For Jean and other friends leaving for the Bahamas soon… Last month I cruised the Bahamas on two back-to-back cruises, both times stopping in Nassau. I had visited Nassau before and did the full day Atlantis Resort excursion, but I wanted to see and experience historic (and touristic) Nassau. So this time we […]
Caribbean & Bahamas
How I Maximize Relaxation & Fun on Cruise Sea Days
I’ve mentioned many, many, many times that I’m the most happy on a cruise ship. One of the things I look forward to the most are sea days. Sea days are free from schedules and responsibilities, and rather than thinking I’m “stuck” on the ship, I embrace the solitude of the open sea and nowhere […]
These Are a Few of My Favorite Western Caribbean Cruise Things (Part 2: Belize, Honduras, Grand Cayman, Jamaica)
As I plan and prepare for four cruises this year, I want to share my past port experiences by region, in this case the Western Caribbean. I’ve been on nearly a dozen cruises worldwide, most of which cruised out of Galveston, Texas (living in Houston, this is extremely convenient for me). Most seven day cruises […]
These Are a Few of My Favorite Western Caribbean Cruise Things (Part 1: Cozumel & Progreso, Mexico)
As I plan and prepare for four cruises this year, I want to share my past port experiences by region, in this case the Western Caribbean. I’ve been on nearly a dozen cruises worldwide, most of which cruised out of Galveston, Texas (living in Houston, this is extremely convenient for me). Every single cruise out […]
Cruise Packing Lists: Backpack & Rolling Suitcase Packing Checklists
I cruise about twice a year (this year it’ll be four cruises!). I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen people pull into the port and unload carts full of bags for cruises. That’s too much stuff! I don’t even check bags. Ever. Yep, I can travel to Europe for two weeks with just a […]
My Cruise Kit: The Practical & the Ridiculous
I travel a lot, and I cruise as much as vacation days will allow. Even though I pack light and efficiently, there are a few items I have to make room for when I cruise. Some items are considered common sense necessities, some are considered cruise/stateroom hacks, and some are just plain ridiculous (but so […]
A Cruise Must: Chef’s Table on Carnival Cruises
Cruising Carnival soon? During your planning and packing (read about my recommendations here), consider adding Chef’s Table to your planned events. IF you can get in. I’ve been trying to attend Chef’s Table for years and finally got the opportunity in February on Carnival Valor. So what’s the big deal, anyway? Chef’s Table […]
Carry-On Wine Corkscrew: A Travel Necessity
Those who spend any time with me know that I always have a corkscrew on me (emergency wine drinking, duh). And because I got tired of buying a corkscrew whenever I got to my destination when traveling, I now always pack a special TSA-compliant corkscrew that doesn’t need to be checked and won’t be confiscated […]
I’ve Run Everywhere, Man: Vacation Running
I would’ve never considered running on vacation…but gelato happens, so I suppose one must find a balance. I’ve been a runner for about two years. Even though I love my city (Houston), I travel as much as possible. Staying trained for races is what led me to run that one time in London, which opened up […]
First 24 Hours on a Cruise Ship: Do’s and Don’ts
Cruises can be overwhelming for first timers and long-timer cruisers. There’s so much to see, do, buy, eat, drink…so how do you decide what to do first and how long until you feel like you’re on vacation? For me, I get my sea legs within about four hours of embarkation. From years of cruising everywhere […]