Popular Cruise Ship Travel Options From Sandy Flipflops

When it comes to planning a vacation aboard a cruise ship, many individuals focus their planning solely on their cruise. For many individuals, this can be a costly mistake. While the cruise itself is important, so is how you plan on making it to your vacation.



Cruise Ship Advice - The PROs and CONs of Cruises.

Unfortunately, a large number of individuals are unaware that they must make travel arrangements to their cruise ship’s departure location. When many individuals become aware of this fact, it is often too late for them to change their mind. You are encouraged not to be one of those individuals. When booking a cruise, it is important to keep a cruise ship’s departure location in mind. Doing so may prevent unnecessary travel expenses.

Selecting a cruise ship, with a close departure location, is advisable. Unfortunately, for many this is impossible. A limited number of costal locations serve as cruise ship departure ports. If you are unable to find a cruise ship departure location that is within a short distance to your home, you need to consider the cost of travel while booking your reservations. This cost is important because it may cause your vacation costs to exceed what you had previously expected.



Ready To Get My Flipflops Sandy!

In the event that you must make travel plans to reach your cruise ship departure location, you should consider all options. These options may include driving your own vehicle, renting a car, flying on an airplane, riding the bus, or taking the train. All of the foresaid travel methods are doable, but the option you select will likely depend on convenience and the cost of travel.

There are a number of advantages and disadvantage to driving yourself to your cruise ship departure location. The greatest advantage of doing so is that your travel will be easy. Simply by hopping into your vehicle and hitting the road, you could be on your way. When driving your own vehicle, planning is often easier. The only downside to driving your own vehicle is the cost of gasoline. If you are required to drive a long distance, the cost could substantially add up.

If you are worried about the excessive miles on your own vehicle, you could rent one. Vehicle rentals are a popular way to reach your designation without an excessive amount of planning. Unfortunately, the cost of gasoline will also have an impact on driving. In addition to the cost of gasoline, the length of your cruise may also have an effect on the total cost of renting a vehicle. Vehicle rentals are charged by the day; therefore, if your car rental is left in a parking lot you may be wasting money.



Flying To Orlando For A Cruise Is Amazing!


Flying is a popular travel method; however, it can be a costly one. Individuals trying to reach their cruise ship departure location are often encouraged not to arrive at their destination by airplane, unless absolutely necessary. This is due to the cost of flying. If your cruise ship departure port is only a few hours a way, air travel may not be the best option. However, there are some cases where air travel may be the only option. If you are without your own vehicle, flying may be necessary to reach your cruise ship’s departure location.

Traveling to your cruise ship’s departure location by bus or train are other acceptable travel options. Each is likely to take some time, but they are both inexpensive ways to travel. Many individuals can easily afford a bus ticket or a train ticket. Aside from excessive stops, it is possible that you may not have access to either. Bus stations and train stations are only available in limited locations. You may find it difficult or impossible to find a station that offers service to the location of your choice.

Each of the above mentioned travel methods all have their advantages and disadvantages. To find the perfect method of travel to reach your cruise ship’s departure location, you should weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each method. Once you have decided which method best fits your needs, you can rest assure knowing that you will make it on time for your cruise ship’s departure.

If you can get a cruise ship in Port Everglades, I highly recommend using a Park & Ride service to park your vehicle securely while you are away. The cool part is that they drive you straight to the loading area so that you don't have to look for it.

Sandy Flipflops is a reporter for Florida Vacation Review and loves to spend time walking the beaches of the world! Join Sandy on the Florida Vacation Review Cruise to the Mexican Caribbean, aboard the newly constructed Carnival Dream. We depart from Port Canaveral
on January 9th, 2010 and we have a few cabins available at the time of this posting!

A Tribute To Carnival Cruise Lines

Ocracoke Island Vacation Makes Sandy Flipflops A Little Wild!

Apparently Sandy Flipflops happened among a group
of Wild Things around their campfire in Okracoke...

Ocracoke Island Vacation

Accessible by only ferry, private boat, or by air,
Ocracoke Island seems to make time stand still on
it's 16 mile island.  What really makes this island
special is that over three quarters of it is protected
Cape Hatteras National Seashore property.

Within Ocracoke Island North Carolina, there are
many different houses, schools, parks, and numerous
boat ramps and places for beach access.  The community
is very friendly here, making it a perfect beach
vacation spot for the entire family.




One of the ferries to Okracoke!

For everything practical and not so practical you'll
need while your away from home, you can find it here
on Ocracoke Island.  From beach chairs and boards to
manicures and massages, and rental cars to finding a
caterer - you can find everything you need to make
your beach vacation a dream come true.

For nearly 12 continuous miles, the dunes and marsh
lands of the island are untouched, providing a home
for birds, deer, muskrats, rabbits, and other wild
animals.  The several beaches on the island are some
of the last pristine beaches left in America.  Fishermen
and anglers are allowed to drive on the beach, with
surf fishing being truly great here.




Okracoke Sand Castle

If you visit Ocracoke Island in the summer, you'll
find that there is always something to do.  The
island has a happening nightlife as well, which
is perfect for those who want more than just the
beach on their vacation.

If you live close to North Carolina, Ocracoke Island
is possibly closer than you may realize.  Those of
you who have been looking for the perfect beach
vacation can find it here.  All you have to do is
book a hotel then let the good times roll.




Get out your Sandy Flip Flops!

Want to see some of the great sunny beaches in
the USA? Check out Florida Vacation Review for
the places in Florida and what hotels you can
save big on without sacrificing quality amenities!

Protecting Your Health While Aboard a Cruise Ship With Sandy Flipflops

What's Really Happening In Mexico? Day 3 - Part 4 COZUMEL

Protecting Your Health While Aboard a Cruise Ship

When it comes to cruise ship safety, there are many individuals who are concerned with their physical safety.  Physically staying safe aboard a cruise ship is important, but so is staying healthy.  Due to a large number of individuals in a fairly small space, cruise ships have a number of health concerns.



Sandy Flipflops Travels The Sandy Beaches And The Cruise Ships
Just For YOU!

The health problems and concerns found on cruise ships are often highly publicized.  Despite this publicity, most cruise ships are fun, safe, and clean.  Being concerned with your health aboard a cruise ship is one thing, but you should not let it prevent you from enjoying your vacation.  Rather than letting the fear of getting sick ruin your vacation, you should take a few simple steps to ensure that your health will be the same as, if not better, when you first boarded.

Before your cruise ship is scheduled to set sail, you are urged to schedule a visit with your family physician.  Be sure to inform him or her that you are planning a vacation aboard a cruise ship.  Your physician will likely check your health to make sure you are fit for travel.  In addition to examining your general health, it is possible that your physician may require a number of immunizations.  These immunizations may offer you extra protection; therefore, you are urged to obtain them.

If you are taking multiple medications at the time of your cruise, you will want to make sure that you have an adequate supply.  If you are running low on your medication, you may want to obtain a refill before you leave for your cruise.  It is also likely that your doctor may request that you bring along extra medication.  This request is often made to individuals who must take their medications to survive.  In the event that you misplace your medication, you will have an extra supply to fall back on.



Leave your anti-stress medicine at home!

Taking health precautions before you board the cruise ship is important.  However, it is also important to take precautionary measures after you board.  These measures are simple; however, they may be vital to your health.  One of the first things that you should do is familiarize yourself with the layout of your ship.  Determining whether or not there is a doctor onboard and where they are located is important. 

Since germs and illnesses spread easily aboard cruise ships, you will need to protect yourself.  This protection involves washing your hands on a regular basis. When most individuals are at home, they wash their hands after completing certain activities.  In addition to eating and using the restrooms, you should wash your hands after using all public facilities.  If you find it difficult to wash your hands regularly, you may want to obtain a package of disinfecting wipes.  If used properly, disinfecting wipes can be just as effective as soap and water.






Cruise ships are popular for their relaxing atmosphere.  This relaxation may include lounging.  When lounging or taking a stroll, it is advised that you keep your shoes on at all times.  As previously mentioned germs can easily spread aboard a cruise ship.  Keeping your feet covered at all times will not only protect you from contagious illnesses, but it will prevent you from stepping on harmful objects. 

In addition to cruising along water, most cruise ships dock in a port. It is likely that you will be visiting a foreign country.  In the event that you end up on foreign land, it is important that you carefully monitor what you eat and drink.  If you notice drinking advisories, you are urged to follow them.  Instead of drinking tap water, you may want to opt for bottled water or another bottled beverage.  Many individuals are concerned only with the drinking water, but you should also be concerned with ice cubes and water in uncooked foods.



Make sure you drink lots of bottled beverages on the islands.

As you can see, the above mentioned precautionary measures are simple and easy to follow.  Why put yourself at risk for illness; especially when it requires little or no effort to keep your health in good standing.

Join Sandy Flipflops and the Florida Vacation Review team as we cruise the Mexican Caribbean on January 9, 2010 on board the Carnival Dream, a ship so new that it is still being built while I am writing this post! Click here to join the Florida Vacation Review Cruise while we still have room!

Carnival Dream

Researching Your Cruise Ship Options With Sandy Flipflops

Some of the options you must choose from on a cruise ship!


Researching Your Cruise Ship Options

Each year, a large number of individuals make the decision to book a cruise ship getaway.  When it comes to vacationing aboard a cruise ship, you are presented with an unlimited number of options.  There are a large number of cruise lines that operate numerous cruise ships.  In fact, there are so many cruise ships available that many individuals, maybe even yourself included, do not know where to start.

What's Really Happening In Mexico? Day 3 - Part 1 COZUMEL

The first step in planning a cruise ship vacation is making the decision to take one.  Traveling aboard a cruise ship can be a fun and exciting experience, but it is not for everyone.  Cruises ships often require residing in close corridors for an extend period of time.  If you have a difficult time dealing with crowds or you are looking for an overnight vacation, you may want to reexamine your decision to schedule a cruise ship vacation. 

What's Really Happening In Mexico? Day 3 - Part 2 COZUMEL

If you have already decided that a cruise ship vacation is what you want, you will need to find a cruise ship that interests you. This is where many individuals develop a problem.  As previously mentioned, there are a number of different cruise lines. Each of these cruises lines operates a number of different cruise ships.  Each cruise ship is likely to travel to different destinations and offer different activities, services, and facilities. 

When searching for the perfect cruise ship, you have numerous options.  Many travelers automatically start searching for the cruise ship of their dreams. Searching for a cruise ship is, in a way, different than searching for a cruise line.  If you do not have a preference as to which cruise ship line you’d like to travel with, it may be easier to search for cruises based on themes, destinations, or onboard activities.  A standard internet search is a great way to educate yourself on the cruise ships available. 

If you prefer to travel with a specific cruise line, you will want to research that particular cruise line.  You can visit the cruise line’s online website to further educate yourself or else you can perform a standard internet search.  If you are unaware of the cruise line selection you have, you can easily familiarize yourself.  There are a number of travel websites that offer information and links to the websites of popular cruise lines.  Performing an internet search with the keywords “cruise lines,” is likely to produce a large number of results.



Who Took Sandy's Flipflops?

In your search, it is likely that you will come up with popular cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean, Carnival Cruse Lines, Disney Cruise Lines, Princess Cruises, and much more.  Once you are able to view the online website of each cruise line, you can begin to search for cruise ships with reservations still available.  When browsing through each cruise ship, you will likely be presented with standard information. This information may outline the activities available onboard, destinations, travel stops, and the cost of reserving a cabin. 

The Disney Cruise Line is one of the most well-known and sought after cruise lines for individuals vacationing with a family.  If you are interested in scheduling a Disney cruise, you will see that the two cruise ships used are named Disney Wonder and Disney Magic.  Each ship has onboard Disney characters and beautiful décor.  The main differences between the two ships are the character statues found onboard.

What's Really Happening In Mexico? Day 3 - Part 3 COZUMEL

Carnival Cruise Lines is well-known among frequent travelers.  They offer a wide range of cruises; however, their main focus seems to be on “fun” cruises.  When researching Carnival Cruise Lines, you will see that they have over 20 “fun” ships.  These ships target cruise goers who are interested in socializing, partying, and having an adventure over the water.  Popular cruise ships include, but are not limited to Fantasy, Ecstasy, Celebration Fascination, and Sensation. 

Royal Caribbean is another one of the many well-known cruise lines in the world. They are famous for their international cruises.  Just a few of their many cruise ships include Adventure of the Seas, Brilliance of the Seas, Jewel of the Seas, and Navigator of the Seas.  With twenty-one cruise ships, you are sure to find what you are looking for with Royal Caribbean

Researching each cruise line and cruise ships, individually, may take time.  If you are pressed for time you can seek the assistance of a travel agent.  Whichever method of research you select, research is important. It is the best way to find the perfect cruise ship for you and your family.

Join Sandy Flipflops and the Florida Vacation Review team as we cruise the Mexican Caribbean on January 9, 2010 on board the Carnival Dream, a ship so new that it is still being built while I am writing this post! Click here to join the Florida Vacation Review Cruise while we still have room!

Carnival Dream

Sandy Flipflops Explores Staying Safe Aboard A Cruise Ship

Cruise Safety Port Security Tips Advice From Cruise Expert

Staying Safe Aboard A Cruise Ship

Every summer, millions of individuals take a cruise.  The majority of those individuals have a memorable experience.  Over the past few years, there have been numerous reports of missing persons and cruise ship crime.  While it may seem like the cruise ship industry has a problem, the reality is that they do not. Cruise ship accidents are few and far in between.

Despite the fact that you are safe aboard a cruise ship, you should still take precautions to protect yourself, your family, and your belongings.  There are a number of steps that you can take.  Most of these precautions are simple and can be done with little or no effort.  Despite being simple, these precautions could keep you safe and your finances in check when you are on a cruise. 

Many individuals believe that cruise ship safety should begin once they board the ship; however, it should begin well in advance.  When traveling on a cruise ship, it is likely that you will visit foreign countries.  In the event of a mistake or disaster, you are encouraged to have all of your important documents on hand. These documents should include your passport and driver’s license.  Before boarding your cruise ship, you are encouraged to make copies of all of these documents.  In addition to the originals, you should carry a copy with you and leave the other at home. 

When you finally board your cruise ship, there are a number of steps that you should take to ensure your safety.  These steps include familiarizing yourself with the cruise ship.  Today’s most popular cruise ships are large in size.  It may take some time to examine the ship, but you are still encouraged to do so.  In addition to physically seeing the ship, it is advised that you request a map.  This map should be carried with you at all times; it may come in handy if you lose your way.

Familiarizing yourself with your cruise ship is important, but so is familiarizing yourself with other passengers.  You do not have to be outgoing or social to accomplish this. Simply keeping an eye out for individuals that appear to be shady or mysterious is a great way to protect yourself.  If you were on land, it is likely that you would avoid individuals that make you feel uncomfortable.  The same should apply aboard a cruise ship. 

When walking around a cruise ship, you are advised not to travel alone.  As with land, traveling with others is likely to reduce or eliminate your chances of becoming a crime victim.  If you must move around the ship alone, you need to inform a number of individuals where you will be headed and when you expect to return.  In the event that something does happen, a relative or friend should know exactly where to find you.

When on a cruise ship, your personal safety should be your first concern.  In addition to personal safety, the safety of your belongings should also be important.  If you are traveling with expensive luggage or large sums of money, you may want to take extra precautions.  Before you leave home, you way want to consider leaving your expensive belongings behind.  Most cruise ships will not reimburse their passengers for lost money or belongings; therefore, if you can’t afford to replace it, you might not want to bring it.

When it comes to theft, cash and credit cards are often the most sought after items. Instead of carrying a purse or a wallet, you are encouraged to carry a money pouch.  To offer the utmost protection, you may want to obtain a money pouch that can be worn around your neck and tucked into your shirt.  These pouches often make it impossible for thieves to strike.

In the event that you are unable to use a money pouch or you left yours at home, you are urged to divide up your money.  Keeping your money in multiple locations may provide you with financial protection if a theft does occur.  If you must use a purse, you are encouraged to keep it with you at all times.  Women and men, with wallets, are urged to keep their wallets in their front pockets. 

Cruise ships are exciting and, for the most part, safe. With a few simple precautions, you can safely enjoy your vacation aboard a cruise ship without fretting over the safety of yourself and your belongings.





Sandy Flipflops says to make sure your feet are clean before boarding the ship. Your flipflops can be dirty, but the feet should be clean!

Join Sandy Flipflops and the Florida Vacation Review team as we cruise the Mexican Caribbean on January 9, 2010 on board the Carnival Dream, a ship so new that it is still being built while I am writing this post! Click here to join the Florida Vacation Review Cruise while we still have room!

cruise safety, cruise wallet, safety wallet, purse on string, wallet around neck, cruise lines

Sandy Flipflops Winds Up In Taveuni Palms Fiji

Sandy Feet, meet Sandy Flipflops.

Taveuni Palms Fiji

The Taveuni Palms in Fiji is an intimate retreat
offering two private guest houses, a secluded sandy
beach, and even a freshwater swimming pool. The
island has many spectacular things to offer, such
as scuba diving, kayaking, snorkeling, hiking, and
many other vacation activities.

The Taveuni Island has always been known for its
unique and colorful sea life, tropical fish, and
amazing varieties of soft and hard coral. The
Rainbow Reef, Great White Wall, Purple Wall, and
Zoo dive sites are all within easy reach of the
Taveuni resort.

The Great White Wall reef offers a tunnel with two
exits, one at 33 feet and another at 88 feet. When
you swim through it, you'll notice a white glow
that is given off by the soft corals that seem
to surround you.

You'll also find two dive centers that are minutes
from Taveuni Palms, which offer you dive equipment
and certified diving instructors. From beginners
to expert divers, you can have a lot of fun scuba
diving on your beach vacation.

Rooms and suites

The two seperate beachfront villas at Taveuni Palms
in Fiji come with their own staff to help make
your vacation a bit more relaxing. The staff
will make your dreams come true, as they offer
full room support.

Each seperate villa offers a pool, two bedrooms,
a fully equipped kitchen, two bathrooms, and a
very unique indoor/outdoor bathroom. The outdoor
deck is equipped with chairs so that you can spend
time outside as well, taking in the surrounding
views of the ocean. The spectacular sunsets will
turn into tropical nights - with stunning starlit
skies.

Your personal maid at the villa will provide you
with daily cleaning service, laundry service,
fresh flowers, and evening turn down. The maids
here are very professional, making your stay at
the Taveuni Palms in Fiji one you'll remember
for years to come.

The resort will also provide you with your own
private chef, kitchen, and bar staff who will
provide your daily meals, which are included in
the cost of your stay. This way, you don't have
to eat out - your food will be prepared for you
at the resort.

Getting to Taveuni

To get to Taveuni Palms, fly to Nadi International
airport in Fiji. From there, catch a connecting
flight to Taveuni Island where the Taveuni Palms
staff will meet you at the airport, five minutes
from the hotel.

Want to see some of the great sunny beaches in
the USA? Check out Florida Vacation Review for
the places in Florida and what hotels you can
save big on without sacrificing quality amenities!

Taveuni Palms Fiji, sandy beaches, surfing USA, sandy flipflops, sandy feet