Many Americans aren't getting away from work when they go on vacation. It can be difficult to get away, even when you're taking time off. Sometimes, however, a forced respite from the stresses of work is just what's needed. Here are seven reasons to take an off the grid cruise vacation.

Alaska cruises are a popular way to see one of America's most scenic regions, but ships holding thousands aren't the only option. There's a much more intimate and personalized way to see the "real Alaska." Take a unique Alaska un-cruise aboard a small ship and get close to wildlife and nature.

Thinking about a European family cruise this summer? Mediterranean cruise family vacations are generating lots of interest among family travelers. Here are five tips to help you plan a great European vacation for your family.

If you're connecting through Guayaquil for a Galapagos cruise, plan to stay and explore Ecuador's Pacific Coast. Ecuador's shores are lined with beautiful beaches, unspoiled nature preserves, cool surf towns, and great places to visit. This region is one of the travel world's best-kept secrets.

Many travelers heading to a Galapagos Islands cruise barely pause on their way through Guayaquil, staying for only a few hours or overnight for flight connections. That's unfortunate, however. Set along the banks of the Guayas River, the vibrant port city of Guayaquil is worth an extended visit.

If you're traveling to your next family cruise by car or plane, here's a great way to banish the "are we there yet?" travel blues. This is certainly one family travel secret that definitely should be let out of the bag.

Cruise ships carry thousands of passengers to ports in Mexico each week. With the deadly swine flu outbreak in that country and the Center for Disease Control’s new Mexico travel warning, many cruise lines are now modifying their Mexico itineraries. Changes are ongoing - get the latest news here.

Selecting shore excursions for an Alaska cruise is always a difficult process. If you're wondering which shore excursions to take on your next Alaska cruise, take a look at these highly recommended passenger favorites based on cruise line survey responses and feedback.

Thinking about taking the kids to the South Pacific or Europe this year? A family friendly cruise is just the ticket. Two luxury cruise lines are rolling out the red carpet for families this year with exciting programs and incentives.

Many vacationers choose to take a cruisetour in Alaska to experience the state's scenic beauty. Come with us to Talkeetna and Fairbanks, where "Northern Exposure" meets the Northern Lights. Curl up on an ice bed and bask in the heat at Chena Hot Springs - but watch out for the moose along the way!