Although cruising is generally considered very safe, it’s always best to be prepared for the worst-case scenario.

When people think of booking a cruise, they typically have their mind set on the sandy beaches of the Caribbean or the vibrant culture of Mexico. However, have you thought about switching things up and sailing somewhere a little cold?

Alaska might just be the perfect cruise destination for your next vacation. Rather than swimming with dolphins, you can visit cute sled dogs and observe the cracks and crevasses in massive glaciers.

Whether you’re buying a drink at the bar or thanking your cabin steward for excellent service, gratuities are now a standard part of cruising.

Royal Caribbean and Carnival are two of the most popular cruise lines in operation with, collectively, over 50 ships at sea. Though I've been sailing with Royal Caribbean since I was 10, I recently began my journey with Carnival to explore why the "FUN" ship brand attracts millions of passengers annually.

Both lines offer unique experiences and cater to different styles of cruising. Royal Caribbean, for example, is known for its innovative and jam-packed ships. 

Who wouldn't love to save money on their upcoming vacation? 

Cruises are an affordable way to travel thanks to their relatively inclusive fares. Everything from accommodation to food and entertainment is included in the price. 

While there are opportunities to spend extra on things like shore excursions and drink packages, it is easy to create a budget and stick to it. 

I sailed on my first-ever Princess cruise and discovered it was nothing like I imagined. 

The upscale cruise line has a reputation for being geared toward older crowds, so as someone in their mid-twenties, I feared I'd find the entertainment lacking and boring. Though I'm not interested in partying into the late hours, I enjoy a lively social scene with fun game shows fueled by audience participation.

While vacation is a time to kick back and relax, there are certain items you should leave at home. For example, many mainstream cruise lines have banned multi-outlet power strips and steamers due to safety concerns. 

When planning a cruise, you have several booking options: directly with the cruise line, through a travel agent, or with a third-party travel website like Expedia.

Most of us are accustomed to booking travel online. While it’s easy to book most of your travel online these days, many cruisers still prefer to make reservations through a travel agent.

As someone who enjoys a few cocktails on vacation, one of the most annoying things about booking a cruise is that alcohol is rarely included. 

For many cruisers, savoring a glass of wine over dinner or a tropical cocktail by the pool is a must-do while onboard. As such, drink packages are among the most common add-ons. However, they aren't cheap.