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) The Travel Essentials You’ll Never Want to Leave Home Without 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! Be Prepared for the UnexpectedTravel surprises happen. Packing a few essentials helps you handle sudden weather changes, delays, and minor mishaps with confidence.Make Every Journey More ComfortableThoughtful essentials—like a neck pillow, reusable water bottle, or noise-canceling headphones—can make long travel days far more enjoyable.Pack Smarter, Not HeavierFocusing on the essentials keeps your bag light, organized, and easier to manage, leaving more room for the things that matter. Travel is exciting, but it can also come with its share of stress. From packing efficiently to navigating busy airports, most travelers want a smoother, more comfortable journey. With so many products to choose from, finding travel essentials that are actually useful and reliable can feel overwhelming. The right items can simplify your trip, while poor-quality products can create unnecessary inconvenience before you even reach your destination.That’s why we’ve done the research for you. We’ve curated a list of practical, highly rated travel essentials available on Amazon to help make every trip easier. Whether you’re planning a quick weekend getaway or an international adventure, these reliable picks are designed to help you pack smarter, travel more comfortably, and feel prepared along the way.Say goodbye to endless scrolling and questionable purchases—your next adventure deserves travel essentials that truly work. View on Amazon Join the Fun 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 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fAY-bnPox6c The Ultimate Travel Essential You Can’t Live Without July 18, 2026 Cruise, Packing & Planning, Uncategorized Celebrity Reflection: Next Up for a Refresh July 15, 2026 Cruise, Uncategorized The Retreat Experience on Celebrity Cruises: Pros and Cons June 16, 2026 Cruise Unlock Power Up Points with Celebrity Cruises in Europe May 1, 2026 Cruise, Europe Three Days in London: Must-See Landmarks and Hidden Gems April 26, 2026 Europe, United Kingdom Smart Casual and Evening Chic: Cruise Dressing Made Easy April 15, 2026 Cruise, Packing & Planning Join The Voyage One thoughtful email a month with practical cruise advice, packing ideas, and favourite finds. Email Subscribe You have been successfully Subscribed! Ops! Something went wrong, please try again. WHERE TO NEXT? Choose Your Path Cruise Cabin choices, port reviews, and honest comparisons across cruise lines Explore → Disney Deluxe resorts, concierge, and where to spend for the best experiences Explore → Planning What to bring, what’s worth investing in, and how to travel comfortably Explore → Travel and cruise blogger – I love sharing our travels and the many tricks I’ve learned along the way. So buckle in and let’s get out there! Facebook-f Instagram Youtube About Blogs Cruise Disney Planning & Packing
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Celebrity Reflection: Next Up for a Refresh
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 Reflection: Next Up for a Refresh 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! When Celebrity Reflection returns to service in March 2027, guests can look forward to reimagined outdoor spaces, exciting new dining experiences, and spectacular entertainment—all designed to make every sailing even more memorable. Celebrity Cruises is giving one of its most popular ships a dramatic new look with the unveiling of the reimagined Celebrity Reflection. She will enter drydock following her January 22 sailing and return to service on March 15.As the second Solstice Series ship to undergo the brand’s extensive modernization program, the refreshed vessel will feature 13 new and redesigned venues that bring many of the best-loved experiences from the Edge Series and the recently revitalized Celebrity Solstice onboard.Guests can look forward to signature spaces such as the elegant Grand Plaza, along with fan-favorite venues introduced during Celebrity Solstice’s transformation. The ship will also debut two all-new dining concepts—Orange Peel Bar & Grille and Tacos del Sol—offering even more ways to enjoy fresh flavors at sea.From bow to stern, the transformed Celebrity Reflection will offer reimagined outdoor retreats, exciting new dining options, vibrant entertainment, and thoughtfully redesigned social spaces, creating an elevated cruise experience throughout the ship.When the newly transformed Celebrity Reflection begins sailing in 2027, guests will enjoy year-round Caribbean itineraries departing from Fort Lauderdale. Cruise options will range from quick three- and four-night getaways to Key West and The Bahamas to longer six- and eight-night voyages visiting popular destinations including Aruba, Curaçao, Bonaire, Turks & Caicos, and Grand Cayman.The refreshed ship will also host Celebrity Cruises’ 2027 President’s Cruise, sailing May 10–14, 2027, giving loyal guests an opportunity to experience the ship’s exciting new features firsthand.“Celebrity Cruises is constantly dreaming up ways to innovate and elevate what we deliver for our guests, which is what makes this fleet modernization program so much more than a refresh,” said Laura Hodges Bethge, President of Celebrity Cruises. “With Celebrity Reflection, we’re evolving the guest experience in meaningful ways—introducing 13 new spaces designed to help guests relax, explore, and connect in ways that feel effortless and unforgettable.”The extensive transformation reflects Celebrity Cruises’ continued investment in its Solstice Series fleet, bringing modern venues, enhanced dining, and redesigned gathering spaces to one of the line’s most popular Caribbean ships while preserving the elevated service and premium experience guests have come to expect. The Happiest Pool Days Yet at the Reimagined Celebrity Pool Club The all-new Celebrity Pool Club transforms the top deck into an even more inviting retreat where guests can relax, socialize, and soak up the Caribbean sun. Featuring refreshed seating areas, upgraded amenities, and a vibrant atmosphere, the reimagined space is designed to make every sea day feel like a luxury resort experience.Whether you’re lounging poolside with a tropical cocktail, taking a refreshing dip, or enjoying live entertainment throughout the day, the enhanced Celebrity Pool Club offers the perfect place to unwind. Tacos del Sol is a new open-air dining venue serving fresh, Mexican-inspired favorites. Guests can build their own tacos with a variety of proteins and toppings, making it the perfect spot for a quick, flavorful poolside meal. Four New Entertainment Venues Celebrity Reflection introduces four new spaces designed to offer something for every mood. Whether you’re looking for live music, a lively gathering place, or a relaxed spot to unwind, these new venues provide even more ways to enjoy your time onboard. The Grand Plaza The Grand Plaza is one of the most exciting new additions to Celebrity Reflection. This stunning three-story venue becomes the heart of the ship, featuring a centrally located Martini Bar, a dramatic suspended chandelier with dazzling light shows, and live music and entertainment throughout the day and into the evening. Boulevard Lounge Originally debuting on Celebrity Solstice, the new Boulevard Lounge brings all-day entertainment to Celebrity Reflection with dueling pianos, karaoke, games, and live performances. Located nearby, Boulevard Bar serves handcrafted cocktails perfect for enjoying before or after the show. The Parlor The Parlor offers a fun space for sports fans and game lovers. Guests can enjoy billiards, darts, board games, big-screen sports, craft cocktails, specialty whiskies, shareable bites, comfort-food favorites, and over-the-top milkshakes. Sunset Park The redesigned Sunset Park transforms the top deck into a relaxing outdoor retreat with beautiful ocean views. Guests can enjoy lawn games, outdoor movies, live music, meditation, and plenty of space to unwind. Private cabanas provide shaded relaxation, while Sunset Park Café offers casual breakfast and lunch options, with the nearby Sunset Bar serving cocktails throughout the day. And don’t forget hot cookie hour daily from 3:30pm to 4:30pm. Three New Dining Experiences Trattoria Rossa Trattoria Rossa brings authentic Italian flavors with homemade pasta, classic Roman-inspired dishes, tableside preparations, and Italian wines and cocktails. Fine Cut Steakhouse The Forbes Travel Guide-rated Fine Cut Steakhouse redefined dining on the Edge Series and now joins Celebrity Reflection. Fine Cut Steakhouse offers an elevated dining experience featuring dry-aged steaks, fresh seafood, and premium service. Bora First introduced in November 2025 on Celebrity Xcel, the venue shifts from day to night. Bora introduces a Mediterranean-inspired rooftop experience with a daytime brunch atmosphere and an evening menu of shareable dishes and chef-led creations.. More Enhancements Across the Ship Guests staying in The Retreat will enjoy an upgraded Retreat Sundeck with a larger hot tub and a redesigned Retreat Lounge.Throughout the ship, guests will also find updates to favorite venues including Café Al Bacio, Cellar Masters, the Casino, Art Gallery, World Class Bar, Martini Bar, Pool Bar, Passport Bar,ContinueContinue reading “Celebrity Reflection: Next Up for a Refresh”
Explore the Upgraded Celebrity Solstice: New Suites and Venues
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 Solstice Unveils Stunning 2026 Transformation: Everything That’s Changed 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! Celebrity Cruises has officially revealed the completely transformed Celebrity Solstice, marking the beginning of a major modernization program for the Solstice Series.After entering dry dock in Singapore in January 2026, the ship has emerged with new suites, redesigned public spaces, upgraded staterooms, and several brand-new dining and entertainment venues. The refurbishment is the first phase of Celebrity’s $250 million investment across the Solstice-class fleet, bringing many of the features guests love on newer Edge Series ships to one of Celebrity’s most popular classes.If you’re sailing on Celebrity Solstice this year, here’s everything you need to know before you board. A New Look From the Outside Even before stepping onboard, returning guests will notice that Celebrity Solstice looks different.The most dramatic exterior change is at the front of the ship. Deck 15 has been completely reimagined, replacing the former open-air sports court and walking track with an entirely new block of accommodations.The addition introduces Panoramic Infinite Veranda Suites, giving guests a brand-new suite category while subtly changing the ship’s profile.Ship enthusiasts have also noticed another small but noticeable change. The two forward satellite dome housings have been removed, giving the ship a cleaner appearance. Introducing Panoramic Infinite Veranda Suites One of the biggest additions is the debut of Panoramic Infinite Veranda Suites.Inspired by the innovative Infinite Veranda design introduced on the Edge Series ships, these new accommodations feature floor-to-ceiling glass that creates a bright, open feel while offering expansive ocean views.The new suites increase the number of premium accommodations available onboard and give guests another option when booking a luxury Celebrity cruise. The Retreat Gets a Major Upgrade Suite guests have even more to look forward to.The former Solstice Deck has been completely transformed into an expanded Retreat Sundeck, creating a private outdoor sanctuary exclusively for guests staying in The Retreat.The redesigned space now includes: An oversized hot tub Private cabanas Additional lounge seating A dedicated bar More space to relax away from the main pool deck The upgrade brings Solstice more in line with Celebrity’s newest ships, where The Retreat has become one of the line’s most popular luxury experiences. Camp at Sea Has Moved Families sailing with children will notice another practical change.Camp at Sea has relocated to Deck 14, taking over the former conference center space next to the Sky Lounge.The move creates a more dedicated family area while making better use of space that was previously underutilized. Brand-New Restaurants, Lounges, and Entertainment The 2026 refurbishment has also transformed several of Celebrity Solstice’s original venues. The Parlor Replacing Quasar, The Parlor is an upscale sports bar with a modern twist.Guests can enjoy cocktails while playing billiards, darts, retro arcade games, and classic board games in a relaxed social atmosphere. Boulevard Lounge Celebrity Central has been reimagined as the elegant Boulevard Lounge.The venue now hosts live music, interactive game shows, trivia competitions, cabaret performances, candlelight concerts.It’s designed as a flexible entertainment venue with an intimate atmosphere throughout the day and evening. Trattoria Rossa Replacing the former Qsine restaurant is Trattoria Rossa, a new Italian specialty dining venue. Expect handmade pasta, tableside service, classic Italian flavors, and a more traditional fine dining experience than its predecessor. Fine Cut Steakhouse The popular Fine Cut Steakhouse, first introduced on Edge Series ships, has replaced Tuscan Grille.The restaurant serves premium steaks, fresh seafood, and elevated classic dishes in a contemporary setting, bringing one of Celebrity’s highest-rated dining experiences to Solstice. Sunset Park One of Celebrity Solstice’s signature features, the Lawn Club, hasn’t disappeared—but it has evolved.Now known as Sunset Park, the real grass remains, but the space has been redesigned with a more relaxed park atmosphere. Guests can expect outdoor movies, live acoustic music, lawn games and relaxed evening entertainment.It’s a fresh take on one of the most iconic spaces ever built aboard a cruise ship. Every Stateroom Has Been Refreshed It’s not just the public spaces receiving attention. Every stateroom onboard has been refurbished with updated furnishings, finishes, and décor, giving cabins a brighter, more contemporary feel.Combined with the addition of four new accommodation categories, Celebrity Solstice now offers more choice than ever before. When Can You Sail on the Refreshed Celebrity Solstice? Following her extensive refurbishment, Celebrity Solstice returned to service on March 2, 2026, sailing from Singapore on a 12-night voyage to Hong Kong.The ship will then reposition to Alaska for the summer season, giving North American guests the opportunity to experience the redesigned vessel on some of Celebrity’s most popular itineraries. Final Thoughts Celebrity Solstice has always been one of the most loved ships in the Celebrity Cruises fleet, and this extensive refurbishment ensures she’ll remain a favorite for years to come.From the addition of new suites and premium dining venues to the expanded Retreat experience and redesigned entertainment spaces, the changes go far beyond cosmetic updates. The ship now blends the spacious feel of the original Solstice-class design with many of the features guests have come to love on Celebrity’s newer Edge Series ships.As the first vessel to undergo this next-generation transformation, Celebrity Solstice offers an exciting glimpse into the future of the entire Solstice-class fleet. If Celebrity follows the same approach with her sister ships, cruisers have plenty to look forward to over the coming years. Planning a Cruise on Celebrity Solstice? Don’t forget these essentials before you sail:Protect your vacation with travel insurance. The best time to purchase travel insurance is soon after booking your cruise. We recommend comparingContinueContinue reading “Explore the Upgraded Celebrity Solstice: New Suites and Venues”
How to Travel from Schiphol to Amsterdam Easily by Train
Flying to Schiphol and want to get into the city quickly? Whether you have gotten off the plane or the train, you can be in the centre of Amsterdam in under 20 minutes. Trains leaves from Schiphol to Amsterdam Central from platform 3 every 7 minutes! The train ticket doesn’t cost much and it’s faster than traveling by taxi. Super convenient! This post may contain affiliate links which means if you click and buy that I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details. Traveling by public transport to/from the airport is a smart choice: it saves costs, is environmentally friendly, and offers convenience and comfort. In addition, from a safety perspective, it is wise to choose public transport, especially if you are tired after a long flight. Where can I find the train to Amsterdam? Schiphol Airport station is just below the airport. From the arrivals hall, follow the ‘Trains’ signs to Schiphol Plaza, where you take the escalator or elevator down to the platforms. Go to platform 3 for the sprinter train to Amsterdam. You never have to wait long….the train leaves for Amsterdam Central eight times an hour, seven days a week! There are slightly fewer trains after 11:00pm. Get from Schiphol to Amsterdam under 20 minutes The train is your smartest and fastest choice. You can get from the airport to the center of Amsterdam in under 20 minutes. Amsterdam Central station is located at the heart of the city, close to the famous Dam Square and Kalverstraat. The airport sprinter runs between Amsterdam CS, Sloterdijk, Lelylaan, Schiphol Airport and Hoofddorp, and is usually faster (and cheaper) than taxis or cars. If you want to visit Amsterdam, buy an Amsterdam Travel Ticket. It allows you to make unlimited use of the train and bus to and from Schiphol, and all trams, metros and buses in the city centre for up to 24 hours. Where can you buy a train ticket? There are ticket machines close to platform 1 and Starbucks. You can also pay with your bank card, credit card or mobile phone by checking in at the public transport check-in points. At Schiphol these can be found at the top of the stairs/escalators to the platform and near the lift at Schiphol Plaza. A train ticket to Amsterdam Central is not expensive, approximately 5.20€ one way at the time of writing. If you use your bank card or mobile phone, don’t forget to check out once you are in Amsterdam. Are you boarding a ship at the Passenger Terminal? You are an easy 20 minute walk away or 4 minute taxi ride away. You can buy a ticket for public transport at the airport from the blue/gray Public Transport Tickets machines. These are located at the baggage belts of Arrivals 1, 2 and 3 and at Schiphol Plaza. You can buy a ticket for a single trip or various 1, 2 or 3-day travel tickets. Is the train accessible? The airport sprinter between Schiphol and Amsterdam has a level entrance. You can easily get on and off the train, even if you are less mobile or have a lot of baggage with you. No big steps to get onto the train! You also don’t have to worry about waiting long – the train leaves every eight minutes. Final Thoughts Public transportation in Amsterdam is quick and easy to use. Enjoy your visit! Wondering how to best pack your carry-on bag? You might find these packing tips helpful. Essential Travel Items for Your Carry-On Bag 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!
About Me
Hi! I’m Mickey! I live near Orlando, Florida with my husband Frank. We can often be found dreaming about and planning future cruises! I believe in having fun, being kind and that you are never too old, or too young, to live the life of your dreams! Please note that I do not sell cruises on Zest4Travel. This and all other posts are for informational and entertainment purposes only. I share my own opinions, personal experiences and insights with other travelers, which I hope can be helpful. Please contact your travel agent or the cruise line directly for advice and any information specific to your travel. FTC LEGAL DISCLOSURE – Some links found on the site are affiliate links, meaning that I will make a commission on purchases you make through my links, at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products and services that I personally like and trust. *Business inquiries & media: please contact me at zest4travel@yahoo.com or travelswithmickey@yahoo.com. Please note that I am unable to give personal cruise and travel advice. If you leave a comment, I try my best to answer.
Xcel Dream Makers – Celebrity Cruises
Have you always wanted to be involved in the designing of a new ship….what the interior looks like, food and beverage menus, entertainment options? Well….here is your chance! Launching in November 2025, Celebrity Xcel is the newest addition to the Celebrity’s award-winning Edge® Series. Through Xcel ‘Dream Makers’, travelers will have the opportunity to test, vote on, and refine new experiences, ensuring the ship delivers a next-level holiday experience tailored to guests’ preferences. Celebrity Cruises is inviting vacationers worldwide to create their dream vacation experience on Celebrity Xcel® with Xcel ‘Dream MakersSM.’ Open to all who wish to join, this global community will test, try and vote on new experiences. Their selections will launch on Celebrity Xcel in November 2025 for vacationers to enjoy, further elevating the fifth ship in the cruise line’s award-winning Edge® Series into a class of its own. “We want to ensure our guests love our products and experiences, so involving them in the process to perfect Celebrity Xcel was a great way to achieve this,” shares Michael Scheiner, chief marketing and product officer of Celebrity Cruises. “Celebrity Cruises is known for ground-breaking innovation in ship design and experiences unlike any other at sea, when Xcel launches guests won’t have just found their happy place, they’ll have helped us build it.” In an industry first, Dream Makers will have the final say across key elements of the vacation experience to be offered on Celebrity Xcel when she sets sail. Through online polls and one-of-a-kind experiential in-person events, the public will perfect the ship’s design, culinary and entertainment offerings. Dream Makers will put their design, experiential and foodie skills to the test on Celebrity’s newest ship, making decisions across key spaces, including the ship’s seven, new, yet-to-be-revealed experiences. Dream Makers will make their mark on the Celebrity Xcel by: Choosing textiles, managing interior design elements and curating service offerings; Picking their favorite dishes and beverages, choosing table settings and shaping dining concepts; and Providing input on headline shows, curate props and costumes, select playlists and partake in selections to appoint pivotal entertainment positions onboard. With the help of Dream Makers, Celebrity Xcel will push the boundaries of leisure travel. The ship reached a major milestone on January 18, floating out of dry dock at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France. The float out ceremony celebrated the completion of the ship’s exterior, bringing Celebrity Xcel one step closer to welcoming guests. The innovative ship will also advance Royal Caribbean Group’s decades-long commitment to sustaining the planet with the first tri-fuel capable engine, representing an important steppingstone on the company’s journey to Destination Net Zero, its vision for net-zero emissions by 2050. Celebrity Xcel is sailing her inaugural season from Fort Lauderdale, offering seven-night itineraries alternating between the Bahamas, Mexico, Cayman Islands, Puerto Plata, St. Thomas, and St. Maarten. In Summer 2026, Celebrity Xcel will set sail on her inaugural European season where guests can immerse themselves in the Mediterranean like never before on seven-to 11-night journeys out of Barcelona and Athens, including all new overnight stays in Madeira, Portugal. Join Here! There will also be daily prizes and larger prizes awarded prior to the launch of Excel. The more you interact, the better your chances are to win something wonderful! 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!
Avoid Trouble: Items Banned on Cruise Ships
Preparing for your cruise is exciting and a little overwhelming. You don’t want to forget anything….but you also don’t want to bring something that is not allowed onboard! Cruising is a different kind of vacation from hotel and land tours. Ships have very set rules on what you can and cannot bring onboard. You might be surprised to find out some of the items that are actually prohibited on cruise ships! While some things are obvious, others may seem a bit weird or strange….you can even get you in trouble if you bring them. There are also some practical travel items that you might normally bring on a vacation, but aren’t allowed onboard cruise ships. This post contains affiliate links which means if you click and buy, I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details. Items that Are Prohibited on a Cruise The following are examples of items that guests are not allowed to bring onboard. These and other similar items will be confiscated upon being found. Weapons, illegal drugs & other Substances (including marijuana, cannabis, extracts of THC and/or CBD), These items could interfere with the safe operation of the ship or the safe and secure environment of our guests and crew and are strictly prohibited. Alcoholic beverages, illegal drugs, flammable liquids, explosives, and dangerous chemicals will NOT be returned. Firearms & Ammunition, including realistic replicas. Sharp Objects, including knives and scissors. (Personal grooming items such as safety razors are allowed. Scissors with blade length less than 4 inches are allowed.) In Alaska, ulu knives bought in port may be brought onboard but must remain stored in cabins. Aerial Drones: Some cruise lines allow guests to bring drones on their cruise for use on land only and outside of the port area. Drones are not to be operated onboard the ship at any time. Different countries may have different rules. Guests assume full responsibility for understanding all local authority rules related to drone usage and for obtaining ay required permissions for drone operations. Any liability, including environmental damage from drone usage is the guest’s responsibility. The cruise line assumes no liability for guests drones that may be confiscated by local authorities for violating local laws or for any accident or injury resulting from a guest drone flight. While onboard, drones must be stored safely in the stateroom. Drones used on the ship will be confiscated till the end of the cruise. A Guest Conduct Policy warning will be issued and guests may be subject to disembarkation at their own expense for onboard drone usage. Candles, Incense, Coffee Makers, Clothes Irons, Steamers & Hot Plates: Items that generate heat, steam or produce an open flame are strictly prohibited. This includes heating pads, clothing irons, hotplates, candles, incense and any other item that may create a fire hazard. NOTE: The only exception to this policy are curling irons, hair straighteners and personal fans that are “”certified”” low wattage. Matches and normal lighteners are allowed onboard. However “”torch lighters”” and novelty lighters that look like guns are not allowed onboard. Torch lighters emit a powerful concentrated flame, and therefore are prohibited. If you are someone who loves a specific type of coffee, you can request a hot water kettle from your cabin steward and make pour-over coffee in your cabin. Or your favorite tea. Clothing Irons and Steamers These are a potential fire hazard, they’re prohibited to be brought on a cruise ship. Fire is one of the worst things that could happen on a cruise ship; therefore, this is strictly enforced. f you are a first time cruiser, you might be surprised that unlike a hotel room, you won’t have an iron in your cabin. If you do need to get wrinkles out of your clothes, some cruise ships have public laundry rooms that cruise passengers can use. You can also use the ship’s laundry and pressing service at an additional fee. Which cruise lines offer self-service laundry? It is easy to remove wrinkles in your cabin and to wash out smaller items. Click on picture for link to products. Smart Glasses They may be brought onboard but are restricted in areas including casinos, spa service areas, restrooms, locker rooms, medical facilities, security screening locations, youth facilities, back-of-house tours, crew areas or any place with a reasonable expectation of privacy. Violations result in confiscation. Vapes While allowed onboard in specified areas, vapes and e-cigarettes are banned ashore in Mexico, with public smoking of regular cigarettes prohibited in many areas, risking fines or jail. Baseball Bats, Hockey Sticks, Cricket Bats, Bows & Arrows Skateboards & Surfboards Martial Arts Gear If sailing in the Caribbean, do not pack any clothing with camouflage material. There are a few islands, such as Barbados, that prohibit this type of clothing, as it is worn by the military only. Self-Defense Gear, including handcuffs, pepper spray, night sticks. Flammable Liquids and Explosives, including lighter fluid and fireworks. HAM Radios Hookahs & Water Hookah Pipes. Surge protected Electrical Extension Cords Dangerous Chemicals, including bleach and paint. Alcoholic and Non-Alcoholic Beverages: Check with your cruise line to see if wine is allowed to be brought onboard at embarkation and how much…many do. Alcoholic beverages that are purchased in ports-of-call or from shops onboard will be stored by the ship and delivered to you on the last day of the sailing. Alcoholic beverages seized on embarkation day will not be returned. Perishable food that requires refrigeration…this includes fruit, vegetables, dairy products or take away containers. If you need refrigeration for medical reasons, contact the cruise line at least 30 days prior to sailing to make arrangements. Food that is prepackaged such as snacks, chips, candy, powdered coffee creamer, etc are allowed onboard. Special Needs Form for Celebrity Cruises Holland America Special Requirements Form Princess Cruises Form Final thoughts…. Follow the rules of your cruise line and you will have a quick and easy embarkation and an enjoyable vacation. Be sure to check out the link below for items youContinueContinue reading “Avoid Trouble: Items Banned on Cruise Ships”
You Booked a Cruise – Now What?
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. Make sure booking information is correct Check everything from the spelling of the names on the booking to the cruise dates. It is easy in the excitement of booking to click on the wrong year or month. This is a good time to make sure it’s all correct to save you some frustration later on. This is especially important if you use a Travel Agent, as they will have to make the changes for you and mistakes do happen. Make sure your passport or other boarding documents are current. This should actually be done before you book…you don’t want to be waiting for a passport to come in the mail when your cruise date is rapidly approaching. But this is still a good time to at least double-check and make sure you’re documentation is current. Your passport cannot expire within 6 months of the end of your cruise. Applying for a new passport or requesting a renewal can take up to 6-8 weeks…that does not include mailing time both directions. Don’t put it off….apply or renew now! Names must match exactly with the booking information, so if you have recently had a name change, be sure that your booking is in the name on your current passport or other boarding documents. I have seen so many newlyweds arrive and not be allowed to board because the passport name and reservation name do not match…not the way to begin a honeymoon. If traveling internationally to certain countries, you will want to check on visa requirements and apply for those as well. Visas are the responsibility of the cruiser, not the cruise line. Read more: What cruise documents do you need to board? Mark your calendar with important reminders Whether you want to use your phone’s reminder application or write down the dates on a calendar, take note of important dates like when final payment is due and when you can begin check-in for your cruise. Some cruise lines, like Disney, have specific dates when you can begin booking additional add ons. If your cruise is on one of those, be sure to not that on your calendar. You don’t want to miss your window of opportunity. Download the ship’s mobile app and join their loyalty club If you don’t already have an account with the cruise line, you should get one as soon as possible. You want to make sure you earn points for each cruise you take and receive the benefits on subsequent sailings. For an example, check out this link to see what Celebrity Cruises offers. The cruise line’s app serves many functions. You will be able to see the ship’s daily schedule, make reservations, check your onboard spending, view menus, see a deck plan and chat with other passengers. Port arrival and departure times will also be noted here. Save yourself time by doing this now and not having to hurry and to download the app while in the terminal. With most cruise line apps, when checkin opens, you can do this right on your phone, making the whole process a breeze as well. Read more: Celebrity Cruises Captain’s Club Consider purchasing travel insurance This is extremely important. We did not purchase travel insurance for many years. Let me just say…..we are VERY lucky we never needed it. Medical assistance onboard is very expensive and fairly limited. If you need a hospital or specialized doctor while at sea, you would need to be airlifted. If onshore while in port, you would have to depart the ship and go to a hospital in that country. Your medical insurance from home will not cover that or any other expense you would incur….hotels, food, transportation home, etc. You can purchase travel insurance through the cruise line or through private carriers. We have decided to purchase an annual policy, which we have found to be cheaper than buying one for each trip. A 3rd party travel insurance plan might offer more peace of mind if you’re looking for extra medical evac coverage or even cancel for any reason coverage. Also, check with the credit card you used to purchase the cruise…they may offer some built-in protections already, such as trip delay, lost luggage, some medical coverage, etc. Make travel and hotel arrangement Air travel If you don’t live within driving distance of the cruise port, you will want to start checking flights right away. The longer you wait to book a flight, the higher the chance that the costs will go up. However, this is not always the case. I recommend starting to research airfare costs and then track prices over the next few days. Be sure to book these well in advance of your cruise. Also, check and see if the airline is offering the ability to change the flights without penalty. Some have started doing this post-Covid, giving you flexibility in timing and price. You can use a price tracker through Kayak or Google flight price alerts to stay on top of any fluctuations. I like to look at flight costs and times before booking a cruise. Transportation can be a huge part of your travel budget. Of course, if you find a good cruise deal first, you can always look for an affordable flight later. Hotel arrangements If flying to a cruise port (and sometimes even driving), we always get a hotel for at least one night before the cruise. It would be horrible to miss your cruise due to a cancelled or delayed flight or traffic issues if driving. Staying in a hotel ahead of time helps alleviate some of the stress of travel and allows you to arrive at the port rested and excited to begin your cruise. You can often find hotels with free shuttle services to the cruise port. Many hotels close to a cruise port provide extra servicesContinueContinue reading “You Booked a Cruise – Now What?”
Celebrity Cruises – The Retreat
What is the Retreat and what does it include? The Retreat is an exclusive, all-inclusive suite experience. It includes a dedicated Retreat team, a private restaurant Luminae, an exclusive loungenand so much more. All guests of The Retreat are treated to a cruise vacation that begins at a reserved pre-boarding area for expedited, escorted service onto your ship. If the ship is not ready for embarkation, there will be drinks and snacks available for all suite guests. Suite accommodations: The Retreat includes all suites Private restaurant: Luminae at The Retreat Exclusive lounge: The Retreat Lounge (or Michael’s Club, on non-revolutionized ships) Exclusive sundeck: The Retreat Sundeck (on Edge Series and revolutionized ships) Retreat Butler and team All Included: Premium drinks and Premium Wi-Fi (all guests in suite) Room Service: Full in-suite breakfast, lunch, dinner service, and daily delights. Early embarkation and priority disembarkation: Priority departure and embarkation at most destinations, including those that require tendering In room Minibar: Complimentary stocked minibar What is Luminae at The Retreat? At Luminae, you will find cuisine not offered anywhere else onboard. The restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch (sea days) and dinner. Opening times very based on itinerary. Please check your Celebrity Today for service hours once onboard. All menus have been expertly crafted by Michelin-starred chefs using globally sourced ingredients. You’ll also enjoy complimentary signature dishes created by the Global Culinary Brand Ambassador, renowned chef Daniel Boulud. Can children dine at Luminae? Yes, all guests of The Retreat may dine at Luminae. Can guests of The Retreat invite friends and family to dine in Luminae? Yes, only guests of The Retreat may invite friends and family to dine at Luminae for an additional fee. Reservations are based on availability only. Speak with the Maitre’d for availability and cost. Is Specialty Dining included for guests of The Retreat? Specialty Dining is included for guests of the following Suites: Iconic Suite, Edge Villa, Reflection Suite, Penthouse Suite and Royal Suite. What is The Retreat Lounge*? The Retreat Lounge is an exclusive lounge for guests of The Retreat. Enjoy complimentary beverages, afternoon tea, evening hors-d’œuvre and desserts. This is a nice place to relax and meet other guests. The lounge is available to you 24/7. You will also have the services of a dedicated concierge who can assist with dinner reservations, spa treatments and more. * Michael’s Club on non-revolutionized ships. Can guests of The Retreat invite friends and/or family members to The Retreat Lounge? Only guests of The Retreat may access The Retreat Lounge, guests are not allowed. The Retreat Sundeck* The Retreat Sundeck is a luxurious outdoor space featuring a spacious lounge area and plush, stylish furniture. This outdoor area rivals any high-end resort. *It is only Available on Edge Series and Revolutionized ships When is The Retreat Sundeck open? The Retreat Sundeck is available 24/7. Service (food and beverage) times vary based on itinerary. The area is open and available to all guests of the Retreat, including children What services are available in The Retreat Sundeck? Retreat Attendants will help with towels, beverages, snacks—whatever you need to completely enjoy your time in the Retreat Sundeck.’ Can guests of The Retreat invite friends to The Retreat Sundeck? Only guests of The Retreat may access The Retreat Sundeck. Passengers staying in an adjoining stateroom are not allowed access. What is The Retreat Concierge? The Retreat experience begins the moment you book your cruise. Simply call 1-877-RETREAT and The Retreat Concierge will assist you with your booking and help plan and arrange every moment of your vacation before you even set sail. Once onboard, The Retreat Concierge will help maximize your time on board with dinner reservations, spa treatments and more. They are happy to assist with anything you need or desire. Is the Retreat Accessible? Accessible suites are available. The Retreat Lounge, Luminae and The Retreat Sundeck*† are accessible on most ships. See below for details. *The Retreat Sundeck is only available on Edge Series and Revolutionized ships. †The Retreat Sundeck on Equinox currently is not Accessible. An alternative accessible space will be provided on the Pool Deck. Is smoking allowed at The Retreat? Smoking is not allowed at The Retreat. There are dedicated smoking areas available onboard. The Retreat Concierge and/or Retreat attendants can assist you once onboard. Guest conduct and smoking policy How many Captain’s Club points will I receive when purchasing a Suite on Celebrity Cruises? Captain’s Club members receive points based on type of Suite and length of stay onboard. For Suites, the points are as follows: Sky Suites, Aqua Sky Suites, Magic Carpet Sky and Sunset Sky 8 points per night. Edge Villas, Horizon, Signature, Royal, Sunset Suites and Celebrity Suites 12 points per night Reflection, Penthouse & Edge Villa 18 points per night Iconic Suite 24 points per night What are the Suite staterooms? Click on each link to learn more about each suite. Not all suites are available on all ships. Sky Suite (includes Magic Carpet Sky Suite and Sunset Sky Suites) Aqua Sky Suite Horizon Suite Celebrity Suite Signature Suite Royal Suite Reflection Suite Penthouse Suite Edge Villa Iconic Suite Whichever suite you choose, you will have an experience above and beyond. Enjoy dining in Luminae, relaxing on the private pool deck and meeting new friends in The Retreat. More information on what is included can be found here: The Suite Life on Celebrity Cruises If you are new to cruising, or even a veteran cruiser, you might find this list helpful. 19+ Useful Items for Your Cruise Cabin 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 moreContinueContinue reading “Celebrity Cruises – The Retreat”
20+ Best Stocking Stuffers for Cruisers
If it can fit in a stocking, it can fit in a suitcase or carry on! These stocking stuffers are the ideal gifts for anyone who loves to travel and cruise. If your loved one is a travel lover like me, big expensive gifts are not needed….unless it’s a cruise or plane ticket of course , lol! Check out these stocking stuffers for travelers this holiday season. Let’s start shopping! 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. Digital Alarm Clock I have yet to have a cabin with a clock of any kind. We have started bringing along a small, no frills digital alarm clock. Having a dedicated clock in your cabin can be very useful, especially when cruise ships ask you to move the time forward or backward by an hour. At home I check my phone during the night, but on many ships, there is not a plug by the bed. This battery operated clock is very helpful! Electronics Organizer Case Stay organized by keeping your chargers, cables and plugs, and phone accessories together. To keep my chargers organized, I use this organizer case. It’s big enough to hold all my cords and chargers but small enough to fit in my carryon. Motion Sensor Night Light Cruise cabins can be very dark at night. We find a motion sensor night light to be very useful. No more bumping into furniture or walls….no one needs injured toes. Cruise Approved Power Bar 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. Adapters I love these adapters by Hero. They have them for several different countries and are made in the US with a 100% money back guarantee and lifetime warranty. Portable Phone Charger A good portable phone charger is a must have item. Nothing is worse than having your phone die while traveling. I use this portable charger with a built in foldable USB-C connector for everyday use. This is another great option if you need or want to charge two phones. Smartphone Stand Holder I love this phone holder….makes it so much easier to watch movies or video chat. And it just makes me laugh. RFID Blocking Card Thieves are everywhere. Simply place your credit/debit cards or any other RFID-enabled contactless Smart Cards near a RFID Blocking Card and you’re safe and ready to go. Luggage Locks Lock your luggage! We always lock ours when flying or boarding a ship. These luggage locks are designed to keep thieves out but still allow TSA to check bags when they’re going through security. And because the TSA can’t take their key out without relocking, you can be assured your luggage will stay locked . Luggage Tags Make your luggage stand out! This bold and durable PVC bag tag makes your suitcase easy to spot, while also including 40 conversation starter cards designed to spark laughter, creativity, and connection. Lanyard and Keycard Holder Cruise lanyards are one of the most popular cruise essentials. If you want to stay hands free or keep organized, putting your cruise key card in a plastic water-proof lanyard is super practical both on the cruise and as you get off the ship at a cruise port. Travel Pill Case This is another of those things that you’ll wonder how you ever traveled without. The perfect travel companion for your medications, supplements and vitamins, the Travel Pill Case offers seven labeled compartments (for the days of the week), plus a bonus compartment. Reusable shopping bags Many stores are eliminating free bags with purchases. I travel with reusable grocery bags…saves money and keeps me from using plastic bags. Liquid IV Hydration and immune support is super important while traveling. Ocean travel has higher humidity which requires you to drink more. Liquid I.V. packets taste great and provide 2x faster hydration than water alone. It comes in lots of delicious flavors…just mix in your water bottle! Refillable (and collapsible) Water Bottles I love these space-saving roll-able and collapsible water bottles. While obviously convenient on the cruise ship, even more than that, I love how they don’t take room in my luggage or beach bag when not being used. Hand Sanitizer If you are like me and have sensitive skin, the product used onboard may be too harsh for you. I found Bath and Body Works hand sanitizer to be gentle and yet effective. I always carry some with me in every bag. They have lots of great scents too. Magnetic Clips I find these very useful to organize papers in the cabin…nothing worse than losing something! Why bring magnet clips? Fun fact about cruise ships….most cabin walls are magnetic! On a cruise, you’ll have paper cruise planners, shore excursion tickets, and invitations to events on your cruise that tend to clutter up your desk and counter space. Use these magnetic clips to hang these items on the wall. Aloe Vera After-Sun Gel Always be prepared in case you get too much sun. This cooling after sun spray can actually be able to be worn under your clothes, as it won’t be sticky like some gels with fillers. INSTANT COOLING EFFECT – thanks to skin cooling ingredients like Cucumber and Organic Aloe Vera this blend is perfectly formulated to soothe and calm your sun exposed skin. Lip Balm with SPF Don’t forget to bring lip balm with SPF on a cruise. If your lips get dry and chapped or sunburned, you willContinueContinue reading “20+ Best Stocking Stuffers for Cruisers”