Don't Pay $100 for a Gondola Ride
August 28, 2011 | Bhowatson | Comments (0)
Our library users often ask me, "Where are you travelling to next?" , since they know I'm always planning a future holiday. I get great travel and cruise ideas from the Web and here are a few of the sites I use most often : www.vacationstogo.com , cruisecritic, tripadvisor and fodors.com
From Vacations to Go, I see full lists of possible cruises and it's a super site since there are many helpful hyperlinks...e.g. the ship's name is linked to a listing of its tonnage, number of passengers and a full description of its amenities.
This is my favourite ship, the Azamara Quest, and from the "Boards" where other passengers post their tips on Cruise Critic, I was able to find the laundry room with ease, link up with other passengers before the cruise to plan day trips, and sign up for the Captain's Party. On Cruise Critic, I can give my review of a cruise, (I'm known as librarygirl), and it's great fun adding a Countdown Clock, to your signature.
I don't go anywhere without consulting Tripadvisor for feedback on hotels and locations. It's a wonderful source of information to use when looking for a recommended hotel. I love to check the real photos of bathtubs with rusty drains, torn or holy bed sheets, or the odd interesting bug. These delightful pictures are added by previous hotel guests and are more honest photos than those on the hotel website!
I'm a Fodorite too, which means I post reviews and keep up with information on Fodors.com. Fodors.com gives you the latest on what you need to know to plan a trip and gives you access to forums where you can ask advice of other travellers.
Finally to really feel like you are a savvy traveller, use Concierge.com. That's where you can get super cool lists like What not to do in Venice , a list that includes how to not pay $100 for a Gondola Ride.
Oh, and if you're really cool, you never go to Harry's Bar for a Bellini, (according to Inspector Brunetti).