Wise Observer

If they can have it their way, titanic television networks would not care about the popularity of video streaming channels and file-sharing networks on the web. But with millions of humankind tuning in online rather than on-the-couch, it’s time for some well-planned paradigm shifts. According to a study conducted by intelligence firm TNS, the Internet has clearly one-upped the entertainment game. The study says that around 16% of Internet-connected households in the US have watched television shows online in 2007. This may not be an earthshaking figure, but there is no doubt that the number of people watching TV on the computer screen is growing. More and more people are shunning boob tubes for computers because they are sick of commercials, says the study. It also offers the irrefutable insight that television shows have overtaken news as the most viewed content on the web. Almost half of the respondents watch old TV shows, especially those they missed, seeing as the Internet truly is an impressive archive of classics. How the traditional TV networks will reckon with all these is yet unclear. For sure, Viacom took the hard stance, ordering YouTube in 2006 to eliminate infringing content. CBS, NBC and other networks however, after much reluctance, eventually partnered with video hosting giant YouTube. CBS reported nearly 30 million views in 2007 since it launched its official YouTube channel. The network also attributes its recent ratings victories to the video hosting site.

A cruise vacation is always an exciting opportunity to unwind and see places and people that you have never seen before. And in the meantime, you can get away from the regular pace of your normal life. But before setting sail it’s a good idea to know as much as you can about cruising, especially if it’s your first cruise, and so here are some things you should know before you leave on your next cruise vacation:

* Most cruise lines have policies against bringing liquor on board with you. You can certainly buy drinks once you are on board, but generally they do not allow you to buy alcoholic beverages at ports of call and then drink them on board the ship. Just make sure of this policy in advance though.

* Smoking policies vary considerably among the various cruise lines but all do not allow smoking in restaurants on board. For those that wish to enjoy a completely smoke free atmosphere, Carnival does offer such an experience on board the Paradise cruise ship.

* If you are traveling alone, it may be best to look for singles cruises as most standard cruise fares are made for two people occupying the same room. If you are traveling alone then, you are obviously paying quite a bit more for the ticket than is necessary.

* You will still be able to stay in touch while cruising as all cruise lines make available phone calls and internet access for those that wish to email. However, expect extra charges for taking advantage of these services.

* If you are going to sail, use the right lingo when you do. Port means left, and starboard is right. The vessel is a ship, not a boat. Aft is the back of the ship and the bow is the front. All flooring is called a deck, not a floor. If you are going to enjoy the adventure, why not use the colorful language too, right?

Cruising on royal carribean cruise lines, carnaval cruises, and disney cruise ships, as well as others, can be a fun adventure for everyone if you understand in advance what requirements are involved. So be sure to read them carefully as supplied by your cruise line and you can have the vacation cruise of your life.

Thad Pickering writes on many consumer related topics including vacation travel. You can find out more about royal carribean cruise lines and discount disney cruises by visiting our Vacation Guide website.