Endless Vacation Options

By: Mike Franks, Owner-Operator, Cruise Planners-Orange Park, FL

Although many of my clients are looking for cruise vacations, there are lots of other vacation options available. There are so many options available; it’s smart to let your travel advisor do all the heavy lifting for you. Here are just a few to get your creative juices flowing.

Everything You Find in Vegas at Half the Price!

 By: Mike Franks, Owner-Operator, Cruise Planners-Orange Park, FL

cruisecritic.com

Sometimes I will hear from people who have never experienced a cruise vacation that they are afraid they will be bored! That is probably one of the most prevalent misconceptions about cruising. I like to use the statement, “Everything you find in Vegas at half the price” to describe what you can expect from on-board entertainment.

Introducing Royal Caribbean’s Fabulous New Ship-Symphony of the Seas

By: Mike Franks Owner-Operator, Cruise Planners-Orange Park, FL

Royal Caribbean International just launched the newest and best ship of its fleet Symphony of the Seas. Since I have clients planning to cruise on her over the next few months, I decided to take a closer look at what makes this ship so special. In doing so, I intentionally stayed away from RCI’s web site and press releases and relied on various cruise line critics for their opinions on this ship. After three years of construction, the world's largest cruise ship just set sail from Barcelona, Spain, on its inaugural cruise around the Mediterranean.  But the ship's record-breaking size isn't its only claim to fame.

First Time Cruisers

 By: Mike Franks, Owner-Operator, Cruise Planners-Orange Park, FL

Courtesy Carnival Cruise Line

For a first-time cruiser, the experience can be somewhat intimidating. But just like anything else, it’s the fear of the unknown that really creates those stomach butterflies.

CruiseCritic.com asked a mixture of first time travelers, just returning from their first cruise, as well as a few veteran cruisers for their advice to those about to embark on their maiden voyage. They mentioned things like packing, cocktails, ports and dining. Here are some of their tips in no particular order:

Want a More Sophisticated Cruise Experience? (Part 2)

wikipedia.com

By: Mike Franks

Owner-Operator, Cruise Planners-Orange Park, FL

Last week, we featured a few cruise itineraries that are somewhat unique for the average traveler. Here are a few more selections offered by some of the more exotic, luxury cruise lines. Stretch your imagination and find one you like!

Jewels of Europe

A mixture of old world beauty, architecture and rich history in Old Europe.

Ports of Call include: