Packing is an important step when preparing for your cruise, but of course all your stuff needs to actually make it onto the ship. There are several options for this, as similar to when you fly, bags can be carrier on or checked. There are advantages and disadvantages to each – both at the start and end of your cruise... read more
On our January 2020 Brilliance of the Seas cruise to Cozumel, Mexico, we purchased day passes to El Cozuemeleño resort. For about $50 you get great pool area, a beach, top-notch service, and quality food and drinks. Towels do cost $5 extra - which we found a bit odd. Below is a video walk through as we describe just some of the amenities. Matt over at Royal Caribbean Blog has more information on this property, and we discussed our entire cruise on a recent episode of the Royal Caribbean Blog Podcast. read more
There are a lot of gadgets out there – and I’ll admit, that sometimes I buy them just to play with. A couple of experiences on recent cruises made me really see the value in one of these gadgets though, and it might just be invaluable to you one day... read more
The US State Department issues advisories to inform travelers about potential risks in different places in the world. This could be because of crime, political unrest, or other concerns. Safety is important, but so is context and common sense. Let's go over what you should keep in mind when looking at travel advisories and in general, thinking about safety and security during your travels... read more
The Cayman Islands are gorgeous with a lot to offer, including the famous Seven Mile Beach. Getting around any new town can be intimidating, but luckily, Georgetown Grand Cayman has a public bus system that is quick, inexpensive, and easy to use. We've been to Grand Cayman many times over the years, and in addition to it's gorgeous beaches, great diving, and peaceful atmosphere, it also offers high prices on many things, including cabs and tours. If you know where you want to go through, such as Seven Mile Beach, Hell (mail a post card, leave, tell your friends), West Bay Beach, or maybe one of the great restaurants in town, you can be there as quick as any private car, and for only $2.50... read more
Carnival Mardi Gras is a much anticipated ship. Not only will she be the largest ships Carnival has ever built, but she'll have some impressive new features and concepts - some new to Carnival, and others new to the cruising world. Those hoping to enjoy one of her earliest sailings however, will be disappointed to learn that her first eight sailings have been canceled... read more
If you're enjoying your cruise and want it to last just a little bit longer, we found a new (to us at least) option that let's you stay onboard in Ft Lauderdale at the end of your sailing, have lunch, enjoy the pool, and yes, your drink package... read more