I want to plan a cruise. Western or Eastern Caribbean?

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sigleb07

Well, I've taken both of these cruises plus I live in Puerto Rico. I think that yes, there is a difference. The eastern caribbean is more about beaches and taking it slow and relax; and normally you will go to Aruba, St. Croix, St. Martin, Curacao. The western (my favorite) you see more cultural things, if you like the beach you'll find some great ones, the snorkeling there it's just amazing, but if you want to see some Mayan ruins, do a cave tubing, swim with stingrays you can as well. And finally, Carnival has some great ships. They don't have the luxury as others ships but you will have an awesome trip !!!!! ENJOY

Dusie

I've done 2 Western, 1 Eastern and 1 Southern. They were all excellent in their own way. (3 were Carnival and I would sail with them any time.) They did not get to be the largest cruise line by delivering an inferior product. By the way, most veteran cruisers are not as brand loyal as you may think. I choose a cruise by the itinerary first, then check to make sure the ship has at least a 4.5 star rating, and then of course what time of year I can get vacation from work. Now is a great time to book a cruise. They call January "Wave Month" Its the time when many lines heavily advertise their specials. And this January, well with the economy, the specials are really good.

Yes, Please get a passport. They are good for 10 years and will be the best ID you've ever had. I usually start my research at vacationstogo.com. Then if I need more price comparisons, I go to cruisecompete.com. Be sure you're comparing apples to apples. Ask them to include all port fees and taxes. Also, ask them if they will honor a price drop from the cruise line before the final payment is due. If they will not, find another travel agent. You must be the one to find and notify them of the price drop. They can not do this for you. You may have a trusted travel agent at a brick and mortar agency. Good. Just make sure that they are a cruise specialist. I have used a brick and mortar TA twice, on my first cruise and when we needed arrangements for a large group. I have also books through vacationstogo and the cruise line itself. All worked perfectly. Bon Voyage.

aymie520

I don't think there is a huge difference because anywhere you go, you will be able to do different things. I think either one would be nice to travel!! We went on an exotic Western. It went to Belize, Grand Cayman, Mexico and Honduras. We went to the beach in Honduras and swam with the stingrays in Grand Cayman. There were many different excursions to choose from, and depending on the money you want to spend, they all looked worth it. I would definately do Carnival!! It is an awesome cruise with so much to do. I would look on Carnival's website to see what sorts of excursions they offer and make your decision from there. You are also going to need a passport. People are saying you don't need one until June of this year but I would get one to be on the safe side and to avoid hassle. Once you cruise you're hooked for life!!
Ps- I have cruised on Carnival so if you need any other advice let me know!!

Kristin

We took a western cruise our first time for the same reason you are describing, we wanting to see if we even enjoyed cruising for the best rate. We ended up having an incredible time, but would not do most of the western Caribbean again. Main reason being that in Mexico especially, as soon as you step foot off of that ship...you are swarmed with people trying to sell you ridiculous things {braid your hair-$5.00, paint your fingernails-$10.00}. It was just overwhelming trying to escape the begging. That being said, if you go on a shore excursion and go beyond the tourist areas...that is less likely to happen.

So, if I had my choice I would stay to the Eastern or Southern Caribbeam!

Another way to save money is get a guaranteed stateroom (unless you are set on a specific location on the boat). This way you pay less for a room so Carnival can assign your room to you. Some people luck up and get upgraded for free!

If you are the adventurous and time conscience type, wait until you get to shore to go on your excursions directly. The cruise line almost doubles the price of excursions, but you have that security blanket of not being left behind if something goes wrong. Being that it is your first, I would let leave the time management to the cruiseline.

Drinks {alcohol and cokes} are expensive on the ship...so either bring your own, or buy a soda card! The only drinks that are free our juices, tea, tap water, and lemonade.

Once you cruise once...you will go again :)

Sara G

you shoud checkout this site before you definatly book your criuse it may be cheaper. good luck:

http://www.travelwalrus.com

1Cheapcruise

Passport link:

http://travel.state.gov/passport/ppt_card/ppt_card_3926.html

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