Cruise Packing Links, Tips, Hints & Lists

Here you go, following are some of my favorite links that I compiled to help you explore and plan your packing items for your cruise. Besides your wardrobe there are handy recommended items that will make your trip a more pleasant journey including a medical first aid kit suggestion.

Hopefully, this will give you some great ideas to make your own list that works for you! Just remember we will be in civilization, so you don’t have to bring everything including the kitchen sink…pack light everyone!
Enjoy your journey,
Diana

Learn how to pack light

Packing & Traveling Light recommendation

Pack Light and Travel Happy-Rick Steve

Traveler’s Mantra: Pack Light, Pack Light, Pack Light

Ultimate Guide to Packing Light: 45 Tips to lighten your load

Cruise Clues Packing list

Cruise Diva: Cruise Travel: Planning & Packing & Lists

Cruise Diva: Cruise Travel Planning & Packing Tips

Cruise Diva: Packing It In

Cruise Critic packing article 76

Cruise Critic packing Article 311

About.com - Cruise vacation pack list 

Cruise. about.com - Pack List

About.com – Packing list for cruise accessories

Rick Steve’s Travel Packing Tip - Packing

Rick Steve’s Travel Packing List

Reidsguides.com

Best Cruisespot Official Pack List

Cruisedirectonline Packing List – Video link

Independent Traveler Packing Tips

Travel Smith – Packing Option

Magellan’s Packing List

Photo provided by Flickr jsc

Diana’s Packing 101 – Top 10 Hints to get you started

So the days are fast approaching to getting on the cruise ship and airline luggage requirements are still strict and costly. An efficient packer for the cruise is a must. The packing tip and hint for cruising IS to PACK LIGHT, but this is easier said than done. What if I need this and can’t live without that? Hopefully, in this posted blog you can get organized so you can be successful with your minimal luggage and yet still be appropriately and comfortably dressed from casual to formal. So let’s get started.

Tip No. 1 Begin with a calendar and know how many days you will have to prepare for your attire. Create a matrix form of our cruise days with an extension of pre and post cruise days if you are going to extend your cruise. This is very important as you should plan to bring only the appropriate outfit for the days you need. For our Carnival Mexican Riviera cruise, click on the blue highlight "Carnival" to help you with information on dress and attire appropriate to our cruise and don’t forget to add the pre & post cruise outfit as well. Remember…you can always wear your outfit more than ONCE. There are washers & laundry service available on the cruise ship for a mid-trip wash, if you need it. The success of this tip is to coordinate your outfit daily so you know what you specifically have to take. And less is often more than enough.

Tip No. 2 Like a nice hotel, it would be helpful to know what the cruise/ship offers so you don’t have to bring it. Knowing this will help you eliminate a number of items that you may have thought about bringing with you, but perhaps don’t need too! Here is the Carnival’s FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) link. Check out items under “Top 10 FAQ-What amenities do they offer?” and “In Cabin Features” as an example, hair dryers are included on the ship. You’ll save space and weight in your luggage knowing this tidbit will allow you to bring back a sombrero you may have an eye on!

Tip No. 3 As some of you loyal blog readers know cruising can be very intimidating, especially if you are a first-time cruiser. Don't be! Carnival’s dress policy for cruise guests, are less restrictive than other cruises. This is particularly so in warmer region cruises such as the Caribbean and our Mexican Riviera cruise. Many of you know my husband Roger, the answer is YES. He is wearing his “I Buy Japanese Sword” T-Shirt, but that will only be during the day. There will be TWO (2) FORMAL NIGHTS for our cruise. On formal nights, Rog’ likes to opt for the cruise tuxedo rental

service so he doesn’t have to bring a dark jacket and tie. On the more smart casual nights, he brings his Hawaiian shirt for the dining room. And if you hate formal wear you can always eat in the casual Lido Buffet or order room service. The specialty restaurant on board requires a stricter dress code including a jacket for men. But, the food is yummy-o and worth the dress-up!

Tip No. 4 My personal travel wear colors are generally mixing black with red for the most part. I mix and match garment pieces and I also use scarves, jewelry, belts and wraps to accentuate my outfits to look different as well as reflecting options from casual to dressy. Items such as these are small and can easily be packed with minimal space and can create an instant formal outfit with minimal pieces and bulk. Layering pieces also allows for options in style as well as keeping you warm in the cooler evenings, if you're warmer climate thin blooded Hawaiians or those inclement in weather time period. Men should also color coordinate and mix and match. It makes packing option easy for the travel luggage requirement of today's airline policy.

Tip No. 5 In case you're wondering, cruise ship staterooms are not as luxurious in size as a nice hotel room, unless you are in a larger suite. So space can be limiting especially when you share it with two or more individuals. So take this helpful hint that I have personally used on previous cruises. Take a foldable Closet/Pantry Pocket organizer for the back of your bath/room door and a collapsible closet shoe organizer. These two items will be a helpful addition. You can keep items in the bathroom at an easy reach and offer alternatives to minimal counter space, especially in the bathroom. Additionally, the closet shoe organizer makes fine shelves that can hold items such as your scarf, evening purse, ties, cumber bund as well as organize your evening wear for that night or simply give you and your cabin mate more storage space.

Tip No. 6 Here’s a must…make a list of your items you will be packing in your suit case. Two things about this one task…this will help you get organized as to what you have to wear and need for your trip. As well as provide a documented list of items in case you lose your luggage for insurance purposes. Be sure you keep that list on-hand in your carry-on with your travel insurance documents as well as a list in your suitcase.

Tip No. 7 Unlike being at home with your closet full of clothes to choose from. Your cruise closet will be limited to your suitcase. So here are two major helpful travel clothes tips from me…1. Avoid white or light clothes. You can count on them staining with some sort of Colorado red or salsa verde green sauce during the trip. 2. Avoid wrinkle clothes. There are clothes made with fabric like crinkle gauze, cotton jersey, Tencel®/Lyocell, spandex blends or cottons that have been treated to avoid creases and all wear well during travel.

Tip No. 8 Okay now you have a list of all your packed items. The horror of September 11th has changed the way we travel. So go over each item you have and be sure you check your Transportation Security Administration (TSA) regulations to be sure you don’t have those illegal item which not only include weapons or can be linked to weapons like knitting needles and/or liquids . There are exceptions as always and so planning and preparation is necessary. So check the guidelines.

Tip No. 9 Our technological world these days has me doing research on what to do about all our electronic toys we just seem to need to take with us. Whether it’s your cell phone, IPOD, Blackberry, Laptop or some other gizmo and gadget, cruiser needs to do their home work if these are important for you to use during your cruise. On our last cruise in 2006 on this ship the Carnival Spirit had 110V which is the American electrical outlet usage. So you should easily be able to charge your electrical needs. If you need specific questions I recommend you check out the Cruise Critic Message Board for your specific questions or contact our travel agent Alex so she can get your answer. Because of the limited available electrical outlets many experience cruisers bring a power squid, strip or even a plain extension cord to make it easier. I am guessing that there is a 230 volt for those international guests. Bringing an adapter would expand your outlet usage.

Tip No. 10 Finally,resources these days seems endless with our access to the internet. I’ve highlighted some of my favorites for packing ideas. Linda Hoffman, Cruise Diva happens to be one I use often. But I have also added some other links to help you with ideas for coming up with what works for you. So allow me to introduce you to these websites Cruise Diva: Packing & Lists
Reidsguides , Rick Steve’s Packing List, About.com below and I hope you will find them as helpful as it has been for me over the years …

Bon Voyage Wishes from Diana!

Photo provided by Flickr Shereen M

IMPORTANT REMINDER from TRAVEL AGENT!

Hello Fellow Cruisers,
Wow! Guess what! It's almost December 1st and while most of you are focused on cooking that turkey, it's time to make that final payment for our Mexico Adventure.

A quick email to me is sufficient, stating that it's okay to go ahead and charge your credit card for the balance of the cruise or if you prefer to mail a check, that "the check is in the mail".
If I need a new credit card or for some reason, I don't have a number for you, I'll give you a call for the information.

I'm really looking forward to meeting each of you and sharing some fun times. Those of you that have already called, you're all set.

Have a delicious Thanksgiving Day!
Mahalo nui,
Alex
Innovative Travel Planner, Inc.
Bookit1@earthlink.net
949/756-3223

Baaaaaaack Again!

Just wanted to say thank you for your patience as I am finally back on-line.

Roger and my adventures on the Celebrity Mediterranean Cruise was incredible. Although the numerous ports and sites were breath-taking. Having so many friends to share our day's stories and laughter made it absolutely priceless and something I so look forward to sharing on the Mexican Riviera Cruise with all of you. I had all intentions to connect onto the ships internet during those sea days but seemed to have been distracted from meeting up with friends for a sunset cocktail on the fantail of the ship, participating in special interest workshop, keeping my spa treatment appointment, soaking in the sun, attending a wine tasting, shopping on the promenade, attending tea time with my niece and nephew, playing cards on the Lido Deck with my buddies, taking a kitchen galley tour with the Ship's Executive Chef, dining in the Specialty Restaurant Wine Room with my Foodie Friends and yes I didn't even make it to the ship's fitness club, unless you can count walking on the running track as I headed out to the Revelation 'Edge of Night' Lounge with a moonlit view on the sea. Oh yeah, the excuses goes on and on as you will see once on board!

I am so very excited about sharing the cruising lifestyle with you on this upcoming Spring Cruise. You can stay as active as you like or find that relaxing low key hang loose approach to cruising it your style . Our Carnival Spirit is going to be a Fun Ship to share some great time together and I'm back on line for those who wanna connect. Ahoy mates, I'm baaaack!

The photo that I have here is from Harry's Bar in Venice. And yes, I did have a Peach Bellini grazie (thank you)! It was buono (yummy)!

Blog Downtime...October 29th to November 23rd

Ahoy mates … I wanted to let you know that the Friends and Fun Mexican Riviera Cruise Blog will be down for the period of October 29th through November 23rd. Roger and I will be on yet another cruise. We will be traveling on a Mediterranean Cruise with 82 of our friends and family during this period. The Celebrity Cruise Summit will have internet access but until I access this service on the ship, I won’t know exactly what I will be able to do, so please bear with me.

For your emergency access to me during this time, I have two email contacts that you are welcome to send me messages. They are dianamdavis@cox.net and LadyDiDavis@gmail.com . I’ll do my best to check them every few days, unless of course I get stuck at the Champagne or Martini Bar. Thanks again for your understanding!

Bon Voyage,
Diana

Helpful Travel Items... Catalog, please?

Here's a few of my favorite travel resources that might be of interests to you. I particulalry like the Magellan's and Travelsmith particularly for those comfort travel items we enjoy for our home away from home. I personally am a catalog gal verses the internet shopping woman. So I would order a catalog to look at first. But, you make the call and do what works for you.

Also there are other resources such as Territory Ahead, Orvis, REI, Land's End, Eddie Bauer's and still more, I'm sure. But, here's a few to get you started. If you have another great resource. Make a comment and let us know on this blog I'm sure all will appreciate a new tip!

Happy Packing!

Photo provided by Flickr: malias

Very Brief Survey of Mexico

MEXICO FACTS

Official Name: Estados Unidos Mexicanos (United Mexican States)

Area: About 761,604 square miles, making it the 14th largest country in the world

Populations: 103 million (2004 estimate), the 11th most populous nation in the world

Population Density: 137 per square mile (US = 80 per quare miles)

Highest Point: Pico de Orizaba, an extinct volcanic peak is 18, 555 feet high

Lowest Point: 43 feet below sea level near mexicali in Baja California

Number of States: 31, plus Federal District

Language: Spanis is the official langauage, but many Indian lanaguages are also spoken.

Major Industries: Oil, mining, electronics, auto manufacturing, textiles and tourism

Major Agricultrual Crops: Cotton, coffee, wheat, rice, beans, and soybeans

Turism Industry: Approximately $8 billion per year

Information provided by: Larry H. Ludmer, Cruising the Mexican Riviera and Baja

Photo provided by Flickr Esparta.jpg

Cell Phone --- staying in touch…by Karen

My girlfriend and fellow cruise travel buddies, Karen and her husband Buzz will be joining us on this Mexican Riviera cruise. Karen and I go way back, yup she even goes back longer then my association with our Hawaii friends and even Roger. But that’s yet another story. Anyway, I met Karen when I worked with the City of Irvine and one of Karen’s main responsibilities with the City was telecommunication which also included our City’s phone system. I asked Karen to help me out and share her expertise and wisdom in trying to get me a connected with the use of our Verizon cell phone during this cruise. And I thought the following information might be helpful to all of you as well. As there are so many different cell phone carriers these days, be sure to check with your own carrier before you sail so that you can stay connected. Here are some general guidelines and tips that Karen shared with me….Diana

· It does NOT require a special phone to make/receive calls in Mexico. Your same phone today will work there. This should include Ensenada and most port towns, but as you stray from the port areas you will possibly have sporadic service they said.

· To use your existing phone in Mexico (or make any other international calls actually) you must add International Dialing to your features before you leave. This does not cost extra, it just allows you to dial 001-1-XXX-XXX-XXXX to make a call from your phone when traveling internationally, including Mexico or Canada.

· Simply call Verizon and ask them to add this feature to your phone. It will allow you to make/receive calls in Mexico or any country for that matter....for the appropriate charges.

· SO, the big message is....when you Dial from Mexico or another country or you Receive calls from the U.S. to your phone you will incur Roaming Charges of approximately $0.99 per minute. Other long distance charge may apply, so it's important to speak with a representative in Hawaii so those folks know what their full costs might be. From phone to phone if we are keeping track of each other, it's just the $0.99 per minute.

· Additionally, if one is using their phone aboard the ship, the charges are much higher. That rate is $2.49 per minute because the ship requires that rate. For purposes aboard the ship, Verizon suggested that text messaging might be a better way to go. Those charges in Mexico (or in waters traveling to Mexico) are part of your text messaging bundle in your calling plan package (if you subscribe to text messaging). You can add that feature if you don't have it and it's about $5.00/ month I think for a certain amount of messages per month.

· The bottom line for the Hawaii folk is to update their features on their cell phones to add International Dialing capability so they can make/receive calls in Mexico. They should check with Verizon when they add this feature to be sure they understand all the costs and options. Of course, when they come to America (as my Uncle Arthur in Honolulu calls it). They just use their phones as usual and whatever calling plan they have takes over. Our Verizon plans include Hawaii for free, so I assume theirs does as well.

Photo provided by Flickr Gaetan Lee

GROUP CRUISE PRICE DEADLINE…September 25th

It’s fast approaching for our deadline …September 25th 2008 . What deadline? What are you talking about?

Well, our Friends and Fun Mexican Riviera cruise group rate will be unavailable soon, so get in touch with our travel agent Alex quickly! This friendly reminder is to say that our group price will not be guaranteed after this date, although you still will be able to sign up. As you know, prices continually fluctuate as many times as we seem to breathe in and out these days. So if you have a friend you’ve thought of inviting or perhaps a family member who might enjoy this cruise…now is the time!

Remember you can forward this Friends & Fun Mexican Riviera cruise blog link to those interested in getting more detailed information. And of course contacting our Travel Agent Alex is you’re best bet. So if you’ve been on the fence…place that deposit down, save your money for the margarita and souvenir sombrero! Ole’ mi amigos, we’ll see you on board!

Photo provided by Flickr:drooooo

Be With Who Makes You Smile

This week, I wanted to take this opportunity to extend a very special “Thank You” to each of you for joining us on this 2009 Mexican Riviera Cruise. Daily we are given options in our lives including who you choose to travel with. Please know that your decision to join us is not something I take for granted. I personally appreciate each of you for being a part of our group. Your time, effort and generosity to participate in this cruise are valued as much as your friendship; both to those that I have had the pleasure to know for years and those whom I look forward to meeting for the first time.

So allow me to take this moment or two to introduce you to our current members of our cruise group below (stateroom number in parentheses). These are individuals who have made the commitment to place a cruise deposit. Our deadline is September 25th as you know. And through my experience in planning group cruises you can bet that there’s a few who will join us at the last minute. So heartfelt thanks for your participation and welcome aboard to each of you who makes me smile.
Fondly,
Diana

"Do what makes you HAPPY. Be with who makes you SMILE.
LAUGH as much as you breathe and LOVE as long as you LIVE."
Author Unknown

As of Saturday, August 30, 2008:
Naomi Carter & Carol Sakai (6243)
Maxeen Shea/Joyce Chinen (6239)
Charmille & Walter Abe (6253)
Florence & Thomas Alford (6251)
Darlene & Mike Aoki (6245)
Willy Ching (6263)
Jean Gillman & Joan Cliffe (6255)
Sheila Wensel & Jean Myers (6249)
Euphemia & Richard Nagashima (6163)
Jeannette & Robert Sylva-Pereira (6235)
Karen & Buzz Vaughn (6260)
Joan Yamanaka & Joyce Spoehr (6247)
Marty Bryant (6172)
Sandy & Ken Mohr (4206)
Janice Wagner & Sharon Larner (4211)
Julie, Benjamin & Jeff Schatz (7203)
Perry Soderberg (7172)
Michael Tiffany (7170)
Sean Hagerty & Andrea Babby (7296)
Steve Blancarte (7263)
Fumiko Miyasaki & Stacy Miyasaki (7268)
Reagan Miyasaki (7272)
Diana & Roger Davis (7303)

Photo provided by Flickr.Andreia. "Lips"

NEW ADDRESS...Innovative Travel Planner!

Wanted to relay this information that Alex Kuncio our travel agent has a NEW ADDRESS:

4570 Campus Drive, Suite 52
Newort Beach, CA 92660

Same phone number 949/756-3223
Same email Bookit1@earthlink.net

Welcome to Our Ship…Carnival Spirit

Let’s start by providing you with a little introduction on ship sizes. The cruise industry’s perspective is that ‘Size does matter even with Ships’. The Carnival Spirit is in the category of the “Big Ships” as she holds 2,124 passengers. Consider the ship to be a floating, moving resort hotel.

Carnival Spirit like other ships has plenty of activities that you can participate in, cabin/stateroom options to choose, extensive public areas such as casinos, spas, theaters, pools, nightclubs and bars and alternative dining options. Because of the size of our group the decision to go with a larger ship, good itinerary and cruise price were factors in selecting this particular cruise. Noted below for your information are the ships category sizes:

LARGE SHIPS 2-4,000 passengers plus
MIDDLE SHIPS 1-2,000
SMALLER SHIPS under 1,000

Additional information about the Carnival Spirit that might be of interest to you are:
• Total Staterooms - 1,062
• Private Balcony Staterooms - 750
• Decks - 12
• Passenger capacity - 2,124
• Total crew - 930
• Officer's nationality - Italian
• Ship size – Large
• Tonnage - 88,500
• Ship length - 960
• Registry – Panama

There are a number of Public Areas on the ship that you will be able to explore and enjoy during your cruise. I highly recommend once you get on board, that you go to the Purser’s Information Desk and ask for a handy ship layout map to help you familiarize yourself to the floors/decks on the ship and the various rooms, lounges and areas on board. Here are a few of the areas you will become familiar with:
• La Playa Grille Restaurant
This is the casual self serve dining area that you will be first invited to enjoy lunch upon embarkation. The restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner and have snacks available between meals as well as Pizza, 24hours a day as I recall!
• Empire Dining Room
This is the main dining room. They do serve breakfast, lunch and dinner here for you.You will need to decide on an early or late dining seating for dinner. But breakfast & lunch are open seating.
• Nouveau Supper Club
The Supper Club is the ship’s upscale specialty dining restaurant. There is a supplemental charge for this restaurant and you will need to make reservations.
• Pharaoh’s Palace Lounge
This is one of the main entertainment stage areas.
• Versailles Lounge
Yet another entertainment area.
• Shanghai Piano Bar
Great after dinner bar to hang out and listen to some music and visit with friends.
• Champions Sports Bar
Guys and gals you know this one, sports and a bar! Need I say more?
• Dancin’ Dance Club
This is their Dance Club or Disco for those Baby Boomers!
• Chippendale Library/Internet access
Library (minimal reading selection, so bring a book to donate & leave) and access for your internet needs.
• The Chapel
Church Service, weddings and renewals, right here for you?

So if you haven’t signed up yet and need to pick a stateroom/cabin, be sure you check out our blog article “Inside, Outside, Balcony …Oh My?”! Also if you go on line at Carnival Spirit Stateroom you can see photos of the stateroom that makes it an easier decision for you.

And finally, if you haven’t received a Cruise brochure and would like one, contact our travel agent Alex. You can email her directly with your request (see side bar on our blog for her name, double click and it will open you to her email for contact) be sure you include your mailing address so she can get that in the mail to you.

Remember, preparation for the journey is part of the adventure…enjoy the anticipation and look forward to the journey. Bon Voyage!

Photo provided by Flickr: Platibolo photographer

Hidden Costs of Cruises

Cruises in my opinion are still one of my favorite getaway vacations. And not all cruises are all inclusive and there are “hidden costs” that are not always highlighted in the marketing and promotional hype of cruising. So check out the Cruise Critic “Hidden Costs of Cruises article” and the notations I have highlighted below for what you might expect on your journey on a floating resort. Hope it helps…Bon Voyage... Diana

Cruise Tax, Charges and Fees
You’re looking at the Sunday travel section in your local paper and come across the discounted price of the same cruise you are taking with this group. You ask, why is this so cheap, I thought Diana said we got a good deal?

Well actually you did get the best deal as a group and early sign-up. Did you know that when a cruise line advertises its cruise rate it does not often include the cruise surcharges and port fees and government taxes? So the price you see is their basic rate at the time of posting. Our group rate on our flyer includes all those hidden surcharges, fees and taxes PLUS we also add travel insurance. So beware of those deals. Also pending the final outcome of the number in our group, you may just find additional cost savings with cabin credits as we return the benefit of group credits to each that sign up with our Friends & Fun Group Cruise. Trust me stay on with our group, as you won’t be getting that cabin credit with the travel section sign-up!

Gratuity & Tips
Each cruise ship has its’ own policy & recommendations with tipping. For the Carnival Cruise Line you can figure that the cruise line will be charging your Sail & Sign Charge Card for about $10.00 per day ($3.50 for Stateroom Services, $5.50 for Dining Room services and $1.00 for Alternative Services) per passenger or $80.00 for an 8 night cruise This is an automatic charge and you will have to follow-up with the Purser Information Desk to adjust your gratuity. If you find you are not happy with your service. You can tip more or less pending the service you received. But keep in mind that the cruise staff works at minimum or in some cases less than minimum wages. So the gratuity/tipping by their passengers they serve is very important to them and they will make every effort to make it right. I always like to slip a hearty tip early to start besides the recommended tip. The reason for this is so I can request the extra ice or three more towels and not feel guilty of the mess I may leave between my dashing in and out of my cabin. You will be amazed at how much your room steward does do for you to make your cabin nice and your cruise comfortable. All it takes is just asking.

Taxis & Transportation
Whether you need to take a cab to or from the airport or you want to hire a private taxis to show you around a port. Transportation and tipping is another hidden cost for cruising. Although, you may not need transportation in all the ports of call you will be visiting. You will at some point need to take some sort of transportation. So plan for it, know your options in advance and have some cash on hand for this occasion.

Drinks
Sodas/Specialty Coffee drinks/Cocktails/Bar drinks/Wine at Dinner/Liquor in your stateroom/liquor by the bottle purchases on-line/ liquor bought in the ship store and let’s not forget the stocked stateroom refrigerator bar…Yes all of these drinks can cost you during your cruise trip. So what can I drink for free? Go to the self serve buffet, where the coffee, water, milk and juice are free at the café dispenser. All else will cost you. I recommend if you are a soda drinker that you look into a soda card for this trip $2.00 at the bar can add up quickly for a small glass of soda. Check on line for drink coupons and see if this might also be an advantage for your cruise style needs.


Casino/Bingo
Another tip about floating resorts like this cruise ship is that they have a familiar activity known as the casino, certainly not as extensive as the famous casinos in Nevada or New Jersey. But ample in size to play most games so bring your luck to the tables or machines. And yes, I understand that some jackpots are affiliated with the “big casino jackpots”, so be sure to bring your luck and your gambling budget dollars. Bingo is another activity that is an option for your entertainment. It can be costly, as I recall it costing up to $20.00 for a game, but both prizes and cash pots are your hopeful goal, right?

Internet Access
In this current technological world, communication is crucial. Whether to stay in touch with a love one or the importance to know that your professional responsibilities cannot be missed, your cruise ship has provided this option for you ----internet access for a price! Much like an internet café you can link on and stay connected throughout your on board journey. No need for a laptop either…the ship has plenty of computers on board as luggage capacity might be a concern for some airlines.

Shore Excursions
You’ve been too busy to research and prepare for port exploration through Barnes and Nobles and the internet to explore on your own. So you signed-up for the Carnival shore excursion. Your ship sails into port and you’re ready to get off on deck two and join the group tour to experience the Cuyutlan turtle experience. No problem, the cruise shore excursion is a perfect way to do so. But all these shore excursions have a fee so be sure you know this and plan accordingly. There are no cost savings to signing up early but if you do, you are guaranteed a spot as some excursions are very popular.

Special Interest Workshops & Classes
Although the cruise ship states that entertainment is covered in your cruise price. You should know that not all entertainment activities are included. On occasion through your cruise, you may come across some specialty workshops and classes such as computer classes or perhaps a wine tasting class etc. that may have an additional cost. Be sure you check your cruise newsletter for details and specifics. You can also call your purser or concierge for clarification on participating in the workshop or class.

Spa & Wellness Treatments
Hot Stone therapy, Swedish massage, Aromatherapy and body scrub, Deep Tissue and Wrap…. Aaaaah can’t wait! Need to relax? Want to feel pampered? Spa and Wellness treatments are available for your selection. However, these treatments have a fee and don’t forget you will need to tip your masseuse as well. Reservations are a must!

Shopping & Souvenirs
You will not even have to get into port to go shopping. The cruise ship has a shopping gallery with designer style items, logo wear and even postcards. Additionally be aware that throughout your cruise journey you will be given a number of promotional sale item flyers for local theme specialty items such as art work, jewelry and liquor. So bring your budgeted money if this is of interest.

Photos and Accessories
It starts the minute you board the gang plank…Click! Flash! Click! The cruise photographers are there snapping your photos. Group, couples, single, eating, playing and laughing AND if that isn’t enough, you also will have opportunities to take formal professional theme scenery photographs, 4x6, 5x7, 8x10’s!! These are an additional expense that can be charged to your Sail and Sign card and you’ll see it at the end of your cruise when you check out. So beware!


Additional Specialty Restaurants
This is an optional opportunity to partake in my opinion. But if you’re a gourmand like me…you’re gonna want to pay the supplemental fee of $20-30 dollars to have a 5 Star restaurant experience or need that steamed rice craving and belly up to on-board sushi? The Supper Club on the Carnival Cruise is a must do opportunity if you are a foodie. This is where Carnival is providing an opportunity for an elegant dining experience and you will need to make your reservations ahead of time. Don’t worry there will be a sign-up table when you board. So think about this opportunity and when you would like to celebrate with your friends or to getaway just by yourself or with someone special.

Ship Language …"What’s that you say?"

By now you have received and read the eflyer invitation to our cruise or you may have gone on line and explored the website for the cruise line and I’m sure you have browsed through the pages of your cruise brochure, right? You have made a deposit on your cruise and Alex our travel agent has got you assigned to a stateroom and a reservation number, personally for you.
You are thrilled, excited and can’t seem to get this smile off your face. You look through the diagram layout of the ship daydreaming trying to read the small print to find the location of your stateroom. Where is it? Where are we? What area is this? Am I at the front of the ship or back? Do we enter on the right or left of the ship? Now what deck was that for the buffet? Hey I’m bringing Lady Luck, now where did Diana say the Casino was? I better find that Workout area, now where is that?

Though not necessary to get around the ship, knowing the ship terminology makes it fun and kind of an authentic seafaring experience. Here are a few terms that will make you look like you’re a seasoned cruiser as well as get you familiar with your floating home for the next few days…

Aft - Towards the rear of the ship
Amidships - Towards or at the middle of the ship
Astern - Behind the ship
Beam - Ship’s width at the widest point
Below - The area below the “Main Deck”
Berth - Quay, dock or pier where the ship ties up or the act of so doing. Also a term used
aboard ship for a sleeping point or bed.
Bilges - The lowest part of the ship
Boat Station - The place taken by passengers during lifeboat drill
Bow - The forward pointed part of the ship which acts as a control center
Bridge - The forward and upper part of the ship
Bulkhead - Interior partition or wall aboard ship
Cabin - Passenger’s room, otherwise known as a stateroom
Captain - Overall commander of the ship
Chief Engineer - Officer responsible for mechanical well being of the ship
Course - Ship’s passage in a given direction expressed in degree
Cruise Director - Individual in charge of entertainment and on-board activities
Disembark - To get off the ship
Embark - To join a ship for a voyage
Fantail- The rear, overhanging part of the ship
Fore- Front part of the ship
Galley- Ship’s kitchen
Gangway- The passageway or stairway that links the ship to the quayside
Hotel Manager- Officer in charge of passenger service
Launch- A small boat that transfers passengers from ship to shore when the vessel is
unable to berth
Leeward- The side of the ship that is sheltered from the wind
Lifeboat- A small boat that transfers passengers to a rescue ship during emergencies
Lifejacket- An inflatable jacket that allows the wearer to float in water
Muster Station- Assembly point in an emergency
Passenger/ The number of passengers divided by the number of crew gives the ratio.
Crew ratio- The lower this Crew ratio figure, the better the on-board service will be
Port-The left-hand side of the ship, when facing forward
Purser- Officer in charge of finance
Stabilizer- A retractable device that protrudes from the hull below waterline to provide
stability when the ship is moving
Staff Captain- The second in command of the Captain
Starboard- The right hand side of the ship, when facing forward
Stateroom- Passenger’s room, otherwise known as the cabin
Stern- The rear flat part of the ship, opposite the bow
Tender- A small boat that transfer passengers from ship to shore when the ship is
unable to berth
Windward- The side of the ship that is not sheltered from the wind

Nautical terms provided by DK Eyewitness Travel Cruise Guide to Europe and the Mediterranean

Port of Call ... MANZANILLO

The final Mexican Riviera port for this cruise is Manzanillo. In 2006 when Roger and I sailed on this cruise, the Carnival Spirit docked in a commercial port as the cruise ship did not want to tender into the port as it did in Zihuantanejo. So the entry will not be particularly picturesque till we depart and sail out in the evening when you will see the lovely twinkling lights of this busy port city.

You will need to sign-up for a shore excursion or get off the cruise ship to take a taxis cab that you can negotiate on a price prior to stepping in. Important tip to remember! Manzanillo has two parts to its city, the northern resort area on the Santiago Peninsula (Las Brias Hotel and Resort is here) and the busy commercial area down town Manzanillo to the south.

Manzanillo, known for being the Sail fishing Capital, home to Las Hadas Resort and Hotel, where Dudley Moore chased Bo Derek on the beach in the 1979 movie “10” and being one of Mexico’s busiest port are but a few of its highlights. This port city offers great outdoor opportunities such as deep sea fishing, diving, golfing and surfing as well as off road jeeping and ATV beach & jungle adventure. Check the Carnival Cruise shore excursions for specifics.

Manzanillo’s downtown southern area still retains its charming tranquil, laid back feeling of old authentic Mexico. The downtown Zocalo or main plaza will take you to a historical colonial town, as well as a mile long boardwalk and also a Jardin or garden area. If shopping is on your list, off the jardin or garden area on avenida Mexico you will find shops and restaurants that may be of interests to touristas as yourself.

Alongside the Playa Azul and Playa Las Brias on Manzanillo Bay, you will find a number of seafood and open air patio restaurants if you would like to partake in the local seafood adventure. There are additional beaches on the northern side of Las Hadas resort along Santiago Bay such as Playa Santiago and Playa Miramar. These beaches will require transportation, so be sure that you are comfortable in negotiating an agreed upon price with your cab fare. Remember whether it’s one or five in the cab it’s still the same price…so think about sharing and you can also negotiate with the cab by the hour!

Here are some links that may be helpful in your research on what to do in Manzanillo: Wikipedia Manzanillo, Go Manzanillo, Enjoy Mexico, Tom Zap and Mexperience.

Photo: Port of Manzanillo with Carnival Spirit docked, December 2006

DIANA’ S TEN CRUISE TRAVEL TIPS….


1.Cruise Blog

Add our Cruise Blog as Favorite or Bookmark Friends & Fun Mexican Riviera Cruise Blog is our main source of communication with our cruisers. So if you would like some additional details and information that will enhance your cruise travel, you really do want to check this link regularly. Make life easier and sign up for “subscribe via email” for inbox delivery of new posting articles. Also don’t forget to add the Carnival Cruise website as another favorite.

2. Cruise Critic and Carnival Roll Call

Wanna add more fun to your cruise? How about adding a informative website for those who love to cruise? Do you like to learn about cruising and share your experiences? Do you like to meet others who love to cruise? Be sure you get involve and visit the links below and follow the various pages to get yourself signed up. If you need help, get in touch with Diana. Looking forward to seeing you online, my cruise critic name handle is BlueOceanSunset…if you ever stop by our home, I’ll be glad to service you my BlueOcean Sunset signature cocktail…happy cruising

3. Do your homework
Know what you want to do & see, study the ports, get out there and surf the net, visit the bookstore, talk to others who have traveled there before you or create a social study group. The more you plan and prepare the more you will see and do.

4. Connect with your buddy
Make life easy and fun…Share the preparation with your cabin mate, initiate a social study group, commit to communicating about the pre & post cruise and most important stay connected with your travel agent (Alex) and follow-through.

5. Don’t delay

The ship is big and there could be up to 2,124 passengers onboard the Carnival Spirit if the ship if at full capacity. So waiting to the last minute is not always the best for signing up for those must-do excursions and activities. Don’t procrastinate, you may lose out!

6. Read the fine print
In the back of the 2008-2009 Carnival 3 to 8Day Cruise Vacation Brochure there are a number of guideline and information to help in your planning and preparation. Be sure to read it. Also your Carnival Cruise Line website can assist you with most questions you have. Still can’t find an answer to your question or need a brochure? Contact Alex at Innovative Travel Planner or email Diana at our cruise blog link on the side bar so we can help you.

7. Organize, Plan & Pack Lightly
Did you check your airline flight regulations for luggage? Because, this is where it all begins! Renting formal wear on the cruise website for the guys and mixing and matching colors for the woman is what is going to keep your luggage at the required limit. Otherwise, bring more money because you will be paying for it!

8. Sign Up on MY CRUISE on-line
If you haven’t checked out the Carnival Cruise Website, you need to do so. Alex has forwarded your Booking/Reservation Number which will allow you to update and/or complete you’re MY CRUISE account. IMPORTANT, you will need to do this as you will have access to book on line prior to your cruise as well as attaining your FUN PASS for embarkation procedures. Prepare by taking a minute to explore the carnival Cruise website.

9. Check & Double check your travel/cruise documents
Assuming that you are current on your cruise payment, Alex should be receiving the cruise documents about 20-50days prior to sailing. Because we are lucky to have such a professional and conscientious agent, Alex will organize and double check each of our cruise documents prior to sending them to us. Now here it is, once you get your documents YOU NEED TO CHECK THEM IMMEDIATELY. There will be instructions and details of all your documents should be accurate and reflect what you had signed up for. If not, contact Alex IMMEDIATELY so she can take care of your problem. If you wait till the very last minute…you just might miss the plane, the boat and yes the fun! So don’t delay!

10. Open, Be flexible, have fun & enjoy the ride
The best made plans can even have flaws or unexpected circumstances. With security, rules, regulations and just a lot of people…relax and don’t fight it. You’re a traveler and a visitor, so acknowledge that we’re not at home and your adventure begins once you step out that door. Also remember this simple lesson that your mother taught you when company comes over or you’re out visiting a friend’s home, be polite, courteous and smile. You will not be alone or you can be alone…the choice is yours…but, whatever your cruise travel brings, remember half the fun is enjoying the ride to get there.

Photo provided by Flickr: Kasaa

News Flash from our Travel Agent...

News Flash from July 25th 2008...
Just found out from Alex today... "Carnival Cruise have RAISED the prices on many categories and also, many categories are already sold out. Categories 8B, 8E and 9A are sold out. The price has gone up $100 per person in categories 8D, 8F, and 8G. We (the current Friends & Fun group rate till September 25th 2008) are also exempt from any further fuel surcharges which has been happening on a regular basis. Hopefully this news will get people motivated to book NOW before they miss the boat!"

You heard it here...prices are jumping up and we have our group rates only till September 25th.
So don't delay in getting a deposit down if you wanna join us, Ole'!

If you have further inquiry, please contact Alex Kuncio at Innovative Travel Planner. You can click on her Email Alex on your lower right sidebar.

Zihuantanejo, My favorite and Ixtapa

About 145 miles northwest of Acapulco is my favorite seaside town on this cruise, Zihuantanejo. Zihuantanejo means “place of women” by the Nahuan, an Azetecan group of related languages and dialects indigenous to the Mesoamerica and spoken by most of whom live in Central Mexico.

This picturesque seaside village with it’s gorgeous rocky cliffs, spotted colorful buildings, blue sea and swaying palm tree beaches with floating anchored fishing boats balancing awkward pelicans and seagulls makes me just wanna relax with a cold cervesa and I don’t even like beer, so how about a frosty margarita instead. Wanna join me?

Unlike the hustle and bustle of Acapulco this town is laid back and best enjoyed with a much slower pace. There is plenty to do if you enjoy water activities, shopping local arts and crafts and enjoying the delicious Mexican cuisine. I came across a particularly interesting article that I highly recommend you check out… “If You Only Have A Day In ZIHUANTANEJO” by Jim Kerr. Unfortunately, we have less than a day to visit this lovely seaside fishing village, but if you are like me…this place may just be a returning port city for you.

Just about 10 minutes or 4 miles north up the coast is the modern resort hotel town of Ixtapa. Kinda reminds me of a smaller, slower paced version of Honolulu’s Waikiki. Most of Ixtapa can be described as a Hotel Zone along Palmar Beach with village like shopping “plazas”, a marina, couple of world class golf courses and a “dolphinarium” which you can sign up through Carnival Shore Excursions to swim with the dolphin and just perhaps be shown on the Carnival TV network during our cruise. Here's your chance to be a star and a remake of 'Flipper"?

To get familiar with Zihuantanejo and Ixtapa, check out these links that I have come across for you: Wikepedia , Visit Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo, Mexico Adventure, Ixtapa-Zihuantanejo.com and of course don’t forget to take a peek at the Carnival Cruise Shore Excursions. There is definitely more to do if swimming with the dolphin just doesn't quite sound like your first choice for a shore excursion.

The Bay of Acapulco

BAHIA de ACAPULCO

After two day of sailing the “Fun Days at Sea” on the Carnival Spirit our first port of call in Mexico will be ACAPULCO. Be sure you head on top deck towards the front of the ship to see a beautiful view of this circular bay as we sail in to dock. The city of Acapulco edges right up to the sandy beaches and cradles the Sierra Madre del Sur Mountain ranges. I also recommend after you get back on board in the evening to grab your camera and take a night photo of the beautiful bay and city lights from the ship. It will simply take your breath away.

Acapulco is a city with much to see and do. Your biggest decision is what do I want to do??? Take a colorful carriage ride on a ‘Calandrias’, plenty of beaches to sun and drink those fruit stick drinks, city tours, cliff divers, golf and water sports like scuba/snorkeling/ jet
skiing/kayak/rafting, deep sea fishing are some of your choices. There are also cultural tours such as fort exploration, ecological/nature adventures which are also noted through Carnival’s shore excursions. Shopping is a paradise here with boutiques (shopping malls Plaza Bahia or La Gran Plaza), galleries, small handicrafts stores and booths at open air markets (such as El Parazal/ Mercado de Artesanias, La Diana (block from the Emporio hotel close to the Diana monument in Costera) and Noa Noa market (near Playa Tamarindo) are a few highlights.

So as I said Acapulco has the largest offering of activities and choices of all the cruise ports. I’ve listed a number of websites below on Acapulco that you can explore and get yourself acquainted with what Acapulco has to offer. Now that should keep you busy!

Wikipedia Acapulco • All About Acapulco • Acapulco Visitors & Convention • Home & Aboard – Acapulco • Let’s Go 2 Mexico/ Acapulco • IGOUGO –Acapulco • Pacific Coast Travel Information • Travel Acapulco • Mexico US • Real Acapulco • Acapulco Travel Guide

Photo provided by Flickr cpaustin2000

The Metric World

Centimeters, Kilograms, Meters and Celsius...what do these mean? Feel like we're in another world? United States may be in Farenheit, Miles, Pounds and Yards...but visiting another foreign country is not always the same as back home.

Double click, World Wide Metric Conversion Calculator so you can begin to understand when you see that 70 degrees Farenheit means 21 degrees Celsius and 1 kilogram equals approximately 2.2 pounds (Therefore, 1/4 lb equals 1/10th of a kilogram...for your marketplace purchases).

Be prepared and have some handy references for those purchases in the many marketplaces you plan to visit in your cruise ports.

The Markets - Mercados

In my humble travel experiences, I find that nothing is more eye-opening to understanding the culture and customs of the people and country than to visit their local markets. With the ship being in port for a limited time, visiting the local markets allow for a wide variety of exposure and learning about the way the people live, eat and reside in the community. Market places offer the tourist an opportunity to try local foods, interact and communicate with the local people and also complete that souvenir gift giving custom at often a reasonable price.

In strolling between the booths, stalls, tables and buckets one can experience the various gastronomic essence of the local farmers, fishermen, bakers, cooks and craftsmen’s who take pride in sharing their products. These local markets -- held often in the center city, streets & possibly inside buildings and even adjacent to century old historical sites and places -- are a shopper and foodies' paradise.Exploring for handicrafts, souvenirs, leather, ceramic, jewelry, as well as spices, produce, fish/meats can be a fun adventure and a cheap alternative to fancy restaurants and shore excursions.

Following are some links that I was able to find for the ports we will be visiting on this cruise … Enjoy!

ACAPULCO
Noa Noa Handicrafts Market
A small, manageable tourist market near Playa Tamarindo

El Parazal Arts and Crafts Market (Mercado de Artesanias)
Touristy but has lots of souvenir options. It is in the downtown area on Cinco de Mayo street.

Mercado del Campesino

Calle, Durango, S/N, Colonia Progreso, Acapulco, Mexico 39578
Shop where the locals shop at the Mercado Municipal! Here restaurateurs load up on produce early in the morning and I mean early. I know that I have not been there that early, but I do believe that the place opens up at like 6 am.

La Diana Mercado
One large flea market with a convenient location is La Diana Mercado de Artesanías, a block from the Emporio hotel, close to the Diana monument in Costera.


ZIHUATANEJO & IXTAPA

Zihuatanejo Arts and Crafts Market - Mercado de Artesania

Adjacent to the dock where the ship will tender in the bay and bring our cruisers. Also many restaurants and bars. Additional on Calle de Cinco de Mayo

Zihuantanejo Municipal Market
Local community Farmers Market and handicrafts.

Ixtapa Arts and Crafts Market
Smaller Handicraft market than Zihuatanejo. Be advised that Ixtapa is mainly a resort hotel area so prices may be higher.

MANZANILLO

The "Mercado"
This is mainly a "locals" market, but tourists love it for its authentic Mexican flavor. Of course, other items, such as piñatas, pottery and leather goods are available. The mercado area is located on Av. Francisco I. Madero, behind the Club de Leones (Lions Club), one block south of Av. Mexico.

ADDITIONAL MEXICAN MARKET INFORMATION & LINKS:
• Market Guideline and Information
• Food - Handicrafts - Produce
• Tianguis - "market on wheels"

Photo provided by Diana & Roger, Zihuatanejo, Carnival Spirit 2006

Golf on a Cruise Ship?

Okay, so you mastered the pseudo net catching golf simulator on the upper deck of your cruise ship. And your mind has started to wander to the well kept long green fairways and smooth curvaceous rolling hills next to the blue sea with a distance view of a slight fluttering flag pole on the horizon as you browse through the latest issue of top courses of Golf and Conde Nast Travel Magazine. Plus dreaming of the Top 30 Private Golf Course in Mexico. Get me signed up for tee time, pleeeeeease!

Our ports of call that we will be visiting are no strange to this recreational sport. In fact I came across an interesting website that you can book your tee time called Internet Golf. You gotta check it out. You can book this all over the world. Wow!

Don't forget to also look at the Carnival Cruise Line Shore Excursion as they had a couple of golf shore excursions as well for the ports of Acapulco and Ixtapa/Zihuantanejo.

Now that you have done some homework, take a quick jog up to the gym on deck and stretch your muscles and tone up a bit because were gonna anchor soon enough. In the mean time, here are the golf courses that this Lady Cruise found for you …I’ll see you after your golf shore excursion and my wonderful aromatheraphy massage….Oh and if you want real golf advice email my buddy Steve. He's the pro and you can find his email on the side bar of this cruise blog. Now if you'll excuse me, I gotta get to my Spa treatment .....aaaah, I so deserve this, hmmmm!

SAN DIEGO

• Home of the 2008 US Open Torrey Pines Golf Course


• Tom Fazio’s designed The Grand Del Mar


• Johnny Miller’s designed Poway’s Maderas Golf Club


• Arnold Palmer designed Carlsbad Four Season Resort Aviara Golf Club
  

ACAPULCO

• Club de Golf Acapulco


• Mayan Palace Golf Club


• Fairmont Acapulco Princess Golf Course


• Fairmont Pierre Marques Golf Course


• Tres Vidas Country Club
  

Additional Website links for Acapulco golf
All About Acapulco
Acapulco Golf.com

IXTAPA/Zihuantanejo

• Robert von Hagge designed Marina Ixtapa Golf Club (Club de Golf Marina Ixtapa)


• Robert Trent Jones Jr. designed Palma Real Golf Course (Campo de Golf Palma Real)
  

Interesting Reading by Shane Sharp -Sister Cities of Ixtapa and Zihuatenejo Provide Top-Shelf Resort Golf off the Beaten Path

MANZANILLO

• Robert von Hagge designed Isla Navidad Golf Course


• Peter Dye designed Las Hadas Golf - La Mantarraya Course
  

Photo provided by Las Brias Manzanillo Las Hadas

San Diego Here We Come! … By Karen

Our Mexican Riviera Cruise will be here sooner than we think…and how exciting!! Since we depart from San Diego, some of you may want to come into town a day or so early to assure you don’t miss the ship or to just visit the area.

As you probably know, San Diego is a real tourist town with lots to do and see. The Cruise Terminal, Airport and Train Station are all within a mile of each other, so it’s a bustling place. There are many hotels in this vicinity and plenty of restaurants. Shops of all sorts from a big mall like Horton Plaza to quaint theme areas like Seaport Village & the Gas Lamp District are all within a good walk of the cruise terminal. But, there’s more.

If you have a couple of days to spend, you might want to visit the San Diego
Zoo, Balboa Park or take a tour of the general area. Did you know the USS Midway is a museum here? The famous Del Coronado Hotel can be reached by tour bus or the Old Town Trolly and Old Town San Diego has shops and restaurants not far away as well.

To give you an idea of what’s available, here are a few additional websites you might want to check out: Trolley Tours, Sea World, Wild Animal Park, San Diego Grayline. If you aren’t staying on a pre or post cruise package with Carnival, you can also refer to Diana’s article on San Diego Where Do I Stay? You will have an endless option for motels & hotels with various price ranges. Enjoy the planning!!!

Read All About It!

Astounding, intrigue, brilliance, superb, dramatic, informative, descriptive… whatever your choice in words one cannot create a more relaxing world than that of a best-selling novel, an informative resource book or a comprehensive short story collection to curl up with.

I recently visited some book websites such as Barnes & Nobles, Amazon and Borders. There is this incredible black hole resource that seems to continue forever. As I surf the web I found novels, travel books, reference guides and even maps just to mention a few. Defintely worth a peek!

As we prepare for our cruise, you will see that half the journey is the anticipation of the trip. To help you get into the mood check out some of the books that are available at your local bookstore or simply go on line as I have. I've listed a few of my findings below. You might want to check the reviews at one of the book websites to see if this is of interest to you:

• "Mexico" by James A. Michener
• "Sisterchicks in Sombreros" by Robin Jones Gunn
• "Mexico,A Love Story: Women Write About the Mexican Experience" by Camille Cusumano
• "Mexican Days: Journeys into the Heart of Mexico" by Tony Cohan
• "On Mexican Time: A New Life in San Miguel" by Tony Cohan
• "What Time Is the Midnight Buffet?: Tales from the Cruise Adventure of a Lifetime" by Chesterh
• "My Several Journeys-Book Two" by Elizabeth Mulford
• "The Geography of Bliss: One Grump's Search for the Happiest Places in the World" by Eric Weiner
• "Make the Most of Your Time on Earth" by Rough Guides
• "The Smart Traveler's Passport: 399 Tips from Seasoned Travelers" by Erik Torkells
• "Acapulco, Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo" by Lynne Bairstow, Juan Cristiano
• "Cruising the Mexican Riviera and Baja :A Guide to the Ships and the Ports of Call by Larry H. Ludmer
• "Eyewitness Travel Guide: Mexico" by DK Publishing
• "Moon Acapulco, Ixtapa, and Zihuatanejo" by Bruce Whipperman
• "Destination Mexico : Planning a Cruise to Mexico" by Carolyn Mehaffy/Bob Mehaffy
• Frommer's Portable "Acapulco. Ixtapa, Zihuatanejo

Now it's your turn to share...know a good book? Write a comment and let us know...

Cruise Planner Timeline...Who's the Lead?

There is a couple of things that makes me wonder if I am just neurotic about details or if it’s a good thing that I like the comfort of being organized as it at least makes me feel like my life is perhaps a wee bit easier? And still yet another, a-ha thought that came to my mind the other day was that my husband Roger was perhaps the smarter one. He for one had the good sense to get me to marry him and then he simply arrives with all the details and plans set up for his approval or better yet already handled. Why was I not the smart one?

Fortunately we’re all not alike. However, someone should take the lead on planning the details before one’s sailing date. Whether it is your significant other or perhaps a fellow traveler or even your cabin mate? Someone needs to be the organizer as you really don't want to miss the boat or necessary details you need to complete before crossing the gang plank. The Honolulu Friends of Parks & Recreation meet monthly but there is still generally a lead person for the trip. My suggestion is you start by checking out this link to one of my favorite resource Cruise Diva. This article will get you started on making your own Personal Cruise Planner Timeline.

Also check out the Carnival Cruise website at the bottom of the home page, Embarkation Information to get you thinking what you need to do before your sail date. Lastly, start reading and surfing the interenet, visit the book store, read the details of your cruise brochure and get a notebook, binder, file folder or a box and just gather the information and start organizing yourself with your interests. Before you know it, we will be waving Bon Voyage off the upper deck of the Carnival Spirit!

Photo provided by Flickr, Co-Photoguy

SAN DIEGO HOTELS...Where Do I Stay?

As one of the fast growing cruise port on the West Coast, San Diego is a fabulous City to explore and visit before or after your Mexican Riviera Cruise. But, where do I stay? Your first task is to decide what you would like to do in San Diego. Is it just get a good night sleep before the cruise embarkation? You want to be close to the cruise terminal? You would like to be in the middle of the downtown and the nightlife? Or you want to be centrally located near the Zoo, Sea World or Wild Animal Park? Perhaps you just want a luxury hotel with a high thread sheet count and chocolate on your pillow? Then you have to decided on what you are you willing to pay per night?

A favorite for our Hawaii Friends is the Best Western Bay Side Inn hotel on Ash Street. The closest hotel to the Cruise Terminal is the Holiday Inn on the Bay on North Harbor Drive....it's across the street! There are other hotels located on the islands of Harbor (Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Marina)and Shelter (Humphrey's half Moon Inn & Suites) Islands that have an incredible view of the San Diego skyline at night. Or you may opt for a number of small luxury boutique hotels in the Gaslamp District such as Hotel Solamar or Bristol Hotel for the dining and nightlife.

If shopping is an important factor for you staying near downtown Horton Plaza is probably be a good option. So check out the hotels of Westgate Hotel, US Grant Hotel, Westin Hotel to start.

Seaport Village also offers other shopping and dining opportunity so consider staying at San Diego Marriott Hotel & Marina, Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego, Omni Hotel San Diego.

For CHEAPER hotels...but I give you no guarantees as to their cleanliness or quality. These two I believe are the closest to the cruise terminal as well...check out Days Inn Harbor View and Pacific Inn Hotel & Suites on Pacific Coast Highway. You can also get cheaper costing hotels that are in the Town and Country/Mission Valley/Old Town area of San Diego. There are defintely more to choose from and here are a couple more links you can check out for hotel descriptions and options: San Diego Convention & Visitors Buereau is a favorite link of mine also try InfoSanDiego.com . Happy Exploring!

Photo Provided by Flickr/photographer: lolowar

Do I Need a Stinkin' Passport?

With the new USA regulations to implement Passports as travel identification, I'm sure if you're anything like me you can easily get confused. As a cautionary measure I say you have plenty of time and just apply for a passport if you don't have one. And if you DO have a passport,DOUBLE CHECK your expiration date, your passport must be valid for at least six months after the last day of travel. For information about obtaining a passport for the first time, or about renewing a passport, "click" here to visit the U.S. Department of State's Web site.

Last year, I had to assist my girlfriend’s college daughter in getting a new passport because her passport did not have the valid 6 month window for her travel period. The waiting period was unrealistic for our needs (long wait) and the last minute ordeal & stress was truly not a way to start off a trip. There are agencies that can expedite your passport process. But, it will COST YOU. So my suggestion is GET IT NOW and save your dollars for that fabulous souvenir or shore excursion you wanna take. Our friends Buzz & Karen recently applied for their renewal and the turnaround time was surprisingly quick. But understand one never knows how this truly works. So my recommendation is Don't Delay!

Additionally, I just received a travel newsletter, May 13, 2008 from Vacation To Go and they had an extensive write up by Chairman and CEO, R. Alan Fox, hope it helps you, check it out:

In March, the U.S. Departments of State and Homeland Security issued a final (we hope) ruling on the implementation date for the land and sea portion of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI). First announced in 2005 and repeatedly modified since that time, the WHTI is designed to enhance border security and requires people traveling to and from Canada, Mexico, Panama, the Caribbean, Bahamas and Bermuda to have a passport to enter or re-enter the United States.Since January 23, 2007, passports have been required for anyone who enters or re-enters the U.S. by air from the destinations mentioned above.Beginning June 1, 2009, the passport requirement will be extended to include all land border crossings and sea travel to or from the above-mentioned destinations.There are a few notable exceptions pertaining to land and sea border crossings:
U.S. citizens on cruises that begin and end in the same U.S. port and travel to destinations in Mexico, Canada, the Caribbean, the Bahamas or Bermuda will be able to re-enter the U.S. with proof of citizenship other than a passport or passport card, such as a birth certificate and government-issued photo ID. Passports will be required for cruises that begin in one U.S. port and end in another.
A new, lower-cost alternative to the passport, called a passport card, will be acceptable for entries into the U.S. by land or sea. Compared to passports, which cost $100 for first-time applicants ($85 for children), passport cards cost just $45 ($35 for children). The passport card will not be acceptable for air travel.
For more information about passport cards, click here to visit the passport card section of the U.S. Department of State's Web site.
Children under the age of 16 who are citizens of the U.S. or Canada will be exempt from the passport requirement for land and sea border crossings when the rule goes into effect. In lieu of a passport, children will be able to continue to use a birth certificate as proof of citizenship for entry into the U.S. by land or by sea. Children entering or re-entering the U.S. by air are still required to have a valid passport.
Cruise lines that sail roundtrip from U.S. ports to any of the destinations mentioned above say they will continue to accept a certified birth certificate and government-issued I.D. (such as a driver's license), in lieu of a passport for U.S. citizens. However, many cruise lines strongly suggest that guests obtain a passport anyway, and here's why.Guests who cruise and need to fly to or from the United States unexpectedly will likely experience significant delays and complications related to booking airline tickets and entering the United States if they do not have a valid U.S. passport with them. For example, a passenger missing a cruise departure due to a late inbound flight to Miami would need a passport to fly to meet the ship at the next port.Similarly, guests needing to fly home to the U.S. or Canada (via the U.S.) before their cruise ends, because of medical, family, personal or business emergencies, missing a ship's departure from a port of call, or a mechanical problem of some sort with the ship, would need a passport.Of course, situations like these are extremely rare, but they can happen, which is why I also recommend passports for cruises.

Excerpts for Passport Information provided by VacationToGo.com Newsletter May 2008

Photo provided by Flickr.com -youngmei

First Time Cruisers....Nervous? Don't Be...It's the Fun Ship!

I’m here for you my dear friends… Naomi will no doubt NOT be the only first time cruisers! The Carnival Spirit can hold 2,124 passengers. Trust me you won't be the only first-timer. However I do sympathize that this can be a weary and yet exciting time for the first time cruiser, which is why joining the Friends and Fun Cruise Group is a perfect opportunity to experience cruising with support and reassurance. You have an instant network of friends.

On the right side bar is a list of links that you can reference to help you begin to explore the basic and requirement for this cruise trip. I also suggest you check out the FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) on the following specific sites such as Carnival, Cruise Critic, and Cruise Diva.

About.com has some interesting cruise planning and lastly to get a feel of the first step…read up on the article by Cruise Diva, What to Expect on Day One. This will ease your mind as it gives you a good feel of what you might expect for the first day.

Don't like to surf the web? Head to the local Barnes & Nobles...they actually have a book called "Cruise Vacation for Dummies". Don't laugh, I have that book, it's my starter book to cruising. The on-line Barnes & Noble has the best selection, but you can ask a sales clerk to assist you and they can look it up for you as well.

Still overwhelmed? I started this article with I'm here for you, so... Simply email me and let’s see if we can ease you into a fun time on the fun ship! Have fun exploring the incredible amounts of information. You'll be an expert in no time at all.

Inside, Outside, Balcony …Oh My???

Okay the decision is done…”Yes, I’m going on this cruise”…but wait I’ve never done this before, How do I know what kind of a room do I pick? No problem, I’ll ask my roommate - inside, outside, balcony, suite, oh my!

Checkout a couple of my favorite websites to help you decide, the Carnival Cruise Spirit Stateroom will give you a sample idea of what they look like. Try also the website for Cruise Diva and About.com these two links will help you to understand what cabin selection is about.

And if you're still frustrated or have special needs like you're worried about stability onboard or perhaps need a handrail and an extra room for a wheelchair. I recommend you call our travel agent Alex and she'll assist you with your particular
concerns.

Subscribe ---- A Timesaver Tip !

We all seem to have full lives, ever so busy with not enough hours in the day and innendated daily with things to do, task & chores, demands and responsibilities...it just never seems to end! But, you're going on a cruise and this means you need to know the details, information and deadlines!

Our Mexican Riviera Cruise Blog will be the central information tool that I am using to deseminate all the information that I have to assist you with this cruise. So stay with me for a bit more and follow this helpful tip that you might want to seriously make a priority to incorporate so that you can save time and still keep you connected without needing to check the cruise blog for information. Now take a breath and check it out --- It's not hard, really!

Located on the 2009 Friends & Fun Mexican Riviera Cruise Blog, right hand side, under the Blue heading "Sign Up for Posts Via Email", do you see it? There is a white box with a thin blue border under "Enter your email address"...keep looking, can you see it now? Place your email address in it. Click Subscribe. Then a window will pop open to have you verify your action. Type in the symbolic alphabet script that is shown and then click the "Complete Subscription Request".

Every new article being posted or a comment being made on an article, will be sent via email to your In Box. This will allow you to not have to check the blog so often to see if anything new has been added. Thereby of course, giving you more time to handle your day to day business or simply to take a moment for yourself!

It is however, imperative that you read all of the details of the blog at some point as the click on that Subscribe button does not send you articles and comments that have already been posted prior to you subscribing to this tool. Additionally, be sure that you also scroll down to the bottom and click the 'Older Post' note on the lower right hand side of the bottom article so that it will update you to the full cruise blog. If you still can't get what I am saying...email or call me and we'll walk it through together. You're gonna love the convienience. Now give it a try!