Who do you trust for reviews?

While I suspected it for a long time it has recently been confirmed that many of the web sites offering advice and reviews on hotels, resorts, and cruise ships are being manipulated by parties with vested interests. Referrals are common practice when hiring a contractor or buying a car. After all investing a large sum of money is scary stuff. So, too, when purchasing a cruise vacation. If you are not familiar with a cruise line or particular ship, it makes sense to try to seek some informed opinions.

So how do you assure yourself your money is being well spent? Sure, you can still turn to the travel advice web sites. They are valuable as long as you understand people's opinions vary. Take every thing you read there with lots of grains of salt. Compare lots of reports and see if you get a consensus.

Better idea? Seek the advice of a good, experienced travel agent. One who takes the time to ask lots of questions and compares offerings with you. One who has been on many cruises, toured the ships, and sailed several itineraries. One who has demonstrated proficiency with certifications by professional trade associations and cruise lines.

Your time is valuable. You can spend hours searching web sites or you can contact a professional travel agent.