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Staying on the Ship While in Port

Ships in Port in CozumelSometimes we cruise for the destinations, like the beautiful sights in Alaska or the clear waters of the Caribbean - other times we cruise for the onboard experiences available on mega-ships, or the unparalleled service offered on luxury lines.  No matter why you're taking a particular cruise though, there may be ports of call that are less interesting to you than others, and if that happens, you have options.  We'll address some common questions below, but make sure to check out some examples of cruise activity schedules at the bottom of this post. read more

Virgin Voyages and Disney Cruise Line Might Have Something In Common - And it Could Make Them Very Successful

Virgin Voyages and Disney Cruise Lines Have Something In Common - And it May Help Make Them a Success

Virgin Voyages is a new cruise line from Richard Branson's Virgin Group, and of all the things they've received attention for, perhaps none have got the internet's attention as much as the fact that they're restricted to adults only - no one under 18 may sail.  Disney Cruise Line has been around since 1998, and much as you'd expect with the Disney brand, they get much acclaim for their family experience, and how they cater to children.  These two lines may seem quite different at first glance - and they are, but there is one thing in particular they have in common, and it may very well help to make Virgin Voyages quite successful. read more

El Cozumeleño Resort, Cozumel, MX - Quick Video Walk-Through

El Cozumeleño ResortOn 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

Keeping Travel Advisories in Context

Travel Advisories Explained - Image of Port in Ocho Rios JamaicaThe 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

Grand Cayman's Public Buses - An Unexpectedly Easy Way to Get Around

Grand Cayman BusesThe 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

First 8 Sailings of Carnival Mardi Gras Cancelled - Carnival's Newest Ship Delayed

Carnival Mardi Gras Delayed

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

High on the High Seas: Can You Bring Pot on a Cruise Ship?

Can you take marijuana on a cruise ship?

Public opinion on marijuana has evolved rapidly.  Whether for medical ailments or just for fun, use of marijuana in the United States is on the rise, and whatever one’s reason is for smoking pot, it doesn’t go away when it’s time for vacation.  The legal and practical implications of bringing pot or other THC-laden products on a cruise are very important to consider though... read more