Whether you're a first-time cruiser or a veteran traveler, tipping on cruises can be confusing. Cruise lines have different policies about tipping, and some companies don't require you to tip at all. The tip is considered to be a service fee. It can be a good idea, however, to tip crew members who go above-and-beyond to make your vacation memorable.
Pre-paid gratuities are offered by some cruise lines like Carnival and Viking River Cruises. This eliminates the need to carry cash around with you onboard. Star Clippers allows guests to tip to their shipboard account. The tip is added daily to the account.
Other cruise lines, like Holland America Line, have a policy that says passengers must tip. The policy was implemented eight years ago. According to the company, it replaces its previous policy that "no tipping required". However, it is still possible to tip if you wish.
Some cruise lines, such as Holland America Line, only include a tip in their all-inclusive fares. Carnival, for example, has an automated tip system which applies to each guest's cruise account. The tipping amount is based upon a suggested amount that you can adjust or decrease to your hearts content.
Tipping on cruises is subject to variations depending on the cruise line and the region. To determine if you are being tipped enough, check out the tips guidelines for your cruise line. Some cruise lines allow guests the option to pre-pay their tips, but this isn't always possible.
If you're traveling with children, some cruise lines include tips for children in their all-inclusive fares. Children's tips can vary from one cruise line to another. On some cruise lines, children's tips are added automatically to the shipboard account, while others include a specific amount for each child.
Some cruise lines charge tips for spa services. The amount of this service charge is usually included in the bill, but you can tip an additional 15% if you'd like. Some companies also add an automatic gratuity for fitness classes. Some cruise lines include tipping for the housekeeper. Others do not. The tip for a butler, however, is at the guest's discretion.
Some cruises allow you to pre-pay your tips up until three days before the cruise. The tipping policy of some high-end cruise companies, like American-Canadian Line or Holland America Line, is very specific. Some cruise lines have a separate fee for alcohol and dining, while others charge for both. A separate tip slip may be available if you would like to tip the restaurant for dining. You can also present a cash envelope to the restaurant if you don't have any cash.
Ask crew members for advice if you aren't sure whether or not to tip. It's possible for crew members to decline to tip you, but it is important that you thank them for their hard work and show good manners.
FAQ
What is the best price for airline tickets?
If you are looking for the lowest airfares, you may want to consider airlines like Jetstar and Virgin Australia, AirAsia or Tigerair, Malaysia Airlines. Singapore Airlines. Thai Airways International. Korean Air. Philippine Airlines. China Southern Airlines.
If you search online, you will see that some of these airlines give away cheap flight tickets as a promotion.
What should you never forget when traveling?
When traveling, you will often find yourself in situations without the ability to make informed decisions. It's okay to be spontaneous.
You could be stuck there for hours, days and even weeks. If you've planned ahead, you'll have food, water, shelter, and a place to sleep. However, if you don’t plan ahead, you might need to improvise.
In these instances, you may need to rely only on what you are good at. That means taking quick decisions based only on intuition and experience.
But sometimes, you won't have any choice. For example, you could be stranded in an area without cell phone service, running out of gas, or having been robbed. These situations will require you to quickly adapt to the situation.
The key is to keep calm, stay focused and act decisively. Don't panic. Instead, focus on what you can control.
If you are lost in the woods, it is possible to choose which direction you should go. Or if you're hungry, you can eat berries or mushrooms. Rainwater can be drank or snowmelt.
If you are tired, you can take a break. You can layer up if you are cold. You can wear a sweater if it's cold. Whatever your choice, staying positive will help you feel better.
How much luggage should you take?
The length of your trip will determine how much luggage you need. You will only need to bring hand luggage if you're traveling by plane. This is typically less than 20kg. For a bus or train ride, however, you will require more space.
You will receive a form with all the details about your flight when you arrive at airport. This will include information like the weight of your bag and whether you need assistance in checking them in.
This must be done before you leave your home. You might find yourself stuck waiting in line for hours as everyone else inspects their luggage.
Traveling light is the best option, because you never really know what could happen. You won't be able to use your bag if it gets lost.
What is the first thing you should do upon arriving at your travel destination
Always have a plan in place for when your arrive at a new location. It will let you know what to expect, and where to go next.
It is important to plan ahead so you don't forget anything.
For instance, if your trip to a city lasts more than one hour, research which landmarks, museums, and parks you'd like.
A map of the area may be useful and you might want to read up on the history.
Statistics
- Alcoholic beverages with more than 24% but not more than 70% alcohol are limited in checked bags to 5 liters (1.3 gallons) per passenger and must be in unopened retail packaging. (tsa.gov)
- You can use compression sacs or cubes to reduce the volume of your clothes by up to 80%—this is especially convenient for bulky items such as sweaters and jackets. (eaglecreek.com)
- They're also likely to offer babysitting services, in case you'd like to have dinner one night after 7 p.m. (travelandleisure.com)
- Alcoholic beverages with 24% alcohol or less are not subject to limitations in checked bags. (tsa.gov)
- Case in point: the private island of Ilha Caldeira, less than seven miles off the coast as part of the Primeiras and Segundas Archipelago, is located within the marine-protected area with 20 percent of the country's intact living coral. (travelandleisure.com)
External Links
How To
How to Travel Cheaply
Travel is a popular activity. Traveling is expensive. Traveling is expensive because of the expense of hotel stays, car rentals, transport, food, etc. Even worse if you have children. So, how can we make it more affordable to travel?
You can begin by looking for ways to cut costs. You may be able to get discounts on your airfare, hotel rooms, and car rental if you plan ahead. If you choose a budget hotel, you can save money. You don't need to spend too much if you choose a hostel. These places offer basic accommodation at a cost of less than $20 per person. You can also take public transport to rent a bedroom in someone's house or use Airbnb.
Consider spending a little more to avoid extra fees. If there's no Wi-Fi, then you might consider purchasing a SIM card. This will ensure that you won't pay roaming charges. To cut down on costs, order a pizza or pasta if you plan to eat outside.
You can also try to split the expense with your friends and family. Ask your family and friends to split the bill. Maybe you can even work together to purchase tickets. Sharing expenses reduces stress and helps you save money.
If you're still struggling to save money, there are always camping and hiking options. These activities are usually free. Just bring water, snacks. Insect repellent, sunscreen, insect repellent and a first aid kit.
There are many options to make travel affordable. Make it a point to think outside the box and create unique ideas.