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Carnival and Crystal
Branding, Misperception and Value
www.thecruiseplace.com
by Scott Caddow
Carnival and Crystal;
each evoke certain perceptions in all of us. These perceptions are built over time from advertising, word of mouth and personal experience. The cruise lines above are two of my favorite, and very different – as you are already telling yourself.
People regularly ask me how I could possibly enjoy such different vacation experiences. Its very simple – who could possibly enjoy the same food for dinner each night or the same type of hotel when on business as when traveling with the grandkids?
I am also asked “Why do I need an agent when I can just book on the Internet?” The answer again (for me) is simple. The Professional Sellers of Travel at The Cruise Place are trained not only to “book” your cruise, but to work with you to assure you get the best vacation product, the best value and most importantly – not to loose a week of valuable vacation time on the wrong vacation!
My agents and co-workers have traveled the world. They spend countless hours learning about the new vacation options available and staying in tune with the
changing desires of our clients.
The Carnival Cruise Line of 10 years ago is nothing like “Today’s Carnival”. The perception of many friends of mine is that Carnival is full of partying College Students and kids – this was absolutely correct – 10 years ago! Seventy percent of Carnival’s passengers today are over 35 years old and half of those are seniors! Carnival Cruise Line is consistently rated among the top cruise lines in all categories. The perception is that the food is mediocre, etc – this is completely false. The dining is on par with the top cruise lines in the world and the cabins are larger than most other cruise lines.
Carnival Corp. is also the parent company of Holland America Line, Windstar, Seabourn, Cunard, Princess Cruises and Costa Cruise Line. Passengers of any of these fine cruise vacations are extended special “past passenger” amenities and discounts on any of the other cruise lines.
Crystal is another one of my favorite cruise lines – and also many time mis-understood. Crystal is perceived as “out of reach” to many, based upon the upscale amenities, fabulous reviews and beautiful ships. Crystal is one of our preferred partners and we have some fabulous opportunities for our clients to sail, many times at the same rate as Holland America Line or Princess Cruise Line. We also have some great value sailings on Crystal, where we send a host along to help with all your needs, we include special “Private Collection” shore excursions and pre-pay your gratuities.
Please visit our website at
www.thecruiseplace.com
and view all the special sailings we have on Crystal Cruise Line and Carnival Cruise Line – and enjoy the accompanying articles and specials we have for you – our “Connected” clients!
[PRINTER FRIENDLY VERSION]
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