Picking the Right Cruise

The wife and I take a week every summer and do something fun for our anniversary. We spent a week on the coast one year, went camping another year in the high Sierras, and last year we spent a week in Las Vegas. This year we decided to do something really different and take a cruise. August is not only our anniversary month, but also the birth month of our daughter and grandson. Our oldest granddaughter will be spending her last summer before college, as well. So this year had to be special... for the whole family. But booking a cruise for six isn't as easy as you might think. It's not just the cost of being on the ship, it's getting to the dock on time, it's having a place to stay the night before to make sure you aren't late arriving (and miss the ship). It's a matter of having some cash to enjoy once you reach the destination, too. Add to that the fact that we got something of a late start on making the arrangements. So the wife wore herself out telephoning different travel agents and cruise ship lines to find just the right one for the whole family.

Success! www.vacationstogo.com was the answer. Most of the cruises were a week or longer. Some went to Alaska, some to the Panama Canal (that's the one we really wanted) and some spent a week on the Mexican Riviera. Finances and time constraints dictated our ship and destination. We're spending three days to go to Ensenada, Mexico (That's one day from San Francisco to Ensenada, one day in Ensenada, and one day back to San Francisco. Not as long as we'd like, but exciting, nonetheless!) The price was right and we got the last cabins on the ship. Another day or two and it wouldn't have worked so well.

If you're looking for a great deal on a special vacation, by all means try Vacations To Go. The agent who assisted the wife was named Rina and she found the very best deal available. Their telephone number is 1-800-419-5104 and they're always on hand to answer your questions. Finding the best deal isn't hard if you're willing to spend a little time on the phone or the internet. There are travel agents and cruise lines galore. Booking a few months in advance can save you lots of money. (Money you can spend at your destination for local adventures, food, drinks and souvenirs!) Compare prices and services while you're surfing the web or talking to an agent. Ask plenty of questions and make your decision based on timing, finances and location.

The world is out there. Next year, we'll take care of the details earlier and go someplace even more interesting... maybe the Greek Isles...?