several times by non-cruisers.  I’m going to breakdown the awesome benefits of cruising and why it should be on top of your of list of things to do on your next vacation.  Now I know that some of the hard-core travelers don’t believe that cruising is “real” travel.  Some think you need to live and breathe the culture by immersing yourself and need to live like the locals.  There maybe some truth to that.  But, I have to admit that I like traveling with some luxury and want to be spoiled, and I don’t think there is anything wrong with that either.  So, with that said, here are my top 10 reasons to cruise:

Reason 1 – Cruising provides the most bang for your buck (or Euro, Sterling, Yen, etc).  I believe that most average earning people are usually looking for a good deal when shopping for their next vacation.  I have yet to find another alternative that beats cruising.  What’s included?  Lodging, meals, entertainment, and transportation to new destination.

Reason 2 – Each day you are in a new location!  I don’t know about you, but when I travel I like to visit as many places as I can.  In most cases, the airfare is what kills a vacation budget.  Cruising is great this way.  When you wake up in the morning you are in an exciting new destination that is waiting to be discovered!  Depending on the length of your cruise, its not uncommon to visit 4 different countries!

Reason 3 – Another great perk of cruising is visiting some ports that are hard to reach by road.  In 2012, my husband and I were on a Norwegian cruise and the ship stopped at Geiranger, Norway. If we were to try and drive here, or even fly here (if possible) it would have been extremely expensive and would have taken numerous days from the US. Go ahead and Google Map – Geiranger, Norway.  You’ll be shocked at how remote this little city is in Western Norway.

Reason 4 –  I don’t have to pack and unpack several times!  Yes, I understand that traveling requires “being on the move” but sometimes I just want to unpack 1 time and enjoy my vacation.  Some say, “why don’t you just stay at a resort?  Then you only have to unpack once.”  Refer to Reason 2!

Reason 5 – Meeting different people from all over the world.  Yes, it’s common to meet a lot of Americans on Caribbean and Mexico cruises, Aussies on Australian cruises, and Europeans on Europe cruises.  But, many of these cruisers have also traveled across the globe to find another region that they have not cruised before.  Plus, the crew is from all corners of the globe.  Take some time and get to know the crew because they love sharing stories about their home country.

Reason 6 – The food is top notch and included (except for some specialty restaurants).  Even the pickiest of eaters can find something to eat on a cruise ship.  From various themed buffets, to first class dining room, to traditional grilled burgers and pizza, to unique cafes with international cuisine.  It’s a great way for you to try new foods and not to be stuck with bill if you don’t like it.  You will not be disappointed!  Plan on gaining a few pounds before the end of your trip!

Reason 7 – For the love of the open sea!  There is something calming and therapeutic about sailing.  Maybe it is light rocking of the boat or the quietness of being on the water, but whatever it is, I come back refreshed after a cruise.

Reason 8 – I’m forced to unplug from my phone.  Yes, cruise ships have internet (for a hefty price) but usually the reception on my phone is horrible.  By the time the ship leaves port and is a few miles off shore my phone doesn’t have service anyways.  So, on our last 10 day cruise, I completely turned off cell service on my phone (except for the camera) and put it in airplane mode.  I found myself relaxing more and not getting caught up in emails and really enjoyed the time with my family.  After all, that’s what it is all about.

Reason 9 – Date night, every night!  My husband and I traveled with our kids (7yo and 4 yo) on our last cruise.  Since the ship had a kids camp (already included in the price Reason 1), we had the chance to spend some real time together.  One night we watched a movie under the stars, the next we caught a live show in the theatre, another night played trivia,  another night we indulged in some specialty chocolates and wine, and mingled with other couples.  The best part was not having to pay for a babysitter!

Reason 10 – Lots of exercise!  Now some laugh at this but after Reason 6, I need it!   A lot of these ships are very large 900-1000+ ft long so it’s real easy to get your 10,000 steps a day.  Don’t forget, once you get off the ship there is usually a lot of walking too.  I work a lot in front of a computer and honestly, I get in more steps on vacation than I do at home.  Maybe I should be cruising all the time?

If you have cruised before, what are your reasons for cruising?  Share your comments with us below.

If you are thinking of cruising with your kids, check out our previous blog post, 8 Reasons to Cruise to Kids or Family Cruising Fact VS Fiction

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Family Cruising – Fact vs. Fiction

[podbean type=audio-rectangle resource=”episode=zrapa-6a3d3c” skin=1 auto=0 share=1 download=1 height=100 ] Booking.com It’s a debate that’s been…

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cruising 10 best reasons

Cruising: 10 Best Reasons

[podbean type=audio-rectangle resource=”episode=3q8ea-6a5f11″ skin=1 auto=0 share=1 download=0 height=100 ] For those of us who have…

Read More

Author

  • Angie Surratt

    I'm the founder and publisher of My Family Guide. I'm a wife and mother of two. I've managed to visit all 50 states and travel to over 25 countries. Sharing my experiences, tip and tricks about my adventures.

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