Suraj Jaiswal’s Post

This one is a bit disappointing to read... So many people, both within and outside of travel, jump to base stereotypes when it comes to cruise - misunderstanding the benefit we bring to local communities whilst not overcrowding local accommodation; believing our guests are there to 'exploit' a destination rather than visit it out of true passion; and inferring an assumption that cruise is automatically not an "authentic, community-supporting travel experience". Indeed this article does not even begin to acknowledge the diversity of style we provide by suggesting all ships are floating cities - all one needs do is look at the split of sizes in CLIA's global fleet to see this isn't the case. The cruise industry is a multi-faceted industry that, across the numerous different types of cruise and cruise ship, regularly offers the benefits and experiences that this article suggests don't exist within our sector. The industry contributes economically both in peak and off-season, as well as returning year after year with new guests who will often then return to destinations themselves independently. Jumping to ban cruise ships anywhere does not ensure that the 'shores of any destination remain open to those who truly cherish them', indeed quite the opposite - and to suggest that cruise guests don't appreciate the destination they visit flies in the face of most industry research that shows the destinations we visit are still the primary motivator when anyone begins their cruise journey. Can every cruise operator do even more work with destinations, open up new destinations and opportunities, and to be a force for good? Absolutely, but so can, and so should, every sector of the travel industry. To blacklist cruise as the primary problem is either misguided or disingenuous. That cruise is considered 'an invasive force' by some shows exactly why we all need, and will continue, to showcase the numerous opportunities available to current and new-to-cruise clients worldwide and the benefits we provide to the ports we visit - especially in a year when CLIA in Europe’s theme is 'Discover More' championing destination as the most critical part of our industry. Travel Weekly UK

How travel agents can assure a more enjoyable cruise experience for travellers by avoiding these mistakes. #TWA #NorthstarTravelGroup #tourism #travel Read more here: https://buff.ly/3SMf2tC

Cruise travel has never been more popular, with the industry expected to reach record levels in 2024. And because no two travelers are the same, some notable trends have emerged this spring in the genre's getaways. CruiseCompete has released its latest CruiseTrends report for March, revealing the most popular cruise lines, ships, destinations, sailing months and more based on tens of thousands of real deals and bookings. Spain and Greece top the most popular countries for luxury cruises this spring, ranking 1st and 2nd, respectively. The USA is followed by the sunny Bahamas and record-breaking Mexico in the premium category. Germany and France stand out in terms of demand for river cruises. Several areas stand out in all three categories, with the Caribbean being the most popular premium cruise. The Mediterranean conquers luxury and Europe is the most popular among river cruise passengers this March. Meanwhile, North America ranks second among premium and river cruise travelers and third for luxury. Luxury travelers are more interested in departing from Miami, Barcelona or Piraeus (Athens). When it comes to premium cruise passengers, most want to travel from Florida to the Caribbean. Miami, Fort Lauderdale and Port Canaveral are the top departure ports in this segment, Nassau, Royal Caribbean's private island destination Perfect Day at CocoCay and Cozumel. At the same time, they have the Adriatic Sea and Alaska in their "crosshairs", as Kotor, Dubrovnik, Ketchikan and Sitka are the ports with the greatest demand based on CruiseCompete's data for this March. Amsterdam, Budapest and Astoria, Oregon are the top departure ports for river cruise passengers this spring. Budapest is also among the most popular ports to visit.

Want to book a cruise and get the best prices? Here are two tips for you. One is a gamble...one is a sure thing. Generally speaking there are two times to get the best pricing on a cruise, and they are completely different strategies. First, this is the safest. When you are still a long time off from the cruise you want to book. That is a good time to book. Typically, cruise lines will open up new cruises for booking about a year before it is to sail, but this does vary by cruise line. It is at this time that you have the best opportunity to get the exact cabin you want on the specific cruise you want. This will typically be good pricing (but not the best) because the cruise lines want to ships to sail full, so they discount pricing somewhat early on. The other strategy is the riskiest. You can wait until 30-60 days prior to the sailing date. As it gets closer to the sailing date the cruise lines will sometimes deeply discount their remaining cabins for that cruise. The risk is that the cruise that you want could have no availability left to sell, or only the less popular cabins in the less popular locations will be available. If this is a gamble you are willing to accept, this will likely get you the very best pricing available. There is one other opportunity for you. Lets say you choose this option and you get a cabin that you don't really like. Once you get on the ship, you typically will have a guest service desk, and you may be able to negotiate an upgraded cabin. No promises, but it is a possibility. You may have to wait in a long line for the option, depending on the cruise line. Here is a bonus tip. If you sail on a favorite cruise line frequently, be sure to use your loyalty number because it will get you extra perks and discounts. This is true for nearly all cruise lines. I hope all of this helps you make your decision. As I sometimes say, "First Class gets to the destination airport at exactly the same time as coach class does." Think about that. What are your real priorities? Seeing the destination, or having the largest and most expensive cabin? Allen Beck AKOR Services Travel (503) 427-8553 Allen@akorservices.com https://buff.ly/3x5DLCd #AKORServicesTravel #TravelAgent #TravelAdvisor #Travel #BestVacationEver

#TriviaTuesday True or False: Cruising is in higher demand this spring than last. Answer: True! New AAA data showed a 28% increase in cruise bookings for March and April compared to last year's season.  #TravelTrends #Cruise #Travel Source:

Not sure which seat to pick on your flight? These #travel experts share their tips on which seats are best.

Not sure which seat to pick on your flight? These #travel experts share their tips on which seats are best.

Not sure which seat to pick on your flight? These #travel experts share their tips on which seats are best.

Cruising through the seas of travel trends, AAA Travel's Cruise Trends for 2024 has unveiled a valuable lesson to apply in our own contexts. Let's unpack the essence of this discovery: - **Metaphor for Learning**: Imagine cruise trends as vessels sailing through the ocean of travel, each trend charting a unique course towards unforgettable experiences and self-discovery. - **Tailored Experiences**: The art of tailored experiences goes beyond cruising, highlighting the significance of personalization in creating fulfilling journeys. How can we customize our own paths to enrich our life adventures? - **Early Bookings Surge**: Early bookings act as anchors in the unpredictable waters of travel, offering stability and foresight. How can we embrace early planning to ensure smoother voyages in our personal and professional endeavors? - **Expedition Cruises**: Expedition cruises symbolize the spirit of exploration and adventure, urging us to venture into uncharted territories with curiosity and courage. What unexplored territories in our lives can we navigate for growth and discovery? - **Solo Trips on the Rise**: The rise of solo trips mirrors a solo sailor navigating the vast expanse of the sea, embracing solitude for introspection and personal growth. How can we harness the power of solo experiences to sail towards self-discovery and resilience? - **Splurge-Worthy Escapes**: Luxury suites offer a glimpse of opulence and indulgence on the high seas, inviting us to savor life's finer moments. How can we infuse elements of luxury and pampering into our daily lives to elevate our experiences and find joy in the small luxuries? Apply these insights to your own journey and set sail towards a more enriching and fulfilling path ahead. Bon voyage to new beginnings and endless possibilities! https://lnkd.in/gDRQRD6y

Not sure which seat to pick on your flight? These #travel experts share their tips on which seats are best.