Cashing In On The “Off-Season”’ i : i WD —aAS, Savvy travelers drive downtravel c osts by vacationing during certain seasons. (NAPSA)—Many knowledgeable vacationers have found that saving money on trips can have more to do with when you go than where you go. For instance, cruise lines tend to have two “value seasons”’— spring and fall. During those seasons, travelers can save as much as 40 percent on a cruise vacation. Of course, it’s no coincidence that both seasons fall on either side of summer—the cruise-ship industry’s busiest season, when demand (and prices) tend to be higher. However, payingless for your cruise does not mean you have to sacrifice fun or quality. In fact, most cruise lines offer the same amenities during off-season cruises as they do during summer or holidays. For instance, Carnival Cruise Lines offers “Super Saver” prices for three- to eight-day cruises everywhere the companysails, including the Caribbean.Theline’s modern ships feature an array of formal and casual dining options (from upscale supperclubsto poolside eateries and NYC-style delis) as well as children’s facilities and lavish entertainment. Cruise ships also feature an array of bars, lounges and nightclubs that showcase live music and Las Vegas-style revues. In addition, health- and cost-con- scious consumers can find gyms and spas on board to help keep their bodies shipshape while they’re at sea. Saving on cruise tickets doesn’t necessarily mean skimping on rooms, either. For instance, 80 percent of the 1,062 staterooms on Carnival’s Spirit-class ships offer either ocean viewsor private verandas. Younger cruisers can play in children’s facilities stocked with computer labs and indoor climbing mazes, and featuring arts, crafts and other fun activities. For more information, visit www.carnival.com.
