As soon as I saw that murano glass bead necklace I knew it was the best present I could ever make. However, you are not at all obliged to take my word for it or have the same tastes as I do, so here are some of the reasons why glass beads make the perfect gift.

First of all, the gift should be meaningful. The history behind italian glass is the first aspect you should consider. This type of glass has been produced in Murano since 1292 and before that, it was produced in Venice. The thought alone that you could be one of the owners of glass bead bracelets or a murano glass bead necklace whose history dates back to more than seven hundred years is meaningful enough.

Second of all, as I have said before, the perfect gift should be of superior quality. Over seven hundred years beads jewelry have been manufactured by Italians, so it is only fair to say that they have the necessary experience to make a great quality product. Moreover, these beads have no lead or nickel in them, as other jewels do, so again the quality of these products cannot be questioned.

Third of all, the best gift should definitely be beautiful. Now, who can say that a perfectly manufactured murano glass bead necklace is not beautiful? Because there are numerous types of beads, any necklace can be beautiful for it can satisfy even the most demanding of tastes. There are murano beads decorated with flowers, with silver or gold, they come in many different shapes, a multitude of colors and because there are so many manufacturing techniques, every murano glass bead necklace is unique.

Fourth of all, murano bead bracelets, for example, are sophisticated, glamorous, high maintenance,I might say, but they are also very practical. They can a gbe a perfect match to an evening dress, a casual dress or, why not, even jeans. This is due to the fact that murano jewelry are versatile. They complete any outfit and enrich it, making even a casual outfit look glamorous.

And last, but certainly not least, the perfect gift should take your breath away. When you see colors, shapes, quality, history, you are bound to remain breathless, at least for a few seconds. Murano glass beads have all these qualities and many more, just waiting to be discovered by their owner.

So, maybe there are many other “perfect” gifts out there, waiting to be discovered, but I found this one and I am not about to let it go that easy. A bead necklace is the perfect gift, as I have been trying to tell you, and if you need more proof, then buy this present for some you love and watch their reaction. Then you will understand perfectly what I am talking about.

Unfortunately for the collector, much Kramer jewelry from the ’50s and ’60s was unmarked and had only a paper tag attached to identify it. If you do see a signature, it will most likely be “Kramer”, “Kramer of N.Y.” or “Kramer of New York. Look for the signature on the clip of an earring, or on the clasp of a necklace or bracelet. Other marks include the rare “Amourelle” from 1963, and “Kramer Sterling” which may or may not date from the WWII years when sterling silver was used in jewelry in place of other metals that were needed for the war effort. Kramer jewelry is famous for its quality, and for the use of vibrantly colored rhinestones with creative settings. Radiant red and orange, striking dark blue, glowing topaz, and elegant black rhinestones, along with plastic decorations, gave Kramer jewelry great variety and style.

For the collector, I think a great place to look for vintage Kramer jewelry is at estate sales. If you haven’t tried it, this is a wonderful way to shop for vintage items of any kind. Check your newspaper and Craigslist for weekly listings of estate sales in your area, and sign up for the agent’s email mailing list for future sales. Often sales in older neighborhoods will have vintage costume jewelry for sale. Tip: On the last day of the estate sale items may be marked 50% off. The selection is best at the beginning of the sale, of course, but the best prices can be found towards the end.

As with any collectible costume jewelry, it’s important to be prepared: Bring a magnifying glass or jeweler’s loupe with you to check the condition of the piece. If you’re buying for your own collection, and not for investment purposes, you may be more flexible with condition flaws. If it’s for investment, it must be flawless. Do you like the piece? Will you wear it or display it or just store it away to be admired from time to time? If the piece is signed by the designer that increases its value. Is the original box or tag included? Again, increased value is there.

Whatever your reasons, and just the simple enjoyment of having beautiful vintage jewelry is more than enough, become educated, do research, ask questions, and you’ll soon be able to spot vintage Kramer, or other designer costume jewelry to add to your collection.

Rosary beads are a circular string of beads used to count off prayers and decades while reciting the rosary. So how do we personalize our rosary beads? The answer lies in choosing the right materials to represent us as individuals. Rosary beads can be made from a myriad of different metals and gems, and with so many different materials to choose from it is easy to find the right one.

The precious metals used in rosary beads:

Precious metals have a long and fascinating history. Each of the precious metals has it’s own qualities and it’s own legends. When choosing the right metals for your rosary beads you simply choose the metal that best suits your personality. Here are a few examples of the precious metals used in rosary beads:

Gold: Gold has had a greater impact on mankind than any other substance on earth. It was the search for gold that fueled early exploration and discovery, and gold was the reason behind some of the largest mass migrations in history. Gold is also the first atomic element mentioned in the Bible: Genesis 2:10-12. Because of it’s impact on mankind gold has become a symbol of progress. Gold prayer beads are perfect for those who consider their selves to be forward thinkers.

Platinum: Platinum is one of the rarest and most valuable metals on earth. Platinum is so rare, in fact, that all of the platinum ever mined would not fill up the average living room. Platinum is also a very durable metal. So durable that when King Louis XVI ordered Mark Etienne Janity to create an international weight standard, Janity used platinum so as to make sure the standard was never corrupted. Because of it’s durability platinum has come to symbolize steadfastness and stability. Platinum rosary beads are great for the person who seeks stability in their life.

Silver: The history of silver dates back more than five thousand years, to ancient Samaria and Chaldea. For most of history silver was considered nearly as valuable as gold. In fact, most ancient coinage was made of silver, rather than gold. It was not until the discovery of the Americas, and the large silver deposits found there, that silver began to depreciate in value. Silver has always bean linked to the feminine and the passive, and is symbolic of the moon. Silver has been used in rosary beads for hundreds of years because it is believed to be a good conductor of the soul.

Gold, platinum, silver; these metals are all beautiful and well suited for rosary beads. It is up to you to choose the one that best represents you as an individual.

The gemstones used in rosary beads:

Gemstone history is rich in legend and lore. Since the dawn of time gemstones have been revered for their beauty and mythical powers. The use of gemstones in Christianity is believed to date bake to a garment worn by the High Priest Aaron. Aaron was instructed to make a breastplate of linen, gold, and twelve gemstones. Each gemstone was to represent one of the twelve tribes, one of the signs of the zodiac, and also one of the months of the year. Today gemstones are widely used in rosary beads. Finding the right gemstone for your rosary is as easy as looking in the mirror; you simply choose the gemstone that best represents you. Here is a rundown of the history and lore of gemstones to help you decide:

Amethyst: Ancients believed amethyst would protect them from drunkenness. In fact its name is taken from the Greek “A-methystos”, meaning, “not drunken”. Legend has it that Bacchus, the Greek god of wine, grew angry with mortals, and vowed that the next mortal to cross his path would be eaten by tigers. Just then a young maiden named Amethyst was on her way to worship the Goddess Diana. Diana, Knowing of Bacchus’ plan turned Amethyst into a statue of colorless quartz to save her from the tiger’s teeth. Bacchus, seeing this repented and cried tears of wine over the young Amethyst, staining her purple. Amethyst is the birthstone of February, the zodiac stone for Pisces, and was one of the gems used in the breastplate of Aaron. Amethyst rosary beads represent high thought, and are perfect for those who feel specially connected to their spirituality.

Moonstone: Moonstones are said to bring balance to life, and to calm emotion and fear. Many cultures throughout history have regarded moonstones as sacred, because their iridescent luster is reminiscent of the moon. Moonstones are especially connected to the water signs of the zodiac, and are believed to bring good luck. Moonstone rosary beads are perfect for those who seek balance in their lives.

Lapis Lazuli: Lapis lazuli is a beautiful deep blue stone with hints of violet. The ancient Egyptians prized lapis lazuli for it’s beauty and workability, and often used it to carve vases and figurines. Lapis lazuli has always been believed to have healing powers, and is still believed to expand the mind, and be very conductive to creativity. Lapis lazuli is the traditional birthstone for December’ and is the zodiac stone for Libra. Lapis Lazuli rosary beads are best suited for the creative and open-minded person.

Jade: Jade is a stunning gemstone usually of a deep green color, although it is sometimes found in other colors, such as yellow, pink, purple, and black. Ancient eastern cultures believed that jade could increase body strength and add longevity. Jade has long been a symbol of love and virtue, and is the birthstone of March, as well as the zodiac stone for Virgo. Jade rosary beads are perfect for the virtuous and pure of heart.

Onyx: Onyx is the birthstone for August, and the zodiac stone for Leo. In Greek mythology onyx was created when one day while Venus was sleeping Eros cut her fingernails and left the clippings scattered on the ground. Because no part of a heavenly body can die, the gods turned them into stone, which later became known as onyx. Onyx is thought to bring happiness, as well as help to break bad habits. Onyx rosary beads are well suited for the strong willed.

These are just a few of the gemstones used in rosary beads. There are literally hundreds of different gemstones, representing hundreds of different personality types. Whether you are creative, strong willed, virtuous, or any other personality type you can think of, there are rosary beads out there that perfectly represent you as an individual. Here is a good page to view rosary beads.

Where is the best place to purchase rosary beads:

To get an idea of the different styles and prices that are available in rosary beads it is more convenient to view them online before shopping around at local jewelry or religious stores.

Retail jewelers and religious outlets will sometimes carry a small selection of rosary beads, but you are most apt to find a greater selection online. Just type “rosary beads” into an Internet search engine like Google or Yahoo and you will find several reliable websites that specialize in rosary beads.

The cost of rosary beads is dependant upon many variables, such as the type and size of gemstone or precious metal used. On average rosary beads should cost about $60 to $300, but can get far more expensive.

An essential part of our religious lives:

Rosary beads have long been an essential part of our religious lives. The counting of the decades of the rosary is a highly personal experience, and the rosary beads we use to help the counting should be personal too. With so many gemstones and precious metals now available, personalizing your rosary beads could not be easier. No matter what your personality traits, there is a rosary out there for you.

Rule number one, in order for a ring to be considered an antique; it has to be fifty years old. If it is less then that, then it is what is called an estate ring, these rings are one to forty nine years old.

There are three distinct styles of antique rings; they are the Victorian Era (1835-1900), Edwardian Era (1900-1920) and the Art Deco Era (1920-1930). Each style has its own unique styling features for the three eras.

The Victorian Era rings were usually made out of yellow or rose colored gold. They had diamonds, but also would use different gemstones such as rubies, sapphires, emeralds, pearls, topaz just to name a few. They also like to use colored diamonds that had yellow, rose or green tints to them. The designs ranged from simple to extremely elegant. The diamonds from that era also had what was referred to as the mine cut, which was an extra facet row cut at the bottom of the diamond. This was done to help the rings sparkle in candle light environments. Some consider the Victorian rings to be the most romantic of engagement rings.

The Edwardian Era rings were the first engagement rings to be made of platinum. It was the invention of the oxyacetylene torch that made it possible to work with platinum. Most of these had rose cut diamonds or sapphires in them. The rings had scrollwork, filigree detail, milgraining, and lacy and pierced shapes in them. They are very elegant looking rings.

The Art Deco Era rings had Native American, Egyptian and Asian influences in there designs. A lot of these style rings were made of platinum. These rings had colorful stones as well as diamonds in them. The rings at the end of the era went for a streamlined geometric design with diamonds in them.

It is important to remember that the jewelers of this period graded their diamonds on a different scale then do modern jewelers. Back then, the color and contrast of the stones was for more important then clarity. Modern diamonds are mainly white in color, so that is why clarity is such an issue with modern stones.

As far as to where to get these rings, there are many places to acquire them from. The best and cheapest way, is for it to be a family heirloom form either the bride or grooms family. There is no guessing involved, and the history of the rings in known. Buying from a reputable antique seller or jeweler is your next best option. Make sure that they offer you a written guarantee of return and that they have the history of the ring, most good sellers will some kind history for the rings. Estate sales are another good place to get antique rings, just make sure that you have a certified gemologist certify the rings authenticity and workmanship. Pawn shops can be another place, but make sure they offer a money back guarantee, so that you may get the ring checked out. Online sellers are also an option, just do your homework and check out the seller to make sure they are legitimate.

To sum up, an antique engagement ring is a good idea for couples; just check them out, so that you know what you are getting. One could end up with a very good deal on an engagement ring that they couldn’t otherwise afford.

What was the actual love quotient between Cleopatra and Antony?

Cleopatra has always been a diehard fan of the vivacious green emerald gemstone. Initial recorded mining of emerald was encouraged fully during her reign. This mesmerizing gemstone is called as “Marakat” in Sanskrit. ‘Mara’ means desert and ‘Kata’ means sea coast. Maybe, the influence is evident on name as it was mined in mines between the Nile and the Red Sea.

It is believed that Cleopatra gifted her emerald carved image to dignitaries who visited her kingdom.

The Egyptian belief was that green color is the symbol of immortality. Moreover, Cleopatra was famous for her lovely beauty all across the world. Maybe, that’s why she was fascinated by the mystical powers of this gemstone. It could always keep her beauty fresh with years passing by. Maybe she believed this that emerald could always keep her romance alive with Mark Antony.

In modern times, this vivifying gemstone is seen persistently in major jewelry shows and retail outlets as a major attraction. This Valentine’s Day, emerald jewelry is marked with a special mushy touch to create that alluring piece for your lady. To make your darling melt, Emerald Engagement Rings are a delicacy for eyes.

Engagement rings with such a gemstone are seen from subtle to ornate styles. People with various choices can opt for anyone within a varied number of choices offered. Be it with or without diamonds, such exclusive embellishments prove to be a versatile purchase with a gift of durability. It provides a solidifying bond for your affectionate relationship.

Best alluring emerald gemstone rings within yellow and white gold blend within your emotional depth of your adulation for her. Soothing intensity of this gemstone compliments your relationship adding love and enjoyment for lifetime. No wonder, Cupid turns them as a favorite for lovers this time. America as a largest consumer of emerald jewelry provides a favorable habitat to let grow of jewelry business focused on emerald.

They say that now, emerald deposits are known in five continents. South America majors amongst them in highest production of emerald roughs mined. These are formed during events like continental collisions. This results in rise of large mountain complexes, extended fault zones, regional metamorphic overprints and eventually to further uplift and erosion.

This is a precious colored gemstone which has been dazzling the world with its matchless beauty since the age of kings and queens.

Smith & Wesson is one of the world’s most recognizable brands, and for good reason. No wonder, the company is now branching out into other areas such as outdoor products, watches and more.

The Smith & Wesson Tritium watches are the easiest in the world to read in low light conditions and even in total darkness. This military watch style is an excellent choice for sportsman, police and the military. Smith & Wesson Tritium watches have a self activated light source that is 100 times brighter then any previous available. The light emitting devices require no battery power or any other form of charging, and never need servicing or maintenance.

Smith & Wesson watches are equipped with a tritium light source. These small, airtight ampules, sealed under high pressure, are resistant to oil, water and the most corrosive materials. Unlike the old style radium watch dials, tritium is not hazardous, since the particles used cannot even pass through a piece of paper.

These qualities have made Smith & Wesson Tritium watches an absolute must in the emergency, safety, and protection areas, as well as in the armed forces, but they are also ideal for fans of adventure and sport. Smith & Wesson watches are top quality Swiss component watches, extremely strong, and famously trustworthy. A choice of fashionable colors and timeless, bold designs complete these remarkable timepieces.

Types & Designs

Whether shopping for a man, woman, boy or girl, you’ll find fine gold jewelery for men and women of all ages. Designers and manufacturers produce gold jewelery to cater to various demographic segments relating to the sexes and to different age groups.

For men, you can get cufflinks, tie pin tacks, pocket watches, money clips, chains, belt buckles, blazer buttons, necklaces, bracelets, earrings and much more. It’s also possible to get mens gold jewelery with different combinations of both precious metals and precious stones.

For women, you can get bracelets, ankle chains, necklaces, broaches, earrings, rings, bands, pendants, belly button rings, wrist watches and much more. Depending on your own sense of style, you might want to combine your 18k gold jewelery or 22k gold jewelery with other precious metals such as silver or with beautiful gemstones like diamonds, rubies or emeralds.

For children, jewelery might come in different shapes, such as the shapes of animals, or in fun designs that will cater to a younger demographic.

Where to Buy?

When it comes to buying gold jewelery, there are a few sources you can turn to:

- Jewelery Stores: If you’re new to jewelery buying then, this might be the safest route because you’ll be able to talk to the jeweler eyeball to eyeball and to ask any questions you may have. You can find jewelery stores by searching your local business directory of the Internet.

- Online Stores: Plenty of retailers have an online presence, so you can buy from jewelers the world over. If you’re comfortable with the e-commerce thing, the online buying option can be great because you’ll have plenty of opportunities to find some great jewelery.

- Online Auction Sites: Online auction sites such as eBay can be a great way to net great deals. You’ll be able to bid on new and used items via this method. Should you have questions about the merchandise, you can contact the vendor online or via telephone to find out more details.

1. Movado Women’s Amorosa Watch #0604759. Want a watch that looks formal in any attire? This might be the best watch you’re looking for. This is made from Switzerland with Swiss analog movement and quarts for precision. It has stainless steel case, silver toned black dial with concave dot.

2. Bulova Women’s Diamond Chronograph Watch #96R19. Elegance and passion that’s the keyword for this special gift. Perfect this Christmas because of its 16 framed diamonds with white pearl dial of Bulova. It has attractive stainless steel case that is very attractive at the same time it has Japanese quartz for movement.

3. Invicta Women’s II Collection Limited Edition Diamond Chronograph Watch #4718. This is a water resistant watch up to 100 meters. This is another elegant collection perfect this yuletide season. It has a Swiss quartz movement that is coated by sapphire mineral crystal. Also composed of stainless steel case, chronograph functions, a dial made of mother of pearl and bezels of diamonds.

4. Movado Women’s Kara Watch #0605284. It is a functional watch that is elegantly designed as a perfect present this Christmas season. It is made up of Swiss quartz involved in movement at the same time a crystal out of Sapphire. It has a pink dial and case out of stainless steel. Very feminine and flawless in design perfect for your girl.

5. Seiko Women’s Coutura Diamond Watch #SXD692. Want something stylish, dramatic, and enchanting present this yuletide season? This Seiko Women’s Coutura Diamond Watch maybe the one you’re looking for. It is composed of sapphire crystal, quartz responsible for movement, and is water resistant up to 330 feet.

6. Seiko Women’s Coutura Diamond Watch #SXD691. This very striking, precious, and elegant watch is environmentally safe. It has quartz for movement, a 26mm case diameter with crystal out of sapphire. It has date function, stainless case out of steel with mother of pearl dial pink lumi bright crystal.

7. Cartier Women’s Francaise Swiss-Quartz Watch #W51008Q3. This is the ultimate and reliable quartz movement out of Swiss with 20 mm case diameter, and thickness of 6mm. It is with deployment clasp of and steel stainless band. Best thing is the visible silver dial grained with blue sword steel hands and dial window that is crystal.

8. Cartier Midsize Francaise Swiss-Quartz Watch #W51011Q3. This beautiful watch is made up of a stainless and sturdy case plus a secured deployment clasp bracelet. It is indeed a sapphire crystal that is resistant with scratch. There is Roman numeral markers with a Swiss made quartz movement plus a date featured 3 o’clock.

9. TAG Heuer Women’s 2000 Aquaracer Watch #WAF1414.BA0812. Can this be your number 1 choice in giving away a watch this Christmas? It has a TAG Heuer quartz movement out of Swiss. It is for ladies who are energetic at the same time stylish and sporty. If your loved one loves water sports, this is the ultimate match for her!

10. Timex Women’s Classic Bracelet Watch #T29271. Want some exciting and elegant watch? This is good for ladies because of its stylish stainless silverstone steel. It has easy read dial with mineral crystal in white. It is made up of quartz movement in analog style. It is a classic and updated style of Timex perfect this Christmas 2008.

This is the Top 10 Women Watches – Gift for Her – Christmas Gifts for 2008 that is truly a perfect gift for your loved one. Enjoy spending quality time with your family this yuletide season.

Wrist watches have graduated long bak from being mere timepieces. As of now, the latest models of many a Cartier, Rolex, and other well-known brandnames are being made available to cater to a growing demand for the same. Imitation watches in all their different forms are now being made available for you and it is really up to you to decide which one of the models you would like to sport.

You could use the latest replica Rolex daytona watches for making a mark on people. Or, you could go for other replica designer watches of brands such as Cartier, Tag heuer, and Chopard depending on which you thing would be the best for you. A wide assortment of brand names and modeels from specific brands are available that would give you a great leeway in selecting the one that you would be really proud of wearing. As a matter of fact, you could sport one of the replica designer watches to declare you achievements to the world, albeit in a very subtle way.

Another group of people that could go for these imitation watches are the tech-savvy ones. These watches are clever representations of the originals and no worse for being fakes. As a matter of fact, a lot of technical know-how and expertise go into the making of these fake watches. Consequently, the technically inclined people and people having a fad for the latest gizmos are more that happy with the timepieces on offer.

And the best part is that these imitation watches can be put to a lot of rough use. You need not be sacred of wearing any of the models of these fake watches, while you are in the beach for instance. The designs are undoubtedly elegant; however, there is also the factor of durability that is built into these exquisite timepieces so that you are not deprived of the joy of wearing your favourite accessory on your day out. The fact that the costs of these products are comparatively less also go a long way in ensuring that these watches are used extensively; you would obviously wear your replica Rolex daytona with a more relaxed mind. The tension that you might inadvertently loose or damage your timepiece is also minimal.

Last but not the least, in replica designer watches, you could go for colors that match your sense of style and are a reflection of your personality. These are moderately priced, affordable and would make you feel like your favourite actor or singer.

So, the question is among all the models of replica designer watches, which one are you sporting?

From the moment you step on board for the first time your senses tell you that you are in for a ride. The air is electrified with excitement as you enter the main atrium and are greeted by ship staff (one ship we stayed on announced each family over the ship PA system as you stepped off the gangway into the atrium – wow, talk about making you feel special).

Here are some of the activities you can experience on board as well as on shore and I think you will agree that boredom is not an option while cruising throughout the warm waters of the Caribbean.

Pool Deck

Poolside is always a boisterous place with people swimming, hanging out in the hot tubs, sitting at the bar enjoying a drink, or just sitting around a table with friends talking about what’s next. This is where the band is setup and it is common to see people being lead into some sort of dance by a crew member. Our days usually start and end around the pool deck.

Throughout the day there will be organized events on the stage by the pool. This could be a special dance, a hairy chest contest – usually for the men, a men against the women challenge which usually involves some silly activity that both parties attempt, or some other fun event. Mind you that these activities are always tasteful and can be enjoyed by the whole family.

Sports Deck

Up top there is usually a basketball court where you can shoot a few hoops or play a full game in an event arranged by the crew, play some volleyball or as on one ship get a chance to ride a Segway – a two wheeled upright people mover. On the sports deck you can usually find a few ping pong tables, mini golf, or even an inline skate track. On Royal Caribbean’s Mariner of the Seas, as well as other’s in their fleet, they have a 30′ Rock Climbing Wall. The ship provided all the safety gear including helmets and harnesses and trained crew members took care of belaying for each climber.

SPA and Gym

If you feel like working out you will find a well complimented gym containing various pieces of exercise equipment such as treadmills, exercise bikes, elliptical trainers, weight machines and free weights. They offer aerobic classes and for any who decide to start an exercise regime onboard you can have one of the personal fitness trainers guide you through a program designed for your fitness level.

For the ultimate in pampering – hey that’s what cruises do best – you can sign up for special spa treatment such as a facial, pedicure, neck massage, back massage, or even a full body wrap. They even offer the full cosmetic treatment so you can spend the day getting ready for the formal night.

Bars and Lounges

Need a break from the sun and heat then you can head indoors to one of the many bars and lounges that your ship will offer. Do you fancy sports then head to the sports bar and watch the latest game. On our last cruise we watched the Super Bowl game on a big screen set up on the pool deck.

Maybe you are in the mood for a stogey so why not head to the cigar club, or if music is your thing head off to the piano bar for some soothing sounds and if you feel like joining in, why not, the pianist always loves a little company as you get a chance to sing one of your favorite melodies.

Once night hits you can pull out your dancing shoes and head off to the disco and for a little boogeying.

Casino

With the exception of the Disney Magic every other ship we have been on had a casino. Now I am not much of a gambler but even I tried my hand at roulette – and won! Before stepping onto a cruise ship the only gambling I did was buying the friday night lottery ticket so needless to say I was a little intimidated to take part in anything other than the slots. Now I wanted to try one of the tables, blackjack, roulette, poker, whatever but didn’t know the rules so I hung around the tables and just watched people playing trying to pick up the rules. Well the dealers are more than willing to help with the rules so you can ask them questions and they will explain the rules as you go. They even offer training sessions throughout the cruise so that you can have a chance to try your hand at a game without having to pony up any cash. Just think about it for a moment why wouldn’t they want to help you afterall the odds are in their favor that they will end up with your cash anyway. Now me and my buddies are regular fun gamblers and will head to the casino for a night or two to have a bit of fun and try to win a few bucks at the same time. I have a limit so I put aside $100 to gamble with and once it’s gone I’m gone. But you know the three times I played roulette I came out a winner each time – it feels good to go home with the casino’s money.

Kids Club

The Kids Club is a fun filled place for the younger cruisers to hang out with friends of their own age. Qualified cruise staff are always in the club to supervise the children and lead them in various activities such as games, crafts, tours, and sports. There is a separate club for each age group so you don’t have to worry about your 6 year old hanging with the teens. At some point during the cruise they usually have one night classified as a late night where the kids get a chance to stay up late with their pals. This also works great for the parents as they get a chance to dine at one of the private dining rooms sans children.

You can give permission for the older kids to sign themselves in and out of the club but younger children must be signed in and out by a pre-approved parent or guardian.

So there is no need to worry about the younger set being bored lounging by the pool all day with mom and dad. Instead you may be wondering why they seem to be having more fun than you.

Library

Did you forget to bring a book, no problem, head off to the ships library and take out novel to read or just take a break and sit in the quiet of the library and flip a few pages.

Internet Cafe

Just because you are cruising doesn’t mean that you have to be disconnected from the rest of the world, although for many, me included, that is the idea. You can head to the Internet Cafe and send an email to all your envious friends back home or just surf the net for a while and catch up on the latest happenings.

Chapel

You will find a chapel on board that can accommodate a small group – did I hear someone say they wanted to get married! On our last cruise one of the members of our group got married on board just before the ship sailed on our first day. Now that’s a romantic wedding!

Restaurants

Food will probably be one of your most memorable experiences onboard. There is lots of it and the variety will suit even the pickiest of eaters. Most will agree that the quality and quantity of food alone pays for the cruise as you could not afford to eat on land like you do on a cruise ship and spend less money than the cost of the cruise. It’s great to be able to order off a menu that doesn’t have any prices.

While the food in the main dining rooms and buffets is nothing short of fantastic for those who might like to experience more romantic dining in a quieter atmosphere there is usually separate dining rooms that you can reserve for a small fee (usually around $20 per person). I have never found the food any better but the atmosphere is certainly more romantic.

Entertainment

There is no shortage of entertainment to be enjoyed onboard. You have the pool deck band, the piano bar, karaoke, but the best of all is the evening entertainment in the main theatre. After a great meal in the dining room you can head to the main theatre where every night you get to experience a broadway like show with singers dancers and a live band. What a way to end your day!

Shopping

Did you forget something at home hey don’t worry because you can head to the shopping deck and browse around for a new shirt or dress, or buy a new sun hat. If you are in the mood to splurge you can head to the jewelry store and pick out a new diamond ring or the latest Tag Heuer watch. Most ships even offer price guarantees that protect you if you find the same item in one of the port of calls at a cheaper price.

Shore Excursions

Probably one the best parts of cruising is having the opportunity to explore some of the many islands scattered throughout the Caribbean. So not only do you get to experience great dining and entertainment on board but you also get a chance to get off the ship and head off to some exotic island for a day trip. Imagine yourself lounging on a beautiful sandy beach in St. Martin or zip lining through the jungles of Belize, my favorite. Maybe you just want to hop a cab and do some site seeing around the island.

Whatever your fancy you are bound to find it somewhere along your Caribbean cruise.