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Travel expert unveils hottest destinations for summer 2025, shares tips to plan the perfect cruise

Travel expert Colleen Kelly shares the hottest travel destinations for this summer and provides tips for travelers planning a cruise.

A woman who travels on cruise ships regularly says one simple booking move can help passengers get a better cabin.

Mollie Finlon, 38, originally from Seattle, is able to sail at little or no cost through her husband’s job as a maritime engineer — which covers food, accommodation and other living expenses while onboard, she told news agency Jam Press.

She also works as a guest presenter on high-end cruise liners for several months out of every year.

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Finlon said her experiences at sea have taught her how passengers can improve their onboard experience — starting with when and how they book.

Her top tip? Book your next cruise while you’re already aboard your current one.

Mollie Finlon, pictured with her husband, says a simple booking trick can help passengers get a better cabin. (Jam Press/Mollie Finlon)

"If you book onboard with a future cruise consultant, [he or she] can give you great [information] and better cabins," Finlon said.

She also recommends speaking with a cruise consultant face to face — plus researching cruise lines before booking.

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Amenities, layouts and onboard experiences can vary widely, she noted.

"Every cruise line is different, so watching YouTube [videos], reading articles, looking on social media — these are the best ways to see what fits an individual’s liking," Finlon said.

A cruise expert advises meeting with consultants in person and researching cruise lines, as experiences vary. (iStock)

Many travelers book cruises without fully understanding the cruise line or what’s included, she also said.

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Finlon’s perspective is shaped by a career connected to cruise ships and time spent largely aboard them. 

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She said amid her constant travel and experiences at new destinations, there are also challenges.

Researching cruise lines through videos, articles and social media may help travelers ensure the experience matches their expectations, an expert says. (iStock)

"When my husband [or I] work, there are no days off — it’s an everyday job while onboard," Finlon said.

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Finlon has worked on cruise ships since 2011, she said, after deciding that a traditional nine-to-five job was not for her.

Over the years, she's visited more than 100 countries.

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"Each day you’re in a new place or have a new location to explore," she said. 

"There’s always something to do — and you meet new people from all over the world."

(责任编辑：休闲)