Dave and I absolutely love cruises and one of the reasons is that they are VERY ECONOMICAL, especially for what you get.  We generally figure a cruise costs about a $125 a person at the time of booking.  (You also have to add gratuity for your waiter, assistant waiter, and cabin steward and pay for all your soft (and hard) drinks.)

We love that we unpack once and everyday the scenery changes and you’re in a new port where you can get off the ship and go exploring.  Every night you can eat a five-course meal, or go to the pizza parlor, or the buffet. (Trust me, there are plenty of opportunities to eat in different locations on the ship and it’s all free – even 24/7 room service.) Every night there is a great stage show in the theater with singers, dancers, comedians, and more. There are tons of activities onboard as well – just a few examples: dancing lessons, gambling in the casino, movies, lectures, demonstrations – flower arranging, chocolate carving, napkin folding (my personal favorite), and more. The ships provide stores for shopping, exercise facilities, a full-service spa, beauty shop, swimming pools, hot tubs, library, computers, game room and more.

I love the freedom and independence; even with my severe physical limitations, (I only have limited use of my left hand), it’s a perfect way for me to travel because of all the conveniences - a fully accessible cabin, ever-present assistance from the ship’s staff to open doors, carry buffet trays, cut my food in the kitchen (allowing me to be independent at mealtime) and even helping me into and out of the ship’s pool.

Perhaps the best part for me, is that Dave gets a well-deserved opportunity to rest and relax knowing that I am safe and enjoying my independence.

At the end of the cruise, we are both renewed, reenergized, and ready to return to reality. We've learned that it's so important to replenish our spirits for the long haul.