An Ocean Cruise Makes a Great Gift!
Contrary to popular belief, an ocean cruise doesn't have to cost the Earth. Many cost less than a stay at a good land-bound hotel!
Many of us think of ocean cruise vacations as the height of luxury, and you know, they certainly can be. Even on a no-frills cruise, you eat delicious meals and people wait on you hand and foot--and you get to rest and relax to your heart's content. For those of us used to doing everything ourselves, this is luxury indeed.
It's a myth, however, to think that all cruises are outrageously expensive just because they're luxurious. Some are, but the prices of others are so low that they easily drop into the gift category -- even if you're not an especially big spender.
All Kinds of Options
Now, I don't want to lead you astray: it's possible to spend a shocking sum on a gift cruise if you really want to -- and you'd better believe that your recipient will be treated like royalty if that's the option you choose. But there are so many players, and so many options, that there can't help but be good deals out there.
Some 3-5 day cruises cost as little as $300 per person (sometimes even less!), assuming you're willing to take advantage of discounts and sales, choose interior staterooms, and book early. Off-season cruises are often the cheapest, especially if you book online.
Even better, you can often get free upgrades if you book early. Your travel company may include these as an automatic perk, or you may get up-checked if the cruise approaches sailing time and the cruise ship hasn't filled all its high-dollar berths.
Think About That Price...
Now, how often do you get travel, food, and accommodations for such a low price? Sure, the staterooms are tiny, but they're just for sleeping. Your giftee will spend most of their days having fun on deck, eating the free food, enjoying the ocean breeze, and taking advantage of shore excursions.
At $300 for a 5-day sea cruise, that's basically $60 a night. It's hard to find a decent motel alone for that price... and you just sit there in one place when you stay the night at a motel. With a cruise, every morning when you open your eyes, you're somewhere new!
Giving the Gift of Cruising
Cruises make great gifts for Mom and Dad, retirees, graduates, and just about anyone. The price is right and, assuming that your giftee doesn't get seasick, it's hard to find a more tranquil vacation experience. Who doesn't like sitting back and enjoying cool drinks and tasty food while people do everything for you?
You don't have to pay for everything, by the way; your recipient can buy the extras if they want. But give them an ocean cruise, and you're sure to wow 'em.