I started watching your videos last year to learn about pandemic updates, the future of cruising and breaking news. It was almost always solely Tony in the videos. Now I have started to go back and watch the older videos where both of you are present. I must say, Jenny is just stunning. Tony…you’re super charming and witty but you got yourself a beauty there. Thanks for the channel and keeping us so well informed. I’m subscribed with notifications on!!
Just wanted to say hi and let u know you're not the only one who is watching the older videos. It's fun right. I watch all the new one's which includes Don's Family Vacations and when I'm caught up I go back and watch the older ones. Have a great day.
We booked an Alaskan Cruise for June 2021. We choose Princess Cruise Line with the Royal Princess because it travels to Two Glaciers! We picked an Interior Cabin to we can spend more on Excursions! Also Princess provided Free Gratuities, Beverage Package (we don’t drink alcohol) that includes Soft drinks, possibly of Smoothes, and Free WiFi! Plus a $25 (each) Cruise Credit.
Better to have a passport because even if the cruise doesn’t require a passport, if you have an emergency or other reasons and are left in another country and need to fly back home, you will not be able to without a passport.
My wife and I are teachers, so we have to travel July and August. We love hot weather, so we typically cruise the Mediterranean Sea area. We love Holland America :-)
When picking a cruise we try to get a cruise line private island at least as one port because they are usually so amazing. Get beach day without having to pay for an excursion, food, drink etc. then we try for at least one port we’ve never visited. Cruises are as good as the attitude you go into it with!!!
My husband couldn't find his birth certificate a few weeks before our first cruise together. Luckily, they'd just started offering them at the DMV! I keep EVERYBODY'S important documents. If they need them, I'm standing right there to take it back when they're done. Lol
I am a prime example of what not to do when booking a cruise. I call myself a first time/new cruiser because I made bad choices on my 1st and last cruise that made me not cruise again. Now I am going to try it again but doing things differently. 1. Booked on a whim through discount site. 2. Not asking if a cruise fit my personality and how I like to vacation. 3. Traveling with wrong person/incompatible travel friend. #dealbreaker 4. Not researching everything a cruise entails including extra costs, inclusions/exclusions. 5. Accomdating travel friend and not doing anything. I honestly believed there was nothing to do except lay around and go to the casino. 6. Not preparing for cabin nuances such as 1 outlet, etc. 7. Not trying out the port on my own, again...incompatible travel partner. 8. Waiting over a decade to consider it again. 9. Not considering using a travel agent who could have helped.
I have taken the Hawaiian 🌺 island 3 times every year for the past 3 years, I live in Hawaii so we get s resident discount, only 10 minutes from the port. Very convenient! I want to go on a different cruise but don’t want to travel 10 hours on a plane ✈️ just to get to a cruise, big dilemma for me!
Consider a "Repositioning" cruise. It could start or end in Honolulu. I'd like to do one that starts in Vancouver and ends in Honolulu, then spend a couple weeks in the land of Aloha.
I like the part when you said to check out CZcamsrs on their cruise vlogs to see if anyone fits your personality. Dennis and I been watching everyone but mainly yours and we been subscribed to yours only. Although we also love Don. We just subscribe to his. With that said, we are now members of your Facebook group page and loving all the information we are soaking in.
My advice for the first time cruiser.....one does not know whether one truly likes cruising as a vacation option. Therefore, ones first cruise should be a shorter version (ie, 3 or 4 nights) , rather a longer version (ie, 5 nights or longer). Second, if decided to try a short cruise, do not go on the cheapest, especially in the Carribean area. Going cheap will book you during the middle of hurricane season, and a first time cruiser experiencing hurricanes would certainly dampened ones interest in future cruising.
Most of the cruises my wife and I took were on Carnival. However the service on Celebrity was much better. Holland America was aimed at an older crowd. We were very disappointed by service on Princess and would probably not go back unless there was a great bargain.
While you gave a lot of resources for finding out about cruise lines and ships you left one out. You're not alone in this. However, you should let people know that books are available that provide lots of good, reliable information about cruising and ports of call. While Amazon is a good place to sample them and purchase them, don't forget the Public Library. I know that bigger cities have better library systems overall, inter library loans are available. It's nice to read lots of different books for free. I can recommend Berlitz Cruising & Cruise Ships by Douglas Ward. The 2020 edition is in print now and the 2021 edition comes out in January 2022. It provides an introduction to cruising including information on the target audience and personality of each cruise line. Lots of information for first time cruisers. Then it rates each ship and gives a description. The book includes most lines and ships from all over the world. I think every general cruise travel agent should own this book. Cruisers should try to read it for free unless they cruise a lot with many cruise lines. Then they might want to own their own copy.
I found a very hard working TA here in Kamloops. B.C. Canada. I have done all my bookings thru him. I always get extra OBC and other benefits thru his agency. It costs you nothing to use a TA so just do it. I also do much of the research myself, to find where and when I want to travel. Foremost, if you travel, get a passport. They are good for 5 or 10 years. Get it now so you have the freedom to go on last minute deals.
I believe in getting a bargain. One thing I think is important is time of year or even week of the year plays into the price. Early on we cruised the first week of December-- if you check the prices you will find the week after Thanksgiving and before the schools let out for Christmas break is very affordable time to cruise. Christmas break times --Holiday cruising is 3x more expensive! Prices change from week to week. The way the hubby and I plan is this: I say lets plan a cruise, he says nah we just got off of a cruise... so we plan a cruise. I am usually the one who finds the itineraries and he is the one who gets to pick where we go. I really do not care other than area. Are we doing the Caribbean or West Coast, maybe a Greek Isles cruise. We tend to pick out the shoulder seasons. We are empty nesters and can go anytime. We choose a balcony room or suite. Depends on the cruise and who is going etc. My TA retied on me. We are using bigbox store this time and I am not happy, customer service gets a zero.
We've cruised in the southern hemisphere to escape winter cold. On Jan 2nd we drove to the Denver airport in snow and landed in Buenos Aires where it was over 90 degrees. We found Princess fits our personality. Once talking to a guy on an Alaskan cruise who had cruise a gazzilion times. I asked him which cruises a and cruise lines he like the best. He said "the cheapest". Balcony cabins seem to be the best deal for what you get. We always get mid-ship cabins. They don't get motion and are close to the atrium. Also if your cruise will be with the shore always on one side get a balcony cabin on that side. Many times if you book another cruise while on a cruise your deposit is refundable. I want to go on a world cruise. Just need to win the lotto first. We've cruised a few times with a couple where one of them is confined to a wheelchair, so don't let disability keep you from cruising. We use a cruise coordinator at the cruise line. So that's like having a travel agent and booking directly combined. Everyone should get a Passport.
Hi Matt, Tony and Jenny, I’m going to need a wheelchair most of the time on my first cruise and Royal CCL said they don’t have wheelchairs or scooters not even to rent. And they gave me two companies that do rent them but they’re not going to supply the Bahamas when I’m going to Coco cay in the Bahamas. I just found this out Thursday. I don’t know what I’m going to do. I have stage for pancreatic cancer and I can’t stand or walk for that long of a time. Rile did say they can get me on and off of the ship with their wheelchair but I can’t use it. Thanks, Holly. Oh yes I forgot to say this is my first cruise and last and my bucket list WHOOHOO😃♥️🛳🛳🛳🏝
Just wanted to comment on Hurricane season...Floridian here. The Atlantic Basin Hurricane season is 6/1 to 11/30. Most active in Septmeber and we have seen some as early as May. Pacific Hurricane season starts May15th
Great information on how to start cruising as a vacation! I did think of one other thought that came up in our group on Cruise Critic was inoculation requirement. Thank goodness we have not gone anywhere that required extra shots but I am sure there are places where it is a requirement from that country. Also not only do you need a passport, it can not expire before 60 days after the end of your cruise date. My understanding is that if something happens and you are some place that requires a passport and something happens that you end up staying in their country longer than planned, those extra days are required to be covered.
This is from my wife Sue = #teamSue ……. #1 choose off your bucket list (we did Alaska 1st cruise in Aug) #2 Did a lot of homework before our 1st cruise & RC came up best - we stick with RC - for us loyalty programme offers heaps of discounts #3 RC for us as when on a good thing then stick to it... #4 we pick Junior Suite cabin for medical reasons & we travel from Aussie for all trips so want the best enjoyment for our holiday & we spend a lot of time on our balcony watching the world go by... due to RC loyalty programmes we don't pay for drinks #5 we prefer top deck - mid ship preferably on the RHS (AFT has too much noise & Forward has jogging track above same … not all passengers are mindful of other passengers) #6 we always book direct on the RC website, pay our deposit and each week pay off the cruise from our allocated holiday part of our wages.... found the free insurance off one of our credit cards in Aussie was useless when we lodged a claim... even with non refundable deposits if a great deal comes up and is still cheap allowing for the deposit lost then we go for it as well....every penny saved is more we can spend on other stuff on our trip... # 7 refer #1 choose off your bucket list #8 since 2013 we have completed 7 cruises with RC and we travel from Aussie and have only cruised from USA/Southampton/Dubai/Copenhagen .. we always fly in 1-2 days before the cruise to ensure no hiccups :-) plus gives us a chance to experience some of the destination we are cruising from..... #8 whilst hubby has back issues we have never been restricted re cruising nor require special assistance #9 we always book direct with RC and do our itinerary ourselves #10 we always check what travel documentation is required well before we leave home as we live in Australia and with all trips starting from another country we have to be mindful of what is required and we scan colour copies of all documents to take with us as well. PS: Jenny my hubby is like yours.... there is never a dull moment!
Great advice you two, thank you! Another thing that matters to me in picking a cabin is.... "Is it on the port or starboard side?". I like the starboard side better so for me, that is one of the criteria I use in picking a stateroom. :-)
When a passport is required, a destination can require a certain amount of time remains on it before it expires. I have seen 6 month-12 months. If you have had name changes and are using multiple documents (birth certificate and driver's license) also bring documentation to show your legal name change(s).
Great video you guys!!! We have cruised ncl, carnival, and Royal Caribbean... so far carnival and Royal Caribbean is our favorite... but princess is next on the list!!! Hoping to book a Caribbean cruise in 2020 for our 20th anniversary on a princess ship.... keep your fingers crossed!!! Love watching your videos!!
Originally my wife and I used a travel agent, but eventually she began doing it herself through the cruise lines. I’m second guessing using a certain Big Box place after your comments.
Jenny, you mentioned Europen river cruises. You didn't mention US river cruises. There are at least 2 companies doing them: American Cruise Line and American Queen Steamboat Company. They have lots of different cruises available. There are also cruises available on the Great Lakes which visit ports in both the US and Canada (in normal times). Also there are Nile River cruises in Egypt.
Cool video - I think the "where do you want to go" question depends on what climate you live in. As much as I like living in a warm place - I love all thing snow and skiing related - so and Alaskan cruise out of Vancouver is my go to cruise. But -- this is always expensive from Australia. However because of your videos - a friend and I are going to try Carnival next year - out from Australia to some Pacific Islands - not booked yet, but definitely down to you xx
We thought we were getting the best of both world booking through the cruise line with airfare and then having Costco take over the reservations so we could get the most rewards. It has been a huge headache mostly due to airfare we ended up having to spend over an hour getting the three companies on a call together to try and upgrade our flights and they ended up not letting us.
When you receive a drink package, you are also expected to pay tax and tips. In our case, we figured out that we probably drink less than the tax and tips. We chose the Internet minutes which is totally free .
This might be true on some cruise lines (as I believe NCL does this as part of the drink package) that is included in a booking offer. NCL does it for their “free dining” that they also include in their booking offers. They have lots of added fees for their “freebies”. However the Princess Sip & Sail promotions includes the gratuity and there is no added taxes, for those cruises the promo is offered for those booking a balcony. This is also nothing extra added for the beverage package included in the Explore4 promo by Holland America. Not sure if Royal Caribbean or Celebrity or Carnivwl does the really included no extra charge promo or the add-on fees for the NCL “freebies”.
Cubfan63 Views I have sailed ncl 2 times in the last 2 years and have never paid any tax or tips for drinks with the free ubp or on any dining plan credit. You only pay tax on drinks when in the domestic port.
In order of discussion... Other cool locations for Summer... Northern Europe, New Zealand/Australia, and Chile! You can also find cruises that have interesting themes, like singles, science, archeology, environment, etc. repositioning cruises also can be a good deal, though they tend to be longer and more days == more daily costs. I think interior is better suited to Caribbean than to, say, Alaska. Cabin location can also affect price sometimes. Guaranteed rooms can a save a lot, but you might end up obstructed. Don’t forget travel to and from the port! A cheap Med cruises still means you need to get to the port. I’ve also heard to avoid cabins with connecting doors as they can bleed noise. I personally like to pay the whole bill all at once because debt (even future obligations) drives me a bit nuts. I paid for my next cruise a year in advance, including all the airfare and meals and fees, etc. My closest port is less than an hour away by cab, but I’ll probably never use it to cruise. I want to get away! Lol. Other booking topics - excursions, specialty dining, beverage packages, Internet, transfers, and entertainment. Everyone should just get a passport. Even if it’s not required. It’s so much easier. Another hot topic... travel insurance! It ranges from very barebones to very comprehensive, so it’s a topic that creates a lot of confusion. Great video!
Good comments and tips. I think a balcony would be a must for Alaska. So much to see. Good point also about the paying it all at once. I like the idea of putting money away every month for cruising. - Tony
☆passport can not expire 6 months from date of cruise or you cant board. Friend of mine is sailing in nov with me and on the 2nd day she would be on cruise would MARK THE 6MONTH EXPIRE DATE in advance. She has to hurry and send off for renewal
A question I should have asked or researched is, are there going to be small children on the cruise. I did not research it, and there were. The pool was probably full of pee, which kept me from going into the pool and the hot tubs. Yes, there were hot tubs for kids and adults. I suspected they used the same water supply though. Anyway, it's something to research.
Lots of good information here. You need to let people know that the free booze package is not really free. You do have to pay the gratuity. For my Trans-Atlantic cruise on NCL we got free Booze package but we have to pay $568 for the two of us. We are not big drinkers so I hope we get our moneys worth. We did get a mini suite cheaper than balcony on the Epic.
Thanks for the great tips. I think ya'll leaving out of Mobile was how I found y'all. We are leaving out of Mobile in February so I started searching CZcams for for video. I really enjoy y'all's videos.
Just think of all the things you have learned about Cruising in the past 17-18 months!! Basically cruise newbies who have become pros - all because you took one cruise & loved it!! It even opened up the vlogging community to you - almost a whole new profession & lifestyle!! And all the people you have met, the friends you have made thru LaLidoLoca!! The cruise industry is growing exponentially- so fast, and so many new & different ships!! Lots of new info to keep up on - and thanks to vloggers like you, I get to hear all the exciting news right away!! Thanks so much for doing this video - starting from the beginning- for new cruisers & seasoned travelers alike!! Things I keep in mind are additional costs while on the cruise for “extras” - specialty dining, photo packages, shore excursions, shopping, casino money, etc.!! And on a similar note - how much cash to bring for tipping, shopping in the ports, taxis, even using cash in the casino!! And for some - depending on the cruise line, what is the dress code?? Will I need a more formal wardrobe on a Cunard transatlantic Cruise?? Or can I get away with “Free Style”, anything goes on NCL?? When I first started cruising - I didn’t have a clue. We got a brochure from our TA & the cruise line with the pertinent info - and I cruised with friends who had cruised before, so I packed what they told me to pack and followed them!! But by the 3rd cruise I had learned a lot about how cruising works & was able to make my own lists for the things I needed to bring to enjoy my cruise!! There’s so much to do and so much to learn & now we have so many resources - Google, blogs, CZcams videos, vloggers, FB groups & if all else fails - call the cruise line!!
Thanks Bonnie. Its been a great adventure and it continues to yield new and fun experiences. Appreciate all the kind feedback and your particpation in the community! A big thanks! - Tony
For those who travel with just a birth certificate and state I.D, KEEP THIS IN MIND.. If for some reason you get deathly ill and have to go and stay at a hospital out of the country, GOOD LUCK GETTING HOME with just ur B.C and I.D.. just another reason to get your passport! 💕
Traveling off season for us is not a problem, but if we want to travel with children and grandchildren we have to do summer, we know is hot, but the kids love to visit the different beaches in the Caribbean. As far as personalities, we have tried them all, but will stay with Royal, Celebrity and Princess, sorry no Lido for us.
My credit card company says it protects me with Trip Insurance. True, but not the whole story. The limit is $1,500. If your trip costs more than the limit your credit card company sets, puh-leeeez consider buying good trip insurance.
Last time we were on the Liberty we were on deck 2. I hated it. 1. It smelled of sewar. ( not in our room but the whole hallway) Also where it was located we had the whole galley in the middle so in order to get anywhere it was like a maze. I think I rather be on the higher decks Like 7 and above. Also like you mentioned what are you going to be doing. We like being by the pools, the food and the kids club for the kids.
If you are using a birth certificate make sure it's a certified copy. It has to have the raised and embossed seal of the issuing agency on it to be accepted. Hospital certificates/birth records or photocopies will not get you on the ship. Also for pregnant women check with the cruise line to see when their cutoff is. Most of the big cruise lines it's 24 weeks. Letters from your doctor saying you're healthy and not high risk will not override this policy either. You will be added to the list of people who have tried and failed. The cruise ship is not equipped to take care of you or the baby if anything were to happen. Also if there's only one adult traveling with minors a lot of the cruise lines are requiring passports from the whole party even for closed loop sailings. They do this to make sure the party can stay together if anything happens. **ALWAYS** double check with your line for your specific sailing and situation. They are not all the same.
Good point on the birth certificate. I did read on Carnival's website that will accept photocopies but I would be hesitant to try it. Good comment and info. Thanks - Tony
@@LaLidoLoca I just checked and you're right Tony. Thanks for the correction. Carnival must have changed that recently. I'm shocked because a non certified copy of a birth certificate doesn't prove citizenship. I don't know how the ship could clear customs but they must be able to. I'd never go without a passport anyway though so it's irrelevant to me.
We did use a copy ( i actually brought the original as well, just because I didn't want to not be able to get on, but wanted to see if it worked and it was NO PROBLEM, they didn't even look twice at it.) It was for my BF I have a passport
What are your thoughts about booking another cruise while on a cruise? I was approached by a staffer while on a cruise to book my next cruise then. Are there incentives for booking while on a current cruise?
say So , I am curious where you are traveling. Have you needed mandatory vaccines while cruising? We have “yellow cards”, but have not needed them. We got them when we took a trip (not cruising) to Colombia.
Be careful with travel agents, my mom had one and it was terrible, almost missed the cruise, also missed flight back had to buy new airline tickets to get home from Italy 🇮🇹. Make sure you plan well, don’t put a lot of faith in a travel agents
Hi Melissa yes when we started cruising we were with a big box travel agent company. Sometimes it can go south. I’m a travel agent and take it very seriously. You are making memories for people, sorry she had such a bad experience 😊Jenny
Your Cell phone and your cell service. Always check with your cell service provider about cell cost and usage out of the country. They might have a plan you can get for when you are gone. There are no cell towers at sea. So with that said I seen this on a CZcams channel about outdoor gadgets. It is called Bivystick. Its a new product that will turn your cell phone into a satellite phone. Looks like it will cost about $350.00, you can preorder it for $299.00 with free shipping, and you can activate it when you need it for about $17.99 a month. You can text, share your location, send an SOS, get the weather and its a battery backup 5200mAh.
Love you guys and hope you are enjoying Labor Day. I enjoy watching your videos but please don't add music to your videos to play while you are talking. I turn up the volume and swear that I have the radio playing from another station.
August... do Alaska or Northern Europe... Cruise Lines... itineraries are always king... We like a balcony cabin... away from the crowd... quiet... no thumping recycled disco tunes... just a glass of wine, a book and quiet... deck chair in the sun... the sound of the waves. Use the loyalty credit card... get points towards your next flight or cruise... some of those credit cards offer trip interruption and car rental insurance that will let you recoup the annual fees... just pay off the balance every month before interest hits you... as with all credit cards.
Here's a question you probably dont get asked often. On your first day of the cruise, does the concierge service offer a staff member to give you a walk through tour of the ship, so your not out wasting time looking for things and places of interests?
TIP: condense your pills/prescriptions. ill have to help my in law pack next cruise. She had a big bag of pills and a huge bottle of 120 asprin, ummmmm you dont need that big bottle for a weekend cruise.
Thats a great tip. I was thinking that the other day, to try and find as many small count asprins and anti acids and stuff like that to save space. - Tony
Remember to carry your pills, especially those you take daily, in your carry on. Luggage can take awhile to get to your room or even be brought to the wrong stateroom.
Please make sure that you have all your medications Labeled. Especially your Prescription drugs. Don't just put them in your "daily pill holder". If you are questioned, you will need to "Prove" what you are carrying.
@@LaLidoLoca you can use the weekly pill containers and add pills to each compartment, and label the back with what each pill is. I saw that in another person's video. Like allergy, headache, dramamine, heartburn, etc.
Hi guys. Is it right that you are both travel agents? Not happy with my current ta and we are thinking of doing our first back to back cruise. Let me know if you guys are cause I would definitely get a quote from you. Thanks
I can’t believe they Changed the Cheers package. Now you can only get $20 or less alcohol drinks in the package instead of $50. Anything over $20 they give you a 25% discount off the menu price.
My husband wanted to try the more expense wines by the glass and higher end cognacs. He just wanted the option to choose something that was a higher end drink. The difference in price for me is not a big deal because I’m not much of a drinker. I usually drink the fruity drinks like pina colada’s.
I started watching your videos last year to learn about pandemic updates, the future of cruising and breaking news. It was almost always solely Tony in the videos. Now I have started to go back and watch the older videos where both of you are present. I must say, Jenny is just stunning. Tony…you’re super charming and witty but you got yourself a beauty there. Thanks for the channel and keeping us so well informed. I’m subscribed with notifications on!!
Just wanted to say hi and let u know you're not the only one who is watching the older videos. It's fun right. I watch all the new one's which includes Don's Family Vacations and when I'm caught up I go back and watch the older ones. Have a great day.
My husband sleeps beautifully and pitch dark. We always choose the in side cabin , not for the price, but for the darkness.
We booked an Alaskan Cruise for June 2021. We choose Princess Cruise Line with the Royal Princess because it travels to Two Glaciers! We picked an Interior Cabin to we can spend more on Excursions! Also Princess provided Free Gratuities, Beverage Package (we don’t drink alcohol) that includes Soft drinks, possibly of Smoothes, and Free WiFi! Plus a $25 (each) Cruise Credit.
I understand your concept trying many cruise lines, but loyalty points and rewards are worth a lot also.
Better to have a passport because even if the cruise doesn’t require a passport, if you have an emergency or other reasons and are left in another country and need to fly back home, you will not be able to without a passport.
My wife and I are teachers, so we have to travel July and August. We love hot weather, so we typically cruise the Mediterranean Sea area. We love Holland America :-)
Carnival has a payment plan... super convenient!!!
Ya they make really easy to pay over time which is great for budgeting. - Tony
When picking a cruise we try to get a cruise line private island at least as one port because they are usually so amazing. Get beach day without having to pay for an excursion, food, drink etc. then we try for at least one port we’ve never visited. Cruises are as good as the attitude you go into it with!!!
Don’t forget to go onto the cruise line site and finish your registration and print your passes. I didn’t know about that my first cruise.
My husband couldn't find his birth certificate a few weeks before our first cruise together. Luckily, they'd just started offering them at the DMV! I keep EVERYBODY'S important documents. If they need them, I'm standing right there to take it back when they're done. Lol
I am a prime example of what not to do when booking a cruise. I call myself a first time/new cruiser because I made bad choices on my 1st and last cruise that made me not cruise again. Now I am going to try it again but doing things differently.
1. Booked on a whim through discount site.
2. Not asking if a cruise fit my personality and how I like to vacation.
3. Traveling with wrong person/incompatible travel friend. #dealbreaker
4. Not researching everything a cruise entails including extra costs, inclusions/exclusions.
5. Accomdating travel friend and not doing anything. I honestly believed there was nothing to do except lay around and go to the casino.
6. Not preparing for cabin nuances such as 1 outlet, etc.
7. Not trying out the port on my own, again...incompatible travel partner.
8. Waiting over a decade to consider it again.
9. Not considering using a travel agent who could have helped.
I have taken the Hawaiian 🌺 island 3 times every year for the past 3 years, I live in Hawaii so we get s resident discount, only 10 minutes from the port. Very convenient! I want to go on a different cruise but don’t want to travel 10 hours on a plane ✈️ just to get to a cruise, big dilemma for me!
Consider a "Repositioning" cruise. It could start or end in Honolulu. I'd like to do one that starts in Vancouver and ends in Honolulu, then spend a couple weeks in the land of Aloha.
I like the part when you said to check out CZcamsrs on their cruise vlogs to see if anyone fits your personality. Dennis and I been watching everyone but mainly yours and we been subscribed to yours only. Although we also love Don. We just subscribe to his. With that said, we are now members of your Facebook group page and loving all the information we are soaking in.
My advice for the first time cruiser.....one does not know whether one truly likes cruising as a vacation option. Therefore, ones first cruise should be a shorter version (ie, 3 or 4 nights) , rather a longer version (ie, 5 nights or longer). Second, if decided to try a short cruise, do not go on the cheapest, especially in the Carribean area. Going cheap will book you during the middle of hurricane season, and a first time cruiser experiencing hurricanes would certainly dampened ones interest in future cruising.
Most of the cruises my wife and I took were on Carnival. However the service on Celebrity was much better. Holland America was aimed at an older crowd. We were very disappointed by service on Princess and would probably not go back unless there was a great bargain.
Going through some of your older videos and finding them very helpful. Thank you!
Omg!!! Tony, I like even numbers too!! Especially if it has the number 4 in it!! Lol
Great minds and such! - Tony
Good questions guys! A lot to consider before cruising..
While you gave a lot of resources for finding out about cruise lines and ships you left one out. You're not alone in this. However, you should let people know that books are available that provide lots of good, reliable information about cruising and ports of call.
While Amazon is a good place to sample them and purchase them, don't forget the Public Library. I know that bigger cities have better library systems overall, inter library loans are available. It's nice to read lots of different books for free.
I can recommend Berlitz Cruising & Cruise Ships by Douglas Ward. The 2020 edition is in print now and the 2021 edition comes out in January 2022. It provides an introduction to cruising including information on the target audience and personality of each cruise line. Lots of information for first time cruisers. Then it rates each ship and gives a description. The book includes most lines and ships from all over the world. I think every general cruise travel agent should own this book. Cruisers should try to read it for free unless they cruise a lot with many cruise lines. Then they might want to own their own copy.
I found a very hard working TA here in Kamloops. B.C. Canada. I have done all my bookings thru him. I always get extra OBC and other benefits thru his agency. It costs you nothing to use a TA so just do it. I also do much of the research myself, to find where and when I want to travel. Foremost, if you travel, get a passport. They are good for 5 or 10 years. Get it now so you have the freedom to go on last minute deals.
I love all of these tips! Also, Tony, I like everything to be even numbers lol 😆
I believe in getting a bargain. One thing I think is important is time of year or even week of the year plays into the price. Early on we cruised the first week of December-- if you check the prices you will find the week after Thanksgiving and before the schools let out for Christmas break is very affordable time to cruise. Christmas break times --Holiday cruising is 3x more expensive! Prices change from week to week. The way the hubby and I plan is this: I say lets plan a cruise, he says nah we just got off of a cruise... so we plan a cruise. I am usually the one who finds the itineraries and he is the one who gets to pick where we go. I really do not care other than area. Are we doing the Caribbean or West Coast, maybe a Greek Isles cruise. We tend to pick out the shoulder seasons. We are empty nesters and can go anytime. We choose a balcony room or suite. Depends on the cruise and who is going etc. My TA retied on me. We are using bigbox store this time and I am not happy, customer service gets a zero.
love the bangs
Going on my first cruise through Norweigan. I was super surprised on their prices for solo cruisers.
How was it? Is it good to cruis alone?
We've cruised in the southern hemisphere to escape winter cold. On Jan 2nd we drove to the Denver airport in snow and landed in Buenos Aires where it was over 90 degrees.
We found Princess fits our personality.
Once talking to a guy on an Alaskan cruise who had cruise a gazzilion times. I asked him which cruises a and cruise lines he like the best. He said "the cheapest".
Balcony cabins seem to be the best deal for what you get.
We always get mid-ship cabins. They don't get motion and are close to the atrium. Also if your cruise will be with the shore always on one side get a balcony cabin on that side. Many times if you book another cruise while on a cruise your deposit is refundable.
I want to go on a world cruise. Just need to win the lotto first.
We've cruised a few times with a couple where one of them is confined to a wheelchair, so don't let disability keep you from cruising.
We use a cruise coordinator at the cruise line. So that's like having a travel agent and booking directly combined.
Everyone should get a Passport.
We are gonna balcony one day and never go back to the interior. :) - Tony
Hi Matt, Tony and Jenny, I’m going to need a wheelchair most of the time on my first cruise and Royal CCL said they don’t have wheelchairs or scooters not even to rent. And they gave me two companies that do rent them but they’re not going to supply the Bahamas when I’m going to Coco cay in the Bahamas. I just found this out Thursday. I don’t know what I’m going to do. I have stage for pancreatic cancer and I can’t stand or walk for that long of a time. Rile did say they can get me on and off of the ship with their wheelchair but I can’t use it.
Thanks, Holly. Oh yes I forgot to say this is my first cruise and last and my bucket list WHOOHOO😃♥️🛳🛳🛳🏝
Just wanted to comment on Hurricane season...Floridian here. The Atlantic Basin Hurricane season is 6/1 to 11/30. Most active in Septmeber and we have seen some as early as May.
Pacific Hurricane season starts May15th
Great information on how to start cruising as a vacation! I did think of one other thought that came up in our group on Cruise Critic was inoculation requirement. Thank goodness we have not gone anywhere that required extra shots but I am sure there are places where it is a requirement from that country. Also not only do you need a passport, it can not expire before 60 days after the end of your cruise date. My understanding is that if something happens and you are some place that requires a passport and something happens that you end up staying in their country longer than planned, those extra days are required to be covered.
Good point there and tips there. Fortunately, we haven't had the innoculation requirement yet. - Tony
Again great video! You have very detailed information. ❤️
Great information! Thanks, Tony and Jenny!
Thanks Harris! - Tony
#TeamJenny
Your bangs really make your eyes pop. So pretty! Wish I could rock them but my cowlicks say NO!
We have an NCL Mastercard. We get a lot of OBC when we go on our NCL trips, or we could use the points toward the cruise itself.
Very cool! - Tony
What is OBC oh on board credit?
This is from my wife Sue = #teamSue ……. #1 choose off your bucket list (we did Alaska 1st cruise in Aug) #2 Did a lot of homework before our 1st cruise & RC came up best - we stick with RC - for us loyalty programme offers heaps of discounts #3 RC for us as when on a good thing then stick to it... #4 we pick Junior Suite cabin for medical reasons & we travel from Aussie for all trips so want the best enjoyment for our holiday & we spend a lot of time on our balcony watching the world go by... due to RC loyalty programmes we don't pay for drinks #5 we prefer top deck - mid ship preferably on the RHS (AFT has too much noise & Forward has jogging track above same … not all passengers are mindful of other passengers) #6 we always book direct on the RC website, pay our deposit and each week pay off the cruise from our allocated holiday part of our wages.... found the free insurance off one of our credit cards in Aussie was useless when we lodged a claim... even with non refundable deposits if a great deal comes up and is still cheap allowing for the deposit lost then we go for it as well....every penny saved is more we can spend on other stuff on our trip... # 7 refer #1 choose off your bucket list #8 since 2013 we have completed 7 cruises with RC and we travel from Aussie and have only cruised from USA/Southampton/Dubai/Copenhagen .. we always fly in 1-2 days before the cruise to ensure no hiccups :-) plus gives us a chance to experience some of the destination we are cruising from..... #8 whilst hubby has back issues we have never been restricted re cruising nor require special assistance #9 we always book direct with RC and do our itinerary ourselves #10 we always check what travel documentation is required well before we leave home as we live in Australia and with all trips starting from another country we have to be mindful of what is required and we scan colour copies of all documents to take with us as well. PS: Jenny my hubby is like yours.... there is never a dull moment!
Great advice you two, thank you! Another thing that matters to me in picking a cabin is.... "Is it on the port or starboard side?". I like the starboard side better so for me, that is one of the criteria I use in picking a stateroom. :-)
Why is one better than the other?
@@alinap.7298 It's just personal preference. :-)
Thank you so much for this video. Very helpful for this first time cruiser We are going on the Liberty in May and I am super excited.
When a passport is required, a destination can require a certain amount of time remains on it before it expires. I have seen 6 month-12 months.
If you have had name changes and are using multiple documents (birth certificate and driver's license) also bring documentation to show your legal name change(s).
For documentation, if you are recently married, you may need a copy of your marriage license as well as your birth certificate.
Great video you guys!!! We have cruised ncl, carnival, and Royal Caribbean... so far carnival and Royal Caribbean is our favorite... but princess is next on the list!!! Hoping to book a Caribbean cruise in 2020 for our 20th anniversary on a princess ship.... keep your fingers crossed!!! Love watching your videos!!
Originally my wife and I used a travel agent, but eventually she began doing it herself through the cruise lines. I’m second guessing using a certain Big Box place after your comments.
Very informative! Love watching your videos 😍
Thanks! Appreciate you watching! - Tony
Jenny, you mentioned Europen river cruises. You didn't mention US river cruises. There are at least 2 companies doing them: American Cruise Line and American Queen Steamboat Company. They have lots of different cruises available.
There are also cruises available on the Great Lakes which visit ports in both the US and Canada (in normal times).
Also there are Nile River cruises in Egypt.
Ya we have looked at some of those US river cruises. Maybe someday will give it a try.
Great tips!!! Still so excited for our first cruise next year!!
Thanks Shannon! - Tony
@@LaLidoLoca #teamtony #lalidolocafam #seeyouonthelido :)
Cool video - I think the "where do you want to go" question depends on what climate you live in. As much as I like living in a warm place - I love all thing snow and skiing related - so and Alaskan cruise out of Vancouver is my go to cruise. But -- this is always expensive from Australia. However because of your videos - a friend and I are going to try Carnival next year - out from Australia to some Pacific Islands - not booked yet, but definitely down to you xx
We thought we were getting the best of both world booking through the cruise line with airfare and then having Costco take over the reservations so we could get the most rewards. It has been a huge headache mostly due to airfare we ended up having to spend over an hour getting the three companies on a call together to try and upgrade our flights and they ended up not letting us.
Great video y'all! Thanks for all the helpful tips!
I always end up going Carnival, don't know why.but I will try royal soon .love you guys❣️
Very informative. Thanks guys!
Virginia has a port as well
When you receive a drink package, you are also expected to pay tax and tips. In our case, we figured out that we probably drink less than the tax and tips. We chose the Internet minutes which is totally free .
That's a good point and good callout of an additonal cost. Thanks. - Tony
This might be true on some cruise lines (as I believe NCL does this as part of the drink package) that is included in a booking offer. NCL does it for their “free dining” that they also include in their booking offers. They have lots of added fees for their “freebies”.
However the Princess Sip & Sail promotions includes the gratuity and there is no added taxes, for those cruises the promo is offered for those booking a balcony. This is also nothing extra added for the beverage package included in the Explore4 promo by Holland America. Not sure if Royal Caribbean or Celebrity or Carnivwl does the really included no extra charge promo or the add-on fees for the NCL “freebies”.
Cubfan63 Views I have sailed ncl 2 times in the last 2 years and have never paid any tax or tips for drinks with the free ubp or on any dining plan credit. You only pay tax on drinks when in the domestic port.
Cubfan63 Views www.amazon.com/photos/shared/laVU00PZSb-28ELnvGw-WA.rT6_fLo0HDxCddYAarC6dz
In order of discussion... Other cool locations for Summer... Northern Europe, New Zealand/Australia, and Chile! You can also find cruises that have interesting themes, like singles, science, archeology, environment, etc. repositioning cruises also can be a good deal, though they tend to be longer and more days == more daily costs. I think interior is better suited to Caribbean than to, say, Alaska. Cabin location can also affect price sometimes. Guaranteed rooms can a save a lot, but you might end up obstructed. Don’t forget travel to and from the port! A cheap Med cruises still means you need to get to the port. I’ve also heard to avoid cabins with connecting doors as they can bleed noise. I personally like to pay the whole bill all at once because debt (even future obligations) drives me a bit nuts. I paid for my next cruise a year in advance, including all the airfare and meals and fees, etc. My closest port is less than an hour away by cab, but I’ll probably never use it to cruise. I want to get away! Lol. Other booking topics - excursions, specialty dining, beverage packages, Internet, transfers, and entertainment. Everyone should just get a passport. Even if it’s not required. It’s so much easier. Another hot topic... travel insurance! It ranges from very barebones to very comprehensive, so it’s a topic that creates a lot of confusion. Great video!
Good comments and tips. I think a balcony would be a must for Alaska. So much to see. Good point also about the paying it all at once. I like the idea of putting money away every month for cruising. - Tony
Would love to do a Norwegian fjord cruise during the summer!!!
☆passport can not expire 6 months from date of cruise or you cant board. Friend of mine is sailing in nov with me and on the 2nd day she would be on cruise would MARK THE 6MONTH EXPIRE DATE in advance. She has to hurry and send off for renewal
A question I should have asked or researched is, are there going to be small children on the cruise. I did not research it, and there were. The pool was probably full of pee, which kept me from going into the pool and the hot tubs. Yes, there were hot tubs for kids and adults. I suspected they used the same water supply though. Anyway, it's something to research.
Lots of good information here. You need to let people know that the free booze package is not really free. You do have to pay the gratuity. For my Trans-Atlantic cruise on NCL we got free Booze package but we have to pay $568 for the two of us. We are not big drinkers so I hope we get our moneys worth. We did get a mini suite cheaper than balcony on the Epic.
Another great vid! Lots of good info😀
Thanks for the great tips. I think ya'll leaving out of Mobile was how I found y'all. We are leaving out of Mobile in February so I started searching CZcams for for video. I really enjoy y'all's videos.
Awesome Debra. We enjoyed the port and the ship! Feb isn't to far away! - Tony
Question for Jenny like you I enjoy going to the casino which cruise line offers the best comps
Just think of all the things you have learned about Cruising in the past 17-18 months!! Basically cruise newbies who have become pros - all because you took one cruise & loved it!! It even opened up the vlogging community to you - almost a whole new profession & lifestyle!! And all the people you have met, the friends you have made thru LaLidoLoca!! The cruise industry is growing exponentially- so fast, and so many new & different ships!! Lots of new info to keep up on - and thanks to vloggers like you, I get to hear all the exciting news right away!! Thanks so much for doing this video - starting from the beginning- for new cruisers & seasoned travelers alike!!
Things I keep in mind are additional costs while on the cruise for “extras” - specialty dining, photo packages, shore excursions, shopping, casino money, etc.!! And on a similar note - how much cash to bring for tipping, shopping in the ports, taxis, even using cash in the casino!! And for some - depending on the cruise line, what is the dress code?? Will I need a more formal wardrobe on a Cunard transatlantic Cruise?? Or can I get away with “Free Style”, anything goes on NCL??
When I first started cruising - I didn’t have a clue. We got a brochure from our TA & the cruise line with the pertinent info - and I cruised with friends who had cruised before, so I packed what they told me to pack and followed them!! But by the 3rd cruise I had learned a lot about how cruising works & was able to make my own lists for the things I needed to bring to enjoy my cruise!! There’s so much to do and so much to learn & now we have so many resources - Google, blogs, CZcams videos, vloggers, FB groups & if all else fails - call the cruise line!!
Thanks Bonnie. Its been a great adventure and it continues to yield new and fun experiences. Appreciate all the kind feedback and your particpation in the community! A big thanks! - Tony
For those who travel with just a birth certificate and state I.D, KEEP THIS IN MIND.. If for some reason you get deathly ill and have to go and stay at a hospital out of the country, GOOD LUCK GETTING HOME with just ur B.C and I.D.. just another reason to get your passport! 💕
Traveling off season for us is not a problem, but if we want to travel with children and grandchildren we have to do summer, we know is hot, but the kids love to visit the different beaches in the Caribbean. As far as personalities, we have tried them all, but will stay with Royal, Celebrity and Princess, sorry no Lido for us.
My credit card company says it protects me with Trip Insurance. True, but not the whole story. The limit is $1,500. If your trip costs more than the limit your credit card company sets, puh-leeeez consider buying good trip insurance.
Last time we were on the Liberty we were on deck 2. I hated it. 1. It smelled of sewar. ( not in our room but the whole hallway) Also where it was located we had the whole galley in the middle so in order to get anywhere it was like a maze. I think I rather be on the higher decks Like 7 and above. Also like you mentioned what are you going to be doing. We like being by the pools, the food and the kids club for the kids.
We so love yall's channel! Thank You
If you are using a birth certificate make sure it's a certified copy. It has to have the raised and embossed seal of the issuing agency on it to be accepted. Hospital certificates/birth records or photocopies will not get you on the ship. Also for pregnant women check with the cruise line to see when their cutoff is. Most of the big cruise lines it's 24 weeks. Letters from your doctor saying you're healthy and not high risk will not override this policy either. You will be added to the list of people who have tried and failed. The cruise ship is not equipped to take care of you or the baby if anything were to happen. Also if there's only one adult traveling with minors a lot of the cruise lines are requiring passports from the whole party even for closed loop sailings. They do this to make sure the party can stay together if anything happens. **ALWAYS** double check with your line for your specific sailing and situation. They are not all the same.
Good point on the birth certificate. I did read on Carnival's website that will accept photocopies but I would be hesitant to try it. Good comment and info. Thanks - Tony
@@LaLidoLoca I just checked and you're right Tony. Thanks for the correction. Carnival must have changed that recently. I'm shocked because a non certified copy of a birth certificate doesn't prove citizenship. I don't know how the ship could clear customs but they must be able to. I'd never go without a passport anyway though so it's irrelevant to me.
We did use a copy ( i actually brought the original as well, just because I didn't want to not be able to get on, but wanted to see if it worked and it was NO PROBLEM, they didn't even look twice at it.) It was for my BF I have a passport
*NO RAISED SEAL ON MINE...THEY JUST USED PURPLE INK IN THE 1950's IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA*
Great video.
Great information video! Thank you
What are your thoughts about booking another cruise while on a cruise? I was approached by a staffer while on a cruise to book my next cruise then. Are there incentives for booking while on a current cruise?
There usually is.
Great 👍🏻 Tips 🚢❣️😎😎Tony&Jenny #locafam ❤️🌴beautiful Bangs Jenny❣️
Thanks Ann!!!
You both look great! Love the haircuts! Would like to hear about "yellow Cards" and vaccinations plus packing lite videos!
Thanks! I don't think I know about the yellow cards? What are they? - Tony
Yellow card for yellow fever shots. There must be a way to keep all your shot history on an official card or????
say So , I am curious where you are traveling. Have you needed mandatory vaccines while cruising? We have “yellow cards”, but have not needed them. We got them when we took a trip (not cruising) to Colombia.
Be careful with travel agents, my mom had one and it was terrible, almost missed the cruise, also missed flight back had to buy new airline tickets to get home from Italy 🇮🇹. Make sure you plan well, don’t put a lot of faith in a travel agents
Hi Melissa yes when we started cruising we were with a big box travel agent company. Sometimes it can go south. I’m a travel agent and take it very seriously. You are making memories for people, sorry she had such a bad experience 😊Jenny
Your Cell phone and your cell service. Always check with your cell service provider about cell cost and usage out of the country. They might have a plan you can get for when you are gone. There are no cell towers at sea. So with that said I seen this on a CZcams channel about outdoor gadgets. It is called Bivystick. Its a new product that will turn your cell phone into a satellite phone. Looks like it will cost about $350.00, you can preorder it for $299.00 with free shipping, and you can activate it when you need it for about $17.99 a month. You can text, share your location, send an SOS, get the weather and its a battery backup 5200mAh.
Great video! Good tips!
Thanks Amanda. - Tony
Off Season, you can find cheap cruises!
Hi I didn’t know you were live
We have 4 ports in Florida.😉
Is crew appreciation the same as tipping?
And, how many formal nights are on a cruise? Where are the formal/gala nights?
What ever ship goes to R O A T O N 😄😎
Great video!!
Love you guys and hope you are enjoying Labor Day. I enjoy watching your videos but please don't add music to your videos to play while you are talking. I turn up the volume and swear that I have the radio playing from another station.
Donna for the feedback. Appreciate you watching. - Tony
Carribean is hot even in January
Maybe,... what excursions are available
What cruise line has the lowest minimum bets on the table casino games and where does the cruise line go?
Make sure your passport is good until at least 6 months after you return.
August... do Alaska or Northern Europe...
Cruise Lines... itineraries are always king...
We like a balcony cabin... away from the crowd... quiet... no thumping recycled disco tunes... just a glass of wine, a book and quiet... deck chair in the sun... the sound of the waves.
Use the loyalty credit card... get points towards your next flight or cruise... some of those credit cards offer trip interruption and car rental insurance that will let you recoup the annual fees... just pay off the balance every month before interest hits you... as with all credit cards.
Here's a question you probably dont get asked often. On your first day of the cruise, does the concierge service offer a staff member to give you a walk through tour of the ship, so your not out wasting time looking for things and places of interests?
I haven’t seen this offered on the cruises we have been on. I wouldn’t be surprised if there was an option like for a cost. - Tony
I never noticed you having background music before (??) 🏝🛳🏖
We do often. Its hard to find music thats not distracting. I'm on the fence on this track. :) - Tony
I'm an even number person, too! Lol
Jenny where do I find travel insurance at Please help me Becca Brown
Don't forget parking fees at port
TIP: condense your pills/prescriptions. ill have to help my in law pack next cruise. She had a big bag of pills and a huge bottle of 120 asprin, ummmmm you dont need that big bottle for a weekend cruise.
Thats a great tip. I was thinking that the other day, to try and find as many small count asprins and anti acids and stuff like that to save space. - Tony
Remember to carry your pills, especially those you take daily, in your carry on. Luggage can take awhile to get to your room or even be brought to the wrong stateroom.
Please make sure that you have all your medications Labeled. Especially your
Prescription drugs. Don't just put them in your "daily pill holder". If you are questioned, you will need to "Prove" what you are carrying.
@@LaLidoLoca you can use the weekly pill containers and add pills to each compartment, and label the back with what each pill is. I saw that in another person's video. Like allergy, headache, dramamine, heartburn, etc.
Great Video and tips! Only 20 more days until my first cruise! Do I need to take a birth certificate if I have a passport?
No, the passport takes care of it it. That's why I like the passport. - Tony
Hi guys. Is it right that you are both travel agents? Not happy with my current ta and we are thinking of doing our first back to back cruise. Let me know if you guys are cause I would definitely get a quote from you. Thanks
Yes! Jenny does most of it. Shoot us an email at travel@lalidoloca.com Thanks. - Tony
I can’t believe they Changed the Cheers package. Now you can only get $20 or less alcohol drinks in the package instead of $50. Anything over $20 they give you a 25% discount off the menu price.
Which drinks did you enjoy that were over $20 and under $50 that are no longer fully covered by Cheers?
My husband wanted to try the more expense wines by the glass and higher end cognacs. He just wanted the option to choose something that was a higher end drink. The difference in price for me is not a big deal because I’m not much of a drinker. I usually drink the fruity drinks like pina colada’s.
@@Darlyne-ng7np ml
Middle lower has less movement then middle middle...
What cruise line has the best casino?
Got it🤓👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾
I am booked on carnival sunshine and my room is above main dining room is this a bad location.
Do you do cruise bookings
Wassup
❤️❤️❤️
❤️🙏👍
fttf is frustraiting, its always sold out
Ya no kidding. Always check around the time when the final payment is due, people who cancel or don’t pay may have FTTF to release. - Tony
La Lido Loca what is fttf?
Mary Elizabeth it’s a Carnival addon that gives you priority boarding and some other perks. - Tony
La Lido Loca Thanks Tony!