How to Thrive Through This Recession, Jack Canfield Style

We're hearing a lot about the economy lately. In fact, just this week, Alan Greenspan actually said "the r word" by announcing that the United States is in a recession. Our last recession, from 2001-2003, was due to the collapse of the dot-com bubble, the September 11th attacks, and accounting scandals such as Enron. There were also recessions in the early 1990s and early 1980s.

In fact, for the last 30 years, the U.S. has gone through a recession once every decade. There's no indication that this will change in the future. Burying your head in the sand will certainly spell disaster for your business. Gritting your teeth to weather the storm will only increase your blood pressure and keep you up at night.

The good news is that a recession is not a depression. It's unlikely that we will ever go through something like the Great Depression again. However, it's quite possible that this will not be our last recession. To be successful, you need to become informed about what a recession is and what steps you can take to thrive in the midst of one.

What is a Recession, and What Can You Do about it?

A recession is a period of temporary economic decline during which trade and industrial activity are reduced. It is identified by a decline in a country's gross domestic product (GDP), or negative economic growth, for two or more successive quarters. In short, a recession means a steady, prolonged decline in sales.

As a small business owner, you've experienced a decline in sales before. It's a normal part of any sales cycle. Question is: When you've had a drop in sales in the past, what did you do? Did you just wait, hoping for things to get better? Or, did you take decisive action to nip things in the bud and turn things around? If you are a successful small business owner ' someone intent on creating a constant and steadily increasing cash flow ' then you know the importance of taking informed, resolute action.

Jack Canfield, too, knows about decisive action. He's famous for his rags-to-riches story of how he committed to contacting five people a day to promote his book, Chicken Soup for the Soul. The key to his success was his commitment to action. Not just any old action, mind you. Aligned, well-thought-out, purposeful action. Jack knew he had a monumental task in front of him: promoting an unknown book by an unknown author. Each day he took action to increase name recognition, forge connections, and build sales.

Five Simple Steps for Thriving through a Recession, Jack Canfield Style

1. Get back to basics

Recessions are good for all things that begin with "re." Re-group, re-organize, re-view. Revisit the fundamentals that have already made your business a success. Revise your mission statement to stand for what your business is really all about. Reject rejection. Practice Jack's "Rule of Five": Every day, do five things that will move you toward your goal.

2. Clean up your act

Recessions are a great time, Jack advises, to clean up your messes. Now, when sales are slow, finish anything that is incomplete. De-clutter your office and organize your files. Make phone calls to bridge any disconnects that may have occurred between you and your customers. Magnify your success energy by focusing on what you want to happen, not what you are experiencing.

3. Focus on your connections and relationships

Recessions are the perfect time to forge new connections and strengthen long-standing relationships. Practice uncommon appreciation. Review your agreements with clients and confirm your commitment to them. Speak first and with integrity. Be impeccable in your communication. Meet for breakfast instead of over the phone. Supplement emails with handwritten cards and notes.

4. Be smart with your money

Recessions are the natural time for small business owners to review their financials. Take a look at your cash flow. Collect on any outstanding accounts. Don't fall into lackful thinking by clutching and holding onto your money. Spend wisely. Make sure your bills are paid. Above all else, give more. Keep your energy flowing by finding a way to serve others.

5. Step back

Recessions are the ideal time to practice stepping back in order to keep things in perspective. Instead of energetically aligning with all the fears, doubts, and anxieties associated with a recession, step back and move to higher ground. Don't get caught up in others' panic. Soar above it all to a place where clarity can be gained and perspective maintained. While you're at it, take others with you. As Jack says, "When you lift up others, they will lift up you."

No one likes feeling uncertain about the future. Yet nothing is ever certain, whether or not we're in a recession! By taking decisive action now, you can positively influence your future. When this recession ends, don't let your company be one that just managed to survive. Practice Jack's Rule of Five and thrive.

Business Coach & Consultant for entrepreneurial women starting up small businesses, Dr. Susan L Reid is the author of "Discovering Your Inner Samurai: The Entrepreneurial Woman's Journey to Business Success." For ideas, tips, and support for your business journey, sign up here for our free e-Zine.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Susan_L_Reid

Are You Getting Cheap Airline Tickets?

Nobody wants to pay a small fortune for an airline ticket these days. If you take a look around you will see that everywhere that you look there is some kind of an advertisement for cheap airline tickets especially on the internet but they are also billboard signs, TV and else where as well.

Now who wants to pay the full price for an airplane ticket when you can get pretty much the same ticket somewhere else for about half of the original price.

If you did not already know it by now, Airline ticket sales has become a huge business in it self, It is not like it use to be where you had to see a travel agent to get a good deal on you travel tickets today you have more options.

When using a travel agent you can get some really good deals but you need to keep in mind that the agents are in business to make money that is what they are in business for, Even though they get you a good deal they get their cut as well.

With internet access these days it is a whole lot easier to do a search to find the best ticket deals, One of the first stops that most people make when doing a search is a fare comparison site, What these sites do is check the prices of many different carriers that offer the flight that you are looking for.

You will have a lot more options if you plan your travel from one big city to another big city compared to the small airports that don't get much traffic.

If your schedule is a little flexible then you may be able to save a lot more money on your flight by changing your departure or arrival dates by a day or so and see if that makes any difference in the price of your trip.

Another Place that you can sometimes find a cheap airline ticket is on an auction site, Yes thats right, sometimes people buy a ticket and for what ever reason they are not able to use the ticket and can not get a refund so in order for them not to take a total loss they will sale it for what they can get out of it.

How ever you find your tickets take a little time to look around there are cheap airline tickets out there just waiting for you.

Author Ronnie Wilson - You can find out about super cheap airplane tickets here Super Cheap Airplane Tickets

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ronnie_Wilson

High Seas Spa - Cruise Lines Provide Rest and Wellness to Passengers

Cruise ships are the ideal way to escape the every day and head, perhaps, for warmer climates, fun and relaxation, and some time to yourself. Cruising is also a great time to invest in your well being with a visit to the onship day spa. There's no reason to leave behind the services you may have come to enjoy at your local spa. Cruise ship day spas offer guests everything from massages and aromatherapy wraps to steam rooms and full gym services.

Is it possible with all the delicious cruise food to stay healthy while cruising? Carnival Cruises thinks so. Guests stay in shape with Spa Carnival's state-of-the-art exercise equipment, jogging track and aerobics classes. Each ship's spa features a staff of knowledgeable fitness experts ready to assist passengers. Spa Carnival also features a variety of beauty treatments that will have you looking and feeling your best. Services for men and women include facials, loofah treatments, manicures, pedicures, and hairstyling.

Passengers aboard Celebrity Cruises are transported to a whole new world with spa treatments inspired by rituals from exotic cultures in the world-famous AquaSpa by Elemis. The largest, most luxurious spa afloat offers an array of treatments designed to take guests to a higher level of relaxation. In addition to deluxe manicures, mineral essential facials, and aromatherapy massage, you may also pamper yourself with a hydrotherapy spa bath, herbal steam bath in the Etruscan Chamber, or Elemis Synergistic Therapy, which combines reflexology, Shiatsu, and pressure-point massage. Or splurge for the Sensory Heaven treatments, offered exclusively on Celebrity Cruises.

Introducing a new generation to the world of spa-ing, Royal Caribbean features GenerationYSPA, a program specializing in services and treatments for teens ages 13 to 17. For instance, spa services include Acne Attack, an oxygen facial for problem skin, or Fabulous Fruity Facial, a massage for the face utilizing a moisturizing, organic mixture of fresh fruits. The girls take a break together to enjoy the side-by-side Mother and Daughter Paradise Massage, or smarten up the tootsies with a Sole Mate pedicure. Boot camp fitness classes get the blood pumping to prime tweens and teens for adventure.

Norwegian Cruise Lines operates with a fleetwide agreement with Mandara Spa, a leading operator of exotic resort spas in the world. Spa treatments reflect the beauty, spirit and traditions of Bali. Services include the Hawaiian Majesty, Bali-Press, and Four Hand massages. Exquisite treatments like the Oxygen Lifting or Japanese Silk Booster Facials nurture guests inside and out. For an evening out, guests may finish out their visit with an up-do or manicure.

Featuring heavenly beauty and wellness rituals, the Greenhouse Spa & Salon on Holland America Cruise Lines offers breathtaking views for guests as they enjoy exotic skin, body, and hair treatments ranging from hot stone massages and pedicures to hair styling and facials. Facilities include a heated ceramic lounge reminiscent of an opulent Turkish bath, therapy rooms inspired by an exotic blend of cultures, or a hydrotherapy pool bubbling with warm sea water. Whatever the service, passengers enjoy the indulgences that are a signature feature of Holland America Line cruises.

While a Disney cruise may be more about the kids than you, there's still time to some personal pampering at a Vista Spa & Salon. For example, couples may share a rejuvenating spa experience onboard the Disney Magic or Disney Wonder with a Vista Spa Villas Treatment. Upon arrival, couples receive a soothing foot cleansing on a private outdoor verandah. Couples then relax in a bubbling hot tub amidst the incredible ocean vistas and warm tropical breezes from this perfect perch. Following a massage or other treatment of your choice, the experience culminates with a traditional tea ceremony. Other spa treatments include an Elemis Aroma Spa Ocean Wrap, Exotic Hand Ritual with Manicure, or Marine Facial, to name a few.

Geologix Inc. manufactures products using a proprietary formula featuring 34 natural minerals contained in the ancient sea water from the famous Michigan Basin -- a concentration of minerals higher than that found in any known body of water in the world. Mineral Essentials focuses on spa, skin care, and massage products to moisturize and provide anti-aging protection for great skin. Visit us at http://www.mineralessentials.com and http://www.acheaway.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Susan_Gans

Searching For the Millionaire Mentality

What is the millionaire mentality? Does it even exist? How I can I acquire this winning formula? I have read so many articles from many different budding entrepreneurs, who are offering to help those on the quest to find the millionaire mentality. One thing that they all seem to have in common is that none of them are actually millionaires themselves!

Those budding entrepreneurs are willing to share the secret of how they have achieved the millionaire mentality. Some may question whether we are wasting our time and efforts learning from people that are not even millionaires! The other side of the coin is that some of them will go on and become millionaires, others may give everything they have to achieving success and still fail and some are plain dillusionists.

I'm willing to learn from anybody that offers good advice no matter where they are on the path to financial freedom. You don't have to be a millionaire to have the millionaire mentality. Richard Branson, Alan Sugar, Donald Trump etc all had the winning mentality long before they had two pennies to rub together. The pattern is clear you must have the mentality before you become a millionaire or the likelihood of you achieving it will be very slim.

On my own personal journey to make my 2 million dollars I aim to work on every aspect of self improvement and motivation in order to program myself for success. I suppose I feel that I need to think and train almost like a successful athlete in order to condition my mind, body and soul for success.

So back to my original question, the millionaire mentality, is it something that someone can teach me? Or is it something I need to develop from within myself? It is clearly both! Its pretty easy to do some research and read about what the millionaire mentality is, but you then need to start making it work, you have to believe it, not just talk the talk for talks sake.

J Paul Getty {everyone has heard of him, if you haven't, use Google!} In his book, "How To BE Rich" he talks about the millionaire mentality and this is what he says,

"Like it or not, there is a thing that can be called The Millionaire Mentality. There is a frame of mind, which puts an individual a long way ahead on the road to success. In, short, The Millionaire Mentality is one, which is always and above all cost-conscious and profit minded. It is most likely to be found among me in the first two categories I have cited."

Another interesting point that J Paul Getty makes is as follows,

"In my opinion, its more important for the man with The Millionaire Mentality to be able to think small than to think big - in the sense that he gives meticulous attention to even the smallest details and misses no opportunity to reduce costs in his own or his employers business"

I think J Paul Perfectly summaries the mental attitude of those that are seeking much more that a life of a wage slave. He basically says that those with the millionaire mentality are the types of people who work best when they are working for themselves. They don't want to be employed by anyone, and want complete independence. They don't care for the security that they get from a salaried job. Instead, they want to create their own security on their own, and keep their own future in their own hands. In short they want to be their own bosses, and take the responsibilities and risks, which is associated with this.

It seems that it is up to us as individuals to develop and create the illusive MILLIONARE MENTALITY. It isn't something that is easy or natural for most people to achieve, but I think everyone has the potential if they are prepared to work at it. I suppose if it were easy, everyone would be a millionaire.

http://www.2milliondollarbills.com Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Garry_Winter

Taking The Family On Holidays

Avid travelers are full of wanderlust and refuse to give up their love for exploring the world, even when busy raising a family. And why should they? Traveling with children can be a joy and taking the family on holidays near and far can produce a lifetime of unforgettable memories.

It's true, however, that enjoying a vacation with kids is a bit different than an all-adult excursion. That's not necessarily a bad thing! Traveling with children requires a bit more thought and you may be slightly restricted as to your choice of destination. But all the other perks of introducing your children to different world cultures far outweigh the sacrifices you may need to make until they grow up and you can venture off on your own once again.

Finding the Best Fit for Your Family

Where you choose to take your family on holiday can depend on lots of factors including your preference of activities, like sightseeing, sporting/active pursuits, cultural opportunities, and so forth. Begin your search for a good holiday destination by considering the things you'd like to do while you're away from home. These may be activities you enjoy on a regular basis or things you rarely get to do except when you're on vacation. Are you:

• An adventurous family? If so, choose a destination where you can participate in fun and daring activities like trekking, climbing, diving, jet boating, and camping under the stars. (Provided the age of your children can support these activities.) You may be just the right family for an African safari or a trip to South America's Andes Mountains. Closer to home, your family may be ideal for a camping trip through the National Parks or a whitewater rafting trip down the Colorado River.

• An artsy, cultural family? If so, select a vacation destination that can provide your fill of cultural activities. Big cities are always ideal, because you can usually find plenty of museums, theaters, concert venues, and such. Try one of the great cities of North America, like New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, Philadelphia, Toronto, or Vancouver. Or, if you prefer, choose a wonderful, historic European city, like London, Rome, Paris, Amsterdam, Prague, Moscow, Barcelona, or Budapest. All have something a little different to offer.

• A fun-loving family? If so, you'll want to travel to a destination where your family can play together from morning 'til night. Maybe you enjoy amusement and water parks, taking in a local major league sporting event, playing volleyball on the beach, tobogganing through the snow, or taking part in fun and unique local festivals. There are a number of wonderful places for fun-seeking families to visit including resorts like Walt Disney World or the other Disney properties, the wacky beaches of Southern California, or even a quaint ski village in the Alps. The beauty of being a fun-loving family is that you can probably turn just about any vacation into a rollicking good time for all!

Age-Appropriate Holidays

The ages of your kids will help determine where you head for your next holiday. Teenagers can do just about anything....but will they? Be sure you allow your fickle teenager to be a part of the planning so that when you arrive at your destination, they'll be looking forward to participating in the activities they've read about during the planning process. Be ready to compromise. Your teen's first choice may not be yours, but perhaps you can find a destination that has a little something for both of you.

Traveling with elementary school-aged children can be a treat! Unlike their teen counterparts, they're excited about everything, eager to learn, and willing to try new things. Kids from about age 7 to 12 are the easiest with whom to travel as they'll make the most of their new adventures.

Trips with babies and toddlers can be challenging. There's so much to plan before you depart and it often seems as if you need to carry the entire house with you on your trip. Remember, unless you're going to a third-world country, you can buy diapers and other essentials when you reach your destination. Pack lightly and choose a simple destination, like a beach, where you can enjoy fun in the sun. All-inclusive resorts, found in places like the Bahamas, the Dominican Republic, and Mexico, often have special programs for toddlers and also offer certified in-room babysitting services so that parents can enjoy a dinner or evening alone.

Remember not to push your kids too far. Little ones have a limit. So do teenagers. When you're tempted to do just one more museum or spend just a half-hour more in the sun, consult your kid. If they've already said they're tired or hot or cold, call it a day. Your trip will run much more smoothly when your children are happy.

Food

While domestic travel rarely presents a problem when it comes to food - even for the pickiest of eaters - international destinations where the food is "foreign" can be a real challenge for parents traveling with children.

Even the well-traveled child has likes and dislikes and you can't expect your child to go without a meal. That's why it's always best to bring along a few staples just in case. Peanut butter is always a good bet, as is cereal, especially the small boxes that fit easily in your suitcase. Crackers work well, too. Any of those foods can be eaten at any meal and their familiarity will provide comfort to a child who's overwhelmed by the foreign-ness of the food on the table in front of them.

Also be sure that the food and water your child is consuming is safe. Kids are more prone than adults to intestinal disorders caused by impure water and other food-related concerns. There's nothing worse than a sick kid in a foreign country!

Plan Well

Truly, good planning can be the difference between a good holiday and a disastrous one. When you're traveling with adults, it's okay to leave things to chance, like a hotel reservation or a train ticket. With a family, however, the more complete your plans, the better.

That doesn't mean, of course, that you need to schedule every minute of every day. Kids are spontaneous and just when you think an activity or attraction might consume 15 minutes of your time, your children may love it and you may wind up spending an hour or two at that particular task. Go with the flow and let your children take the lead. Thanks to them, you may discover things you'd have never found on your own!

David Beart is the owner of the Professor's House. Our site covers such topics as Family Holidays, relationships, home care and other household issues.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Beart

Networking Industry Poised for Explosion?

Increasing Trends?

If you are anyone like me or my wife, you might have (we did before) a strong disdain for network marketing or MLM businesses. To be honest, I don't really know where it came from, but I never thought that our "big break" in life was going to come from one of those "pyramid schemes."

But you know what? I was all wrong. If you take a second here, and go through what I have written I think you will understand our newfound perspective on the networking industry. Looking back a few years ago, we would never have thought that our main source of income would come from a networking business, but we are so glad that we were able to keep an open mind and profit from a wonderful opportunity.

I looked at the industry and I saw a few trends that are going to continue to increase as the years go by, and these trends have influenced me to get involved in networking. I wasn't hard sold. I wasn't convinced; but only by my own research did I develop a desire to get involved with networking and the TEAM.

I wasn't foreign to working hard. I wasn't stuck in low paying job. It was alright, but I was stuck as far as having a vehicle that would get me to where I wanted to be...and that was ultimately being home with my family.

I knew that I couldn't invest in Starbucks; I was too late for that. I knew that I couldn't invest in Wal-Mart, or any other of the great income opportunities that passed by me. But I did know that if I found a trend that was going to take off and boom just like these other companies did, then I would be much closer to attaining some of my personal goals.

Here is what I looked at:

• Increase in Entrepreneurial Activity
• Market Value within Networking
• Advent of the Internet

Increase in Entrepreneurial Activity

One of the things that I have noticed in the last few years is that there is an increase in the number of people who want to run their own show, to be their own boss. Maybe this is due to a currently shaky economy, or maybe big corporations with lousy employee relations. One thing is certain however, that more people are taking their own future into their hands.

If you look around there is a huge increase in small businesses as well as the age range of people branching out on their own. This only told me one thing. If people want to be independent of their jobs and careers, and want to start their own businesses, then many of them will be looking at "franchised" or "systems" type businesses.

The networking industry purposes to have the right business system for the eager entrepreneur; however, the networking industry has to solve some more of their problems before the "average Joe" will be interested in joining up with them.

The good thing is that the networking industry is fixing many of the major flaws that big companies have had in the past. What you see is an increase in Market Value.

Market Value within Networking With an increase in entrepreneurial activity, networking companies know that if they are going to attract a large percentage of those people, that they had better work on their value and offerings to the public.

And that is what you see now. You see new and upcoming networking companies explode on the scene because they are offering something valuable. They don't have inflated prices, and they provide a good enough compensation plan to attract many more people.

Because of this surge of small business interests, the value that network marketing or MLM companies offer will have to improve, or else they will miss that upcoming trend.

You often times here of those companies where people get in, never make money, and finally quit. Only the people at the top make the money, right? That has been true for many years because networking products and services didn't match the industry market value. Instead there were inflated prices, with low or no intrinsic value.

What you see now are MLM companies that are decreasing prices, adding more value and marketability to their products, and increasing the profits that you can earn. Why are they doing this? It is simply an effort to capture the majority of those people who are interested in leaving their jobs and achieving their dreams and goals.

If these companies (I shouldn't suggest that all companies are moving in the right direction, but rather there are a few that are) offer an opportunity that is low in start-up cost, and one that is "safe", then they will have more people affiliated with their opportunity as well as more people becoming more successful faster.

Advent of the Internet

With MLM companies taking advantage of this last and final trend, the networking industry is poised and ready to take off and explode. It is ready to dominate the small business market, but only the companies with a true market value and a "safe" opportunity will succeed.

My excuse for not joining a networking company a few years ago was that I didn't want to harass my friends and family. I had been harassed by others, and didn't seem to particularly like it, so why would I do that to others.

However, the internet has come along and changed the way that people market. With the internet you are no longer geographically limited by state and region, but now you can reach millions of people just by utilizing the power of the internet.

What this means is that the process to building a MLM or networking company is changing as well. Gone are the days where you have to harass your family and friends in order to make money in MLM. Gone are the days when you feel like you are taking advantage of someone by "signing them up", because with the internet you can reach thousands of people who are interested in your product or service and only deal with those people who want to be dealt with.

Summing It All Up

Are these the only trends taking off in the next few years? No. But I used these analytics to help me decide that getting involved with networking and TEAM was the right thing to do. Why wouldn't you want to get involved in an industry that is going to explode in the upcoming years? I asked myself that question as I was trying to justify to myself why I shouldn't get involved.

But the truth is... if you ever want to make money in any given opportunity, you are going to have to get involved before the trends start to explode.

I knew that was true, as I had wished that I had invested in Microsoft, or Yahoo, or Starbucks, etc. This was my chance to ride a surging trend to the top, and we have jumped on and have never looked back. We haven't needed to.

The future is bright in the networking industry. As more and more people figure out that there is a "new" networking market out there, and that it is not all bad like it was many years ago, then we will see many more people becoming successful and winning in these business opportunities.

As more and more people become successful, then more and more people will be getting excited, and then the result would be exponential growth in the industry. Still wondering if these trends are for real? If you are, you can do two things...

1. watch them float by you and miss the tide of opportunity

Or

2. you can jump on, get excited, and build this new industry and take it to heights never imagined before

If you have questions, please contact us at matt@newinternetsystems.com. Also, if you would like to explore more about TEAM visit New Internet Systems

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Matt_Jensen

Planning Your First Cruise

Planning your first holiday especially on a cruise liner is always a challenge. You could get together with your family and friends and discuss your travel and vacation plans so as to get a better idea of what needs to be done. The best way is to book with a travel agent who will not only advice you on which cruise liner and destination you should be going to but also plan your entire itinerary including air travel to the port of embarkation. But before you proceed, let’s first answer some questions that are bound to pop up while planning your cruise.

What kind of cruise is suitable for your age group?

Typically, there are different kinds of cruises suitable for different age groups. You will find a cruise designed for all individuals, from the toddler to the teen to the retired. All you need to decide in who is going and then select the cruise best suited for you. There are fun-filled holiday cruises for the family, singles, newly-weds and even for the slightly older and matured.

What kind of budget are you on?

Typically, the minimum cost of per person per day is about $100 on an average cruise liner. Many ships charge extra for certain items and of course air-fare is not included in this. You can decrease the cost somewhat by sharing the cabin with another person, booking way in advance, like almost six months prior, or taking a risk and booking late, less than two months prior to departure.

How many days can you spend on your cruise?

If you have less than a week, then the options would be closer to home and restricted to Mexico, Bahamas or simply a weekend cruise to a port in the ocean and back. A complete week gives you more time and options range from the Caribbean, Europe, Hawaii, Alaska and even the South Pacific, depending on of course your current residential location. Anything longer than that would be suitable for any kind of cruise vacation across the globe.

When would you be most likely to travel?

Obviously, cruise tickets are cheaper in leaner times like spring or fall and most expensive during the summer holidays. Winter is also considered high season when travelling to warmer locations like the Caribbean. Some locations like Alaska, Scandinavia and the Baltic have a shorter cruising season and will be open only between May and September. While Antarctic cruises are on between November and February, Mediterranean cruises can be taken all year round.

Where would you like to go?

With the earth being covered with 75% ocean, cruise ships today can reach any of the continents and traverse all across the globe. From the Americas to Austral-Asia, Africa to Antarctica, Bahamas to Bermuda, Europe to Canada, there are plenty of cruise destinations to choose from. Even land locked locations such as central Europe, Russia, or the Yangtze River in China can be reached on a river cruise. Always a challenge to decide your destination, it is important to keep all other factors like type of cruise, budget, length of vacation among others in mind.

What are your interests?

Although cruises provide all kinds of on board activities, your destination should be based on your interest. While European tours offer a good dose of culture for the history buffs, tropical destinations like the Caribbean and the South Pacific are for the beach lovers. Whether it is glacier watching in Alaska, deep sea diving in Australia or experiencing the fjords in Norway, you have to decide what you like to do best before you choose your cruise destination. Many cruises also offer a list of off-shore activities before you book, so make sure that you are well researched on that as well.

What kind of accommodation would you prefer?

Cabin selection typically depends on what your budget is. Sea view cabins are obviously more expensive than the lower deck ones. Also, if you are travelling to scenic places like Alaska or Scandinavia it would be preferable to have a view. Deck plans are available in hard copy, so make your decision after doing your homework and planning your budget.

What are your dress styles and eating habits?

In a move away from only formal wear, most cruise ships today are more relaxed and have only one or two nights of dress-up nights. The rest of the time, it is usually casual or country club style dressing. Typically there are two seating arrangements for dinner, one starting at 6:30pm and the other starting at 9:00pm. While early seating allows you plenty of time for late shows, it may rush your off shore excursions. Late seating on the other hand gives you time to relax but may hamper your late evening activities. Also, table seating is usually for four to eight persons and very rarely for two. If you do want a dinner for the twosome, you will have to make a prior request.

How do you get to the cruise ship?

Flying there or driving down if its close by are two of the most preferred options. Sometimes the cruise lines offer you a fly-cruise package, which is easier, but may be a trifle expensive than independent booking. These include transfers between the ship and the airport, which can again add up to the cost.

What are the documents needed?

Cruise vouchers and travel itineraries should typically reach you 2-3 weeks prior to your departure. Travel insurance is not mandatory but strongly advised as a carry along document in case of any mishaps. Passports are needed for all international destinations.

William Brister http://www.cruiseliner.tv

- A detailed guide answering all your questions regarding your plans on going for your cruise.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=William_Brister

How to Start a Home Based Travel Business

I had the same question pulsating through my head not too long ago. That question which just doesn't seem to go away until you know the answer, how to start a home based travel business?
For starters, I have been involved in different types of business opportunities. None involved travel and none of my previous business ventures attracted more people.

It's quite simple really. People want to travel. People desire a luxury holiday where they can relax and enjoy the sun, the sand, and the blue clear water. What stops them from enjoying their desires is the J.O.B. When you can only afford to take 3 weeks in year to have a holiday ... it really ticks people off. (well, it ticked me off!)

So, the logical thing is for the employee to start a home based business in the travel industry. If people love to travel and you are able to work from home - then you are firstly going to have the clients for your business and you are not going to have to commute to work every day.

There are many home based travel businesses out there. Ranging from Global Resorts Network, Coastal Vacations, Platinum 1 Destinations etc. This post is not intended to promote any of these companies - that is an aspect you will have to do your research on. But suffice to say - your first step in answering the question of how to start a home based travel business is to have a plan.

1. Decide that you want a home based travel business
2. Decide which home based travel business you would gladly represent.
-Which company you find is professional and offers a product which you can be proud to represent.
-Compensation for the home based travel business needs to be sound
- Your mentor or sponsor or team in your new home based travel business needs to offer training and support.
I will write more concerning these two points later. They could cover an entire series in them selves.

Travel is a 7 Trillion Dollar Industry. A Home based business opportunity offers you the ability to earn money from home. Now combine the travel product with your desirable industry - you have a market for making money.

Nic Faivre is a full time internet based network marketer who is a managing partner with the 5 Star Success Team. At only 29 years of age, Nic is an entrepreneur who is destined to excel in his field of travel and personal development. Nic believes in the power of giving without want and his dedication to his team shows. Nicolas Faivre can be reached at http://www.grnwithnic.com/
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