Cruising without a porthole

QUESTION: I am planning to take my wife on a one-week cruise and are trying to decide what cabin category to book. As we are on a budget, I am inclined to book a medium-priced inside cabin, but my agent has recommended a much more expensive outside cabin on a higher floor. What do you say? - Simon Els

ANSWER: Your cabin choice depends on how you plan to spend your time on board. If you see your cabin as "somewhere to sleep" and expect to spend most of your time at the pool or enjoying the facilities on board, the mid-priced cabin should be adequate for your needs. Remember, though, that you will not have a window or a porthole in an inside cabin. If you enjoy relaxing in your cabin and prefer privacy to public spaces, then it would be worthwhile paying for an upgraded cabin with a window or balcony. Essentially, it's a balancing act when you are on a budget - the cheaper the cabin, the more you have to spend. And vice-versa.