We are in the doldrums of winter in the Northern Hemisphere.  Snow squalls…  Sub-Zero temperatures…  Freezing rain…  More snow…  More squalls…

It just never seems to end!  But there is always the excitement of a cruise vacation in a warm climate Paradise.  And to us paradise means anywhere with warm, sunny beaches and friendly people.

Imagine the sun beating down on you as you cruise through the Hawaiian Islands.  Maybe a South Pacific Tahiti cruise is calling you?  And there are always the very popular Caribbean Cruises that almost all major cruise lines sail.

Caribbean cruises are our cruise of choice because there are a number of great itineraries and because they are very affordable.  You can choose a cruise of three days or three weeks in the Caribbean (and even more if you like).

As I mentioned, most major cruise companies have cruises in the Caribbean.  Carnival, Princess, Holland America, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Costa, Oceania, Crystal, Celebrity, Cunard… and the list goes on.

We have enjoyed cruises on a few different cruise lines to find that even for similar itineraries the cruises seem very different.  It’s the feel of the cruise ship that can change the “feel” of the cruise.

If you prefer a true “sailing” cruise you can always book on one of the tall ship cruise lines.  They would certainly give you a vacation of a lifetime!

The warm climate and friendly islanders make for fantastic vacation experiences.  Whether you enjoy site-seeing, experiencing the different cultures, shopping, finding adventures not available at home or just being a beach bum (my particular favorite), Caribbean cruises offer a variety of choices.

In our case, we try to hit a beach at every port of call.  Add in a little site-seeing and maybe some shopping and it’s time to head back to the cruise ship – your floating resort hotel.

Where else can you go that you unpack once and yet see a different place every day?  No packing, unpacking rushing to the airport, waiting, boarding the uncomfortable planes, fighting through the crowds to get your suitcases, finding transportation to a new hotel…  And that’s just for one change of scenery!  You can visit one warm paradise after another without rushing around or with any hassles.

Cruise vacationing can provide travelers with the pampering service that we all deserve when we take vacations.  We have found that the ships’ crews are extremely helpful and friendly – if you show them some respect and friendship back.  Most are well-trained are there to serve you and make sure that you have the best vacation experience possible.

The cuisine on cruise ships is fantastic.  There is always something on the menus or the buffets that will please your palate.  Unlike some resorts that we have gone to in Mexico and the Caribbean, you don’t have to worry about the quality of the food or the preparation practices when dining on cruise ships.  All you need to do is enjoy!

The staterooms are very comfortable and cozy.  We usually opt for a balcony stateroom.  Our late afternoon includes a quiet glass of fine wine while relaxing be getting ready for dinner.  Watching the sun go down over the water from your private balcony is a wonderful experience.  Or draw back the drapes and enjoy seeing the sun rise out of the sea while lounging in bed.

Every time the weather starts to get cold and nasty we start to think about a warm vacation cruise.  Whether it’s the Caribbean or the South Pacific you owe it to yourself to try a vacation cruise in paradise.

After writing this article I am definitely ready to book our next cruise to paradise.  You can check online for Great Cruise Deals and book them on-line. What better way to find a Romantic Getaway?  You can even shop on-line for your fabulous new cruise fashions and swim wear.

Author: Brian A Schmidt, Publisher www.a1-discount-cruises.com