7 good reasons to take a cruise vacation

Taking a cruise is a great choice for vacationing and the overall health of the cruise traveler, according to Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA).

Celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2015, CLIA is the largest cruise industry trade association with 15 offices globally and has representation in North and South America, Europe, Asia and Australasia.

"A cruise vacation in particular provides a variety of places to see as well as the chance to take part in on-board activities in a safe and healthy environment," said Susan Krauss Whitbourne, Ph.D., Professor of Psychological and Brain Sciences at the University of Massachusetts Amherst in CLIA's press release on March 3.

"In a cruise, you can do as much or as little as you want, and you'll still have a nice break from your daily routines at home," she added.

Here are seven good reasons why travelers should consider this particular vacationing option according to CLIA.

Relaxation
Cruising is said to allow for a stress-free vacation experience where vacationers can just "go with the flow" of the itinerary.

You can easily skip the stress by lounging at the pool, enjoying spa treatments and relaxing in comfortable accommodations.

Ocean air
Fresh air is known to help keep lungs clean, aid in digestion, improve heart rate, strengthen the immune system and provide an energy boost.

Cruisers will have plenty of time to take full advantage of the fresh, ocean air; between daytime excursions and nights spent relaxing on the ship deck.

Salt water
Aside from the stress relief a day at the beach provides, swimming in salt water can also help improve circulation by restoring vital minerals to your body.

Ocean water and on-ship salt water swimming pools are also a natural beauty treatment, as the magnesium has been found to help hydrate skin and improve inflamed or red complexions.

Camaraderie
Cruising allows for high amounts of quality bonding time with your vacation partners while also allowing you to socialize with new people.

Whether over a gourmet dinner in the dining room or during a comedy routine in the ship theater, cruise ships offer time to connect with others free of work emails, smart phones and hand-held gaming systems.

Exploration
Pre-planned cruise shore excursions allow cruisers to scuba dive, parasail, check out local sites in exotic locations and more, without the stress of planning every detail or reading millions of reviews to find the right activities.

Staying active
There are plenty of onboard activities available on a cruise to make sure vacationers stay active, like rock climbing, basketball or table tennis. In addition, many cruise ships offer full service gyms and fun fitness classes like yoga in the morning or nighttime tai chi.

Stress-free vacation planning
Cruising allows for stress-free vacation planning with pre-planned excursions, inclusive meals and endless on-ship entertainment. It also allows you to unpack and get settled in your cabin without the hassle of having to move your belongings, while you visit multiple destinations.

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