Forgo phones at sea, please

Cruise Travel, March-April, 2006 by Jorge L. Rodriguez

In reference to "Cell Phones At Sea," Cruise Travel, February 2006:

When I took my first cruise, we were told of the news around the world via newsletters that were printed onboard and placed under our cabin doors. I opted not to read the newsletters. We had no news on the cabin TVs, no internet, no hotspots, and definitely no cell phones.

What I enjoyed most of cruising is the fact that I could "leave" the world for a few days and not be stressed out. Cruising has always been a very relaxing way to travel.

It's not that I don't like cell phones, but I find that cell-phone users can be rude and inconsiderate. They speak loudly and leave their phones on no matter where they are. I hope the cruise lines will place restrictions and remind passengers to turn off phones in areas like the restaurant, theater, etc.

I know the technology is here and benefits many. However, it would have been nice if cruise lines still kept the "leave the world behind" feeling of the days gone by. The good thing about internet access and hotspots is that they are usually in given areas--areas I don't have to visit. With cell phones it will be different, since the user can move around the ship with the phone.

I will keep cruising no matter what. My next cruise is scheduled for March on NCL. I am hoping that cell-phone usage is not as annoying on cruise ships as it is on land!

Jorge L. Rodriguez, Corona-Elmhurst, NY