On most ships, you'll usually get some type of cable news network on your in-room TV. A daily news sheet may also be available, combining wire reports with stories from major newspapers. You can make phone calls from the phone in your cabin (though it's pretty expensive) and from your cell phone as well (roaming charges apply). Most ships have Internet centers and shipboard WiFi, so you can read e-mail and surf the Web.

For those watching calories, there are low-fat (and sometimes low-carb) options on the menus and some healthy choices at the buffets. Certain ships even have on-board spa cafes. Aside from eating healthy, you can also burn calories by working out in the ship's gym, or walking or jogging around on the decks. Some ships have basketball courts, rock-climbing walls and rollerblading rinks for more on-board athletics.

There’s something to do for nearly everyone. You can go swimming, shop at boutiques, get pampered at the spa, play some hoops, visit the gym, listen to guest speakers, attend wine lectures, enter contests, watch movies, or simply relax in the sun and read a book or get a tan. At night there are casinos, bars and lounges, night clubs and live production shows. Plus you won’t be on the ship all the time -- most itineraries include a variety of different ports of call.

Most ships are so big and well-stabilized that you can hardly tell you're moving, especially in the calm waters of the Caribbean and Alaska's Inside Passage. Radar helps big ships outrun hurricanes and other bad-weather patches, but if you do happen to pass through some rough water, any queasiness can usually be relieved by an over-the-counter medication like Dramamine or Bonine. If you are very prone to seasickness, you can ask your doctor before you leave home about the Transderm patch, available by prescription. Alternative remedies include ginger capsules and acupressure wristbands, available at most pharmacies.

It used to be, but that isn’t as true anymore. Cruise ships are increasingly targeting families, offering children's programs and facilities that rival those on land. You'll find on-board water parks, teen discos, video games and a variety of exciting activities. Hip and urban travelers will also find gourmet dining, high-tech and modern entertainment and late-night action at on-board bars and clubs.

Yes and no. Cruise ships have all the comforts and luxuries that travelers associate with on-land resorts, as well as much of the glitz and glamor of destinations like Vegas (including busy casinos and lavish Broadway style shows). However, you are on a ship. Weather on the seas can sometimes affect your itinerary, there are specified times to leave and board the ship, and your cabin will usually be smaller than a hotel room (unless you book upper level suites). But you also have wrap around ocean views 24/7 and the romance of the sea.

Cruise ships come in a huge variety of sizes, styles, and comfort levels. You can find big ships, small ships, explorer ships, luxury ships, family ships, classic style ships, and sailing ships with the latest innovations and modern stylish décor.

For the most part, no. Your cruise fare includes a lot, but you' will pay extra for some amenities. Among them are alternative restaurants, soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, shore excursions, spa treatments and gratuities. The luxury lines include quite a bit more, but even they are never completely all-inclusive.

The initial price may seem high, but keep in mind that the cruise fare includes your accommodations, breakfast/lunch/dinner in main dining venues, 24 hour snacks, complimentary room service, activities (including children's programs) and live nighttime entertainment -- not to mention transportation from port to port. When you factor in all of the costs you'd have on a land vacation, you'll find that cruises are often a very good value.