First timers - 5/06 - Holland Westerdam HELP

lweekswi · #1 (**permalink**) December 1st, 2005, 08:41 AM

This is our first cruise - we decided to do this next year for our vacation instead of taking one of our motorcycle trips.... so I'm trying to gather as much info as possible/website addresses etc. Heck, I'm not even sure where to start to begin to ask questions!!!

First question is what type of clothes to bring along? We're basically jeans/T-shirt kind of people... and I know we need to bring some nicer things along, but don't want to blow my budget in doing so.

Is there a book out there called "cruises for dummies?" haha

Thanks much
Laura Weeks
Wisconsin

Kuki · #2 (**permalink**) December 1st, 2005, 09:48 AM

Hi Laura....
Welcome to the world of cruising!!

I'd recommend starting off with reading all you can in our first timers area..
http://cruisemates.com/articles/firsttime/

Any reason you've chosen Holland America for your first cruise?

If you are more into a casual dress vacation you may want to look at NCL, where suggested dress codes are more relaxed, and there formal dress is completely optional.

Sheffie · #3 (**permalink**) December 1st, 2005, 05:56 PM

Laura, congratulations on taking your first cruise. You won't be sorry!

***edited to delete commercial reference****

Also, here is a fantastic site with lots of information. Remember that everyone doesn't do, nor take all of the things mentioned on this list.
http://mysite.verizon.net/vzepx5q3/

Have a great cruise!

Luanne Russo · #4 (**permalink**) December 1st, 2005, 06:22 PM

There is a book called Cruising for Dummies.

As others have said, there is so much info on here, and don't be shy about asking us questions. We like Newbies

Luanne

lweekswi · #5 (**permalink**) December 2nd, 2005, 06:06 AM

Thanks for the advice - I've done Hours of reading in the last day or so, and am looking forward to getting my husband dressed up *lol* Change is a good thing right? Even if only on those few occasions.

We put our deposit down this afternoon - have our airfare all set (thanx to Frequent Flyer Miles) and hotel in Seattle... just have to wait and keep gathering information!!!!!

We chose Holland mainly because of price at this point... wanting some nice, but not costly for our first time.

I'm excited!!!

I plan on bringing a laptop (my husband works out of the home) digital camera along with an extra memory card.... what about cam corder? I don't want to be lugging alot of "stuff" around.

These boards a great - thanks so much for the help!!!

Laura
Wisconsin