Where to buy a cruise?

[steandbee]

We booked a cruise on Valor in May. Is it cheaper to book through the cruise line or an online site? {expedia}

[Rodney]

Remember, Expedia and such charge a fee for booking you, so why not go direct? I booked directly with Carnival after I first checked with Expedia to see what the "advertised" rate was. I have used travel agents in the past, but I prefer to "do it myself" and ask for discounts. I think they will give you any if you are eligible...just ask. By the way, did you use expedia, and did they charge you a booking fee?

[Heidi528]

Please don't laugh at me... I actually purchased my last cruise through WalMarts' online site. I'm serious. I found my best price, and they gave me $100 off that. In fact, it was $100 off what the cruise line itself offered me. I have no idea why. I have use TA's and the cruise lines. A Costa cruise cost me less booking directly through Costa than it would have through any of the online "discount" sites.

[Rodney]

Way to go Heidi! You knocked a home run!

[Heidi528]

LOL! But I feel so...cheap!

[arckac]

I shop at cruise compete and usually end up with cruise value center as they usually offer me the best deals out there.

[steandbee]

Well.....Thanks for all the info. For some reason Expedia didnt charge me a booking fee.We booked in october for this cruise and have not seen a better price since. Ill try the WAL-MART idea next time. LOL... Thanks all...