Do you have any advice for me as I am planning on going on my first cruise ever, I'm single, middle aged. What am I to expect?What is the best place to start with? Europe, Caribbean or Alaska? Would appreciate your views.

Depends on your lifestyle and what you usually like to do on vacation.<BR><BR>Paul

You don't give what your interests are and that is very important when planning a cruise. I am VERY port oriented. I take a cruise that will get me to spots that I couldn't see more easily by land. Alaska is a good bet but take the Denali trip to really see the animals in addition. On that one I can give excellent advice on shore excursions you can book yourself without dealing with the cruise ship. Loved our Scandanavian Cruise but be prepared to spend big bucks on the shore excursions (well worth the money but a LOT of money). If you just want the cruise ship experience without any hassel, go for the Caribbean. That's just a floating vacation. Not MY thing but it works if you are simply into rest, relaxation, sun and water sports. We have been nearly everywhere so if you come up with a specific spot you'd like to try, feel free to email me and I will send more detailed information.

My first and only cruise was from Los Angeles to Vancouver...a 3 day cruise. I suggest you try this first beforehand. The seas were quite choppy all the way up the coast.It is a straight line up to Vancouver, no stops along the way. We were booked in the Monaco Suite on the Dawn Princess. It was fabulous! The 3 day cruise was just about enough for me.

My first and only cruise was from Los Angeles to Vancouver...a 3 day cruise. I suggest you try this first beforehand. The seas were quite choppy all the way up the coast, this was in May. Cruise is a straight shot up to Vancouver, no stops along the way. We were booked in the Monaco Suite on the Dawn Princess. That was fabulous! The 3 day cruise was just about enough for me, though.