Travels with Mickey Cruises Disney Planning & Packing About Me Cruises Disney Planning & Packing About Me More than 2 results are available in the PRO version (This notice is only visible to admin users) How to Earn 100 Bonus Celebrity Cruises Club Points on Europe Sailings Planning a Celebrity Cruises vacation in Europe this year? There’s a quick way to earn an extra 100 Club Points through the latest Celebrity Cruises Power Up Points activity.If you’re already booking a qualifying sailing, this is one of those easy offers worth taking advantage of. What Is the Celebrity Power Up Points Offer? Celebrity Cruises is currently offering 100 bonus Power Up Points when you book select Europe sailings by May 4, 2026.Eligible sailings include select Europe departures between: April 20, 2026 December 8, 2026 The offer excludes: Celebrity River Cruises and Chartered sailings Important Things You Need To Know To qualify for the bonus points, your booking must include: Your first and last name Date of birth Captain’s Club loyalty number After booking, you’ll also need to complete the official Power Up Points activity form. If you skip the form, you will not receive the points.Points will be converted into Club Points and added to eligible accounts on June 14, 2026. Is It Worth Doing? Absolutely. If you’re already booking a qualifying cruise, this only takes a minute and gives you extra Captain’s Club credit.For frequent Celebrity cruisers, every extra point helps when working toward higher loyalty tiers and perks. Where To Register You can find the latest Power Up Points activity here: Power Up by 4 May 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 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 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 → Rooms oh fully taken by worse do. Points afraid but may end law lasted. Was out laughter raptures returned outweigh. Facebook-f Twitter Tumblr Home About Us Tours Destination Blogs FAQ Hiking Tours Camping Tours Helicopter Tours Partner Companies Hotel Reservation More Destinations Contact Info Built purse maids cease her ham new seven among and. +1 (216) 856-3785 Monday to Sunday 10am — 8:30pm Soundvinity@info.com Write to our corporate mail Here is the link for the latest Power Up Points Activity: Power Up Points Earn 100 Power Up Points when you book select Europe sailings by May 4, 2026 for select Europe sailings departing from 04/20/2026 – 12/08/2026, excluding Celebrity River Cruises and chartered sailings. To qualify, booking must include member’s first name, last name, date of birth and loyalty ID. If the qualifying booking is cancelled, points awarded will be removed. Power Up Points will be converted to Club Points and added to the verified member’s Club Points balance on June 14, 2026. Once your booking is complete, answer all questions and hit “Submit”. Points will not be awarded if this form is not completed.Power Up Points to be awarded for this activity once per eligible booking. 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. Share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons are below). Thanks so much! Disclaimer: Zest4Travel is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associate Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.
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Three Days in London: Must-See Landmarks and Hidden Gems
Three days in London is just enough time to fall in love—and start planning your return. From iconic landmarks and royal history to cozy pubs and vibrant neighborhoods, this city packs centuries of culture into every corner. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, these suggestions will help you see the musts, skip the overwhelm, and experience the city in a way that actually feels memorable—not rushed. London unfolds beautifully when you give it three full days—each one layering history, culture, and those small, magical moments you don’t expect. Ready to turn your 3-day London plan into reality? Start mapping out your must-sees, book your tickets early, and leave a little room for spontaneous moments—you never know what hidden gem you’ll find. Save this guide, share it with your travel partner, and start planning your unforgettable London adventure today. 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. Tower Bridge Start with the icons. Walk across the Tower Bridge as it rises over the Thames. Walking across the bridge is a free, iconic experience offering stunning Thames views. Pedestrians can walk along the lower road level (approx. 10-15 min walk) or visit the paid exhibition, featuring high-level glass floors. The bridge is easily accessed from Tower Hill (North) or London Bridge (South) stations. Located under the bridge on the south end, a visit to The Vault Pub pairs perfectly with a cozy drink. Relax riverside and enjoy the iconic views of the bridge and the river. Tower of London If this is your first time in London, be sure to step back in time at the Tower of London, where centuries of royal intrigue live on. Few places in London carry as much weight, mystery, and drama as the Tower of London. Sitting proudly along the River Thames, this historic fortress isn’t just another landmark—it’s a living timeline of British history, where tales of power, betrayal, and royalty echo through its ancient stone walls. Founded in 1066 by William the Conqueror, the Tower was originally built to assert control over a newly conquered city. At its heart stands the White Tower, the oldest part of the complex, which has served as a royal palace, armory, and symbol of strength for nearly a thousand years. St. Paul’s Cathedral From there, take in the grandeur of St Paul’s Cathedral. After the devastation of the Great Fire of London, architect Sir Christopher Wren was tasked with designing a new cathedral. What he created is nothing short of extraordinary. Open at 8.30am on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday, and 10am on Wednesdays. Last entry for sightseeing is usually at 4pm. Price of admission includes entry to the Cathedral Floor, Crypt and the Dome Galleries. You can prepurchae tickets here: St. Paul’s Cathedral In a city packed with landmarks, St Paul’s Cathedral stands apart. It’s not just a place you visit—it’s one you experience. And long after you’ve left London, it’s the quiet echo beneath that great dome you’ll remember most. This is definitely a place not to be missed. If you are up to climbing 528 stairs, the view from the top of St. Paul’s is worth the climb. We visited on a cloudy, rainy day (aka typical London weather) but the view was incredible. Parliament and Big Ben Continue to the heart of British politics at Palace of Westminster…aka Parliament. Sitting proudly along the banks of the River Thames, this iconic landmark—often simply called Parliament—is where centuries of decisions have shaped not just the United Kingdom, but the world. Visiting the Houses of Parliament (Palace of Westminster) in London offers a chance to explore the historic heart of British democracy, featuring iconic Gothic architecture, the House of Commons, the House of Lords, and Westminster Hall. Visitors can watch live political debates, take guided tours, and see Big Ben up close. Tickets are a timed entry – be sure to book yours early. Book here Westminster Abbey Just steps away, Westminster Abbey, stands as one of the most powerful symbols of British history and tradition. For over 1,000 years, this stunning Gothic church has been the setting for every royal coronation, including that of Queen Elizabeth II and King Charles, as well as the wedding of Prince William and Catherine Middleton. Step inside, and you’re surrounded by soaring arches, intricate stained glass, and the final resting places of some of Britain’s most influential figures. From poets and scientists to kings and queens, the Abbey is as much a monument to people as it is to faith. Whether you’re drawn by history, architecture, or curiosity, Westminster Abbey offers a quiet, awe-inspiring pause in the middle of a busy city—one that lingers long after you leave. We visited in May of 2023 and regret not going before. We were lucky enough to be there shortly after King Charles’ coronation. The coronation chair was still in place with the Stone of Scone (the Stone of Destiny) underneath….to say it was amazing is an understatement. (The stone usually resides in Edinburgh castle but is moved for coronations, as the king or queen must “sit” upon it. We somehow managed to visit Edinburgh Castle the day AFTER it returned home – so we managed to see it twice!) Stone of Destiny also known as the Stone of Scone, and often referred to in England as The Coronation Stone. Oblong block of red sandstone that was used for centuries in the coronation of the monarchs of Scotland, and later the monarchs of England and the Kingdom of Great Britain. Historically, the artefact was kept at the now ruined Scone Abbey in Scone, near Perth, Scotland. About 26 inches (660mm) by 16.75 inches (425mm) by 10.5 inches (270mm) and its weight approximately 336 pounds (152 kg). Currently kept and displayed in Edinburgh Castle, Edinburgh It is highly recommended to prepurchase entry tickets…..this is a very popular tourist distination and one you don’t want to miss. Museums Balance the landmarks with London’s world-class museums. Wander through the treasures of the British Museum, thenContinueContinue reading “Three Days in London: Must-See Landmarks and Hidden Gems”
Smart Casual and Evening Chic: Cruise Dressing Made Easy
Cruise attire and what to wear on a cruise ship….an all time favorite question. What exactly is Celebrity’s dress code? What is considered to be cruise formal night wear versus casual? On Celebrity cruises – “Chic” is the key word Smart Casual Most nights, Celebrity Cruises’ dinner dress code is smart casual. Smart Casual means you look comfortable yet tasteful in a dress, skirt, long pants, or jeans, and stylish top or button-down. Shorts and flip flops are not considered Smart Casual. Dressy jeans are also acceptable…no rips or tears regardless of how expensive they were. Shorts (including dressier shorts) and beach style flip-flops are frowned upon for evenings. The maitre’d may ask you to change into proper attire. Note: Smart Casual attire is appropriate for the Celebrity Theater. Evening Chic Depending on the length of the cruise, there will be one or two semi-formal nights called Evening Chic. You should dress to impress. What is Evening Chic? Evening Chic is dressier than smart casual but less dressy than formal attire. Each itinerary features one to two Evening Chic nights. Evening Chic means you dress to impress….be glamorous and sophisticated in your own way,. Wear a cocktail dress, skirt, slacks, or designer jeans with an elegant dress top or blazer. I’ve seen many women wear nice slacks and a sparkly top or a nice dress that could be worn to a fancy restaurant or wedding….they looked lovely! Women should feel comfortable wearing:A cocktail dress, nice skirt, dressy pants or designer jeans with an elegant top. Men should feel comfortable wearing:Pants or designer jeans with a dress shirt, button-down shirt or sweaterSport coat/blazer and tie are optional What are designer jeans? Designer jeans are dressy jeans (in the UK, they’d be referred to as “smart jeans”) with no holes, rips or tears. These are not your “let’s go hiking” jeans. You want to wear jeans that you can dress up a bit…..wear a nice top and shoes/heels for women and a dress shirt, button-down shirt, or sweater for men, with or without a jacket. Yes, there are “designers jeans” that have rips and tears, but these will not be allowed in any dining room, regardless of how expensive they were. Of course, if you want to go all out and wear a formal dress or tux, that is totally up to you. This is your night to dress up as much as you want to! Nightly Casual Option on Celebrity Cruises Prefer to wear more casual clothing throughout the day and evening? Shorts and casual clothing can be worn in the buffet in the evening. Final Thoughts: Packing for a cruise doesn’t have to be complicated—just think versatile, comfortable, and a little bit fun. From breezy daytime outfits to something a bit more polished for evenings, the right wardrobe helps you feel confident and ready for every moment onboard. At the end of the day, the best thing you can wear on a cruise is whatever makes you feel relaxed, prepared, and excited to enjoy every second of the journey and still follow the dress code onboard. 🛳️✨ Cruise Packing 101 – what not to forget! Travel Clothing Cruise Essentials 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. Share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons are below). Thanks so much! Disclaimer: Zest4Travel is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associate Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.
Celebrity River Cruises Unveils New Shore Experience Program
River cruising just got even more exciting. Celebrity Cruises has unveiled a brand-new shore experience program designed to take travelers beyond the typical excursion and deeper into each destination. Known for elevating the cruise experience, Celebrity is now bringing that same level of innovation to river cruising—offering curated, immersive experiences that focus on culture, connection, and unforgettable moments ashore. Whether you’re exploring charming European towns or iconic cities along the river, this new program promises to transform how you experience every stop along the way. “On a Celebrity River Cruises vacation, no two days are the same because no two places are. We’ve built a destination program that connects guests to Europe more personally than anything the river cruise industry has offered before,” said Laura Hodges Bethge, president of Celebrity Cruises. “With our groundbreaking destination discovery options, paired with thoughtfully crafted spaces onboard that inspire relaxation and connection, Celebrity River Cruises guests will return home with stories no one else can tell.” Whether in a port of call or on a pre- or post-cruise stay, these thoughtfully curated experiences will connect travelers to each destination’s culture in deeply personal, richly immersive, and unforgettable ways throughout their Celebrity River Cruises vacation. Available across all 2027 and 2028 Celebrity River Cruises itineraries, and pre- and post-cruise stays in Prague, Budapest and Amsterdam. Storyteller Series Included, hands-on experiences invite guests to actively participate in local culture. These experiences will be guided by residents, artists, and cultural insiders who call each destination home. Guests will be able to choose from multiple included experiences per port, each balancing iconic landmarks with hosts’ personal favorites and hidden stories that only locals know. For example, in Amsterdam a canal captain will share Amsterdam’s centuries-long relationship with water, showing guests an unseen side of the city’s iconic waterways. Guests will cruise hidden passages, through the eyes of someone with deep family ties to the region, as they admire the city’s oldest building, Oude Kerk, board a legendary Dutch trading ship, and learn about modern canal engineering. In Prague, guests who enjoy discovering a city through food and drink will be led through the city’s rich brewing traditions by a local brewer. From the brewer’s unique perspective, guests will explore historic breweries like the bustling U Vejvodu Tavern to beer-infused artisanal shops. Taking a journey that blends history and hospitality into every pour, the brewer will show guests how centuries-old recipes shaped the city’s culture of connection and celebration. Skillmaster Series Included, hands-on experiences invite guests to actively participate in local culture These excursions will feature included, locally led experiences that go beyond sightseeing. Guests craft, cook, and create alongside the artisans and makers who shape each destination’s cultural identity. For example, in Budapest a local Mamika (grandmother) will lead aspiring culinarians through generations-old Hungarian recipes from her own home kitchen. After selecting ingredients at the local Central Market Hall, guests will uncover the dishes that bring Budapest’s soul to the table through each of the Mamika’s treasured family recipes and cooking secrets. In Amsterdam, a local artist leads a painting class that immerses guests in the imagination of Van Gogh. After exploring the famed painter’s works at the iconic Van Gogh Museum, guests will discover the settings that influenced some of his greatest pieces while learning some of the techniques he used to turn emotion into color and movement into meaning. Keys to the City Series Through an innovative digital platform, guests will have access to curated route maps tailored to specific interests such as art, history, food, and architecture. Interactive maps, audio guides and video content will lead guests off the beaten tourist path to interest-led locations where stationed local hosts provide behind-the-scenes access and exclusive experiences at working studios and craft sites to create moments of surprise and delight. For example, architecture enthusiasts in Bratislava will follow their curiosity to St. Martin’s Cathedral, hearing from a local historian who brings its coronation past to life, before hiking to Bratislava Castle to see how the fortress has watched centuries of change, then pausing beneath the modern span of the UFO Bridge with an architect who explains its bold vision. Or, uncover the city’s authentic Slovak flavors from raising a glass in a traditional Slovak pub while a generational brewer pours his stories into every craft drop, to tasting delicate sweets in a family-run pastry shop where the baker shares recipes passed down through decades. Guests will curate their adventure, shaping their own path to uncover the stories of cities exactly as they choose. Celebrity Takeover Series Offering exclusive, bespoke experiences once per sailing, this will be your chance to experience transforming must-see European attractions and unassuming plazas with elevated private events available only to Celebrity River Cruises guests. Each Celebrity Takeover Series indulgent bucket-list experience is designed to be the defining memory of a guest’s Celebrity River Cruises vacation. Pre- and Post-Cruise Stays Experience The Celebrity Way before and after every sailing. Celebrity River Cruises guests will be able to extend their journey with multi-day pre- and post-cruise stays that carry the same locally-led, small-group discovery philosophy as every sailing. Available in Prague and Budapest beginning in 2027, and also Amsterdam in 2028, each stay will include daily small-group tours with local hosts, premium hotel accommodations, dedicated concierge service for dining reservations and private experiences, daily breakfast, and airport transfers. The result will be a seamless, end-to-end journey from arrival to departure with no gap between the onboard Celebrity River Cruises experience and the destination discovery that defines it. Bookings will open for 2027 and 2028 pre- and post-cruise stays this summer, and all other destination experiences will open for booking in 2027. Celebrity River Cruises sailings are on sale now. To experience Europe’s rivers The Celebrity Way, visit Celebrity River Cruises, contact a Celebrity River Cruises expert at 1-833-474-8803, visit Future Cruise on board, or contact a trusted travel advisor. Do you have travel insurance for your next cruise? The best day to buy it is the day youContinueContinue reading “Celebrity River Cruises Unveils New Shore Experience Program”
Explore the Upgraded Celebrity Solstice: New Suites and Venues
Moored off the cost of Koh Samui, Thailand Solstice – the very first Solstice class ship built by Celebrity – entered dry dock on January 16, 2026. The newly refurbished ship is now getting ready to sail its first scheduled cruise on March 2, 2206, from Singapore. Celebrity has invested $250 million to modernize its Solstice Series ships, starting with Celebrity Solstice. The 2008 vessel has quite a few noticeable changes that enquiring passengers are already catching. New Cabins, No Basketball Court While the ship’s hull was already the signature Celebrity blue, the ship’s silhouette has a slightly different look. Ship-spotters in Singapore have noticed that the two forward round satellite dish housings have been removed. The biggest change is the expansion of the forward upper decks. What used to be an open-air walking track and a netted basketball court on Deck 15 has been entirely replaced by a new block of cabins. This addition includes the debut of Panoramic Infinite Veranda Suites. These suites feature floor-to-ceiling glass, which raises the profile of the ship from the front view. Old deck 15: New deck 15; Camp At Sea (the kid’s club) has been moved to deck 14 next to the Sky Lounge, replacing rarely used conference rooms. New Solstice Deck The Solstice Deck has been transformed into a The Retreat Sundeck. Now, only suite guests have access to this expanded area, which features an oversized hot tub, new cabanas, and a private bar. Old Solstice deck: New Retreat Sundeck: New Venues Inside the ship, the “Celebrity Revolution” has replaced several original venues with brand new concepts. The Parlor (replacing Quasar): This is a high-end sports bar and “barcade,” featuring billiards, darts, and retro board games. Boulevard Lounge (replacing Celebrity Central): A new cabaret-style space for game shows, trivia, and “candlelight concerts.” Trattoria Rossa (replacing Qsine): An upscale Italian specialty restaurant with tableside service and fresh daily pasta. Sunset Park (formerly the Lawn Club): The iconic real-grass lawn is still there but has been altered with a more “park-like” feel, hosting open-air movies and live folk music. Fine Cut Steakhouse (replacing Tuscan Grille) Discover an upscale steak and seafood experience where service is elevated to an art form Staterooms All the cabins are getting an upgrade! Each one will feel brand new for everyone. Plus, with four new stateroom categories, passengers will have more options to call home during their voyage. Final Thoughts Celebrity Solstice is the first of its class to undergo this new transformation. Silhouette, Eclipse and Equinox have received partial refreshes, but they have not gone through this massive renovation with new cabin blocks and structural changes yet. Stay tuned for updates on the other vessels in this class. Celebrity Solstice begins its 12-night voyage to Hong Kong on March 2nd and repositions to Alaska in May. 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. Share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons are below). Thanks so much! Disclaimer: Zest4Travel is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associate Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.
Ultimate Packing List for Your Disney Cruise
Planning a Disney Cruise is exciting—but knowing what to pack can feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your first sailing. After cruising and learning what’s truly useful (and what’s not), this Disney Cruise packing list includes the must‑have essentials that make your cruise easier, more organized, and more magical. These are the exact items I bring every time—and many of them are Amazon finds that make a huge difference in your cabin comfort, organization, and overall experience. This post contains affiliate links, which means if you click and buy, I may make a small commission, at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. PASSPORT! and other important travel documents Keep these items in your carryon…you will need them to check in at the pier. I find a passport holder to be very useful. This is another option….travel wallet 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. Suitcase with spinner wheels I have a weakness for new luggage, lol. Make sure it’s lightweight and has 4 spinner wheels. This makes it so that it’s easy to board your cruise ship and disembark….especially if you do self-disembarkation. Plus….who wants to drag a heavy bag around ship terminals or airports. Why not make it Disney themed? Carry on luggage I have been using an airline approved size carry on bag for several year now. There is plenty of room for extra shoes, a change of clothes, medicine, jewelry, electronics….all the things I don’t want to check with baggage handlers AND this one fits under the seat! If you need more storage, I love this tote bag . There is a hidden strap, so you can easily slip it over your luggage handle. Trying to minimize the amount of luggage you are taking? This convertible garment bag holds a TON of items and protects your nicer clothes from wrinkles. Comes in other colors and patters also. Cruise Line Luggage Tag Holders Protect your luggage with reusable holders. Nothing worse than having your luggage go missing! Plastic reusable luggage tags holders are so practical. If you get nothing else, buy luggage tag holders! Not only are they reasonably priced, but they can be reused again and again. After having tags accidentally torn off one time and our bags go missing, I purchased some. I will never cruise without them again! Packing cubes I’m a packing cube convert. I’ve found even more ways to use packing cubes to keep organized on my cruise. My suitcase stays organized and when I unpack onboard, I just move them into the drawers or shelves. I recommend getting at least 2 packs in various sizes and in different colors. This way you can have cubes for each member of the family. 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 Tag Many bags look identical. Make yours easy to spot with unique luggage tags. Apple Airtags No one wants to lose their luggage while traveling. Air tags can help you locate your bags if they go missing while flying or traveling. We use one in each bag, including carry ons. The piece of mind is worth the cost. I also use a AirTag holder that can attach to the inside of the bag. There are lots of colors available. 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. Hanging Toiletry Bag I have used a bathroom organizer for years. I keep it packed all the time except for a few items which I need everyday. This way, it is grab and go! Travel Size Toiletries I like to use TSA approved containers. There are many to choose from, I find these useful. Plus….they come in a plastic bag that will protect against any leaks that might happen. (Click on the picture for a direct link to the product.) Waterproof beach bag or tote for pool This waterproof and sand proof beach bag has tons of pockets and space for your towels, swim suits, flip flops, water bottles, glasses, sunblock, toys and any other things you’d like to take with you to the beach or pool, and an interior pocket to place keys, your wallet or phone and other valuables. Disney Ears A Disney cruise is a great place to wear and show off your nautical themed ears. This cruise headband features glitter anchor and flag details on the ears, bringing a touch of magic. Accented with a life ring on the bow, this cruise ears is ready for a day of sailing for you! How do you protect them when traveling? I found this really cute portable mouse ears travel case that kees them safe and easy to find. Bag to use onboard and onshore When going ashore, it is nice to have a good bag. Bring Disney onshore with you by using a fun Steamboat Willy, Donald Duck or Minnie Mouse Loungefly backpack. Prefer a crossbody? This one has lots of storage with easy to use compartments. Or a cute fanny pack? Waterproof case for phone and ID 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. 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. Refillable Water Bottles Make sure you stay hydrated both onboard and onshore! These Disney themed water bottles make itContinueContinue reading “Ultimate Packing List for Your Disney Cruise”
Introducing Points Choice – WELCOME TO A NEW ERA OF LOYALTY
What to You Need To Know About Celebrity Cruises’ Points Choice Starting January 30, 2026, Captain’s Club members will soon have even more freedom in how they grow their status. With Points Choice, you will earn points on your sailing, and then have the option to apply them to the program you prefer—whether that’s Celebrity’s Captain’s Club, Royal Caribbean’s Crown & Anchor, or Silversea’s Venetian Society. This will be a simple new way to make your loyalty even more rewarding, no matter which brand you sail. How does it work? You can submit a Points Choice request anytime before your sailing or up to 14 days after your cruise. This will allow you to apply your earned points to the loyalty program you choose: Captain’s Club, Crown & Anchor, or the Venetian Society How do I submit my request? Beginning January 30, 2026, for sailings departing on or after that date, you will be able to access a request form through the Celebrity Cruises app or on the website. You must be enrolled in the program you’re applying points to. Status Match Information How are points earned? You will continue earning points the same way you do now—based on your stateroom category and nights sailed. If you want to keep your points with the brand you sailed on, no action is needed. If you choose to move your points to another brand, the exchange rates are shown below. FAQ’s What is Points Choice? Points Choice is a loyalty enhancement for guests who sail with the Royal Caribbean Group. No matter which of our brands you sail with, you can apply your earned points toward the brand loyalty program of your choice. This means you can continue building status with your preferred brand and enjoy Status Match, all while exploring across Royal Caribbean®, Celebrity Cruises® and Silversea®. When will Points Choice be available? You will be able to apply your points your way on any sailings departing on or after January 30, 2026. Will members have the option to apply points earned on sailings prior to January 30, 2026, to a different brand? No. Points Choice is only available for cruises departing on or after January 30, 2026. How do I submit a request to apply points earned to a different brand loyalty program? Points will be rewarded as they are today, once your cruise is complete. Starting January 30, 2026, a Points Choice request form will be available on the app and web, where you can select the brand you want to apply your earned points to. If you prefer to keep your points with the brand you sailed with, no action is required. Do I need to submit a request each time I sail if I wish to transfer points? Yes. A separate request form must be submitted for every sailing when you wish to apply points to another program. Celebrity plans to introduce a preference center later this year that will enable you to make your selection once for all future sailings. When do I need to submit my Points Choice request? At any time prior to your sailing and up to 14 days post cruise you will be able to submit a Points Choice Request Form. Requests made after 14 days of the completion of your cruise will not be processed. Points will be awarded as they are today, once your cruise is complete. Points from the brand you sailed will be added to your loyalty account first. If a Points Choice request is submitted, the original points earned will be deducted and then applied to your desired program. When will I see my points updated after submitting a request? Allow up to 30 days after your cruise is completed and you have submitted your request. If I transfer my points to a different brand, how will I know how many points I will receive? Please refer to the 2026 Points Exchange Rate by brand: Crown & Anchor Exchange Rates Captain’s Club Exchange Rates Venetian Society Exchange Rates Will Points Choice exchange rates change? Yes. Exchange rates will be reviewed and published annually on the branded websites. Can partial points be transferred to Silversea? No. If you sail with Royal Caribbean or Celebrity Cruises and want to apply your earned points to Venetian Society, you must qualify for at least 1 VS Day to be eligible. Partial VS Days will not be awarded. For example: An inside stateroom on a 3-night Royal Caribbean cruise, translates to only 0.75 VS Days and therefore cannot be transferred to Venetian Society. Does Points Choice apply to the Casino Royale and Blue Chip programs? No. Points Choice only applies to the Royal Caribbean Crown & Anchor program, Celebrity’s Captain’s Club program and Silversea’s Venetian Society program. Does Points Choice apply to MyCruise® Rewards points through the Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises Visa Signature card? No. Points Choice only applies to the Royal Caribbean Crown & Anchor program, Celebrity’s Captain’s Club program and Silversea’s Venetian Society program. Are there any changes to Status Match ? No. Status Match remains the same. Members can still receive one-for-one tier matching across all three Royal Caribbean Group brands: Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea. Do I need to sign up for Points Choice to be able to participate? To take advantage of Points Choice, you need to be enrolled in the loyalty program to which you wish to apply your points. For example, if you are sailing on Royal Caribbean and want to apply your earned Crown & Anchor points to Captain’s Club, you need to be enrolled in Captain’s Club. To enroll, log in to your app and navigate to the Loyalty Match section to complete your enrollment. Status Match Information Can I change my Points Choice request after submission? No. Once submitted, requests cannot be changed, and points can only be transferred once between brands. Can the Celebrity Power Up Points or Go Green points be transferred? No. These points cannot be applied to a different brand program. If a guest sails with Celebrity and then transfers their points to another program, the Go Green points will be forfeited. These points will not be applied to another program and will not remain in Captain’s Club. How are points earned when traveling solo? Those who travel solo in a stateroom will be awarded bonus points based on the rules of the brand you choose to apply points to. Celebrity Cruises awards 2x points to solo travelers and Royal Caribbean awards 1 extra point per night. Silversea does not reward solo travelers with bonus points. For example, if a guest sails with Royal Caribbean as a solo traveler and stays in a Balcony stateroom, they will earn 14 pointsContinueContinue reading “Introducing Points Choice – WELCOME TO A NEW ERA OF LOYALTY”
Royal Caribbean Group’s New Points Choice: A New Era in Cruise Loyalty
Royal Caribbean Group announced today a change to how cruisers earn loyalty points that will make it easier to cruise between its brands and earn status at the same time. In 2024, the company introduced status matching between Royal Caribbean Group’s three brands: Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea. Points Choice will go beyond that. Royal Caribbean Group CEO Jason Liberty revealed his company’s plans to introduce Points Choice During an earnings call with investors. “I’m excited to announce Points Choice, the next evolution, and how guests earn and apply loyalty points across our family of brands beginning in early 2026. Guests will be able to apply loyalty points to the Royal Caribbean Group brand they prefer, regardless of which brand they are sailing with.” Mr. Liberty is quoted as saying. No matter which brand you sail with, you can apply your earned points toward the brand loyalty program of your choice. This means you will be able to vacation with Celebrity, Royal Caribbean, or Silversea while continuing to build your status in Captain’s Club or whichever program you belong to. Points Choice will be available in early 2026. More information will be available in the coming weeks including the official launch date, program rules, and exchange rates across programs. Be sure to subscribe to Zest4Travel to receive timely updates. Learn more about each program below: Celebrity Cruises Captain’s Club Royal Caribbean Crown & Anchor Society Silversea Venetian Society FAQ What is Points Choice?An exciting enhancement is coming soon for all who sail with Royal Caribbean Group. Introducing Points Choice – no matter which of our brands your clients sail with, they can apply their earned points toward the brand loyalty program of their choice. They can continue to build status with their preferred brand and enjoy status match, all while exploring across Royal Caribbean”, Celebrity Cruises” and Silversea Cruises® For example, if your preferred brand is Royal Caribbean and they are sailing on Celebrity, you can apply the Captain’s Club points earned to the Crown & Anchor program to keep building your Crown & Anchor status. When will Points Choice be available?Early 2026. Keep a close eye on your email for the official launch date in the coming months along with program rules, exchange rates between brands, and how your clients can apply points to their preferred brand. Will members have the option to apply points already earned to a different brand?No. Points Choice will be offered only on cruises departing on or after the launch date. If I choose to apply their points to a different brand, how will they know how many points they will get? For example, if you cruise with Celebrity and wish to receive Crown & Anchor points, how will you know the number of Crown & Anchor points they are eligible for? Points tables will be published with exchange rates between brands. For example, the points tables will indicate how many Crown & Anchor points your cruise is eligible for if you sail in a Sky Suite on Celebrity. Are any program benefits changing?No. Benefits will remain the same for Crown & Anchor, Captain’s Club and Venetian Society. Does Points Choice apply to points earned in the Casino Royale and Blue Chip programs?No. Points Choice only applies to Royal’s Crown & Anchor program, Celebrity’s Captain’s Club program and Silversea’s Venetian Society program. Are there any changes to the Status Match program?No, the Status Match program is not changing. Members can still receive one-for-one tier matching across all three Royal Caribbean Group brands: Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea 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!
Another Power Up Points Webinar – 2027/2028 Season Is Here!
The 2027/2028 season of sailings brings the world to you like no one else can—from exciting itineraries in Europe to incredible ships in Alaska, Australia, Hawaii, and beyond. In our upcoming webinar, we’ll sit down with a Behind the Podium speaker for an inside look at Europe’s top destinations. This is one webinar you don’t want to miss. Register and watch by October 9, 2025–and earn 20 Power Up Points. o qualify, members must register with their Captain’s Club ID and watch the entire presentation by October 9, 2025. Up to four members can watch the webinar together under one registration. Each member’s Captain’s Club ID must be entered separately on the registration page to earn points. Power Up Points will be awarded to those who qualify by November 14, 2025. Register and watch here: Power Up Points Webinar 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 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!
ETIAS vs EES: Essential Updates for Traveling to Europe
A clear guide to the EU’s new EES and ETIAS travel systems, explaining how border checks will change from 2025–2027 and what cruise and holiday travellers need to know.