Planning A Cruise

Plan your cruise with simple, practical tips: choose the right ship and itinerary, compare cabins and dining options, and set a realistic budget for gratuities, Wi‑Fi, and excursions. Learn the best time to sail, packing essentials, and seasickness remedies. Understand visas, travel insurance, and embarkation steps so boarding day feels smooth and stress‑free.

viking vs holland america

Viking vs Holland America: Is Viking Worth the Extra Cost?

viking vs azamara

Viking vs Azamara: Which Small Ship Cruise Line Offers Better Value?

Viking airfare

Viking Airfare: Is Free Air Really Free? We Priced It

Mediterranean cruise prices 2027

Article Title: Mediterranean Cruise Prices 2027: 17 Cruise Lines Compared From $4,542 to $33,998

viking vs silversea cruises

Viking vs Silversea Cruises: Which Offers Better Value?

Viking vs Oceania Cruises

Viking vs Oceania Cruises: Which Adults-Only Cruise Offers Better Value?

Avalon Vs Amawaterways

Avalon vs AmaWaterways: Which River Cruise Is Better for Mature Travellers?

How to choose a Rhine River Cruise

How to Choose a Rhine River Cruise: 5 Decisions Before You Book

SAVE BIG AND EXPLORE MORE OF THE WORLD
Planning a cruise

Hello from Rob & Nawa!

After years of exploring the world, we’ve traded dorms and campsites for comfort—without the high price tag.

We share practical tips to help mature travellers see more and spend less, whether you’re cruising or travelling by land.

Join our list for our best travel advice and free access to our Research Library.

How We Calculate Our Rating

Our score is out of 10 and based on:

Location & convenience – 30%

Room Quality & cleanliness – 30%

Facilities & services – 25%

Dining – 15% 

We do not take price (value for money) into our calculations, as rates can differ substantially depending on when you go. If you travel in peak season, then expect to pay the highest rates, but it does not (or should not) change the quality of the hotel. If we give it a rating of 8.0 or higher, we would consider staying again.
TBA – means we have not stayed at this hotel but have booked for a future visit or included in our research as a suggested place to stay

Booking

Get Our Free Travel Budget Planner

We’ll send you a direct link to our Google Sheets Travel Budget Planner. Easy to use for multiple trips.

Booking

Get Our Free Cruise Budget Planner

We’ll send you a direct link to our Google Sheets Cruise Budget Planner. Easy to use for multiple cruises.

Independent Cruise Research

Free Research Library

Get free access to our cruise comparison spreadsheets, including fares, inclusions and the research sources behind our videos.