Posts Tagged ‘Travel Agent’

How to get people to buy a cruise vacation?

Saturday, November 21st, 2009
cruise vacation
Xtal asked:


I have now website f

What\’s the best travel agent for an alaska cruise?

Friday, May 8th, 2009
alaska cruise
William B asked:


Alaska Cruise wants. Someone said, we should a Reisebà ¼ ro. Can someone recommend, the best Reisebà ¼ ro fà ¼ r Alaska a cruise to me? Thanks!

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Shopping Online for Discount Cruise Deals On Mexico, Bahamas, and Hawaii

Saturday, November 15th, 2008
discount cruises
Jimmy Harrison asked:


“Crusin’ on a Sunday afternoon” has taken on an entirely new meaning for so many around the world. I bet you’re wondering how these folks can afford to take cruises a couple of times a year to Mexico, the Bahamas and Hawaii, right? I bet you think that these people are rich, too. Well, maybe some of them are rich, but the majority of them earn a living just like the rest of us do. The big difference is that these folks know how to shop for discount cruises, and they’re doing it online.

Modern cruises aren’t what they used to be. Cruise ships of today are more like traveling resorts that get you from one port of call to another, wining and dining its passengers from dusk ’til dawn (and every time in between). Each newly sailing luxury ship needs to be bigger and better than its predecessors, leaving more and more passenger cabins to fill in the process. All you need to do is find the open cabins on the right ships to get onboard a discount cruise to Mexico, the Bahamas or Hawaii.

First things first, don’t even bother going to a travel agent or other in-person operation, for unless you’re a very good customer to them, they probably won’t tell you about the extra-cheap deals. Remember, travel is usually a commission-based business, so if you aren’t spending much cash, the agent doesn’t make much money. The best (and easiest) way to find discounted cruises is on the World Wide Web, where agents and website owners are dealing with a higher quantity of travelers, so they don’t need to make as much per purchase to make a living.

Next tip: even if you are choosing one cruise destination now, say for example Hawaii, don’t pick a website that only offers cruises to Hawaii and no place else. Sure, you may love the islands of the South Pacific and may want to travel there again one day, but the world is filled with interesting cruising destinations with oceans just waiting for you to set sail. Basically, don’t limit your own options before you’ve even cast off, because some options may offer more value than others.

Don’t forget about time and destination flexibility, as the more flexible your schedule is, the better deal you’re going to get. So even if your heart is set on Acapulco this time, you might be able to get a much better price on a cruise to the Bahamas. Instead of spending the extra money on your cruise, think about all of the extra shopping and land excursions you’ll be able to take if you stretch you become adaptable to the situation. After all, the world is a colossal place, so you’ll need to travel on a lot of cruise ships to see the entire planet.

Cruises Vacation

Book Early for a Great Discount Cruise Deal

Friday, September 5th, 2008
discount cruises
Clark Norton asked:


Nothing makes cruise lines happier than convincing passengers that booking their cruise early is their best chance to land a great discount cruise deal.

Selling as many cabins as early as possible helps the cruise lines in their planning and means they don’t have to worry about whether or not a particular ship will fill up.

So to encourage passengers to book cruises as far in advance as possible, cruise lines will often offer plenty of incentives, such as “two-for-one” deals with “free” airfare for early bookers.

Besides taking advantage of such special offers, it makes sense to book early if you don’t have much flexibility in your travel plans.

For instance, if you:

**need to take your cruise during summer vacation when your kids are out of school,

**know you’re going to need several nearby cabins to accommodate a group of friends traveling together,

**or want to travel to a popular destination such as Alaska in the summer,

then you might be out of luck if you wait too long to choose your ship dates.

Also, the most desirable cabins (not necessarily the most expensive) on the most popular routes and on the most popular ships tend to sell out early.

If you do book early, don’t settle for token discounts or offers such as a “free bottle of wine!” or “free souvenir photo!” that don’t amount to much at all.

Comb the Internet for the most attractive offers or insist that your travel agent nail down the best discount cruise deal you can get.

Fifty percent off printed brochure rates is a good target price, especially for the big mainstream cruise lines, which routinely offer huge discounts late in the game if a cruise isn’t selling fast enough.

Luxury lines or smaller expedition-style cruise ships may not offer as good a discount cruise deal for early booking, but many do sweeten the pot by offering cabin upgrades or other perks.

On some voyages, kids go for free as the third or fourth passengers in their parents’ cabins. But like most early booking offers, it could be withdrawn at any time.

The bottom line is that if you know you want to take a particular cruise at a particular time to a particular place — in short, if you don’t have much flexibility in your travel plans — then it generally pays to book your cruise as early as possible.

And in most cases, the cruise lines will offer a discount cruise deal that makes it worth your while to do just that.

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Cheap Cruises - How To Find The Best Cruise Deals

Wednesday, July 23rd, 2008
cheap cruises
Dean Caporella asked:


Finding cheap cruises has almost become a past time for many regular travelers who recognize the value in taking a holiday on a cruise ship.

When you compare the price of a cruise to many other vacations you simply cannot compare the value you get on a ship. It’s all inclusive and there is also the added attraction of being able to set foot on land when docking at the various stops along the way.

Shopping For Cheap Cruises

It will be difficult to find cheap deals during the high season. This includes the summer holiday months and the various school breaks. However, concentrating your efforts from fall through to spring means getting on a ship for a bargain price.

Booking ahead for these times of the year is a sensible approach. Companies offer attractive deals considering many people prefer to stick around at home during the festive season.

Online vs. Travel Agent For Cheap Cruises

There is a lot of conjecture as to which is the best approach. Online booking is now part and parcel of taking cheap cruises however, there are times when it’s definitely more beneficial to speak with a travel agent.

When shopping online the price advertised is the price you get. With a booking agent, there are deals available which will not be advertised online and without checking, then you could be missing out on some great savings.

When looking at niche cruise lines or vacations with land embarkations then you’ll need to speak with a representative. These are a little more complicated than the average straight forward cruise.

Other times requiring contact with a specialist is if you are a returning customer. Some cruise lines offer returning customers upgrades to a more expensive level as a way of rewarding them for their patronage.

Discounts can also apply to senior citizens while discounts could also apply to you if you are part of a special organization such as the armed forces.

How To Shop And Compare

Our advice is to shop online and get a guide of the prices available for advertised cheap cruises. When you have a list of possible options contact your travel agent. Better still, have a list of travel agents and spend a little time on the phone.

Your aim is to try and get down to the lowest price possible and may mean you’ll need to speak with several agents. Start with the initial price listed and simply ask if that price can be bettered. On many occasions it won’t but the chances are also extremely good that you’ll get a discount.

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Americans get cheap cruises, but where from?

Wednesday, June 11th, 2008
cheap cruises
travelbug asked:


I’m an Australian and i have been on two cruises in USA, and both times i have met several people who have told me that i had got very ripped of…. do ameriacans have special websites or special prices? because here in australia we just pay the price that is in the broucher… and on top of that does the travel agent book it or do you book it your sevles? are international people allowed to use these websites?

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Caribbean Cruise Holiday Of A Lifetime

Wednesday, June 4th, 2008
caribbean cruise
Cindy Heller asked:


Caribbean cruise vacation is the ultimate deal and if you have not tried it, now is the time to be treated like royalty while you spend times on the idyllic tropical islands. There is no vacation that offers more and since there are numerous packages to choose, spends time selecting it. The trip can be made with your family, by yourself or your partner. Irrespective of whom you go with, there is lot of activities to while away your time.

Caribbean cruise holiday is a combination of amazing entertainment, wonderful activities and an opportunity to visit the idyllic Caribbean. Cruising can be for extended period and it is up to your budget, choice of locations and preferences. Give yourself the opportunity to experience the vacation of a lifetime.

Cruising has become widespread and cruise liner has grown considerably but each vacationer has diverse need so there are many different packages for each and a holiday is a time for unwinding, enjoyment and revitalization. Cruise liners are aware of it and have different packages to cater for diverse crowds so the vacation can meet their needs of a dream holiday.

There is a right fit for every vacationer and the right programs, meal and entertainment are designed to cater to them. Go to your nearest travel agent to find the right cruise package and always covey your requirements so that he/she can suggest the ideal vacation. Before making the trip, it is wise to find out more so as to select the right package. Comments and reviews can be found online but a check with your local travel agent is advisable.

As the Caribbean cruises travel to most parts of the Caribbean, with different price package for each itinerary together with the duration and the number of places visited. Caribbean cruise holiday usually range from three, five, seven and could be up to ten days. Seven days are the choice pick as you will have enough time to unwind and reinvigorate as well as exploring the islands.

You can begin by slowly marking out those cruise liners not suitable for you and choosing the right Caribbean cruise package, for instant, if you are getting away from the hustle and bustle of city life to unwind and recharge yourself so eliminate those that promise party carnival. But your ideal vacation is partying by the beach or the deck pool and even in disco, and then chooses one with plenty of such activities.

Booking a Caribbean cruise vacation during the peak period must be done ahead although there are plenty of cruise liners, getting your choice package may not be possible. Go to your nearest travel agent for the best deal and even discounts but you can go online of the cruise liner official website and some may have instant access to assistance to select the best packages.

Preparation of a Caribbean cruise vacation requires a lot of thoughts and a passport is required. Included is the need to consider various parts of your itinerary such as airline bookings as well as lodgings plus the booking of your cruise trip. Various other considerations have to be taken into account such as reserving of special occasion onboard the vessel. It can be for anniversary and they have available items and packages to enrich your trip.

Besides the usual, you need to pack suitable attire for formal evening, fun on the beaches as well as deck pool. For formal evening, gown is necessary for women and tuxedo for men so that you can be seen in your finest. Other Caribbean cruise may offer formal night and you need to be prepared for it. Give yourself sufficient time to pack, keeping in mind the diverse programs arrange for you.

Even if you intend to bring along your children on a Caribbean cruise holiday, there are plenty of programs to occupy them and they will not have a dull moment. Different types of activities are planned for them so that you can spend the time to do what you like. There are trained staffs to look after them so you can put your mind at ease while you are enjoying and relaxing with your spouse.

For couples, you can take a romantic Caribbean cruise vacation and you will have the holiday you look forward to. Moments spend watching the sunsets and sun shines will enthrall you as there is no place better that a tropical dreamland to share your romantic adventures.

On the other hand, you can take along your whole clan, for instant uncles, grandma, etc. With the plethora of activities, everyone will be entertained and relax. Plenty of movies, music plus entertainment, deck full of meals and fine dining; and programs to cater to diverse needs. A Caribbean cruise holiday is the ideal one for family as no one will be left out of the planning.

With possibly everyone look after and all activities to cater to different crowds, be it entertainment or meal, there is no better vacation than the Caribbean cruise holiday. Plan ahead and arm yourself with all the necessary information so that you cruise holiday will indeed be the best you have encounter.

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Five Tips On Finding A Cheap Cruise

Thursday, May 1st, 2008
cheap cruises
Dean Caporella asked:


Taking a cruise is still a dream for many people who cite varying reasons for holding off on sailing the “high seas.” The most common excuse is the affordability factor with many people on tight budgets simply resigned to the fact that cheaper holidays are available elsewhere and by other means.
Well, I’m here to tell you that cruising holidays are not just reserved for the “rich and famous” but in the main, are designed for those who in fact are working on staying within their allotted budgets. A cheap cruise doesn’t mean travelling on a “ship without a rudder!”
Let’s Find A Cheap Cruise
Finding a cheap deal is a lot easier than you think. Travel agents are there to help you locate the most suitable holiday for your travel plans. Companies will go “the extra mile” to get you on one of their ships and in most cases, you’ll find them extremely accomodating. Here are some simple tips to finding a cheap cruise.
1. Go online and do a search. Many travel and cruise companies will offer request forms on their sites and you simply fill in the information; where you want to go, how much you want to spend and how many people you want to book for.
2. Pricing varies from destination to destination but the beauty of these type of holidays is the value factor. Over delivering is common so don’t be afraid to state your preferences no matter how lavish they may seem. In the final analysis, common ground is reached and you’ll be surprised how much vacation experience your tight budget dollars will get you.
3. Avoid peak travelling seasons. Often, prices will normally be inflated which is common during any popular vacation time such as normal holiday periods. The bargains will normally be found during off-peak times and you’ll need to clarify these with your travel agent.
4. Don’t leave booking your cheap cruise until the last minute. Similar to airlines, holidays or trips will cost you more generally, the closer it is to the departure date. Booking a long way ahead means that there are better deals available as companies “scramble” to fill their available spots.
5. Make it clear to your booking agent exactly how much you want to spend. Be careful not to book a holiday just because you can afford it and then realise it’s not what you wanted. Finding a bargain is one thing but finding that will suit your needs and desires is another. Be very clear up front.
Cheap Family Packages
Obviously the larger the family the more cost is involved. Again, cruise lines are very accomodating and the above principles also apply in the area of family holidays. For example, Disney have on-going cheap cruise deals to such exotic destinations as the Bahamas with some tremendous savings to be had. You just need to be aware of them which means a little homework on your part.
You’ll be surprised how affordable holidays can be. The best part is, a cheap cruise will usually offer a lot more than the term implies.

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Tips On Getting A Good Caribbean Cruise Deal

Sunday, March 16th, 2008
caribbean cruise
Cindy Heller asked:


Cruising has become a very popular way to take a vacation in the recent years and that is due to the fact that the number of cruise ships companies has grown considerably. Nevertheless, choosing the right cruise ship company for your cruise can make all the difference in the world between having a good vacation and having the vacation of a lifetime.

Caribbean holiday cruises are usually conducted on the eastern and western and southern Caribbean and each itinerary will differ very much in prices depending on the ports of call and the amount spent at sea. Caribbean holiday cruises are normally for three, five, seven and sometimes even up to ten days; the most popular Caribbean holiday cruise consist of seven days because it is made of the right amount of days in port and at sea in order for you to explore and have fun as well as to relax and rejuvenate before getting back at work.

You can make an effort to do some research online and read through some passengers reviews and comments before picking a Caribbean holiday cruise in order to find out which one will suit you and your requirements best or on the particular cruise liner’s website. Nevertheless it is recommended to book your Caribbean holiday cruise through your travel agent as that is the only way to get the best deals for any cruise at any time of the year.

Sequentially to fill the ships up there are Caribbean cruise deals that are available until the last moment and some of them can be as low as $99 for a length of seven days cruise with everything included; what more can you ask for. But of course, this is not a deal that you may get everyday but a good Caribbean cruise deal will easily be available from $199 and above depending on the length on the cruise and the cruise liner.

There are generally two ways to go about getting a good Caribbean cruise deal: one way is to try and approach your travel agent who will be able to track down the best deals on the market at any given time and the other way is to make your booking directly with the cruise lines online. There is yet another way to get a good Caribbean cruise deal but, this only applies if you happen to live in Florida and that is to try and get a cruise on the day the ship sails out as they almost always have vacancies and almost always they will sell it for some unbelievable deals. It is on the other hand not recommended to travel all the way to Florida hoping to get a great deal in the last minute as you can get disappointed.

Each cruise ship company caters for a particular type of guests for example; Disney cruises mainly cater for young families, which usually will make the ships activities, food and entertainment around those requirements. It is suggested that you check the cruise liner targeted guest types before you make your booking for a cruise so you don’t get stuck on what seemed like a great Caribbean cruise deal with the wrong crowd.

Cheap Cruises

Cheap Cruise Shopping - Getting The Best Price

Thursday, January 31st, 2008
cheap cruises
Dean Caporella asked:


Finding a cheap cruise today is easy. There are so many options available to cruise hunters that the main problem is deciding on exactly which holiday to choose.

For first time cruisers, there are several guidelines you can use to choose a vacation which won’t damage your budget. The internet has opened up an exciting new world for shoppers in the last decade and sailing the high seas at affordable prices is now a no-brainer.

In this article, we’ll give you some tips on helping you to find a cheap cruise and in the process, give you a guide you can use over and over again.

Six Cheap Cruise Tips

1. One of the best ways to gat a cheap deal is to shop and compare. Use the internet as your starting point and come up with a short list of preferred options. Then contact your local travel agent and see if they can beat the prices on offer.

2. Cruising during the off season will save you plenty. Vacations are usually well discounted at these times.

3. Avoid booking through the cruise lines. Check the major sites on the web or alternatively, check through a travel agent.

4. Look for what are known as repositioning cruises. Companies will move their ships from various locations during peak seasons and relocate them to destinations about to begin a peak season. Often, there are great discounts to be had by booking a holiday on these ships during the relocation phase.

5. For those who like to plan well ahead, then taking advantage of advance specials is recommended.

6. Alternatively, if you want to travel on short notice then getting a last minute special is usually available through various discount sites. Auction holidays have also become popular and you can bid for discount cruises on selected sites.
Travel Agents

Despite the strong presence of cheap cruise sites on the internet the value of a good travel agent is still hard to beat.

If you follow the rule of avoiding the booking process through the cruise lines and stick with a travel agent you’ll usually be rewarded with an excellent deal. Cruise lines generally like to concentrate on organizing and running the trip and a good deal of the tickets available are farmed out to various outlets including travel agents.

By shopping around, especially early in the booking process, you can usually ask various agents to beat any competing prices you have obtained and you’ll be surprised at just how accomodating they can be. So remember, never settle on an initial price and be vigilant when cheap cruise shopping.

Cheap Cruises