To Fly or Cruise?

Planning and booking a holiday is an exciting time. Where are you going? How long for? Who is coming too?

Cruising holidays are becoming more and more popular. Cruise ships are docking in New Zealand regularly, which is great for both the economy and travellers. To cruise further afield, you may need to fly to your destination of departure.

Cruising
Cruises are great value for money. The cost is largely fixed (barring optional excursions, drinks and treats such as massages aboard), so it is an easy decision to make if the cost matches your budget. The package should include flights, transfers, food and entertainment aboard the ship.

Whilst on your cruise, you have the opportunity to visit multiple destinations in one holiday, while only unpacking once! Day excursions are a neat way to see the highlights of a destination, stretch your legs and sample some of the local culture. You can explore on your own, or take advantage of the guided tours if language or navigation is an issue.

Cruising is family-friendly and social. For significant family celebrations involving multiple generations, cruising means everyone is able to gather as they choose, or do their own thing on board as it suits. Ships provide activities and clubs for all ages and interests; fitness and dance classes, swimming, kid’s club, poker nights and black tie events.

In terms of practicality, a ship is like a floating hotel, including some medical assistance and business support if you really need to be in contact with the outside world.

If your aim is to relax and unwind, a cruise is ideal – there is little to organise and as much opportunity to take things easy as there are hours in the day. Your travel agent can arrange everything for you from start to finish.

Flying
For most people, time is a precious resource. For a quick break away or a long haul trip, nothing is as efficient as flying. Barring delays and transit, we are only 24 hours away at most, from anywhere on the planet!

Planning your own itinerary makes travel more personal. Choose exactly what you want to see, where you want to stay and what you would like to do. It is a more complex logistical jigsaw to complete, in terms of a budget and arrangements, but there are many opportunities to be clever and thrifty.

Again, you can leave all your arrangements with a travel agent if you are pressed for time, but half the fun of travelling can be in making the arrangements and discussing options with your travel buddies.

It doesn’t matter how you choose to see the world, all that matters is the experience and fun you have along the way. It’s stimulating, invigorating and good for the soul!