1. Use a Local Tour Operator - You will pay more for a land tour if paid through your cruise

line. There are always local tour operators - or hire a taxi for your group and make your own tour. You will save!

2. There's no reason not to cruise with a disability on today's ships. The newer and larger ships are generally speaking the most accessible, with more accessible cabins in a variety of cabin categories. However, that's not to say that there are not some smaller and older ships that have limited access or have been retrofitted to accommodate fewer people with disabilities. There are even 1-2 tall sailing ships that are built or retrofitted specifically for those with disabilities (you can be part of the crew). Cruise ships can accommodate wheelchair users, diabetics, dialysis patients, oxygen users, the visually and hearing impaired, those with smoking allergies, and even those traveling with assistance dogs.

3. When packing for a cruise add extra metal coat hangers to your suitcase so that you will be able to hang much of your clothes. Also, purchase a child-size shoe hanger. I found one at the dollar store. You can hang this in the bathroom and put lots of little things in it such as toothpaste, hair brushes, mouthwash, etc. This will give you extra space in the bathroom as well as keeping things covered from the excess water which might come from the shop.

4. Have medical and dental checkups just prior to departure to head off any potentially uncomfortable or harmful occurrences.

5. If you have special health needs, ask your AAA Travel Agent to supply you with information about the ship's medical facility, what type of equipment is available and if a doctor or nurse will be on board. Your Travel Agent will be happy to refer you directly to a contact at the cruise line or inquire on your behalf.

6. Have an existing medical condition? Ask your doctor for a letter explaining the condition, treatment or procedure for you to follow. Make the ship's medical staff aware of your condition at the start of the cruise.

7. Concerned about motion sickness? Consult a physician before you leave on vacation. A

number of prescription and over-the-counter aids are available to control motion sickness.

8. Pack an extra pair of prescription eyeglasses, sunglasses and/or contact lenses, all prescription medicine, the instructions and dosage amounts. Take a copy of your prescriptions in case you need to replace the eyeglasses or medication.

9. If traveling to a cold area, pack clothes that can be worn in layers for warmth. Include gloves and a hat.

10. Put valuables in the ship's safe deposit box or room safe.

11. Never leave cabin keys unattended. If you plan to be at the pool, check keys with the ship's steward.

12. Use dead bolt and other locks provided by the cruise line. Make sure the door to the adjoining cabin is locked.

13. Follow the directions of your tour guide. If a self-guided tour is planned, ask authorized ship personnel which areas of town to avoid and if any special precautions should be taken when driving a rental car or using public transportation. Walk only in well-lit areas.

14. Crooks prey on vacationers who have let their guard down. Therefore, walk with a sense of purpose, as if you know where you are and where you are going. If you do get lost, don't act like it. Find a police officer or go into a hotel, restaurant or shop and ask directions. To avoid losing belongings, never leave luggage, purses or cameras unattended even for a moment.