Though I've traveled to many places and have had vacation experiences of different kinds, whenever someone asks me what my favorite vacation is, I always respond with "a cruise." Some don't quite understand how traveling the blue seas to destinations afar sounds like the most "epic" vacation choice; however, cruising is certainly a favorite of mine and my family's for many reasons. But for your sake, here are just seven reasons why cruises are one of the best vacations.
1. They're all-inclusive.
Yes, you pay for it all in the initial trip price, but it really is wonderful having your room cleaned daily, attending the ship's various activities and facilities, and grabbing food and drinks* whenever you please.
*There are some restrictions here – alcoholic and specialty beverages are usually an additional fee.
2. There's more to do than just lying out on the deck all day.
Cruise lines do an amazing job of providing fun activities for their guests: from outside fun such as the pools and sports decks (my brother's personal favorite!) to games, shows, and even fitness classes, you'll never get bored during a day at sea!
3. The food.
Need I say more? Of course, the food selections and quality vary among different cruise lines; however, most cruise food is delicious, and there are plenty of options. The best part, though? It's all prepared for you (no cooking!), and it's also unlimited. Want two desserts at dinner? GO FOR IT, DUDE!
4. The destinations.
Sometimes we get caught up having so much fun on the ship that we forget that the cruise ship is just our mode of transportation to the various ports of call that our ship's itinerary is assigned to. Speaking of travel itineraries, there are so many types of cruise routes and destinations to choose from: you can stick to the warm and tropical Caribbean or Bahama cruises, go up north on an Alaskan cruise, or go international and choose destinations like Europe.
5. They're super safe.
Yes, we're all familiar with the Titanic. No, your ship will not randomly sink during your trip. Cruise ships today are extremely advanced technologically: I'm no engineer, but the safety measures and devices implemented into each ship ensure a secure and leisurely trip. IF some event were ever to happen where lifeboats were needed, the "women and children first" scenario doesn't come into play here: there are more than enough boats for all passengers, as well as safety personnel to ensure that everyone is safe and sound.
But more relevant than safety against sinking (you have a greater chance of being struck by lightning than being stuck on a sinking cruise ship) is the onboard safety: cruises are a secure environment (well, unless one decides to fling himself overboard), unlike resorts and hotels, where it is easy to wander or end up miles away.
6. You meet the best people.
Unlike resort vacations where people are coming and leaving at all different times, on a cruise, you are stuck with the same couple thousand people for the trip's entirety – unless again, you or someone else decides to go overboard, but let's not make that happen! That being said, be social and get to know your fellow cruisers. Every recent year I have been on a cruise, I have met INCREDIBLE people and have created wonderful friendships that are still intact today. From meeting a Dutch figure skater whom we would visit in Amsterdam and eventually cruise with again, to meeting one of my best friends who used to live in California (I visited twice!), and whose family later got stationed in a town two hours from my hometown and who is actually attending Liberty University with me this coming fall, you never know who you might encounter on your next cruise – so don't be shy, and go make some new friends!
7. There really is something for everyone.
From the activities, to the nightlife, to the food, there really is something for every age, stage, and palate, all in one big, floating city.
