Nassau, Bahamas is a beautiful destination for anyone looking for a tropical paradise and is a popular port for cruise ships. It is known for its dazzling turquoise waters, white sand beaches and year-round sunshine. But what is there to do? Many people are intimidated when they first arrive and depart the ship. The current gateway is under construction and is rather crowded and confusing. There are also tour vendors actively pushing their tours, along with taxi drivers asking if you want a private tour or transfer to one of the many beaches. Don’t let them scare you off….walk past them and into the town. Just be careful of the busy road. And be mindful of your belongings….as is common in many tourist locations, there are pickpockets around. Downtown Nassau has the usual shopping opportunities….beach wear, local souvenirs and the typical jewelry stores. It is only a few blocks long, so it doesn’t take much time to explore it. Have you ever gone swimming with pigs? You can in Nassau! There are many excursions available, either through the ship or on the pier. Want to do a walking tour? You have many options to choose from. There are culinary tours, rum tasting, bike tours or self-guided walking tours. Be sure to visit the Queen’s Staircase, commonly referred to as the 66 steps. This is a major landmark that is located in the Fort Fincastle Historic Complex in Nassau. It was hewn out of solid limestone rock by slaves between 1793 and 1794 and is said to have provided a direct route from Fort Fincastle to Nassau City. These steps were later named in honour of Queen Victoria, who reigned in Britain for 64 years from 1837 to 1901. Visit John Watling’s distillery if you like rum! John Watling’s Distillery, home to JOHN WATLING’S rum, offers complimentary tours at its home, the Buena Vista Estate, in Downtown Nassau. The historic Estate was founded in 1789 and overlooks the harbour. At the Estate, John Watling’s features a free production and museum-like tour, shopping and signature Bahamian cocktails at its tavern. It is within walking distance from the cruise ship port in Downtown Nassau. John Watling’s Distillery is located on Delancy Street and is open from 10am-6pm, seven days a week (except for National Holidays). Do you enjoy visiting breweries? Be sure to check out Rip Ty’d Bahamian Craft Beer, located an easy 20 minutes walk from the pier. They are a small batch brewery which allows them to be creative, especially with local produce. All beer styles start with the local Bahamian water. One of the most popular destinations for tourists is Atlantis Paradise Island, an ocean-themed resort on Paradise Island in the Bahamas. It is built around Aquaventure, a 62-hectare waterscape. You can purchase the excursion through the cruise ship or at the port. You can also just go and walk around the resort, visit the casino, shops and dining options. How do you get to Atlantis? You can either take a taxi or the ferry. Taxis are available at the cruise port – $4 per person. You can also take a ferry from Prince George Wharf to Paradise Island – $4 per person and run every half hour. Be sure to keep your eye on the time, as you don’t want to miss the ship! Beginning December 2025, the all new Royal Caribbean’s Beach Club opens. The Royal Beach Club Paradise Island will offer cruisers an all-inclusive venue to soak up sweeping Caribbean views and powdery white sands. Pricing and details can be found here: Royal Beach Club Paradise Island Enjoy your time in Nassau. Remember to take sunscreen, water and a hat with you! And wear comfortable walking shoes. For more, check out the YouTube of our son and daughter-in-law. Follow Maddie and Ryan for more adventures at sea and on land. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u3zFjOr971s Do you have travel insurance for your next cruise? The best day to buy it is the day you book so get it now. Insubuy has policies for all travelers. Have you booked your excursions yet? Check out my recommended provider. Stay up-to-date on all the Cruise News: Join me and other cruisers on Facebook at Zest4Cruising, A Celebrity Cruises Forum, A Celebrity Solstice Cruise Forum, A Celebrity Reflection Cruise Forum, A Celebrity Ascent Cruisers Forum, A Celebrity RETREAT class forum, A Celebrity River Cruises Forum and Alaska Cruise Lover Forum You can also follow me at: YouTube at Travels With Mickey Pinterest at Travels with Mickey Instagram at Travels with Mickey Please visit and follow my Amazon store for more helpful items to make your cruise and travel even more enjoyable! P.S. If you found this helpful, please don’t keep it to yourself. Please share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons are below). Thanks so much! Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. This means I will earn a commission – at no extra cost to you — if you click on the link and purchase anything from these trusted companies. It helps Zest4Travel, a small business, stay in business. Thanks for your support!
Category Archives: Cruise
Ultimate Guide: What to Bring on Your Caribbean Cruise
You’ve booked your dream cruise to the Caribbean. Now the big question…what to pack! While you might think all you need to throw into your suitcase is a couple of swimsuits and a pair of sandals, there are many other things to consider. A Caribbean cruise vacation offers so much more than just pristine beaches…though there are plenty of those too! Different islands offer different types of excursions…. relaxing beach days to zip-lining over treetops, hikes up mountains, diving/snorkeling and catamarans. Important Note: This post contains affiliate links, if you click and buy a product, I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details. This chart provides a general idea of what temperatures to expect each month. Don’t forget to factor in humidity also. Of course, things can change but this will give you a starting point. If you’re planning on participating in any of these activities during your cruise, you’ll want to make sure to bring along the appropriate activewear and shoes. Good walking shoes are a must. Also, beach footwear is essential. Water shoes are highly recommended….many beaches are rocky or have coral. I’ve been using these and find them very comfortable and easy to wear. Comfortable sandals are a must have item. I have found a pair by Dreampairs that are made for women. The fit is perfect and they have great support. They can also stand up to the occasional rain showers that are so common in the Caribbean. No matter how long your vacation, there are many accessories and items you might not consider important, but that actually go a long way in making your cruise as comfortable as possible. See my curated list in Cruise Packing 101 Here is a quick list of things to not forget: Swim suit! Nothing worse than arriving onboard and realizing you forgot to pack one! Beach cover up….sometimes it’s nice to have something more than your bathing suit if you want to get food or sit at the bar. This one comes in several colors too! Shorts and t-shirts are great for daytime. I wear skorts, as I don’t like shorts. Capris or leggings are also a good choice. Most important, be comfortable! For evenings onboard, dresses or skirts are a great option or nicer slacks. On formal nights, I love wearing something sparkly….it’s the only chance I get to really dress up! A light weight sweater or wrap is a good idea to pack. The ship can be cool at night. This evening wrap is well priced and comes in lots of colors. Don’t forget to add a good hat to your packing. This will protect your face from the sun. These are the ones I use: A cooling towel. The Caribbean can be HOT! A cooling towel will help you stay more comfortable. We live in Florida and visit DisneyWorld often….this is a MUST for us! Sunscreen. Please choose one that is Reef Safe. A waterproof case is useful if you are uncomfortable leaving your valuables on the beach while you are in the water. There is also a waterproof case if you want to snorkel with your phone. Want to snorkel? We always bring our own gear…that way we know it is well taken care of and clean. These are the snorkel masks and fins we use. Got a sunburn anyway? This sunburn relief spray will help calm and soothe your skin. If you like going to the pool or the beach, keeping your towel on the chair can be challenging. I found towel band or clips to be really useful and always have them packed and ready to add to the suitcase! We use this lock box at the beach or pool. It easily attaches to any beach chair and provides a secure place for your phone, id and money. Of course, a good beach bag to carry everything is super helpful. I like this one…lots of pockets to keep items organized and it is waterproof too! A good beach blanket is a necessity. We love this one…it comes with stakes to keep it in the sand, four attached zippered pockets and the carry pouch is attached, so it won’t fly away. Removing sand from your legs after being at the beach all day is always challenging. I love this sand removal tool. Just wipe it on and the sand disappears, leaving you skin feeling fresh and clean. Protect sensitive areas from the humidity. No one wants to talk about it, but chub rub happens and is very uncomfortable. This Chafing Relief Powder Gel is safe to use under arms, on inner thighs and other sensitive areas. Another good option is Gold Bond Stick Defense. . Cruise Approved Power Bar Ships have limited places to plug in your phone, computer, tablet etc Most cruise ship cabins have only a few electric plugs. You’re going to need additional outlets to charge electronic items like phones, computers, tablets, kindles, etc. USB ports are also useful. VERY IMPORTANT – Cruise lines don’t allow a regular surge-protected power bars from home (they will confiscate them). I recommend using one that plugs directly into the outlet without a cord. Many ports are confiscating those with cords, as they consider them extension cords. This is the one we travel with. If you need plugs, this is a good option too. Many cruise lines are really cracking down on any outlet extender that provides multiple plugs. This is a great option for charging multiple devices at once. Available in others colors. There is no need to pack beach towels, shampoo/conditioner, soap etc. Those will all be provided by the ship in your cabin. DO NOT pack irons or steamers…those are not allowed onboard. To learn what is not allowed to be brought onboard, read What NOT to bring onboard! Downey wrinkle release has worked very well for us in the past. Mosquitos can be a problem in the tropics. Use these patches to keep them away….just place on your clothing! The tropics are known for afternoonContinueContinue reading “Ultimate Guide: What to Bring on Your Caribbean Cruise”
Celebrity Cruises Drink Packages – Are They Worth It?
Travels with Mickey Cruises Disney Planning & Packing About Cruises Disney Planning & Packing About More than 2 results are available in the PRO version (This notice is only visible to admin users) Celebrity Cruise Drink Packages Explained: Are They Actually Worth It? This post may contain affiliate links. This means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through these links, at no additional cost to you. I only share products I personally use, genuinely recommend, or believe will help make your cruise travel easier and more enjoyable. Thank you for supporting Travels With Mickey! One of the questions I get asked most often before people sail with Celebrity Cruises is whether the drink packages are actually worth the money.And honestly? The answer really depends on how you like to cruise.Some people barely drink anything beyond coffee and water all day. Others love poolside cocktails, specialty coffees, wine at dinner, sparkling water, and a martini before a show. Celebrity also bundles far more than just alcohol into their packages, which is where many people underestimate the value.After many Celebrity cruises, here’s my honest breakdown of what’s included, who each package makes sense for, and a few things I wish I’d understood before booking my first one.Updated March 2026. Prices can and do change frequently, so always double check your specific sailing in the cruise planner. First Things First: What’s Included? Celebrity currently offers several beverage package options, but the two most popular are the Classic Package and the Premium Package.The important thing to understand is that these are not limited menus. You are not choosing from a tiny “package drinks list.” Instead, the package covers any drink priced up to a certain dollar amount. The Classic Drink Package The Classic Package is the standard alcoholic package most people choose. It currently includes: cocktails, spirits, beer, and wine by the glass up to $12 per drink specialty coffees and teas bottled water soda frozen drinks a 15% discount on bottles of wine For sailings departing from the UK and Australia, the limit increases slightly to $14 per drink.At the time of writing, the package costs around $90 per person, per day before gratuities, although Celebrity runs sales constantly, so very few people actually pay full price. For many cruisers, the Classic Package is more than enough. If you’re someone who enjoys a morning latte from Café al Bacio, bottled water throughout the day, a cocktail by the pool, wine with dinner, maybe another drink during a show…you can get surprisingly close to the daily package cost without even trying very hard.That’s why so many people end up liking the convenience of having everything prepaid before the cruise even starts. The Premium Drink Package This is the package we usually upgrade to.The Premium Package includes everything from the Classic Package, but raises the drink limit significantly and includes more top-shelf liquor, craft cocktails, premium wines, specialty water brands, and upgraded coffee options. At the time of writing, this package costs about $105 per person, per day before gratuities. At the moment, drinks up to $19 are included, or up to $23 on UK and Australia sailings.This matters more than people think because many of the cocktails at venues like the Martini Bar, Eden, and World Class Bar often sit above the Classic Package pricing threshold. If you enjoy nicer wines, premium cocktails, or specialty venues, the upgrade can absolutely make sense.The current upgrade cost from Classic to Premium is usually around $15 per day plus gratuity, and honestly, we’ve personally found it pays for itself pretty quickly.Fresh squeezed juice in the morning, upgraded bottled water, a few nicer cocktails in the evening, and suddenly the math starts mathing very quickly. Stateroom Bar Setups Celebrity also offers pre-stocked liquor setups for your cabin.The Classic setup includes brands like: Dewar’s Captain Morgan Beefeater.The Premium setup upgrades to options like: Hendrick’s Gin Ketel One Johnnie Walker Black Bacardi 8Mixers and ice are included.These setups are more popular with guests who prefer relaxing on their balcony or entertaining in suites rather than ordering drinks around the ship all day. Wine Packages Celebrity also offers wine-by-the-bottle packages, although these are not always available pre-cruise.The nice thing is that your bottle follows you around the ship. If you don’t finish it at dinner, the sommeliers can send it to another venue or even back to your stateroom.It’s a surprisingly elegant little touch. The Options Nobody Talks About Enough Water & Coffee A lot of people hear “drink package” and immediately think alcohol. But on Celebrity, the packages often make just as much sense for the non-alcoholic items.Bottled water alone adds up quickly, especially on warmer itineraries. Then add specialty coffee, smoothies, sparkling water, mocktails, fresh juice…and suddenly even lighter drinkers can find value in a package.This is especially true on port-heavy itineraries where you’re constantly grabbing water before excursions. Water Packages For Your Cabin If you mainly care about bottled water, Celebrity also offers water delivery packages for your stateroom.At the moment Acqua Panna packages start around $43, and San Pellegrino sparkling water packages start around $35.These are one-time deliveries placed in your cabin on embarkation day, not daily restocking packages. And honestly, this can be a good middle-ground option for people who don’t want a full beverage package but still like having water readily available in the cabin. What If You Don’t Drink Alcohol? Celebrity also offers a Non-Alcoholic Package, which is honestly a solid option if you mostly want bottled water, premium coffee, smoothies, soft drinks, mocktails, teas and energy drinks.At the time of writing, it’s around $45 per person per day before gratuities.There’s also a Wi-Fi bundle version available, which combines internet and the non-alcoholic package together for a discounted rate. Is It Better To Buy Before The Cruise? Usually, yes. Celebrity runs frequent flash sales in the cruise planner before sailing, and prices are almost always cheaper online than onboard.If you wait until embarkation day, there may still be promotions availableContinueContinue reading “Celebrity Cruises Drink Packages – Are They Worth It?”
Top Travel and Cruise Products Personally Recommended | Amazon Store
I have a passion for travel and cruising. As such, I have tried MANY products and have chosen my favorites to share with you. I only share items I have personally used and recommend. Let me know if you have any suggestions or comments. Please visit my Amazon travel store You will find all the things I love to use for traveling and cruising. Please check it out! Happy shopping! Let’s connect: Join me and other cruisers on Facebook at Zest4Cruising, A Celebrity Cruises Forum, A Celebrity Solstice Cruise Forum, A Celebrity Reflection Cruise Forum, A Celebrity RETREAT class forum and Alaska Cruise Lover Forum You can also follow me at: YouTube at Travels With Mickey Pinterest at Travels with Mickey Instagram at Travels with Mickey Please visit and follow my Amazon store for more helpful items to make your cruise even more enjoyable! *As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. P.S. If you found this helpful, please don’t keep it to yourself. Please share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons are below). Thanks so much!
Bonaire Beaches, Salt Pans, and Distillery: Unforgettable Caribbean Experience
Bonaire is one of three islands that make up the catchy nickname: the ABC islands. This colorful Netherlands Antilles archipelago lies 50 miles off the coast of Venezuela and is comfortably outside the Caribbean’s hurricane belt. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f4W6ZVTjA6s Bonaire is laid-back by design. Large chain hotels have been kept out and eco-preservation has been enforced since the 1970’s, making this some of the best dive and snorkeling sites in the world. The island’s relaxed and slow pace helps maintain the island’s chief attributes…its national park and pristine wilderness, both above and below the surface. This is the place for adventure sports: diving, caving, sea kayaking, mountain biking, wind surfing, and cliff jumping, to name just a few. Bonaire continues to be recognized as one of the top destinations worldwide for its sustainable tourism. The culture contains layers of Amerindian, Spanish, African, Dutch and British influences. You will hear traces of these languages (plus some French and Portuguese) during any conversation in Papiamento, the creole language spoken. Try using a few key phrases: por fabor, danki, and bon dia—all of which mean exactly what you think they do! Renting a golf cart is a popular activity. This is a fun and easy way to explore the island at your own pace. Be sure to reserve early….they sell out quickly! https://www.bonairecruisers.com Photo courtsey of Bonaire Cruisers Visit the donkey sanctuary, take a trip to the salt flats, view the flamingos or just hit the beach. Be sure to keep an eye out for the donkeys…they were brought to Bonaire by the Spanish in the 17th century for transportation. When modern vehicles (like pushcarts) became available , donkeys were no longer needed and were left to their own fate. Since 1993 injured, sick and orphaned donkeys have been cared for in a shelter, called the Donkey Sanctuary Bonaire. Volunteers take care over 400 donkeys in an enclosed area. The shelter is open to visitors and is located south of the airport on the Kaya Ir.R. Statius van Eps. https://www.donkeysanctuary.org/?lang=en Reduce your speed when you approach a donkey. They may cross the street unexpectedly. The south end of the island is host to the famous salt flats & mounts. As you drive along south road, you will notice the different colors of the water, turning into an intense pink color. Cargill has been operating here since 1997 and produces some of the purest salts in the world. Depending on the grade of salt, it is used for water softeners, the chemical industry or food production. You can learn more about the Bonaire salt on a tour, either through your ship or booked independently The Salt pyramids of Bonaire can be seen when arriving either by sea or by air, each one is roughly 50-feet high and contains approximately 10,000 metric tons of 99.6% pure salt. The Pekelmeer Flamingo Sanctuary is one of only four areas in the world where Flamingos breed. Pekelmeer means “salt lake” in Dutch. The pools appear pink against the white salt flats because of an abundance of tiny rosy brine shrimp that live in the water. This is also how the birds get their pink color…eating the shrimp! The Sanctuary is located on the vast salt pans at the southern end of the island and is home to over ten thousand flamingos. Tourists are not allowed in the sanctuary, but the birds can be watched with binoculars from the road or nearby Pink Beach. Please take care to not frighten them….once they fly away, they will never return. https://www.tourismbonaire.com/sightseeing/pekelmeer-flamingo-sanctuary Bonaire has over 22 beaches. On Bonaire and its sister island Klein Bonaire, the sands of some beaches are soft and blindingly white, while others are coarser and darker due to the high content of crushed shells and coral. Beach condition is intrinsically tied to the health of those reefs. You can help by taking your plastics and trash back with you, leaving the shells where they lie (they might be a home for hermit crabs) and wearing eco-friendly sunscreen. Every little bit helps to keep the sands clean for future generations to enjoy. Be sure to pick up a Bonaire Island Map to find many sandy beaches and coves to explore and enjoy. Watch for the bright yellow stone markers painted with the site name along the coastal roads. They make it easy to find a great beach for sun bathing, strolling or snorkeling and diving. Did you know that Bonaire has a distillery? The Cadushy Distillery was founded on March 7th, 2009 by the Gietman family and grew from a small start-up to a thriving company. They created something you would have never imagined…..excellent liqueur made out of cactus! Cadushy of Bonaire liqueur is based on the traditions of Bonaire. Lime has been used as a thirst satisfier for centuries and cactus has been an ingredient in the traditional kitchen. Be sure to stop and try some. https://www.cadushy.com Enjoy your visit to Bonaire…..an island unlike any other in the Caribbean. And if you didn’t watch the video already….please watch it! Let’s connect: Join me and other cruisers on Facebook at Zest4Cruising, A Celebrity Cruises Forum, A Celebrity Solstice Cruise Forum, A Celebrity Reflection Cruise Forum, A Celebrity RETREAT class forum and Alaska Cruise Lover Forum You can also follow me at: YouTube at Travels With Mickey Pinterest at Travels with Mickey Instagram at Travels with Mickey Please visit and follow my Amazon store for more helpful items to make your cruise even more enjoyable! P.S. If you found this helpful, please don’t keep it to yourself. Please share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons are below). Thanks so much! *Zest4Travel is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associate Program. As an Amazon Associate, I may earn from qualifying purchases.
Quick Visit to Curacao | Rainy Weather Cruise Adventure
Thanks to rainy weather, we had a quick visit to Curacao! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m-jmEbI_krM Let’s connect: Join me and other cruisers on Facebook at Zest4Cruising, A Celebrity Cruises Forum, A Celebrity Solstice Cruise Forum, A Celebrity Reflection Cruise Forum, A Celebrity RETREAT class forum and Alaska Cruise Lover Forum You can also follow me at: YouTube at Travels With Mickey Pinterest at Travels with Mickey Instagram at Travels with Mickey Please visit and follow my Amazon store for more helpful items to make your cruise even more enjoyable! *As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. P.S. If you found this helpful, please don’t keep it to yourself. Please share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons are below). Thanks so much!
Uncover Sitka, Alaska: History, Nature, and Wildlife Adventures
Nestled between mountains and sea, Sitka, Alaska, offers a blend of history, culture, and stunning natural beauty. From St. Michael’s Cathedral to the Russian Bishop’s House, this charming town tells a story at every turn. Explore Sitka National Historical Park’s lush rainforest trails or visit rescued bears at Fortress of the Bear. Whether wandering downtown or on a wildlife excursion, Sitka guarantees unforgettable experiences. Don’t miss the chance to discover this unique Alaskan gem—your adventure awaits!
Explore Fort Lauderdale: Beaches, Culture and Cruises
Fort Lauderdale….known as the “Venice of America”. The city is famous for its beaches, arts, culture and the 3rd largest cruise port in Florida. You can shop on Las Olas Boulevard, ride the water taxi on the canals, wonderful cuisine and visit the historic riverfront, all while enjoying bountiful sunshine…over 300 days each year! Located just two miles north of Port Everglades, the strip of sand that is Fort Lauderdale beach hosts many sophisticated hotels, delicious restaurants and lively bars. If you want to see and be seen, take a stroll down the Beachfront Promenade. During your walk, feel free to pop into any of the Fort Lauderdale beach hotels for a drink or a meal. Photo courtesy of Sunny.org There are many hotels to choose from, both luxury and moderate. Vacation rentals are also very popular here. Why not rent a waterfront home on a canal? Or an apartment in one of the high rise buildings? Many hotels along the beach have added amenities such as beach chair rental, salt water pools and bike rentals. No matter where to choose to stay, you will have a great time. There are so many hotels to choose from in Fort Lauderdale and the surrounding area. Do you only need one night pre or post cruise? Or are you planning a longer visit? Booking.com has all the hotels available for you to choose from. Another great option is to rent an entire apartment or house from VRBO. Why not enjoy more private space and truly relax. Visit Las Olas Boulevard to enjoy Fort Lauderdale shopping and dining. Located in the heart of Fort Lauderdale, it is at the forefront of everything from fashion boutiques and art galleries to outstanding restaurants, sidewalk cafes and bars. Stroll the boulevard during the day, where you can duck in and out of cool breezeways and be surprised by what you discover. And if you are looking for a great evening atmosphere, this is the place! Don’t miss taking a trip aboard the water taxi. You will have a prime view of the mansions and yachts dotting Millionaires Row. The captains and crew are well versed on the city and the many attractions that can be viewed from the water. The crew has seen it all and will have many stories on the area’s rich history, happenings and “who lives there?” Be sure to keep your pass handy when you depart your vessel…it’s your ticket to discounts and deals on food, drinks, merchandise and attractions at over 60 “Cruise & Save” partners. Water Taxi Photos courtesy of watertaxi.com Curious about the history of the area? Stop at the Stranahan House, a preserved 1900s home furnished with antiques of the era. The house was built in 1901 by Frank Stranahan, who is credited as Fort Lauderdale’s founding father, and his wife Ivy Cromartie Stranahan, the area’s first school teacher. It is the oldest surviving structure in Broward County. Photo courtesy of stranahanhouse.org Each October, Fort Lauderdale hosts as the largest in-water boat show in the world. Located steps from the beach, the show spans nearly 90 acres across three million square feet of exhibit space that is connected by an intricate network of water and ground transportation services. The five-day show attracts over 100,000 attendees and 1,000 exhibitors representing 52 countries with more than 1,300 boats on display. Products available to purchase range from sunglasses to superyachts and everything in between. Tickets must be purchased in advance to attend. If you want to see mega yachts up close, this is a great opportunity. http://www.flibs.com If you are boarding a cruise ship after you visit Fort Lauderdale, Port Everglades is only a few minutes away. From your hotel, you can take a taxi, shuttle or use ride-share. If driving your own car, there are plenty of options for parking. Each pier has a parking structure available. You can also park off-site. A quick google search will provide you with many options. Many hotels also offer extended parking for cruises. Be mindful of using a hotel parking lot though. Fort Lauderdale police have recommended not using them due to an increase in car thefts, as they are not secure parking sites. Pier information can be found here: Port Everglades Scroll down to find ship schedules, port maps and parking information. If you are boarding at Terminal 29, there will be a free shuttle just outside the Palm parking garage. Do not attempt to walk, this is a working port and very busy. Below is a map of the port. If you need to pick up wine, soft drinks or other supplies prior to boarding, there is a Publix, ABC Fine Wine & Spirits and a Total Wine on 17th Street close to the port by the back entrance. There are several hotels within walking distance of all three. Enjoy your visit to Fort Lauderdale. Relax in the sun, enjoy delicious cuisine, explore the canals and feel yourself starting to relax and unwind. You can book all your excursions and experiences on Viator. Don’t miss out on the things you really want to do. Let’s connect: Join me and other cruisers on Facebook at Zest4Cruising, A Celebrity Cruises Forum, A Celebrity Solstice Cruise Forum, A Celebrity Reflection Cruise Forum, A Celebrity RETREAT class forum and Alaska Cruise Lover Forum You can also follow me at: YouTube at Travels With Mickey Pinterest at Travels with Mickey Instagram at Travels with Mickey Please visit and follow my Amazon store for more helpful items to make your cruise even more enjoyable! P.S. If you found this helpful, please don’t keep it to yourself. Please share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons are below). Thanks so much! *Zest4Travel is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associate Program. As an Amazon Associate, I may earn from qualifying purchases.
Seattle Travel Guide: Explore the Emerald city & Top Things to Do
Travels with Mickey Cruises Disney Planning & Packing About Cruises Disney Planning & Packing About More than 2 results are available in the PRO version (This notice is only visible to admin users) Seattle Travel Guide: Explore the Emerald City & Top Things to Do This post may contain affiliate links. This means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through these links, at no additional cost to you. I only share products I personally use, genuinely recommend, or believe will help make your cruise travel easier and more enjoyable. Thank you for supporting Travels With Mickey! Seattle—the beginning of so many fun adventures! This beautiful city has so much to see and do, from iconic landmarks and incredible food to stunning waterfront views and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re starting a cruise, exploring the Pacific Northwest, or spending a few days discovering the city, Seattle is a destination worth taking the time to enjoy. Where to Stay in Seattle Downtown Seattle can be expensive—especially during the summer months! If you want to stay closer to the action without paying quite as much, look for hotels near the Space Needle. You’ll still be close to many of Seattle’s popular attractions while potentially saving a little on your hotel.If you’re really looking to save money, consider staying near the airport. It’s a bit farther from the city, but a taxi or Uber typically takes about 20–30 minutes, depending on traffic. Another option is the light rail, which can be an easy and budget-friendly way to get into downtown Seattle. Getting Around Seattle If you’re staying near the airport, the Sound Transit is an easy and affordable way to get into downtown Seattle. Sound Transit’s Link light rail runs daily between Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) and downtown Seattle, with trains arriving every 6–15 minutes depending on the time of day. The trip to Westlake Station takes about 40 minutes.Fares are typically $3 for adults and $1.50 for children ages 6–19 each way. For current schedules and fares, check Sound Transit before your trip. What is an ORCA Card? The ORCA Card (One Regional Card for All) is the smart card system used to pay for public transit across the Central Puget Sound region. It eliminates the need for paper tickets and exact cash across multiple transit networks Where You Can Use It: It is accepted seamlessly on the Link Light Rail, King County Metro buses, Sounder commuter trains, the Seattle Streetcar, the Seattle Center Monorail, and Washington State Ferries. How Much it Costs: A new standard adult plastic ORCA card costs $3. You can buy them at station vending machines, online, or manage them through the myORCA Mobile App. Android users can also use a free digital card directly within Google Wallet. Tap On Requirement: You must tap your card against the yellow card readers located on the station platform before boarding the light rail. Because Link Light Rail transitioned to flat-rate pricing, adult riders no longer need to “tap off” when exiting the train The Seattle Monorail Staying near the Space Needle? The Seattle Center Monorail is a fun and convenient way to travel between downtown and Seattle Center, home of the Space Needle. The monorail is also a Seattle landmark in its own right—it opened in 1962 and remains one of the city’s most recognizable ways to get around. Adult (19-64) – $4.00 OW Youth (16-18) – $2.00 OW Reduced rate (Seniors 65+, disabled, persons with Medicare cards, U.S. military with ID, ORCA LIFT cards accepted) – $2.00 OW Kids under 5 – FREE The Space Needle The Space Needle is one of Seattle’s most recognizable landmarks and a true icon of the city. Built for the 1962 World’s Fair, its futuristic design was inspired by the idea of creating a structure that represented humanity’s aspirations during the Space Age.Standing 520 feet tall, the Space Needle’s distinctive saucer-shaped “Top House” offers incredible 360-degree views of Seattle and the surrounding area. From the observation levels, you can take in downtown Seattle, Mount Rainier, Puget Sound, the Cascade Mountains, and the Olympic Mountains.And if you’re hungry while you’re up there, there are dining options available at the top. Reservations aren’t always required, with seating available on a first-come, first-served basis. Free Seattle Waterfront Shuttle Did you know Seattle has a free waterfront shuttle? It’s a great way to explore the waterfront without worrying about parking or paying for transportation.The shuttle typically operates daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. If you’re visiting Seattle during the summer, this can be a convenient way to get around and see more of the waterfront.Cruising from Seattle? Be sure to note that the cruise ship terminal pickup is at Pier 66, not Pier 91. That little detail can save you some confusion when planning your day. Seattle Underground Tour Looking for something fun and unusual to do with the kids? The Seattle Underground Tour is one of the city’s most unique attractions—and definitely an experience you won’t forget!This humorous and fascinating walking tour takes you beneath the streets of Pioneer Square to explore the hidden storefronts, sidewalks, and passageways that were buried when Seattle rebuilt the city after the Great Seattle Fire of 1889.You would never know this hidden world existed without taking the tour! The approximately 75-minute guided walking tour begins beneath Doc Maynard’s Public House before heading into historic Pioneer Square, considered Seattle’s birthplace. From there, you’ll descend underground for a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past and a time-capsule view of the streets that once stood above.It’s a fun way to experience a completely different side of Seattle—and one the kids are likely to remember! Pike Place Market Pike Place Market is a must-do when visiting Seattle! This iconic market has been a beloved part of the city for more than a century and is one of those places you really need to experience in person.Located in the heart of downtown Seattle, PikeContinueContinue reading “Seattle Travel Guide: Explore the Emerald city & Top Things to Do”
14 Things You Should Do Before You Leave for a Vacation
Vacation time is finally here! You’ve researched what you want to do and where to stay. Made list upon list of things you need take. But have you really thought of everything? 1. Contact your credit or debit card company There is nothing worse than being on vacation and having problems with your credit or debit card. Believe me….I’ve had it happen. And in a foreign country too. UGH! Most credit card companies need to know your travel plans. Some are no longer requiring you to do this, but make sure to check before leaving. And make sure you have enough available credit on your credit cards! If you are going to be gone when a payment will be due, be sure to schedule it! Also….make sure to use a card that does not charge a foreign transaction fee if you are going abroad! 2. Contact your cell phone company. Are you traveling abroad or going on a ship? Talk to your service provider to find out cheapest plan for making calls, sending text messages and accessing Internet from your smartphone. Many cell phone companies offer affordable day passes to U.S. customers for International talk, text, and data plans. Most cruise lines have internet access, so it is easy to stay in touch with people at home using FaceTime or WhatsAp. 3. Notify your home security system operator. This is especially important if you are not going to be available by phone. Give them a secondary phone number if possible, in case they need to contact you. 4. Confirm all reservations. Double-check all your reservations: flight, hotel, car rental, restaurants, attractions and any other services or experiences you’ve planned. Flights can change at the last minute….you don’t want any surprises at a check-in counter. Our son once showed up for a hotel reservation, not realizing he made it for the wrong month! Advance preparation helps avoid disaster. Keep a record of your reservations either in paper form or on your phone. I like to make a master itinerary if going on a longer, more involved vacation. I’ve also been known to take photos of my confirmations. It’s always good to have a backup. 5. Make advance payments on bills that have due dates during your trip. You don’t want to get hit with late fees! Make sure all credit cards, housing expenses (e.g., rent, utilities), and other monthly bills will be paid on time. You’re going on vacation…why worry about missing a payment! 6. Check the weather. This may seem like an obvious one, but many travelers forget to do it. Check the forecast for your destination and pack appropriately. You can also join a Facebook group if going on a cruise or to a popular location….people love to share their knowledge! 7. Eat, throw out or give away any perishable food. Who wants to return home to a stinky fridge! Run the dishwasher, take out the trash and clean the sink. Make sure there’s no food in the drain that could rot or attract bugs while you’re away. Yuck! 8. Leave an itinerary with a friend or family member. Your emergency contact should have a copy of your travel plans and locations. 9. Clean out your wallet. Remove any items you don’t need while on your trip. Remove loyalty cards, gift cards, extra credit cards, and leave any other unnecessary contents at home. Only take what you will absolutely use or need while traveling. 10. Place a hold on your mail delivery. This is very important if you’re going away for more than a couple days. You could also arrange for a neighbor or family member to collect your mail until you get home. 11. Bring in outdoor furniture, water plants, stop the paper if you get one. Don’t leave any outdoor patio chairs, cushions, toys, etc. outside….especially lightweight items that are easy to blow away or be taken. I’ve also heard people say to turn off the water to appliances…like the dishwasher and clothes washer. I don’t recommend this….the one time we did it, it caused our dishwasher to short circuit, resulting in a large repair bill. That was an unwelcome expense to return home to. 12. Close curtains, leave lights on a timer and change your thermostat. Uncovered windows make it easy for people to look in and see if there is anyone home. Having lights go on and off at different times also provides the illusion that someone is home. Set your thermostat to keep the house cool or warm, depending on when you are traveling. No one wants to come home to frozen pipes in the winter! And high energy bills to cool the house in the summer aren’t necessary if you’re not home! 13. DON’T….post on social media that you are going to be gone! This is the NUMBER ONE thing the police tell people not to do before leaving for vacation. Yes, it’s exciting to share your plans, but you never know who is lurking around, looking for an empty home. You can always share those photos when you return. 14. Arrange for someone to stop by and check on the house. If possible, have a neighbor, friend or family member check on the house. Leaks happen….we had one that our housekeeper discovered and saved us thousands of dollars in damages by finding it early! Better yet….have someone house sit for you. This is also a great option if you have pets. Saves boarding costs! 15. Unplug anything that uses a lithium battery. Before you leave, UNPLUG your rechargeable batteries and power banks! A Lithium-ion battery can not absorb overcharge. Fires can happen from the overcharging, and thus overheating, of these batteries. This includes cars, golf carts, scooters, drills, etc. Most importantly….relax and enjoy your vacation. You’ve earned it! Let’s connect: Join me and other cruisers on Facebook at Zest4Cruising, A Celebrity Cruises Forum, A Celebrity Solstice Cruise Forum, A Celebrity Reflection Cruise Forum, A Celebrity RETREAT class forum, A Celebrity River Cruises Forum, A CelebrityContinueContinue reading “14 Things You Should Do Before You Leave for a Vacation”