Cruising: The Best Vacation Value in a Tough Economy

Europe prices keeping you from crossing the Pond? Bogged down by expensive airfare, hotels, and restaurants? Annoyed by fuel surcharges? Consider a one-size-fits-all vacation with a [[ Cruises | cruise ]]. Pay one price for your accommodations, meals, and entertainment—in American currency, no less—and set sail for a relaxing trip.

Erika Soong of Somerville, Massachusetts, recently chose a Celebrity Cruise to the Galapagos Islands. “The value for the price was exceptional,” says Soong. “Not only were our meals excellent and truly [[ All-inclusive | all-inclusive ]], but the added extras such as snorkeling gear and wetsuits would have easily increased the cost of our vacation. The staff also took care to wash them every day, which we never would have been able to do in a hotel.

“Also, [a cruise] gives you a chance to see many more ports than you would normally experience in a short period of time,” she continues. “It gives you a schedule, but takes care of the transportation for you while you enjoy yourself.”

Worried about weather, especially [[ Hurricane-Season Travel | hurricanes ]]? No problem. One of the advantages of cruising is being able to adjust on the fly. If a hurricane is heading toward a destination on or near your itinerary, the ship’s captain can readjust and choose an alternative, better-weather destination. This may provide additional peace of mind during tropical storm months.

If you’ve never cruised before, [[CruiseCritic | Cruise Critic ]], a sister site of SmarterTravel.com, has an excellent primer for first-time cruisers. You can also check out the latest deals to see which destinations are currently the cheapest.

Have a great travel tip you’d like to share? Send your insider travel strategies to editor@smartertravel.com.