Cruise vacation deals are becoming more and more popular but not just for the price itself. From five star restaurants to incredible entertainment and activities, there is much more to a cruise than meets the eye. Here are two incredible things to do on a cruise that just about anyone would enjoy:
Enjoy Broadway-styled productions on Cruise Lines
Cruise lines are adapting the changing entertainment scenarios which demands high-tech, dynamic productions, and providing the same high quality of entertainment on board for their travelers. These state-of-the-art ships have assorted features and entertainment choices. These include varieties like surf simulators, ropes courses and even snow rooms as well as ice skating rinks! Beyond these fascinating structures, cruise lines are also reinventing the cruising experience and producing Broadway-like shows on board. These have advanced features such as big lighting, elaborate costumes and contemporary choreography. In fact, Disney Wonder of Disney Cruise Line has already started producing theatrical version of its all-time highest earning animated movie “Frozen” during travels. The movie is presented as a musical show on board. This is just one example of how cruise lines are changing the face of entertainment at sea, and giving their travelers experiences of a life-time in special surroundings. After all, watching a musical in theater is ordinary, but watching “Frozen” come alive on a ship, surrounded by splashing waves is something unique.
Another Disney cruise liner, Disney Magic has already been presenting “Tangled: The Musical” on board. This hour-long show contains 7 musical numbers. Alan Menken, an Academy-award winning music composer has composed 3 new songs for this musical. It is breathtaking to see Rapunzel in the cruise settings; with her 200 feet long golden hair adorning the stage.
Not only Disney cruise lines, but Carnival’s latest ship Carnival Vista also has excellent, on board entertainment varieties, including the first ever IMAX theater cruising at sea. The liner also produces special musical shows, featuring classic rock anthems.
How About Taking a Culinary Cruise?
Who says gourmet dining and celebrity chef-led restaurants cannot be experienced at sea?
You too can enjoy the feast-adventure by taking any of the culinary cruises that have become quite popular in last few years. While restaurants on earth are earning stars for their meals, spirit and excellent wines, now the same experience is also being offered on sea by the best cruise lines through their culinary-themed vacation sailings. Here you can have the same high levels of exclusive meals, wines and enjoy gourmet dining episodes that are created by world’s renowned chefs. Instead of booking a simple cruise vacation, now a high number of travelers are booking for trips based on famous chefs’ appearances on selected cruise lines. There are also events of opening trendy cocktail bars or restaurants aboard a ship which have been quite a hit with connoisseurs. Most of cruise lines used to offer a central restaurant along with breakfast, lunch buffets in their all-inclusive packages. But now, renowned chefs are creating exclusive menus for cruise lines inspired by their destinations as well as local cuisine of ports of call. Windstar Cruises offers such culinary cruises on its small luxury yachts. It has a sophisticated fleet that consists of six yachts, each with a capacity of 300 guests. That makes it a perfect cruise for select gatherings going to ports where big ships cannot dock. Such convenience gives travelers a chance to disembark and taste local cuisine too.
You can find cruise discounts for all the best destinations on Hotels Etc.
For two decades there was never really any secret in terms of how to get travel discounts online, for it was once an easy task. Simply log on to Expedia, Orbitz or any of the other most prominent booking engines and take your pick. There was really no catch to any of this process either; you got the best products and services at the best possible price every, single time. Suppliers and operators were more than happy to avail of these extra avenues for filling their vacant hotel rooms, especially at the last minute, and the process itself was so convenient it left potential guests with no good reason not to utilize their services.
How to get travel discounts online
In fact, the presence of travel discounts online continued to increase for many years, as did the actual percentage of these offers. More and more, new travel booking engines found their way into the market and this did nothing other than make it easier for customers to find the best deals.
Old ways and new beginnings
However, it has long been known that history repeats itself within every industry or market, and the online travel industry is no different. Hugely popular and common place prior to the arrival of the internet, Travel Clubs were once the main and only source of travel discounts. In return for a small membership fee, these membership clubs negotiated special rates with suppliers and offered these amazing deals back to their members in what is called a “Closed User Group”. In many ways, these were no different to a traditional booking engine from a few years ago in that they offered large discounts with no catch.
Interestingly, these travel membership clubs were overshadowed by the emergence of the online world and in particular, booking engines. But as mentioned, history does repeat itself and in light of a new law introduced to the market called “Rate parity”, these travel clubs are now re-emerging as the best and only way to find travel discounts.
Rate Parity and Travel membership clubs
Rate Parity is a new law which essentially disallows the traditional booking engines from advertising reduced prices across their channels of distribution or in simple English, they no longer offer discounts of any kind. This may sound very significant but that’s because it is and if you check any of these booking engines against each other, you will quickly find the prices are the same across the board.
Naturally this means the consumer is offered no real value from a traditional booking engine other than convenience and for this reason, Travel Membership Clubs are thriving once more. Exempt from the laws of “Rate Parity”, these membership clubs are now offering genuine travel discounts to their members which cannot be found anywhere else online.
Although maybe you need convincing and in such case, you should consider starting a free trial offer with Hotels Etc, the leading Travel Membership Club in North America. With more than 4 million members, 25 years of experience and a five star rating; Hotels Etc is now one of the best and only ways to get travel discounts online.
We expect to find the best travel discounts online and along with convenience, this is the reason we use booking engines as opposed to calling or booking direct with a service provider. Except, maybe you have noticed, the cost of hotel rooms and other travel related services seem to be increasingly expensive and there is a specific reason for this being the case.
Travel discounts and Rate Parity
Introduced recently, a law called “Rate Parity” stipulates travel brands can only advertise one price across all channels of distribution. This effectively means a traditional booking engine simply cannot offer hotel discounts as they have done in the past. Held accountable by this new legislation, the cost of a hotel is the same on a traditional booking engine as they are on a website for the hotel in question.
The truth is out there
Take for example Kayak, one of the largest travel comparison websites in the world. If you perform a quick search for a hotel room on Kayak you will find the cost of a hotel room is the very same across all of the booking engines out there. Why? As mentioned previously, rate parity. This is the same if you check each individual booking engine and compare the price against the website of the actual hotel.
Providing this is the case, you really do need to ask yourself, what is the point of using these booking engines if they offer no genuine value anymore?
Travel membership: The only way to find genuine travel discounts
However, there is thankfully still a way to find the best travel discounts online and this is by searching within a “closed loop program” such as a travel membership club. Rate parity does not apply to membership clubs and for this reason, it is possible to sign up and start finding the travel discounts which were once available on the traditional booking engines.
Simple and effective, travel membership clubs also have a booking engine of their own on which you can search for the best vacation and avail of the best price.
Hotels Etc in North America
Leading the way in North America for more than 25 years, Hotels Etc is a travel membership club with a 5 star reputation and 4 million members. Essentially, this membership program negotiates the best possible rates with service providers in the travel industry and passes them on to their clients. Ranging from 50 – 80%, these are large discounts which far outweigh any decision to sign up for membership and there is also a trial option during which you can verify this value for yourself.
There really is no more to say other than if you want to find the best travel discounts online, you will need to look past the traditional booking engines and start utilizing the incredible advantages of being a member with a travel club such as Hotels Etc.
Originally published January 29, 2017 | Updated August 2026
Hotel rate parity generally refers to contractual provisions, pricing practices or distribution arrangements affecting how certain hotel rates are advertised or distributed across specified sales channels. It is not one universal worldwide law. Publicly advertised rates and eligible private member offers can operate differently, especially when access is restricted to authenticated members or other qualified users.
Hotel distribution can include publicly advertised rates as well as eligible private member offers available through restricted channels.
What Is Hotel Rate Parity?
Hotels distribute rooms through many channels, including their own websites, online travel agencies, travel professionals, wholesalers and private membership platforms.
Hotel rate parity generally refers to contractual provisions, pricing practices or distribution arrangements concerning how certain hotel rates are advertised or distributed across specified sales channels.
Historically, these arrangements have often been described as rate-parity agreements or rate-parity clauses.
It is important not to describe rate parity as one universal worldwide law. Contracts, competition laws, regulations and court decisions can differ by jurisdiction, and the legal treatment of rate-parity provisions has changed over time.
Is Hotel Rate Parity a Law?
No, not as one universal law that applies the same way everywhere.
Rate parity commonly refers to contractual provisions and hotel distribution practices. Laws and regulations affecting those arrangements differ among countries and jurisdictions.
Some jurisdictions have restricted certain types of rate-parity clauses, while contractual arrangements between hotels and distribution partners can also vary.
For that reason, statements such as “rate parity is a worldwide law” or “private travel clubs are universally exempt from rate-parity laws” are too broad and can be misleading.
Why Do Hotel Prices Sometimes Look Similar on Different Websites?
Travelers sometimes search the same hotel, room type and travel dates across several public booking websites and see identical or very similar prices.
There can be many reasons for this, including hotel pricing strategies, inventory, distribution agreements and market conditions.
However, seeing similar publicly advertised prices does not necessarily mean every travel platform has access to exactly the same inventory, pricing or member benefits.
There is an important distinction between a hotel rate available openly to the general public and an eligible offer distributed through a private or restricted channel.
Public Hotel Rates vs. Private Member Rates
Public Hotel Rates
Public hotel rates are generally visible without requiring a traveler to belong to a particular private membership program or authenticated group.
They may be displayed on hotel websites, online travel agencies and other publicly accessible booking platforms.
Private Member Offers
Private offers may be available to eligible members of membership programs, loyalty programs, corporate programs or other qualified groups.
Access may require authentication, membership or another form of eligibility.
Private pricing does not automatically mean that every hotel will always be cheaper. The key distinction is access to another category of eligible offers that may not be distributed in the same manner as unrestricted public pricing.
Travelers should compare the complete offer, including rates, room types, taxes, fees, cancellation terms and eligible member benefits.
What Is a Closed User Group?
A Closed User Group, commonly referred to as a CUG, is a defined group of eligible users who can access certain offers within a restricted environment.
Membership, authentication or another eligibility requirement typically distinguishes the private environment from unrestricted public access.
This concept is important when understanding private travel membership programs.
Simple CUG Explanation
Public pricing: Generally viewable by anyone.
Private member offer: Available to eligible or authenticated users.
Closed User Group: A defined group whose eligibility separates the private environment from unrestricted public access.
Hotels Etc. operates as a private membership program. Eligible members access the membership environment using their credentials and can search participating travel offers based on destination, dates, supplier availability and other booking conditions.
Do Private Member Rates Always Mean Lower Prices?
No.
Private access does not mean every hotel, destination and travel date will always produce a lower price than every publicly available offer.
Hotel pricing is dynamic and can change because of:
Hotel occupancy
Destination
Travel dates
Seasonality
Special events
Demand
Room type
Available inventory
Cancellation terms
Refundability
Supplier availability
Temporary promotions
The value of private travel membership is access to eligible private offers and participating benefits that may not otherwise be available through a normal unrestricted public search.
Why Can’t Every Private Member Offer Be Displayed Publicly?
If an offer is distributed specifically to eligible users through a private environment, displaying that same offer openly to everyone could eliminate the distinction between public and restricted distribution and may conflict with applicable supplier or distribution requirements.
That is why some travel offers may require membership authentication or another qualification before the traveler can access or book them.
This type of private-rate structure is not unique to Hotels Etc. Major hotel distribution platforms also recognize private rates that are available only to eligible groups or loyalty members.
For an example of how private hotel rates can be handled within a major hotel distribution ecosystem, see Google’s official information about conditional and private hotel rates.
How Does Hotels Etc. Fit Into Private Travel Distribution?
Hotels Etc. has been serving members since 1996.
Hotels Etc. provides eligible members access to a private travel and lifestyle discount membership environment.
Rather than describing Hotels Etc. as operating through a “loophole” or claiming that the company is universally “exempt from rate-parity laws,” a more accurate explanation is that eligible offers can be distributed through a private membership environment subject to supplier terms, availability and applicable requirements.
The rates, inventory, savings and benefits available for any particular search can vary based on destination, dates, hotel, room type, supplier availability and other conditions.
Why Comparing Public and Private Travel Offers Matters
Public booking sites are useful tools, but they represent only part of the travel marketplace.
A traveler who qualifies for private, corporate, loyalty or membership offers may have access to additional booking options.
That does not mean the private option will always win on price. It means the traveler has another qualified channel to compare.
Compare the Complete Hotel Offer
When comparing hotel pricing, look beyond the headline room rate.
Compare:
The exact hotel property
Room category
Occupancy
Travel dates
Taxes and fees
Resort or destination fees
Refundability
Cancellation policy
Included amenities
Available member benefits
Final checkout price
Two offers that appear identical at first glance can have different booking terms.
Is Rate Parity the Same Everywhere in the World?
No.
The contractual and legal treatment of hotel rate-parity provisions differs among jurisdictions and continues to evolve.
Some countries or jurisdictions have restricted particular parity arrangements, while other markets may permit different forms of contractual distribution arrangements.
For this reason, broad statements about one worldwide “rate parity law” should be avoided.
The Bottom Line
Hotel rate parity is not one universal worldwide law.
It generally describes contractual provisions, pricing practices or distribution arrangements involving how certain hotel rates are advertised or distributed.
Public hotel rates and eligible private member offers can operate through different distribution channels.
A private membership does not guarantee that every hotel will always be cheaper. It can provide eligible travelers access to participating private offers that may not be available through an ordinary unrestricted public search.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hotel Rate Parity
Is hotel rate parity a law?
No, not as one universal worldwide law. Rate parity commonly refers to contractual provisions and hotel distribution practices. Laws and regulations affecting those arrangements vary by jurisdiction.
What is a private hotel rate?
A private hotel rate or offer is distributed through a restricted or qualified channel rather than being available in exactly the same way to the unrestricted public. Eligibility may require membership, authentication or another qualification.
What is a Closed User Group in travel?
A Closed User Group, or CUG, is a defined group of eligible users who can access certain offers within a restricted environment. Membership or authentication generally distinguishes the group from unrestricted public access.
Why do I have to log in to see some Hotels Etc. offers?
Certain member offers may be distributed within an authenticated private membership environment and can be subject to supplier, eligibility and distribution requirements.
Does Hotels Etc. guarantee every hotel will be cheaper?
No. Travel pricing and availability constantly change. Rates and savings vary according to hotel, destination, dates, room type, inventory, supplier availability and other factors.
Are private member rates always better than public rates?
No. Private membership provides another category of eligible offers to compare. Travelers should evaluate the complete booking, including room type, taxes, fees, cancellation terms and any participating benefits.
How long has Hotels Etc. been in business?
Hotels Etc. was founded in 1996 and has provided private membership discounts and travel benefits for decades.
About Hotels Etc.
Hotels Etc. is a private travel and lifestyle discount membership company founded in 1996. Eligible members can access participating travel and lifestyle offers through the private Hotels Etc. membership platform.
According to recent studies in the industry, these days more travelers are choosing a cruise vacation over an all-inclusive resort. As per estimates, nearly 24 million people had taken cruise vacations around the world in 2016 and these numbers are expected to rise in year 2017. As demands for a cruise vacation grow, so do choices for travelers. Among a wealth of cruise vacation offers, how do you choose which one is suitable for you? Well, here we are to help you sort through various options and select the best cruise line for both your budget and vacation needs.
Best Value for Money Cruise Lines
If you are looking for a cruise line which returns best value for your money in 2017, then consider taking Celebrity Cruises. Although it has smaller fleet compared to its rivals, Celebrity’s many ships provide personalized service as it has an average ship-capacity of less than 2,700 passengers. This helps in catering to passengers personally. That does not mean it has any less amenities than big ships. The cruise line also offers all those amenities you would look for in big ships such as open-air movie screens and also kids’ programming. Big amenities, but at lower rates of $100 per traveller, per night. Second option can be Royal Caribbean International or Norwegian Cruise Line which also provides best amenities and value for your money while choosing a cruise vacation
Best Cruise Vacations for Families
When it comes to family cruise vacations, Disney Cruise Line wins hands down against its competitors. It has topped the list of family cruise lines for four successive years. The cruise line is famous for its deck parties based on Disney characters and has a specialized kids’ club, which is sure to keep the younger crowd happy. On the other hand, there are also exclusive areas for adults which provide an excellent place to parents for unwinding after a day of fun-filled activities. Another favorite for family cruises is Royal Caribbean International, which is ranked number 2 and Carnival Cruise Lines with a rank of number 3.
Couples? Here are Best Cruise Lines for You
Whether it is Valentine’s Day or your sweetheart’s birthday; if you are looking to celebrate by sailing away with your partner, then you can get an enchanting experience on Crystal Cruises. This cruise line has been selected as the top ranking for couples this year. Here, the lovebirds can enjoy all-inclusive, special amenities such as terry cloth robes, feather beds and complimentary spirits and romantic wines. If you want to give a romantic gift to that special person with you, then instead of going for some regular gift, choose couple’s spa treatments or/ and specialty private dining. For those wanting to spend romantic vacations on sea, other recommended cruise lines include Azamara Club Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises that provide best romantic cruise for couples.
Best Cruise Lines for Caribbean Destinations
Nothing compares to emerald waters of Caribbean seas and if you are searching for the best cruises line to Caribbean, then Disney Cruise Line should be your first choice. Two reasons set apart Disney from other cruise liners; first it owns a private island called Castaway Cay (Bahamas) from where its ships set sail. Secondly, it sends ships to not one or two, but more than a dozen Caribbean destinations. These include popular destinations such as Jamaica, Cozumel, Puerto Rico, Mexico and also to lesser-known islands like Curaçao and Grenada. Second rank for Best Caribbean cruise lines goes to Celebrity Cruises and Crystal Cruises is at number 3 if you wish to go on ocean-vacation in 2017 in the Caribbean.
Best Mediterranean Cruise Lines
If you are looking for warmer climate and heavenly food, then Mediterranean shores would appeal to you. For 2017, Celebrity Cruises tops the list of the best Mediterranean cruise lines. The line’s ships are mostly mid-size that travel to popular European ports such as Greece, Santorini and Naples (Italy). These ships will take you to famed Mediterranean destinations where you can explore the waters as well as dine at in-house swank restaurants, which will offer you a wide range of delicacies from French desserts to juicy, tasty steaks. After satisfying your taste buds, you can enjoy the restful hospitality of their comfortable accommodations. The number 2 spot in the list of the best Mediterranean liners in 2017 is occupied by Regent Seven Seas Cruises while Oceania Cruises holds the number 3 rank in this list.
If you would like to know more about these cruise vacations or find the best available cruise discounts, you can avail of a free trial perios with Travel membership experts Hotels Etc.
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