Creating and maintaining the right personal image for you and your company

I just came back from the sunny Caribbean. It would have been a very nice trip, if I wasn't seasick. However, I wasn't seasick all the time, just sometimes, especially at the front and back of the ship, where the ship's movements were more obvious. So, for those of you who have never been on a cruise vacation before, and want to, choose a cabin that is at the centre of the ship, preferably at the lower levels.

So, what to look out for in terms of image while taking a cruise vacation (in the Caribbean)? Here are some major points:

1. bring 2 foundations: one that matches your skin, and one that is slightly darker. The reason for this is people love sunbathing in a cruise, and they get dark. If you are stuck with only one foundation, you will look strange as the face is lighter than the rest of the body.

2. sunbathe moderately: I have seen so many people looking "roasted" from sunbathing. I know the warmth of the sun is irresistible, but day after day lounging on a chair beside the pool will guarantee you a "roasted" look. So, only do this moderately, preferably in the morning before 11am, and late afternoon between 4 to 6pm. As we all know yet many do ignore - the "roasted" look is actually sun damage, and the skin will age faster, not to mention the risk of skin cancer. Wear plenty of sunscreen and reapply often.

3. pack smart: there are now laundromats in cruise ships, so you can always wash your swim wear and day wear. If you want to pack light even with formal wear, bring separates. For example, one skirt and two different tops. This will give you two outfits, rather than bringing two full evening gowns, which take up much luggage space. Bring one pair of shoes and one set of jewellery that go with both outfits.

4. footwear: I suggest one pair of high heels for formal wear, one pair of smart casual shoes for dinner (for non-formal nights) such as a nice pair of non-beach sandals, one pair of flip flops, and one pair of running shoes. There is not likely any needs for more shoes.

5. daywear: tank top, t-shirt, jacket, shorts, jeans.

6. make up: maximum of two color palettes of eye shadows, one blush, 2 foundations, one concealer. Remember to bring your make up brushes and other tools such as brow tweezer.

7. seasick remedies: if you are prone to motion sickness, take precautions and bring your medication. I also wore at all times Sea Bands, which are elastic bands with a button which was placed on my wrist. Without them I'd be in much worse condition than I was during the cruise.

8. eat normal portions: almost everyone gained weight during the cruise (except for me, I lost 5lbs due to feeling unwell). It's OK to indulge, but watch your portions. If you want to try many different kinds of food, make sure you eat a smaller portion of each type. You wouldn't want to not being able to look good in pictures! There are plenty of portrait taking opportunities, don't miss them!

Find out more information about Cruises, Carnival Cruise and Caribbean Cruises.