I just returned from Europe on a 10-day adventure, seven of which were on a fantastic Mediterranean cruise. I'm sure none of you need a reason to go on a cruise across the beautiful Mediterranean sea, but maybe I can suppress some of your worries and encourage you just a bit more.
1. You don't have to live out of your suitcase.
This is important. On a cruise ship, you can unpack, make yourself at home, spread out, and enjoy. Unlike hotels, where you're afraid to even put your bare feet on the floor, you can unpack and enjoy the luxurious staterooms on your ship.
2. Planning excursions is much simpler.
Traveling across Europe via plane, making your own plans is difficult and confusing, not to mention expensive. When on a cruise ship, the excursions come to your port, pick you up, and drop you off right back at the port. However, excursions via the cruise line are typically expensive, so look for your own and plan with other passengers.
3. The entertainment is unbeatable.
When traveling Europe, after a day of sightseeing, you're not really in the mood to find your own entertainment or gourmet dinner for the evening. On a cruise ship, it's all provided for you, including complimentary gourmet dinners and even Broadway musicals!
4. Waking up never felt better.
Sure, waking up in a hotel in the middle of Barcelona is awesome, but what's even better is waking up in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea, stepping out onto your balcony, and seeing the beautiful sunrise reflect off the sea and the distant landscape.
5. You get a break.
Alright, let's face it, social media is a drag. Listening to everyone complain about today's political atmosphere drains you. Good news is, there's no cell service in the middle of the sea, and international data plans are a rip-off. So, if you can live without your phone for a week, which I encourage, you'll feel much more rejuvenated. (Wifi breaks for photo uploading is acceptable.)
6. Gambling.
I have never gambled in my life, and I'm not a huge fan of spending my money for a slight reward, but if you're into it than a cruise is your destination. Once off-shore, the casino opens, and it's open all night just for you. Even if you're not a gambler, a few coins in the slot machine can't hurt anyways, right?
7. Customer service.
On a cruise ship, you'll have a stateroom steward. It's the ship's equivalent of a hotel maid, but on steroids. They'll know your name, your favorite color, food, and even make you towel animals every evening for the next day. The staff cares about you, and is there to ensure your vacation goes off without a hitch.
8. The people.
Cruises are a wonderful way to meet new people. Whether it's attending an excursion with them, sitting next to them at dinner, or becoming gambling buddies as you share the opposing slot machines, you'll meet some lifelong friends on cruises, guaranteed.
9. The history.
I'm a history buff, so I can't go to Europe without seeing the Colosseum in Rome, or the ruins of Pompeii. The history in the cities of Europe you'll visit are extraordinary, and you won't regret a tour of them. Even if you found history as your worst subject in school, you'll enjoy seeing it come to life in front of your eyes.