Two weeks before the Midsommar celebration we canceled our trip to Vastervick on the Baltic Sea coast of Sweden. Many locals told us this weekend, especially at that location,would be filled with drunken, partying people. I guess, much like “Spring Break” at the beaches in the US. Although we still want to visit this area, we felt another weekend would suit us better.

So, with a little time off …. where could we go? I started searching on the web for an alternative trip. I was thinking of something close by, but the more I searched, I found the best for the money was going to Italy, Turkey, and Greece. Wow, really!

THE DEAL
We could take a cruise on Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines, Navigator of the Seas, for a bargain price. The starting rate for the cabins was $449, or $64 each a day. We did upgrade to a balcony room for $200 more. It was well worth it in this case. Daren was able to just relax, and take pictures on the balcony. But, if you have a more restrictive budget, go with the cheapest rate. Sometimes you will be upgraded to a better room anyway. With cruising, if you plan to take full benefit of activities and shows on the ship, it makes very little difference if you have a window, balcony, or not. You don’t spend much time at all in your cabin. And you can view the scenery outside the ship on other public decks. You will probably be surprised that the very top decks where you can see the best, may have very view people partaking of the view.

The same Western Caribbean trip on Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines is advertised now,(July 6, 2012) beginning at $399, with $100 onboard spending credit! The only date this is available is July 15 to 22nd. If I choose that same date next year, the starting price is $1,049. Source: Cruises.com

A LOT FOR THE MONEY
Flexibility…flexibility…flexibility is the key to getting a lot for very little. Don’t forget, there are also sometimes discounts available for senior citizens (age qualification differs with different companies), kid discounts, and single traveler discounts.

Included on the ship are meals, shows, swimming, miniature golf, basketball, volley ball, ping pong, climbing wall, inline skating, ice skating, exercise classes, and gym facilities, spa (fee), jogging or walking track, movie theater, craft classes, also planned game type activities, and contests. Or, you can take advantage of becoming certified in scuba diving for a fee. As you stroll on the Promenade, where many of the shops, casual restaurants, and bars, and lounges are located, you may come across live music performances, or a celebration parade. If you are like me, and need some Wi-Fi time, there is the internet café, and hotspots on the ship. It is expensive, and at times connections are slow, or not available. But, solved the problem for me with dealing with a couple work related things.

Other costs are the land tours at the ports. There are many to choose from, and it is best if you book these before you go, to get the one you want. If you choose not to pay for a land tour, usually you can just go on your own. Or, don’t forget, you can stay on the ship. There are so many activities for children and teens on board that are chaperoned with their activity directors. Don’t be surprised if your kids prefer to stay on board, rather than viewing every archaeological site.

In planning costs for the trip, there are also set tipping rates, which are done at the end of the trip. Alcohol, soft drinks, and bottled water are extra. However, you can buy a package deal with a cup for unlimited soft drinks.

The biggest cost that may throw a wrench into the plans is airline cost. If you are very lucky to live within driving distance of a port, do take advantage. If not, this could be a deal killer. But keep looking airlines have sales too. Or frequent flyer miles may be your ticket.

My cruising experience with Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines was an A+ experience.

Please leave a comment below.

More to come on this trip! Stay connected!

Globe Trottin Granny

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