Cruising confidently into a new millennium

The future of cruising appears boundless. While travellers look to new horizons, cruise companies are responding with creative travel packages. By offering a perfect balance of adventure, luxury, comfort and security, cruising continues to emerge as the ideal vacation choice for increasing numbers of travellers.

Unmatched variety and scope
The wide range of package prices, levels of luxury, trip duration and ports-of-call presents a staggering array of options. Cruise itineraries and activities can be oriented to match the diverse interests of everyone from singles to seniors, honeymoon couples or families with children. The right cruise choice can delight the novice sailor or fulfil the highest expectations of the most seasoned repeat passenger.

Cruise ships are like floating resorts with every imaginable amenity. You can join in exercise classes, participate in organized activities from dart tournaments to dance lessons. Enthusiasts can practise their tennis stroke or golf swing. Go for a swim, stretch out in the sauna or work out in the gym, or just relax.

Themed cruises are increasingly popular
Attend a movie festival or lecture series at sea. Compete in a backgammon or bridge tournament, then try your luck at the ship's casino.

For those who prefer seaborne solitude and contemplation, there's lots to do by yourself, too. Lie back in a lounge chair and catch up on your reading. Soak up the sun and watch the passing vistas of sea and sky, and islands on the horizon.

Dawn will find your ship docking at a new port where shopping and shore excursions await... following a hearty breakfast, of course.

Cruise customers are satisfied sailors
Travel industry surveys show that once people experience their first cruise holiday they will likely cruise again, usually within a couple of years. Satisfaction levels are exceptionally high for a number of reasons, including tremendous value in every price range.

Cruise vacationers enjoy being able to visit several different destinations during one trip. They appreciate the convenience of returning from each onshore foray to a safe and comfortable home base. The cruise ship offers a reassuringly secure haven that's not only packed with optional activities but offers rest and relaxation.

Planning and budgeting made easy
Many travellers choose to cruise because of the sheer convenience. The price of your cruise package will include all meals and snacks, onboard activities, theme parties and nightclub entertainment. Usually, the only additional charges will be your personal bar tab.

Cruising is a convenient, cost-effective way of visiting a number of destinations. While cruising, there's no concern with making hotel reservations, packing and unpacking at each stop, or suddenly being faced with unexpected expenses.

Cruise passengers are thoroughly pampered
Each day sees a new array of activities listed in the ship's newspaper. Join in the poolside parties or find a deck with a quiet corner. Select sun or shade, windward breezes or leeward zephyrs. Stroll or jog the promenade deck and fill your lungs with invigorating salt-sea air. You'll enjoy yourself, look good and feel great. It's what cruising's all about.

Whether you're an early riser or late snoozer, cruising can be your cup of tea. Refreshments and libations abound. Food and drink are virtually always available somewhere on board. Cruise ship dining is renowned for sumptuous splendour. Passengers are there to be pampered and cruise ship personnel take that responsibility seriously. They love their work and it shows.

Ensuring your complete satisfaction
Adding up all the advantages, it's clear why cruising has burgeoned in the past decade and why its phenomenal growth will undoubtedly continue into the foreseeable future. A sense of comfort and well-being pervades the entire cruise experience. It's a major reason why so many people choose to cruise again and again, year after year.

At American Express Travel, we are constantly exploring new opportunities that will add value to every cruise vacation. Next month we will introduce a special program featuring recommended cruise packages; watch for the announcement. A new millennium of travel planning awaits, and the knowledgeable counsellors at your American Express Travel Agency are ready to go to work on your behalf, planning your most memorable trip ever.

Peter Drutz is Vice President and General Manager Travel Service Network, Amex Canada Inc.

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