How the cruises lines are attracting the "boomers" generation

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This 2013 Fall season, up till Christmas, “last minute” cruiser buyers are truly amazed at how much money they’re getting to keep in their pocket ! Actually planning a 2nd vacation.

Posting earlier than Wednesday this week, because of this hot topic.

According to the cruise industry, it’s seemingly some of the “all time savings seen” in last minute cruise space.  Those folks, who have yet to plan their Fall get-away, can plan to have more money, in their pocket for spending while away.  Many are using this savings to deposit 2014 now ! 

This savings have caused many folks to getaway twice this year.  Why not !  Of course, if folks wait much longer to take advantage of these savings, the quicker decisive folks will be the only to not be left behind !

 

Amenities, upgrades, special promos and more.  !  Personally, I haven’t yet looked to see if there’s’ any additional savings for Seniors, Military, Past Guest, Resident rates, and others, with the rates for the “general consumer”, already at all time lows.  Cruise-only prices below are per person; Govt fees additional.  Here, feel free to use my cheat sheets to view Itineraries and additional category rates: www.VivianWebb.com; just search by name of ship, month, or destination.

 

First, I looked close to where I live, Norfolk.  Remember, October is the only month left and the last month, for ships to sail from Norfolk for awhile.  It’s amazing, how the 5N’s, on the Carnival
Glory, are pricing close to the same as their 2N.  Starting from, just over $ 300 pp.  That’s a no brainer !

Then I glances at Baltimore, such as on Royal Caribbean’s Granduer.  October 17 for 8N’s to Canada/New England, from $ 669.  October 25, 7’s to Bermuda, for Halloween, from $ 399.  November 1, baloncy from only $ 1199/Suite from $ 1299.  November 8, their 8N Bahama cruise includes Key West, from $ 449.  November 26, after Thanksgiving is always a great price for cruising; and it’s a 10N from $ 599.  If you can get away before Christmas, December 14 for 10N’s, from $ 499.

 

There are of course, so many sailings in the Fall.  For now, when looking at other embarkation ports, I just focus on 9N – 72N examples in September.  Listed below is either inside or balcony rates. Remember, there can be amenities available and lower rates for select folks ! 

 

Many 7N and shorter cruise deals are “beyond giveaway”, see here.  See www.VivianWebb.com

Europe Cruise deals have not been included below.  See www.VivianWebb.com

 

12N, on the 6^th, Royal Caribbean Rhapsody, Vancouver to Honolulu, from $ 1099.

10N, on the 7^th, Grand Princess, Alaska R/T San Fran, from $ 1249.

14N, on the 7^th, Holland America on the Veendam, R/T Boston, all the way to Quebec, from $1249 pp.

11N, on the 8^th, Royal Caribbean Explorer, Canada/New England, R/T NJ/Bayonne, balcony from $ 1519.  Amtrak is great way to get there from Virginia.

9N, on the 13^th, Celebrity Millennium, “Wine Theme Cruise”, West Coast, Vancouver to San Diego, Balcony from $ 1199.

10N, on the 13^th, Royal Caribbean Radiance, Hawaii, Vancouver to Honolulu, Balcony from $ 1569.

10N, on the 13^th, Celebrity Solstice, Wine & American Cup Theme Cruise, West Coast, Seattle to Ensenada, Balcony from $ 1249.

11N, oon the 15^th, Celebrity Century, Ultimate Alaska, R/T Vancouver, from $ 1149.

10N, on the 17^th, Grand Princess, Mexico, with stops “different from the norm”, R/T San Fran, from $ 1099.

15N, on the 17^th, Carnival Miracle, Vancouver to LAX, to Hawaii, Balcony from $ 1529.  What a great opportunity with “no flying” over the ocean to get to or from this cruise.

10N, on the 19^th, Royal Caribbean Explorer, to Canada/New England, from NJ/Bayonne, from $ 599. Great way to get there from Virginia is Amtrak.

14N, on the 19^th, Holland America Zaandam, Panama, San Diego to FTL, from $ 1399.

14N, on the 21st, Holland America on the Veendam, R/T Boston, all the way to Quebec, from $1249 pp.

15N, on the 22^nd, Celebrity Millennium, Panama, San Diego to FTL, from $ 1399.

11N, on the 23^rd, Celebrity Solstice, with extra night in Hawaii on ship, Ensenada to Honolulu, Balcony from $ 1499.

16N, on the 23^rd, Norwegian Sun, LAX to Miami, Balcony from $ 1899.

11N, on the 26^th, Celebrity Century, Wine Theme Cruise, West Coast, Vancouver to San Diego, from $ 699.

16N, on the 27the, Panama cruise, LAX to New Orleans, on Norwegian Jewel, from only $ 849. 

 

There are more folks than you can imagine, that prefer the longest cruise for their money and they are not all retirees: 

24N, on the 19^th, Norwegian Star, Copenhagen to Miami, Transatlantic, from $ 1939.

22N, on the 21^st, Norwegian Jewel, Panama, Vancouver to New Orleans, from $ 1729.

20N, on the 28^th, Holland America Zuiderdam, Panama, Vancouver to FTL, from $ 1899.

 

Here’s the best price ever for the longest cruise available, beginning in September 2013.

72N, on the 23^rd, Holland America Amsterdam, R/T LAX, to the Pacific and Asia, from $9,999.  What better opportunity to go to Asia, WITHOUT having to fly there !  WITHOUT flying outside the US.  The savings alone in airfare is unbelievable !

 

 

 

 

You too can agree, that getting away this Fall, even if this will be your 2nd cruise vacation, is a great way to keep money in your pocket, for that destination on your bucket list !   Act now ... Space is getting away from you as you just sit there visualizing and dreaming about it !

 

July is a big purchase month for next year’s cruising folks. How Groups, families, and balcony lovers affect YOUR space and PRICE.

Many folks take their yearly or family vacation in June.  Naturally, what better time to plan next year’s vacation than right after you return !  So July is most  often, the biggest month, for confirming next year’s vacation.

Group space, cabins which hold 3 & 4 in a room, best balcony locations, and even the suites, are the first to go on a cruise ship !  Especially for peak seasons, like summer and holidays, “and” cruises that are in a destination for limited time (or for just one sailing).

 

Why does group space sell out early ?  Consumers may not realize …

(A)“How many” groups are actually sailing.  Not even all the ones on your own cruise.  It’s the best vacation for groups !  For reunions ! For getting away together !  Whether it’s 4 cabins or 50 cabins.

(B)Cruise Lines will not allow but so much space reserved for groups.  Reserved and “not deposited” is space that the Cruise Line could be left holding, if groups do not sell all their space.  The Cruise Line can not afford to leave but so much space vulnerable.  So it sells out !  It does not mean that group folks can’t still book; it just means, they can’t receive group amenities and the Cruise Line does not treat it as a group (only cross referenced together).

(C ) Group Leaders know that their members need time to plan and pay for that next vacation.  These folks book early.  As early as 15 months to 10 months in advance. 

 

Why do cabins for 3 and 4 sell out quickly, especially for peak sailings, like Summer and Holidays ?

(A)Families are cruising big time !  For the most part, these are the cruisers who need cabins that hold 3 and 4 in a room. 

(B)What consumers don’t know … The Cruise Lines have a “capacity control”.  Just cause they have beds, it does NOT mean every bed can be sold !  The ship may look empty, yet, if they reach their capacity, then the cabins that hold 3 & 4 can no longer be sold.

 

Why best balcony locations sell out first ?

(A)Majority of folks cruising today, have turned to balconies.  So that’s why they are selling out first !

(B)Many folks who are spending money for a balcony, want the best cabin location too !  To some, that means, highest deck or by the pool, yet to others, it means, mid-ship.

(C )Also, select Cruise Lines, such as Princess, often advertise balcony sales first; or complimentary upgrade to balconies.  Once balconies are sold out, they often charge the same rate for inside.  Why not; makes up for loss in money on balcony sales !  See how Princess does, balcony sale tomorrow:  http://content.princess.com/pcan/?Xzaz7TQ67CdFcmkuXJxu52yXpw0pwFrnX

 

Why suites, when they are the most expensive ?

(A)The rich or folks who like to cruise with all the luxury of home, do cruise !  And it’s high demand and competition in getting these cabins !  Many times, these cabins are sold BEFORE the pricing ever comes out.  These folks pre-buy without price known !

(B) Families love these cabins and being together !

 

 

What does this have to do with YOU, when you do not fit into one of these type cruisers ?

The more cabins that sell on any sailing, DRIVES RATEs UP.  So when you are ready to buy, rates have possibly gone up !  Early planners, even if only sailing as 2 in a room, know this.  These folks also book early !

 

See why July is so busy ?!

If you’ve yet to think about booking for 2014, these are reasons to jump onboard and do as the other cruisers do !  Why miss the boat !

 

Late bookers wait till January.  Last minute bookers, who do not care their location, cause they think this is the best way to get a deal or cause they can’t plan early (whether it’s work or personal preference), book 3-6 months in advance.

 

 

Cruises are truly a “complete escape” vacation. Hear what folks say.

Twenty-Six years ago, my mother suggested I take a cruise vacation, since I loved traveling and usually traveled alone.  Once I took my first cruise, I was hooked.

At the time, I was in banking.  Very stressful  job.  I’m sure I took on more than I should have, but I had been taught by my parents to give 110%. 

Fortunately, I had 6 weeks vacation when at  the bank !  Once discovering a cruise, I took 6 a year.  I needed every one of them.  This meant, cruising every over month. 

Go away, recoup, and come back and stand the stress for another 7 weeks, till I could ESCAPE again.  Today, I have been on 117 cruises; it would be more, but my father was sick the last 3 years.

Princess cruise folks say:

·          It’s just US.   (True, you can make it just you and your mate; or invite the kids; or invite all your family and friends – There can be bonuses to you for inviting folks)

·         Step into another World (You can take that 2 ways:  Yes, you can see the World and another World can mean, it’s so unbelievable, which is true)

·         Feel right at home (Again, 2 ways of taking this: One, the folks who work for the cruise lines, make you feel you are family and the 2^nd reason is, that you actually believe you live there forever and never have to go home, till you do).

Other Princess folks say more … Hear it  for yourself:

http://www.princess.com/learn/cruise_vacationing/escape_completely/index.html?IgnBnr=10

Can you make a list of things you would like to ESCAPE for just a few days ?

Isn't it time to commit and plan your ESCAPE TODAY ?


 

More folks need to venture towards River Cruising. If you don't know where to start, why not the Rhine

Though many folks are venturing on river cruises ... In my opinion, "not enough" !

I totally love River Cruising.

If I could get away more than I already do, I would take more river cruises !  And if more folks chose River Cruising over ocean cruising, I would take more River Cruises, not only for me, but for having more experience to share with my clients !

It's laid back and less stressing.  Being in Europe, even less people can find me !  There's internet onboard, "if you must".

It's open dining; everyone eats at the same time; separate tables.  Before dinner, many folks meet in the lounge; and again, after dinner.

So many of the River Cruise ships are so elegant !  The beds look better than many homes !  The bedding is wonderful !

Not many folks are onboard; so you personally meet most of them (if you don't want to, you don't have to).

Most tours included.  Often, several paces are offered.  So if your mate or roommate is faster than you, you can let them go at their own pace, while you go at yours.

Wine at dinner.  And now they are beginning to offer more beverages and amenities !

There's minimal entertainment, however, they often bring in speakers.

Know ... River Cruising is NOT for the old !  River cruising includes mostly walking tours.  If you can't walk, you may have to stay behind !  So don't wait to choose River Cruising once you can no longer get around !

The Rhine - "Tips"
Douglas Ward offers his expert advice on river cruises along the Danube and the Rhine

The Romantics referred to the Middle Rhine as the "landscape of the soul".
Its most famous stretch is dotted with fairy-tale castles and fortresses, as
well as terraced vineyards and the Lorelei Rock, on to which sirens were said to
lure sailors to their deaths with the beauty of their singing. In July and
August, look for a "Rhine in Flames" cruise, when some hilltop castles and
palaces are lit up at night with fireworks. History, in the shape of visits to
castles, cathedrals and Roman antiquities, is a big element of most cruises;
some lines also have lectures, musical evenings and wine tastings.

Key stops

The most popular section of the Rhine itself is between Cologne and Mainz.
Moselle cruises operate between Koblenz and Trier. The main route along the
Neckar is between Mannheim and Stuttgart. Some vessels cover considerable
distances by sailing through the night; others berth overnight.

For something different, take a cruise during the Christmas holiday season,
when seasonal markets fill the squares in many cities, towns and villages along
the Danube and Rhine. At night, lights form a magical backdrop. Cologne,
Regensburg, Vienna and Nuremberg are among the best, providing an old-world
setting and festive ambience.

 

Telegraph tips

• Take a sweater or jacket for those chilly nights on deck if you go in spring
  and autumn.
  
• The Danube's water level can be too low for navigation, particularly during
  the warm, dry summer months. Conversely, it is frequently too high for vessels
  to pass under the bridges of the upper Danube section beyond Passau. Be prepared
  for changes to the schedule.
  
• If you book a cabin with a balcony, you probably won't use it that much -
  there are just too many flies around the river, particularly in the afternoon.
  
• Although some river cruise companies offer internet access (with one or two
  computers provided), connections are often lost when the vessel's mast is folded
  down to negotiate low bridges.
  
  
  
  Happy cruising the Rhine !

Amazing. 10% of my customer choose to cruise on Carnival Dream. There's still room for you in 2013

Insight to the Carnival Dream.
http://www.carnival.com/cruise-ships/carnival-dream.aspx

Why are folks choosing Carnival Dream ?

Matthew Hildredge from Lax, CA said:  We choose Carnival for each cruise.  This was just one of their ships we had yet to do.  By sailing out of Port Canaveral, we were able to go visit family in Orlando first.  It was a great opportunity and great cruise.

Sally Kendricks from MCO, FL said:  We live in Orlando, so Port Canaveral is close.  This is our 3rd cruise on the Carnival Dream.  I'm sure it won't be the last.

Melissa Andrews from DFW, TX said:  We hadn't been on this Carnival ship and the kids wanted to spend a few days at Disney World before.  We had a great time !

Anthony Kildaire from LYH, VA said: Our group took a vote to which Carnival cruise and the Dream won !  Great cruise.

Allison Fredricks from San Fran, CA said:  We love flying over to the East Coast to sail.  We hadn't been out of Port Canaveral; so the Dream sailing from there, gave us this opportunity.  It was fun doing something different !

Agatha Florence from RDU, NC said:  We wanted a new ship this time and somewhere close enough to drive to.  About 8 hours for us.  It was easy !


These are only a few of the reasons I've heard.  They all make sense to choose the Carnival Dream !

Have you booked your Carnival Dream cruise ?!



 

My take on Carnival Cruise Line

Folks ask me all the time if I like them.  Naturally, as an agent, I realize the person asking, is referencing, to whether I would cruise on them or not. 

Sure I would !  I do !  I've been on 25+ cruises on Carnival.  My first Carnival cruise was probably not till # 10-12-or 13, and I've not been on 117 cruises.


Then folks ask, "What about all this trouble Carnival has been getting into ?"  Of course, I want to say, "What trouble ?".  Of course, I know they are actually asking me how I feel about all the technical issues they have been having.  And then I think in my mind, "What about it".

In general, STUFF HAPPENS !

What about folks who over draft their bank account 3-4 times a year ? Does that make them a bad person ?  Or could it be possible, that it was totally out of their control ?

What about folks who are late for work 3-4 times a year ?  Does that make them a bad person ?  Or again, could it have been out of their control ?

There are so many things out of our control, not matter how much we pre-plan, organize, do everything to avoid, etc !


Remember, there are a lot of reasons that the Cruises Line are "in the news".  One, it makes a good story.  And there are reason the general consumer doesn't know, nor understand !

Your child getting an F on his last test, does that hit the news ?  No, doesn't make good reading material.  Of course, if it were in relations to a one of our celebrity's, maybe it would !


Remember, Carnival is a big player in our industry.  Not only a separate entity, but they also own Princess, Holland America, Seabourn, Costa, and others that most consumers are not aware of.

We need Carnival.  Not only with the competitiveness of the industry, but the money it brings to us in the US, and the "fun" it brings to many folks on vacation !



Here are a few reasons from Cruises Inc's owner, Brad Tolkin:

Healthy Diversity. A healthy, profitable and diverse range of suppliers is critical to the success of the distribution channel.

Largest Player in the Space. Carnival is the largest cruise line for North America.

Close to Home. They have the most ships in drive markets (US departure ports) for North American consumers.

High Value Alternative. Carnival provides an incredible value and awesome experience to cruisers.

New Cruisers. Carnival attracts more new cruisers than any other cruise line. 

Brad also adds: 

Cruisers are buying Carnival.  In spite of the media assault on the Carnival brand, everyday Carnival is the number #1 or #2 cruise line.

 

 

When is your next Carnival cruise ?  Remember to make those plans today !

 

Free eBook. Help find your choice cruise of a life time. Fun & easy !

Help find your choice cruise of a life time.  Free eBook.  It's fun & easy ! 

http://vwebb.cruisesinc.com/travel/admin/CMSTemplates/DisplayDraft.html?draft_display=true&edOid=1611836569

 

See all there is to do on a Carnival cruise. Don't miss the boat on the "fun ships"

Over the last 28 years, I've been on at least 25 cruises in Carnival.  I love their décor !  Their, "lets have fun" décor ! Their neon lights, makes you feel you are at a Carnival.  Of course, these lights aren't everywhere; not in the dining room or your room !

With starting to cruise, so many years ago, the ships were very small back then.  So the larger the ship, the more there is to do ! Which I love !

Being active is not actually my forte, but having an opportunity to watch so many things going on, IS !  For me, with being on vacation, the only thing I really want to do, is "watch fun, not do the fun" !

Years back, I enjoyed Elvis Presley impersonator night; keeping the hoola hoop up, men's night gown contest and more.  Today there is so much more !


Go here, see what you're missing  !

http://www.carnival.com/onboard.aspx?cid=Em_FamGuidePR06192013_5461



It's time to plan your Carnival cruise.  (434/800) 237-3832, press 6, then the option that best describes you !
Know, no matter the situations Carnival has had lately, our company reported, just last week, that Carnival is still the most cruises being sold ! 

 

Thought you cruisers might be interested in hearing

FORMAL ANNOUNCEMENT FROM CRUISES INC-WTH.  “In spite of the media assault on the Carnival brand, every day Carnival is the #1 or #2 cruise line that is being purchased !”

What does a Cosmos faith-based vacation deliver? Italy, Portugal, Spain, France, Isreal and Jordan. Group Travel as few as 20.

By Cosmos:

"For more than 50 years, Cosmos has offered value-minded travelers the most affordable travel packages to the world’s more fascinating places. Now, you can also make your dream of an enriching and engaging faith-based vacation an amazing reality with Cosmos value-based religious tours to Italy, Portugal, Spain, France, Israel and Jordan."

Custom tours personalized for your group

"Cosmos Religious vacations feature the best and most popular faith-based itineraries—and when there’s a special trip or destination your group would like to see, we can customize a tour for as few as 20 people."


What does a Cosmos faith-based vacation deliver?

• "A total package, including hotel, transportation, some meals, sightseeing, and a professional Tour Director for as little as $127 per day
• Prices that are 30% cheaper than traveling on your own, thanks to our global buying power
• Hotels you can count on, most of which are Superior Tourist or better and in locations that allow you to immerse yourself in the local culture
• Guaranteed share accommodation for single travelers
• Inclusion of headsets on all sightseeing tours (except Jordan)
• Plenty of leisure time to explore on your own, while not missing any of the spiritual must-sees"

Scheduled group activities and free time

"Cosmos Religious vacations offer the right balance between scheduled group activities and free time for reflection, relaxation or simply to roam on your own. Your Tour Director is always on hand to assist you with finding a religious service or Mass, shopping tips, and suggestions for optional side trips and entertainment."

Sightseeing and highlights included in the price

"Our religious packages take in the most treasured highlights of each destination. They are carefully planned to include visits to places of religious interest and panoramic drives through areas of natural beauty. There’s so much for you to look forward to! Visit Assisi, the home of St. Francis, see the breathtaking cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, spend time in Lourdes, walk in the footsteps of Jesus throughout the Holy Land, and so much more. Your knowledgeable Local Guides will ensure you visit unique and interesting locations throughout your journey."

Included religious services or mass

"Cosmos Religious itineraries not only have time set aside for personal reflection, we also include religious services or Mass throughout each journey. Where services are not included, they may be available during free time."


Request a FREE Religious Brochure
http://www.cosmos.com/Brochures/

Why Cosmos ?
http://www.cosmos.com/About-Cosmos/



What better way to see the World than traveling together with some of your favorite faith-based friends !
Plan 2014 NOW (434/800) 237-3832, press 62.

What’s most important to know, when buying a last minute cruise deals

Often, last minute cruise deals come with rules that may not be easily spelled out on computers.  So protecting yourself is #1.

To best protect yourself, your first step should be in talking to and planning to buy from a human; not a computer (for-go buying on anyone’s website; even the cruise line).  This way, that person will voluntarily tell you all you need to know, and if not, either find someone you better know, or ask all such questions !

Know … Once it’s only 90 days till the ship sails … This last minute deal “you see”, is NOT A SPECIAL PRICING that is being given by this website you’re looking at (unless of course, it’s the cruise line).  This pricing is available to all cruise-only and travel agents.

Plan to buy this last minute deal from someone you know … Or an agency that is well-know and recognized by the travel industry and travel writers.  Truly, not just when it’s 90 days from sailing, but ALWAYS. 

Remember, you don’t personally know these cruise lines.  So take head, as the “industry’s travel writers” continue to remind consumers/cruisers, to buy your cruise (and land tours/all-inclusives) from an agent.  If you don’t know a cruise-only agent (your industry’s specialists), then a local agent !  It continues to be to your advantage, to have “someone” in between you and the cruise line, who will stand behind the vacation you are buying; and I don’t mean a computer or a computer company ! 

 

 

Why take a chance with your vacation !  Or you vacation money !   The industry is here to protect you … It's in your hands to listen !

Cruising Tips. Taking cash on your cruise vacation. Plan to be more prepared.

Thought I may, over the next few weeks, talk about some of the cruising tips I provide to my clients.  This week, someone asked me about taking money.

 

This week, let’s talk a little about, taking cash on your cruise vacation.

Some folks still take travelers checks, which are still accepted in select destinations.  One of the reasons, I do not use them, is the time it takes to go get them, when I’m already in a mad pace before leaving.  I would not expect to cash these in Jamaica or Mexico, however, you can usually get some cashed, while still onboard your ship.

As a single person, if I’m traveling for at least 7 days, I take an estimated amount of $300 in cash.  However, when going to Egypt, since they rarely take CC, I took $ 800 and it was spent quickly, on added tours !

If traveling in the US, such as Alaska or Hawaii, I do not spend this cash, but use my credit card.  However, if in locations, such as Canada, Mexico, or even Europe, I spend the cash, instead of taxing on the extra charges from my CC company, for using my card out of the country.

Another concept folks totally forget, which is annoying, is to break their cash down into small bills.  When I say it’s annoying, it’s cause folks seem to always ask you, if you have changed, and you barely brought the right change you need, for yourself !  It’s like folks who forget to bring their cigarettes (who maybe only smoke on vacation) or film, before we had digital cameras !

So cruisers, don’t forget change !  Or ask for needed change, at the pursers desk onboard !

On a minimum, I take $35-$50 ones, just for me !  They are truly valuable to have on hand, for tipping.  Also greatly needed, when you’re in an area that only accepts cash, like the Jamaica Flea Market; or when you are only spending a $1 or $2.

Then I take $5’s and $10’s.  Again, for areas that only accepts cash; great when bartering.  And another reason, is so others around you, don’t know you even have bigger bills. 

Foreign Money.  Out of 116 cruises, I have only run into 7 situations, where I needed foreign money.  (1) In London for catching the subway; (2) In Asia, when I was on a tour, and one shopping stop they made, would not accept American money (but the bus driver had it converted for me when I saw a purchase I wanted to make);  (3) In Norway, outside the ship, they were selling post cards, and they would not accept American money; (4) In Japan, I stayed 2 days before my cruise (I had to go into banks, to convert my money; it was like getting a loan); (5) In Montreal, I had to catch the bus, and went into a hotel who converted money for me; (6) In Egypt, I had to buy a visa after getting there, and money had to be exchanged at the airport first; (7) In Naples, Italy at Pompeii, trinkets were being sold outside; the lady finally took my $5 American money for a necklace.  Once when I was on a cruise in Europe, I exchanged some money, while onboard my ship, to use in port.  That’s it !

Many folks think you need to exchange you money, even for Jamaica and Mexico.  This is not true.  Many folks are more than happy to accept American money !

OK, that’s my take on money handling when cruising.  I don’t pre-get any foreign money, and I take lots of $1’s and smaller bills !

 

Happy Cruising.  Where is your next get-away !  Here, use my cheat sheets: www.VivianWebb.com

 

 

 

 

Why choose to cruise out of Norfolk ? Great revenue for VA !

Please note ... I will not post another article till week of June 3 ... I'm cruising in Canada !

 

Why Norfolk ?

 

* Convenient for folks from VA, NC, and even Maryland !

* No flying !

* Port is easy to find; easy parking !

* Especially great for first time cruisers and experience the Bahamas.

* Great for groups, especially when many groups have a lot of first time cruisers !

 

And if you are FROM Virginia … The # 1 reason for us to choose Norfolk for ourselves and/or encourage others, is the revenue it brings our state !  And the second reason, is that it brings jobs to folks working at the port, for the cruise ship.  Why let Miami, NY, etc take advantage of this opportunity.  We need the money too !  In today’s World, everyone needs to think like this !

Remember, if we don’t support the cruise ships in Norfolk, then they could easily choose to leave ! (Just like if we don’t support our LYH airport) !

One reason we do not have any more ships or sailings than we do, in Norfolk, is because we have to prove that we can and will support them !

 

Question presented to me today, Should I wait and book my 2014 later ?

No.  Get the best possible rate, with what you are seeing NOW.  And get the better cabins by booking now.  And if rates drop, before final, most cruise lines allow you to have the rate.  All you have to do is watch the rate and call your agent.

It’s true, if there is some sort of sale down the road, that offers amenities, like onboard credit, you can’t have this, cause you already booked !  That happens.  But sometimes, it’s standing at the right place at the right time.  You can’t predict what the cruise line will offer tomorrow and how long the offer will be for !  What’s worse, the offer may come up, and it’s not even applicable to YOUR DATE !

It’s true that Holland America and Princess offer a “flash” promo and folks already booked can not have.  But this price is real close to sailing (of course, sometimes, it is before final payment is due).  It’s also true, if you buy a Super Saver or Easy Saver rate with Carnival, they too, will not price protect you.

 

Folks don’t believe it, but the best rates are given to those folks who book early … Such as when rates come out … Which means NOW for 2014.  And those who wait till last minute, and don’t care if they get on or not, or don’t care what kind of cabin they get, if they time it right, they too, can often get good rates.

 

So many think that last minute rates are the last 2 months.  Not necessarily so.  Had a group that had booked over 6 months ago.  Rates dropped, great.  Those folks who had already bought, got in on these rates.  A month later, a friend of theirs called and wanted to book too.  The sailing had gone back up $200 per person.  Yes, $200 pp.

 

Are you ready to book your 2014 cruise ?  You should be.  Call now (434/800) 237-3832, press 6.

Do you have family in areas of the US or out of the country, that you have yet to visit ?

What are you waiting for ?  Retirement ?  When your kids get older ?

It's an opportunity for  … New surrounds … Cultures … Way of Life … Scenery … Restaurants … Entertainment … Different shopping …  And possibly a great chance for taking a cruise (from Fla, LAX, Seattle, Galveston, NY, and more) !  All kinds of possibilities.

There are many reason you have family in other areas of the US, or out of the country.  Their job moved them. It’s where their partner’s family lives.  They are in the military (not combat area).  Could be your child … brother/sister … An Aunt/cousin … HS classmate …

I’m sure they’ve invited you to come visit !  And if not, make it your idea !

 

You do not necessarily have to stay with them.  You can get your own hotel.  Matter of fact, when visiting, plan time for yourself.  Be proactive.  Check out the area on the internet and pre-plan things you can do.  And if you're not a planner, consider CHANGING !  Part of the fun of travel is before you go !

And if money is the issue,  learn to travel reasonably !  However, beware of the Internet !

Don’t give up an opportunity, by having to have your cake and eat it too ! 

 

My point.  If there’s an opportunity (or an excuse) to go see another area of the US, our outside of the US, do not lose this opportunity !  Situations could change quickly, and they move ! 

Don’t put off.  Make those plans today !  You’re not promised time “after your retirement”.  There are no promises. 

It’s today that you have !  Make use of it !

 

Reach to a "coach" if organization is holding you back !

 

 

Cruises are like potato chips ! MEN >>> Which “chip of the World” will you be taking your spouse/partner in 2014 ? It's time for a little HAPPY !

One cruise entices you to want “many” !  You can’t get enough !

Why ?

 

Who doesn’t love …

·         Euphoria ?

·         Fantasy ?

·         Escape ?

·         No work ?

·         No responsibilities ?

·         No phones ?

·         No computers ?

·         No cooking ?

·         No cleaning ?

·         No decision making ?

·         No driving ?

·         Romance ?

·         No bill after a meal ?

·         Unlimited food options ?

·         Trying new foods ?

·         Not having to eat something you don’t like ?

·         Daily activities ?

·         Variety of Night time entertainment ?

·         Discover other cultures ?

·         Fulfill Dreams ?

·         Sea the World !

 

·      Make your spouse/partner HAPPY !

 

What’s your reason ?

 

The best part about my job is the last one … Helping Men provide their spouse/partner ... "HAPPY" ... Appreciation ...

Gratitude !  And great times are ... Birthday ... Anniversary ... Valentines ... Christmas ... Thanksgiving ... Or no reason at all !

85% of my customers are MEN !  Yes, Men.  Men love making their wives/partners happy !

Who doesn’t !

 

Men … Have you booked your 2014 cruise get-away for the love of your life ?

It’s time !