Planning a cruise should feel exciting, not overwhelming. We sit down with Alfonso Aduna of Expedia Cruises in Norwalk to unpack how a local storefront combines Expedia’s massive buying power with the calm certainty of face-to-face service. From unbeatable cruise pricing to rapid help when flights get canceled, Alfonso shows why a real person in your corner can turn a stressful booking into an easy, joy-filled trip.

Alfonso’s journey from wealth management to travel planning reframes the goal of saving: money matters, but memories matter more. He explains how his team pre-purchases 50,000 cruise rooms across major lines to unlock lower fares, upgrades, and group amenities you rarely see when booking direct. We dive into common myths about travel advisors, the real cost of DIY mistakes, and the quiet perks that make a big difference, like choosing the right ship class for families, timing shoulder-season deals, and securing onboard credits that stretch your budget.

Community sits at the heart of this conversation. Alfonso shares how families and groups fuel referrals when service is personal and fast, why his Norwalk storefront features a coffee bar, a wine bar, and ship videos to help guests compare options, and how quick texts and local support become a safety net when plans shift. We close with practical takeaways on saving money without sacrificing experience, plus details on their January 29 kickoff event with major deals at 12840 Rosecrans Avenue. Subscribe for more local business stories, share with a friend who loves to cruise, and leave a review to help neighbors discover their next great getaway.