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Two years on since the Beirut port explosion

It’s been two years since the devastating port explosion that rocked Lebanon and saw the country slowly become even more poor. The terrifying explosion killed 218 people, wounded 7,000 and damaged 77,000 apartments, displacing more than 300,000 people in the already struggling country. Covid was well underway with hospitals already under pressure, but the explosion saw them suddenly overflowing with injured citizens desperate for help. People are saying that the country’s stay-at-home orders saved lives which would have otherwise seen hundreds of thousands on the roads, at work and at the beach near the exploded port. But two years on and the residents are still struggling through the worst economic crisis in 30 years. Electricity runs for an hour a day unless you have a deal with electricity companies, there is also no running water, no bread, no gas, and much more. And it’s only expected to get worse in winter when temperatures plummet and families struggle to keep their loved ones, particularly the elderly, warm. Even putting food on the table has become more difficult with grocery prices soaring exponentially – almost 10 times what they were back in 2019. Families are being forced to ration and even resort to basics. There have been several protests calling for an end to the widespread corruption and tax increases. Will the politicians listen? Probably not, as this has been a long-running issue for Lebanon. Despite all this heartache, Lebanon remains the Paris of the Middle East and is likened to a phoenix, a mythical bird that is born again from the ashes of its predecessor. But what can we do to help Lebanon? Go and visit. Lebanon’s economy continues to rely on tourism and is a stunning summer/spring destination. Travellers will be in awe at the beauty of the Middle Eastern country which is constantly bringing Aussie tourists in. From its capital city Beirut, to Byblos in the seaside of the north of the country, Tyre, also known as Sour (pronounced soor), Harissa and many more it is certainly the place to be. It comes as the Lebanese Ministry of Tourism launched a tourism campaign to bring in Lebanese expats to come to the country during the 2022 summer season. The campaign was dubbed “Ahla Bha Talle,” in reference to a song by late and prominent Lebanese singer Sabah. So in reference to that TikTok video “Yallah come to Lebanon habibi” (Come to Lebanon my love). Images: Twitter

Travel Trouble

7 free activities to do at a port stop

Having a fun during your port stops doesn’t mean you have to spend lots of money. Depending on where you have stopped, there are various activities that you can spend your time doing that will still allow you to soak up the country that you are in. 1. Beach Beaches not only provide some of the most beautiful views on earth but they are an enjoyable activity that requires no money. You can spend your time taking in some Vitamin D, reading a book, searching for seashells or cooling off in the crystal waters. 2. Explore Depending on where you are, you can choose to go on a nice walk to take in the outdoor views or explore the streets and local life. You will be able to stretch your legs, take in the views and you will also be bound to meet some friendly faces that might be willing to give you some insider tips to where to go next. If you prefer not to walk too much when you explore, research prior to your trip to see if there are any free bus rides where you are stopping. 3. Tour the city If you have great navigation skills, don’t bother paying for a tour but visit the most prominent sites by yourself. From churches, to statutes and museums, you can explore the history of the location on your own terms. This will allow you to spend more time on the places you don’t want to rush or skip the attractions that don’t interest you at all. 4. Browse markets Markets are often free and will definitely entertain you as you browse through the local handmade goods and food. If you find some cheap items you can also purchase them as souvenirs and save yourself from spending lots of money at the tourist trap shops. You will also be supporting locals who may need the money. The markets will also provide a lot of options to meet different people. Be sure to know the conversion rate before you go to the markets so you don’t get ripped off. 5. See live music Live music is delightful to watch in another country and is a great way to see how the country’s culture and history has influenced the music. Live music can be found anywhere whether it be in front of prominent attractions, street corners or in bars. If you stumble upon an act that you enjoy, feel free to dance along or start clapping. Be aware of pickpocket thieves when you listen to live music as they love crowds. 6. People-watch People-watching is a great way to learn about the culture of a country. If you feel like relaxing in a park or at a café, be sure to pick a spot that gives you a great view of the crowds. You will be easily entertained watching people going about their lives oblivious of your gaze. 7. Attend local events There are so many local events on in all countries around the world, it is just a matter of being aware of where they are and what time they are occurring. Check out the events calendars for your cruise ports to see which events take your fancy. What free activities are your favourite in cruise ports? Let us know in the comments below.

Cruising

Charging your phone using a public port is dangerous

Have you ever used a public charging station to charge your mobile phone when it runs out of battery? If so, watch out for “juice jacking”. Cybercriminals are on the prowl to infect your mobile devices such as smartphones and tablet computers and access your personal data, or install malware while you charge them. Specifically, <a href="https://dl.acm.org/doi/pdf/10.1145/2732198.2732205">juice jacking</a> is a cyber attack in which criminals <a href="https://securelist.com/wired-mobile-charging-is-it-safe/74804/">use publicly accessible USB charging ports or cables</a> to install malicious software on your mobile device and/or steal personal data from it. Even a <a href="https://media.blackhat.com/us-13/US-13-Lau-Mactans-Injecting-Malware-into-iOS-Devices-via-Malicious-Chargers-WP.pdf">60-second power-up</a> can be enough to compromise your phone’s data. This is because USB cables allow the transmission of both power and data streams simultaneously. Victims can be left vulnerable to identity theft, financial fraud, and significant stress. USB charging stations are a common sight in shopping centres, airports, hotels, fast-food restaurants, and even on public transport. While juice jacking is neither <a href="https://securelist.com/wi-fi-security-and-fake-acdc-charges-threaten-your-data-at-the-2014-world-cup/63759/">new</a> nor particularly widespread so far, it was recently highlighted by <a href="http://da.lacounty.gov/about/inside-LADA/juice-jacking-criminals-use-public-usb-chargers-steal-data-ff">Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office</a> as a significant threat, especially to travellers who can easily find themselves caught short and in need of a battery boost. How does it work? First, the attackers tamper with the charging stations or cables in public areas, and install malicious software on them. This software then infects the phones of unsuspecting users who subsequently plug into the tampered charger. The software can invade, damage or even disable your phone. It can also steal or delete data from your phone and possibly spy on your usage activity, to the extent of transmitting your personal information such as account numbers, usernames, passwords, photos, and emails to the perpetrator. How can I tell if I’ve been juice jacked? Hacked mobile devices will often go undetected. But there are a few telltale signs that your device may have been hacked. These include: <ul> <li> a sudden surge in battery consumption or rapid loss of charge, indicating a malicious app may be running in the background </li> <li> the device operating slower than usual, or restarting without notice </li> <li> apps taking a long time to load or frequently crashing </li> <li> excessive heating </li> <li> changes to device settings that you did not make </li> <li> increased or abnormal data usage. </li> </ul> How do I protect myself? The tampering of USB charging stations or USB cables is almost impossible to identify. But there are some simple ways to guard against juice jacking: <ul> <li> avoid USB power charging stations </li> <li> use AC power outlets rather than USB ports </li> <li> use a portable battery power bank (your own, not a borrowed one!) </li> <li> carry your own charging cable and adaptor </li> <li> use a data-blocker device such as <a href="http://syncstop.com/">SyncStop</a> or <a href="https://www.amazon.com.au/Juice-Jack-Defender-Security-purchased-employees/dp/B00XYTQ4Q8">Juice-Jack Defender</a>. These devices physically prevent data transfer and only allow power to go through while charging </li> <li> use power-only USB cables such as <a href="https://www.4cabling.com.au/portapow-fast-charge-micro-usb-cable-300cm.html">PortaPow</a>, which don’t pass any data. </li> </ul> And finally, if you must use a charging station, keep your phone locked while doing so. USB ports typically don’t sync data from a phone that is locked. Most mobile phones will ask your permission to give the USB port access to your phone’s data when you plug in. If you’re using an unknown or untrustworthy port, make sure you decline. I think I might have been juice jacked – what can I do? If you suspect you have fallen prey, there are several things you can do to protect your device’s integrity: <ul> <li> monitor your device for unusual activity </li> <li> delete suspicious apps you don’t recall installing </li> <li> restore your device to its factory settings </li> <li> install anti-virus software, such as <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.avast.android.mobilesecurity&hl=en_AU">Avast Antivirus</a> or <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.antivirus&hl=en_AU%22">AVG AntiVirus</a> </li> <li> keep your mobile device’s system software up to date. Developers continually release patches against common types of malware. </li> </ul> A lot of data is stored on our mobile devices these days, and protecting our privacy is crucial. While juice jacking may not be a widespread threat, it is important to ensure the safety of our mobile devices. So, the next time you consider using a public USB charging station or cable, ask yourself if it is worth it, particularly as your personal information is at stake.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important; text-shadow: none !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/130947/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/ritesh-chugh-162770">Ritesh Chugh</a>, Senior Lecturer/Discipline Lead – Information Systems and Analysis, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/cquniversity-australia-2140">CQUniversity Australia</a> This article is republished from <a href="http://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/charging-your-phone-using-a-public-usb-port-beware-of-juice-jacking-130947">original article</a>.

Technology

Venice heartache: Cruise ships asked to find a solution before it's too late

The Venice port authority has called on Europe’s most popular cruise ship destinations to tighten their rules as the dangers posed by the massive vessels are taking a serious toll. Italy’s transport minister has proposed a plan to divert massive shops from porting at Venice’s historic centre after five people were injured when a 13-deck shop hit a tourist boat along the busy Giudecca Canal. The incident resulted in protests calling for big ships to be banned from the gorgeous Venice lagoon all together. Ships weighing more than 1,000 tonnes will have to find a different waterway to settle into. Venetians carried banners reading "Ships out of the lagoon" and "No big ships" while others turned to rowboats in the Venetian Lagoon. Venice hosted 594 cruise ships in 2018, and critics argue the currents created by the vessels are causing costly damages to Renaissance buildings. "They are destroying Venice, they are physically destroying Venice, physically destroying our lungs," activist Tommaso Cacciari told the <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-08-09/venice-bans-large-cruise-ships-from-city-centre/11398434">ABC </a>in March. The cruise ship ban follows after a lengthy campaign by Venice residents for a better and more sustainable tourism model.

Cruising

12 unknown cruise ports that will amaze you

Sail away to these hidden gems. 1. Cienfuegos, Cuba Laid-back French charm meets the fiery Caribbean spirit in this charming town on the southern coast of Cuba. Known as The Pearl of the South, its famous for its well-preserved architecture, lush botanical gardens and sparkling sandy beaches. 2. Khasab, Oman The Middle East is emerging as one of the most exciting new cruise destinations in the world. Khasab is a former Portuguese colony and the capital of the Musandam Peninsula, an area known as the Norway of Oman for its many beautiful fjords running into the sea. 3. Thursday Island, Australia Part of the rarely-visited Torres Strait Islands, TI (as it is known) has a unique mix of Melanesian and indigenous cultures set on a tiny sandy island fringed by aquamarine water. It also has a long pearling history with farms still operating in the region. 4. Puerto Limon, Costa Rica The Caribbean is the most popular cruise destination in the world, but there are still new places to discover. Choose Puerto Limon for its proximity to virgin rainforest teeming with monkeys, crocodiles and sloths. <img width="500" height="333" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/45924/unknown-cruise-port-intext_500x333.jpg" alt="Unknown Cruise Port Intext"/> 5. Monemvasia, Greece Known as the Gibraltar of the East, this small island is dominated by sheer cliffs rising straight up from the sea. The walled medieval village is made up of narrow alleyways, carved stone buildings and historic churches, with a population of just 20 permanent residents. 6. Hambantota, Sri Lanka This new cruise port is the gateway to southern Sri Lanka and the Bundala and Yala national parks. Take an excursion to see leopards, elephants, flamingoes, monkeys, monitor lizards, crocodiles and lots more. 7. Akureyi, Iceland Annual tourist numbers in Iceland are now more than seven times its population, but many don’t go further afield than Reykjavik. Akureyi is the heart of Iceland’s Arctic north, a small but buzzy city with great galleries, cafes and restaurants tucked away at the head of the country’s longest fjord. 8. Tristan da Cunha Get way, way off the beaten track with a cruise to ‘the remotest island on earth’. Tristan da Cunha is a British Overseas Territory midway between South America and Africa in the South Atlantic. It takes seven days at sea to get there, but you’ll be rewarded with rugged volcanic peaks and waters teeming with turtles. 9. Morondava, Madagascar A laid-back seaside town that’s the gateway to some of the most incredible wildlife on earth, Morondava is a new stop for expedition lines. Don't miss the Allees de Baobabs, a prominent group of the iconic Madagascan tree. 10. Hirara, Japan The Okinawa Prefecture is considered the Hawaii of Japan, a long chain of islands with white sand beaches fronting clear blue ocean. Hirara is on the island of Miyako, home to the region’s best beaches as well as sprawling sugarcane fields and a 16th century samurai tomb. 11. Newcastle, Australia Move over Sydney – New South Wales has a new port that cruisers are going to love. A dedicated cruise terminal is currently being built to welcome passengers keen to explore this former industrial hub or take day trips out to the iconic Hunter Valley wine region. 12. Gizo Island, Solomon Islands The South Pacific is the most popular cruise destination in our region, but if you’re looking for something that’s still off the beaten track then head for the Sollys. Gizo has some of the clearest water in the world and is great for snorkelling or diving, plus there’s some fascinating WWII history. Have you ever visited any of these ports? Let us know in the comments below.

Cruising

15 ports with amazing architecture

When travelling around the world it’s important to take a moment to experience the culture of the country you’re visiting. Architecture embodies a destination’s culture, history and uniqueness. These European port stops prove it’s worth taking time to admire a destination’s architecture. So next time you have the opportunity to globe-trot, take a second to appreciate the beauty of these places. Have you visited any of these destinations before? Let us know in the comments below.

Cruising

Port Nelson welcomes its biggest vessel

The 188-metre Sirena arrived on Wednesday morning, bringing 688 passengers and 373 crew into Nelson for a one-day stopover. In terms of passenger numbers, the vessel is understood to be the biggest ever to berth in the city. The vessel's short visit marks a watershed few months for the city in its quest to become a high-end fixture for international travellers. The visitors' presence was evident throughout the city on Wednesday, with buses and guided walking tours showing the sights of the area, while cafes along Trafalgar St were filled with overseas guests sampling the region's hospitality. Others were spotted taking an interest in the property market outside several real estate offices. The Sirena's visit brings to an end a busy summer season, with four super yachts berthed in Nelson as well as the eight cruise ships. The port welcomed its biggest-ever cruise vessel, the 225m-long Europa 2 with 515 passengers, prior to Christmas, as well as the 43,188 ton "floating apartment" The World for an overnight berth. A large part of the recent increase in cruise ships stems from extensive behind the scenes efforts from local agencies to raise the region's profile as a cruise destination, targeting higher spending cruises. Nelson may soon welcome 20 cruise ships a year as work continues to increase the city's potential as a destination. Speaking in February, Port Nelson's general manager business development Eugene Beneke said that bringing high-end vessels to Nelson offered a niche stopover away from the "main highway" of cruise routes around the country. "We are, from a port perspective, limited in draught so we can't physically bring in the large P&O-style vessels with 3000 passengers, so we like to limit ourselves to 1200 to 1500 passengers maximum. "Within that target cruise market there are quite a few out there that can address those numbers," Beneke said. Bookings for next season are already being locked in, including the 900-passenger Crystal Symphony on February 25, 2018. Further into the future, boutique cruise line Azamara Club Cruises has unveiled their NZ and Australian itineraries for 2019, which will include a maiden call to Nelson in late January. Written by Tim O’Connell. First appeared on <a href="http://www.stuff.co.nz/" target="_blank">Stuff.co.nz</a>.

Cruising

6 stunning ports of call to cruise into

There is no better feeling than entering a port and having your breath be taken away by the views that surround you. Here are six ports of call that have left us speechless. 1. Santorini, Greece The Greek island of Santorini is so picture perfect that it will leave you rubbing your eyes in disbelief. And the best way to see it in its full glory is to arrive by ship. Shiny white sugar-cube houses topped with bold blue domes tumble down the side of the island, surrounded by the dramatic peaks of the volcanic caldera. All of that is circled by the crystal clear waters of the Aegean Sea. You’ll fall in love. 2. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Sailing into port under the watchful eye of Christ the Redeemer is an experience you will never forget. Rio is one of the world’s most fascinating cities, but the drive from the airport is singularly unimpressive. The cruise port, however, is just outside the city centre and you’ll sail into Guanabara Bay past by golden beaches, glamorous yachts bobbing in marinas and the curved peak of Sugarloaf Mountain. 3. Hjorundfjord, Norway Sailing through the fjords of Norway is a bucket list experience for every cruiser and they are dotted with towns and villages each more charming than the last. The Hjorundfjord is one of the longest in the country, running for 35 kilometres from the sea through steep rock walls and green mountains, past isolated farms and tiny fishing villages. Ships stop in the harbour of Urke for passengers to explore this remarkable destination. 4. St Thomas, US Virgin Islands The Caribbean is the most popular cruise destination in the world and is home to an endless series of beautiful island ports. St Thomas is something special, with a huge natural harbour surrounded by soaring mountains. At night, the town lights up with thousands of sparkling lights, looking like a glittering string of diamonds. Look out for the well-preserved Danish colonial architecture of the capital, Charlotte Amelie. 5. Hong Kong Hong Kong’s Victoria Harbour is a fascinating mix of old and new, with futuristic skyscrapers towering over traditional red-sailed junks floating on the water. The city is backed by the lush green slopes of The Peak and the water hums with passenger ferries, cruise ships and zipping water taxis. You won’t be able to take your eyes away from your window. 6. New York, USA The New York City skyline is instantly recognisable – you’ve seen it in just about every movie and TV show ever made. So you’ll feel an eerie sense of homecoming when you pull into the harbour, right beside the feet of Lade Liberty, even if you’ve never been before. It’s especially stunning at night, when the skyscrapers are lit up in a rainbow of colours. Have you ever visited any of these ports? Let us know in the comments below.

Cruising

Polar bear pokes head through port hole

In something of a Goldilocks moment, Norwegian scientists on board an Arctic research vessel were recently surprised to find an adult polar bear sniffing out their boat-cooked waffles. The wildlife experts were preparing the sweet treats to go with their afternoon coffee when the hungry bear popped its nose through the kitchen porthole. While some might have been scared of the potentially dangerous predator, the team were so charmed by their curious neighbour that they extended it an offer to tea, handing it a raw fish fillet. A Reddit user shared <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/pics/comments/5e0h7z/my_uncle_who_works_on_an_arctic_research_vessel/" target="_blank">the moment</a> his uncle, one of the scientists on the research and expedition vessel, hand-fed the bear, which appeared to be minding its manners, taking a delicate nibble at the fillet. The boat docks at Tromsø, Norway and typically tours the Arctic, but it has also made its way down under several times to the Antarctic, the <a href="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/travel/travel_news/article-4151260/Amazing-moment-polar-bear-pops-head-Arctic-boat.html" target="_blank">Mail Online reports.</a> In the summer, it's based in Norwegian archipelago Svalbard which, half way to the North Pole, is one of the northernmost areas inhabited by humans. It's also home to plenty of wildlife, including reindeer, Arctic foxes and polar bears of course. First appeared on <a href="http://www.stuff.co.nz/" target="_blank">Stuff.co.nz.</a> Image credit: Johnny_love via Reddit

Cruising

Luxury ship stuck in Port Arthur

Luxury cruise ship The World is the world’s largest privately owned residential ship and boasts having 165 cabins. Despite the expensive cost of travelling on board The World, passengers were delayed in Hobart after the ship’s main anchor chain broke in Port Arthur due to heavy winds. According to <a href="http://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-01-15/bid-to-retreive-cruise-ship-anchor-from-port-arthur/8182910">ABC News</a>, the ship was forced to use its starboard anchor and docked at Macquarie Wharf no 2 in Hobart while the anchor was being retrieved. Due to the bad weather, the retrieval of the eight-tonne anchor was delayed. Some residents live on board the luxurious ship while others join for stages of the journey as it travels around the globe. The ship was built in 2012 and has 12 decks, a helicopter pad, two swimming pools, a tennis court and a mini-golf course. Hopefully this mishap won’t deter passengers choosing to travel with them in the future. Image credit: Martin De Ruyter

Cruising

Why you should never charge your phone in a public port

How many times have you been out and about only to realise your phone’s battery is running dangerously low? Well, if you’re one of the thousands of people who don’t hesitate to take out your charger and plug your phone in to an available USB port or power point, you could be putting yourself at risk. Data security experts have found a growing number of public ports to be compromised by hackers, who, just like when you transfer data from your phone to your computer via USB, can download photos, messages, contacts and more. “Just by plugging your phone into a [compromised] power strip or charger, your device is now infected, and that compromises all your data,” Security expert Drew Paik from Authentic8 told <a href="http://money.cnn.com/2017/02/15/technology/public-ports-charging-bad-stop/" target="_blank">CNN</a>. With so many shopping centres, airports, hospitals and other public places now offering charging hubs, it’s never been easier for hackers. So, aside from avoiding public outlets altogether – which can sometimes be impossible – what else can you do to protect your data? Here are our top tips: <ul> <li>Ensure your phone is fully charged before leaving the house.</li> <li>Invest in a decent portable charger.</li> <li>Look into purchasing a USB cord which can charge your phone, but won’t transfer data.</li> <li>If you have no choice but to use a public port, ensure your phone is secured with a PIN to give yourself the best chance of avoiding hackers.</li> </ul> Related links: <a href="/news/news/2017/02/clooneys-reveal-sex-of-twins/">George and Amal Clooney have revealed the sex of their twins</a> <a href="/news/news/2017/02/families-with-polite-kids-given-discount-at-restaurant/">Families with polite kids get discount at Italian restaurant</a> <a href="/news/news/2017/02/woman-gives-birth-while-in-a-coma/">Woman gives birth while in a coma</a>

News

5 reason to stay onboard when your cruise is in port

Do you really need to rush for the gangway as soon as your ship pulls into the dock? Because there are quite a few good reasons for staying onboard. 1. No crowds When (almost) everyone else gets off the ship that means there’s plenty of extra space for those who stay onboard. It can be a great opportunity to get a sun lounge right by the pool, try out some of the activities that usually have huge lines, or even just enjoy perusing the buffet without being surrounded by too many other hungry passengers. You’ll get quick service in the bar, never have to wait for an elevator and be at the front of the queue for guest services. 2. Special deals Because they know most passengers will be on shore, the spa, bars and some specialty restaurants will offer great deals to entice more customers. You could save hundreds of dollars on a spa package and often there will be special treatments on offer that aren’t available on other days. Look out for two for one drink deals in the bars or special discounts on cocktails. It can also be a good time to try one of the specialty restaurants that’s always fully booked – and you might even get a discount or a free bottle of wine. 3. Explore the ship Most passengers tend to find an area they like on the ship and stick to it. They have a favourite bar, sunny spot on deck or coffee lounge. And when the ship is full it can be daunting to explore any further – you might not find another empty seat. So when everyone else is on shore, head off around the ship. Go up to the very top decks, watch the wake from the stern or see what happens down on the lower decks. There are plenty of hidden spaces to be discovered – and you just might find a new favourite. 4. Take photographs It can be almost impossible to get a good photo of you or your family onboard without hundreds of other happy cruisers in the background. On port days, you’ll be able to set up in front of the most picturesque parts of the ship and snap away. You also won’t be pursued by the (often annoying) ship photographers trying to take official photos for you to purchase later. 5. Relax! On port-intensive cruises, where you’re stopping at a new destination almost every day, you can quickly become worn out. Exploring new cities is fantastic, but sometimes it’s nice to have a day where you can sit back and do nothing at all. Instead of getting up early to make it to the first tenders, sleep in. Watch a movie, order room service and have a swim. Remember – you’re on holidays. Do you think you should stay onboard when your cruise is in port, or should you venture ashore? Share your thoughts in the comments. Related links: <a href="/travel/cruising/2016/08/5-reasons-not-to-stay-onboard-when-in-port/">5 reasons not to stay onboard when in port</a> <a href="/travel/cruising/2016/08/8-reasons-to-bring-duct-tape-on-your-next-cruise/">8 reasons to bring duct tape on your next cruise</a> <a href="/travel/cruising/2016/07/why-more-and-more-people-are-retiring-on-a-cruise/">Why more and more people are retiring on a cruise</a>

Cruising

5 reasons not to stay onboard when in port

Tossing up whether you should relax onboard or stay ashore? Here are five reasons you might want to head down the gangplank. 1. The shops are closed Regulations mean that the onboard tax and duty free shops can only be open when the ship is in international waters. During port days all the main shops will be closed and the only one trading will be the general convenience-style store selling personal items or snacks. Head ashore and you can find great deals on duty free alcohol or souvenirs that you won’t find on the ship. 2. The casino is closed too Due to the strict gambling laws in place in most countries, ships also have to close the casino when they are in port. It can’t open up again until the ship reaches international waters, so don’t plan on spending your day in port at the blackjack tables. 3. Safety drills and maintenance Crew work 24 hours a day and have to schedule things like safety drills, maintenance and big cleaning jobs for when most passengers are off the ship. And that means port days. You may find that some areas of the ship are closed off or that there are fewer staff available to assist you. Maintenance can be noisy and often starts early in the morning, so don’t plan on a sleep in. A safety drill means all crew will be on the decks in the lifejackets and announcements will be made over the loudspeaker, which can be unnerving if you’ve never experienced it. 4. There’s less to do On sea days, just about all of the facilities onboard will be open and there will be a packed schedule of activities, with trivia, bingo, karaoke, classes, movies and more. On port days, this is scaled well back. The crew assume that most of the passengers will be off the ship so they run at a reduced schedule. That could mean that some of the specialty restaurants are closed or there are fewer organised activities to keep you entertained. 5. You’ll miss the port! Sure, flashy cruise ships bring new meaning to the phrase ‘it’s the journey not the destination’. But you don’t want to miss your chance to walk through some of the world’s most incredible cities or swim at some of the world’s most beautiful beaches. Even if you only make it to shore for a short time, take advantage of the opportunity to experience an exciting new destination. You never know when you’ll be back. Do you stay on your ship, or head off on shore excursions? Let us know in the comments! Related links: <a href="/travel/cruising/2016/07/queen-mary-2-cruise-ship-gets-pet-friendly-makeover/">Queen Mary 2 cruise ship gets pet-friendly makeover</a> <a href="/travel/cruising/2016/06/best-cruise-lines-in-the-world-revealed/">The world’s best cruise lines revealed</a> <a href="/travel/cruising/2016/04/cunard-queen-mary-marilyn-monroe-showcase/">Cunard to showcase world’s largest Marilyn Monroe collection</a>

Cruising

Private port welcomes cruise passengers into life of luxury

Cruise passengers won't have to give up any of their luxuries at this port. Harvest Caye, Norwegian Cruise Line's private port in Belize, will have beach villas, a large pool area with cabanas, a variety of aerial activities including zip lining, water sports in the lagoon, wildlife programs and a shopping village. The cruise line last month revealed details about the port and recreational area it is building on two adjoining islands off the coast of Belize City. Harvest Caye, originally scheduled to open in mid-February, is now scheduled to open in November. The islands will have a cruise ship pier so that passengers can walk off the ship and onto land and won't have to be tendered. It will also have a large marina, the departure point for certain shore excursions. "Belize is one of the most ecologically and culturally rich gems in the Caribbean, and Harvest Caye will be the perfect destination for guests to experience all that the country has to offer in authentic, unique ways," said Andy Stuart, Norwegian's president and chief operating officer. It also will have a variety of places to eat, although all will cost extra, unlike most cruise lines' private islands and beaches — including Norwegian's Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas — where dining is complimentary. Royal Caribbean, Disney and Carnival/Holland America include dining on their private islands and beaches in the cruise fare. Guests at Harvest Caye have the option of returning to the ship for meals that don't cost extra, a spokesperson said. Harvest Caye's amenities will include: <ul> <li>A seven-acre beach that Norwegian calls "the heart of the destination." It will have 11 enclosed "beach villas" with air conditioning, private restroom, hammocks, indoor and outdoor showers, exclusive dining options and concierge services. The villas, available for rent, can accommodate up to 10 guests.</li> <li>A 15,000-square-foot pool with lush landscaping, swim-up bar, a footbridge and waterfall near the centre of the pool, lounge chairs, umbrellas and 15 cabanas available for rent.</li> <li>A 130-foot tall "Flighthouse" as the central area for a variety of aerial activities including zip lining, suspension bridges, free fall jumps, a tandem "superman" style zip line and a ropes course located on a platform in the saltwater lagoon. Kayaking, paddle boarding and canoeing will be offered in the lagoon.</li> <li>Eco-activities and facilities including manatee observation tours, an aviary (with a breed and release program for Scarlet Macaws), butterfly garden and educational centre.</li> <li>Shore excursions that will include Mayan ruins, river rafting, nature tours and more, some of them on the mainland.</li> <li>Five dining and bar outlets including a two-story Landshark Bar & Grill (with swim-up pool bar) that is an expansion of Norwegian's partnership with Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville. Other a la carte dining options: casual street-style dining in the shopping village, the Laughing Bird Bar & Grill on the beach, the Manatee Marina Bar & Grill in the marina, and the Horse-Eye Jack Bar & Grill by the pool.</li> </ul> Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings' sister brands Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Oceania Cruises will also call at Harvest Caye on select Caribbean sailings. Norwegian announced in January that the opening of Harvest Caye, then scheduled for mid-February, would be delayed until November. At least six of the line's ships had to change their itineraries, although most will simply go to Belize City instead. No specific reason was given, other than a comment that "We are dedicated to delivering the highest quality amenities and services to our guests in one of the richest ecosystems in the region." The delay was announced just before a judge ruled in a lawsuit filed in Belize that the Belizean government had taken improper shortcuts in its environmental review of the project in order to hasten development of Harvest Caye. The ruling did not stop work on the port. To see images of the port scroll through the gallery above. Doesn’t it look spectacular? Have you ever been to Belize, and how did you find it? Let us know in the comments. First appeared on <a href="http://Stuff.co.nz" target="_blank">Stuff.co.nz</a>. Related links: <a href="/travel/cruising/2016/05/historic-rusting-ocean-liner-could-be-restored-to-luxury/">Historic rusting ocean liner could be restored to luxury</a> <a href="/travel/cruising/2016/05/new-zealand-by-a-cruise-ship/">Wine, wonder and Lord of the Rings – New Zealand by cruise ship</a> <a href="/travel/cruising/2016/05/woman-sells-everything-to-become-permanent-cruise-ship-resident/">Woman sells everything to become permanent cruise ship resident</a>

Cruising

8 tips for hiring private tour guides at cruise ports

Even though the cruise lines might not like to admit it, hiring a private tour guide is often the best way to make the most out of your visit to a port of call, allowing you to personalise your itinerary, and travel in a smaller group at your own speed. Here are seven tips for hiring a tour guide at a private port. 1. Choose ports wisely Private tour guides work best in ports where accessibility is an issue or you’d like a particular experience. Don’t bother if attractions can be easily reached. 2. Check referrals Before booking a private tour guide always make sure you check a reviews or a referrals section so you’re not encountered by the nasty surprise of a dodgy operator. 3. Split the cost Try to team up with a few other people on your cruise ahead of the private tour to split the cost. You’ll save money, and might just make a couple of new friends. 4. Get the best quote Before you go try to narrow down you options and start sending emails for quotes. Not just in terms of price, but the type of tour experience they will be able to provide. 5. Personalise your itinerary The great thing about a private tour is the flexibility it offers you, so make sure you take time to develop an itinerary with your tour guide that suits your needs. 6. Set you meeting point Make sure you’re in regular contact with your guide ahead of the trip, so you can figure out where you will meet. This can be invaluable when disembarking at a busy port. 7. Enjoy the flexibility Take advantage of the fact that you aren’t hampered by set times and schedules (expect of course the time to get back on the ship) and try to go with the flow. 8. Don’t forget to tip the guide Guides might not be self-employed, so their livelihood could depends on tourist tips. Plan on at least 10 per cent, more if the tour was outstanding. Have you ever taken a private tour on a cruise? If so, how did you find the experience and would you consider doing it again? Share your thoughts in the comments. Related links: <a href="/travel/cruising/2016/06/things-not-to-pack-on-a-cruise/">5 things NOT to pack on a cruise</a> <a href="/travel/cruising/2016/06/this-man-has-been-living-on-cruise-ships-for-20-years/">This man has been living on cruise ships for 20 years</a> <a href="/travel/cruising/2016/06/family-band-together-to-give-grandmother-trip-of-a-lifetime/">Family band together to give grandmother trip of a lifetime</a>

Cruising

Visiting the world’s busiest cruise ship ports

It’s the fastest growing travel sector in the world. Millions take a cruise each year – so where are they cruising from? 1. Miami/Fort Lauderdale/Orlando, USA The three busiest cruise ports in the world are in the US state of Florida, welcoming more than 13 million passengers each year. Ships sailing from here head for the Caribbean, the most popular cruise destination in the world, with some of the islands just a few hundred kilometres from the mainland. Before or after a cruise, check out the art deco architecture of Miami, the waterways of the Everglades or the magic of Disney World. 2. Nassau, Bahamas The capital of the Bahamas is the first port of call (all puns intended) for ships sailing through the Caribbean. Get ready for a good time – Nassau is known for its duty free shopping, lively bars and opulent casinos. The Bahamas is such a popular cruise destination that many cruise lines, like Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, Disney Cruise Line and Holland America, have even bought their own private islands exclusively for their passengers to use. 3. Cozumel, Mexico As many as eight cruise ships a day can pull up at this island port just off the coast of Mexico’s Yucatan peninsula. Despite these huge numbers, two thirds of the island remains completely undeveloped and is filled with pristine jungle and white sand beaches. Jacques Cousteau called Cozumel one of the most beautiful areas in the world for scuba diving, so it’s no wonder it’s one of the most popular activities here. 4. Barcelona, Spain The busiest cruise port in Europe, Barcelona is rapidly expanding with construction underway for a second terminal that will bring the port’s capacity to 4.5 million passengers a year. It’s a beautiful, vibrant city with incredible architecture (don’t miss the Sagrada Familia, Gaudi’s famed cathedral), fantastic food and great shopping along the famed Las Ramblas strip that sits almost directly opposite the terminal. 5. Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy The port of Civitavecchia is around two hours from Rome itself, but that’s no excuse to skip a visit to the Eternal City. The Colosseum, the ancient Forum, St Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel – the list of sights in Rome is virtually endless. It’s one of the main cruise hubs for cruises around the central Mediterranean with cruises from here visiting Sardinia, Sicily, Malta and Tunisia. Have you been to any of these incredible cruise ports? If so, how did you find the experience? Share your story in the comments below. Related links: <a href="/travel/cruising/2016/05/5-things-you-must-do-to-avoid-seasickness-on-a-cruise/">5 things you MUST do to avoid seasickness on a cruise</a> <a href="/travel/cruising/2016/05/10-things-you-must-never-do-in-a-cruise-cabin/">10 things you must never do in a cruise cabin</a> <a href="/travel/cruising/2016/05/po-ships-first-new-zealand-cruise/">P&O’s first cruise around New Zealand</a>

Cruising

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