Seasoned travelers have developed strategies and adopted habits after years of travel to make their journeys easier. This post contains 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. Planning & Packing Make a calendar of your travel days. I find this very useful when planning any trip. Make sure to note the dates and times of each reservation. I also include prices and locations of hotels, ports, car rentals and/or train schedules. After the trip is over, I keep this calendar in a file with receipts and tourist information I gathered during our vacation. I can’t tell you how many times I have referred back to my files when planning future trips….or just to remember what we did! Make a checklist. This will make packing soooo much easier. Don’t forget items like sunglasses, passports, sunscreen, any medications you may need, or special items you want to take. Start brain storming as early as possible prior to departing…think about the activities you are planning, possible weather and what types of clothing you will need. Check off the items as you pack them. Nothing is more frustrating than arriving at your destination and realizing you have forgotten something! Tip: A good packing list is essential: Caribbean, Norway, British Isles, Alaska and Cruise Packing 101 Take a photo of your passport and email it to yourself. Even if something happens to your phone, you will be able to access your email on a public computer. Use a travel wallet/passport holder. I have found this to be one of the most useful items in my carryon. I keep boarding passes, passports, money, pen and my credit cards here. Travel wallet Contact your financial institutions and inform them you are traveling. If you are planning to use your ATM and/or credit cards, your bank needs to know you will be making purchases outside your home area. If you don’t, they may put a “hold” on your account and you will not be able to access your funds until you contact them. If you are traveling out of the country, this can be difficult and expensive….not to mention frustrating. Use credit cards for purchases. Many countries are becoming cashless societies since Covid. Even small purchases like an ice cream in the park can only be done with a credit card….we experienced this in London’s Hyde Park. When using a credit card, always let your bank handle the conversion by purchasing in the local currency. If you feel the need for actual cash, use your debit card at a local ATM. You can withdraw smaller amounts and get a better exchange rate. Protect your credit cards and passport from thieves. 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. Use packing cubes. We started using these a few years ago and boy….we are so much more organized. If staying in one place for several days, it is easy to unpack…just place the packing cube in a drawer! Get travel insurance. Travel is expensive. Protect your investment with a good travel plan. Make sure it covers medical, loss of use, hospital stays and travel home if your trip is cut short. Flying Carry on luggage. Having a good carry on bag with plenty of storage is a game changer. I like to use one that fits into the overhead bin and also a tote bag that fits over the handle. That way, I can keep items I want/need during the flight under the seat in front of me. Tag your bags. There are many fun, easily recognizable luggage tags available. When it’s time to purchase new luggage, find suitcases that are not just black or blue….find some that are a little different….maybe a bright color or a fun pattern. Even then….attach something to your luggage that helps you locate them easily. Use Air Tags. We always put an AirTag in our carry on and in our checked bags. If something happens and it gets lost or stolen, you can quickly locate it and retrieve if possible (if stolen, get police assistant to retrieve). Luggage gets delayed or put on the wrong plane all the time. These will assist in tracking your bags. I use a fun, colorful AirTag holder and attach them to the inside of my bags. Bring Air Pods . Air travel is noisy. If you are trying to watch a movie, read or sleep, Air Pods are invaluable. It will also help to discourage a talkative neighbor! Get access to an airport lounge. If you have a long layover, this is a quiet place to wait and they offer complimentary food, beverages, magazines, newspapers and Wi-Fi. Some even have showers or rooms where you can catch a few ZZZs. Check out https://thepointsguy.com for excellent information on credit cards that offer lounge access. And remember, if you are flying first or business class overseas, you automatically get free access! Another option is to join Priority Pass. With over 1,700+ airport lounges and experiences, it will help make your airport time more enjoyable. Use locks for 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 or other airport security to check bags. And because the TSA can’t take their key out without relocking, you can be assured your luggage will stay locked . Weigh your luggage! Overweight luggage can be very expensive. Make sure your bags are under the weight limit of your airline. This luggage scale is easy to use. Just hook your suitcase for instant weight. Cruising Don’t overpack. Make your packing checklist….and then cut it in half! Well….maybe not in half, but don’t take ALL of it. 🙂 I have found that I NEVER wear all the clothes I take. One or two nice dresses, skirts or slacks are fine for evenings. Dress up your outfits with jewelry, shoes or sweaters/wraps for more formal evenings. Same with shoes….a good pair for walking,ContinueContinue reading “Top Packing and Planning Hacks for Travelers”
Tag Archives: cruise
22 Travel and Cruise Gifts for Men
The holiday gift giving season is here! We’ve gathered 21 cruise and travel gifts for men that are the perfect blend of cool and useful. Is your guy a techie, a sports fan, an adventurer? The list below has something that will make his travels even more fun and exciting. From fun and useful gadgets to stylish gear, these gifts are perfect for his on-the-go lifestyle. Happy scrolling and 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. Passport Holder with Air Tag Holder Mindfully crafted from genuine leather, this passport holder sports a minimalist bifold design for travelers who want functionality while traveling with peace of mind of never losing their passport. The Holder combines all the benefits of a regular wallet and includes a large slot for travel documents and your passport. Air Tags Keep track of and find your items alongside friends and devices in the Find My app. Simple one-tap setup instantly connects AirTag with your iPhone or iPad . Play a sound on the built-in speaker to help find your things, or just ask Siri for help. Air Tag Holder Spoil your loved one with this premium silicone AirTag case holder keychain. The case comes with a fashionable metal carabiner, so that you can easily hang the air tags everywhere….the enclosure fits tightly around your AirTag to ensure that it stays inside the case. I place mine inside our luggage instead of on the exterior. Pop Socket Card Wallet No need to carry a bag onboard! This pop socket wallet is a sleek and secure way to carry your seapass card along with your phone. Magnetically attaches to your phone. It has an attached phone grip, so you can avoid phone drops and kickstand your phone. Available in lots of other colors and designs. Holds up to 3 cards and is RFID protected. Carry on Bag This carry one bag fits under most airline seats for easy access to belongings en route. There are four spinner wheels which allow rolling in multiple directions for easy mobility. The USB Port lets you charge electronics on the go, along with quick stash exterior pockets for increased packing organization of smaller items. One bag to solve all your guys travel troubles. This large capacity laptop bag has multiple divider pockets, easy for holding laptop, mouse, keyboard, ipads, phone, binder, water bottle, umbrella, pens, wallet and so on. This bag also has a sleeve on the back to fit over the luggage trolley handle. Ipad and Ipad Case it goes without saying that an iPad is great to have while traveling. Watch movies, read or write, the guy in your life will be very happy to receive this! Wireless AirFly Connector Wirelessly transmit audio from in-flight entertainment while traveling. Use your AirPods, earbuds or wireless headphones anywhere with no more cords in the way. AirFly Travel blanket/pillow I like to bring a compact, lightweight, pocket sized blanket when we travel. Airplanes and even cars can get cold. This can also be used as a pillow and is one of my essential trip items. Collapsible Water Bottle Staying hydrated while traveling is SUPER important. I love these space-saving roll-able and collapsible water bottles. While obviously convenient, even more than that, I love how they don’t take room in my luggage when not being used. Portable Phone Charger Make sure that your guys phone does not die while traveling. This portable charger with a build in foldable USB-C connector makes a great gift! Tech cord organizer Help the man in your life keep his cords organized and easy to find. Nothing worse than having your phone or tablet die and no charger! This organizer is two sided and holders a LOT of cords and plugs. Travel wallet (with travel documents and credit cards) A good travel wallet is essential. It is an easy way to make sure you have credit cards, identification and any travel documents close to you at all times. If you’re planning to keep your bag under the seat in front of you, a zip closure RFID wallet is essential in keeping cards and documents organized and safe. If you prefer to put your bag in one of the overhead bins, a travel neck wallet is a great way to keep your cards and documents on your body. Whichever option you choose, you want a wallet that is easy to find during check-in, security screenings, boarding and customs, along with RFID security to avoid having your personal information stolen while traveling. neck wallet Digital Alarm Clock This is such a useful item! Even though hotels provide alarms clocks, I don’t want to mess with trying to set it and hope that it doesn’t go off at the wrong time. This battery operated digital alarm clock is very helpful! Packing cubes Help your guy stay organized while traveling with these packing cubes. My husband has become a quick convert! 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. 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. It’s very important to have a non-surge protected power bar that is “cruise line approved”. Travel Journal I love having a detailed journal of my cruise. Keep track of every detail: your route, location, weather, plans at sea, plans on the shore, evening shows to see, memories, friends made, and more. 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. Waterproof case for phone and ID Does your guy take his phone and ID to the beach?ContinueContinue reading “22 Travel and Cruise Gifts for Men”
Evening Chic…..Dress to Impress Your Way
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. Say goodbye to formal night and hello to Evening Chic. It’s your time to shine….the way you want to. Be glamorous….Be chic….Be sophisticated. It’s time to dress to impress! My husband wore his kilt on our recent cruise and I wore a blue dress with a sparkly skirt. It was fun to dress up! And the crew really appreciated that we made an effort! 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 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! What are designer jeans? Designer jeans are nicer 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. The daily program, which is delivered to your stateroom each evening for the next day and is also available at the Guest Relations Desk, will be your guide to the correct attire each evening. The menu posted outside the main dining room will note what the attire is for the evening. If you do not wish to participate in Evening Chic, Smart Casual attire is acceptable for dining in the buffet and theater. Don’t stress over it too much though. Just make an effort to look nice on those evenings. It is easy to dress up an outfit with a sparkly scarf, dressy top or even a pair of shoes. Happy Cruising! 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. Thanks so much! 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. 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.
Discovering Southampton: Must-See Attractions and Activities Before Your Cruise
How do I get from London to Southampton cruise port? The Southampton cruise port is 80 miles southwest of London. Traveling by car, taxi or direct coach will take about 2 hours, depending on traffic. Heavy traffic at rush hour around London can increase your travel time.Most cruise lines offer direct transfers which you can book through your cruise line. These can be by van, mini bus or coach busses. Check with your cruise line to see what they offer. The available options will be included in the excursion section of your cruise planner. We recently used a transfer with Celebrity Cruises which took us to Stonehenge and then dropped us off at Heathrow. Easy and enjoyable end to our cruise. If you wish to hire a private car or taxi, GetTransfer is reliable and has good prices. Another option is Welcome Pickups. You can arrange for airport or port pickups and sightseeing tours. South Western Railway trains regularly run to Southampton direct from Waterloo and Victoria stations. You can also depart from Paddington Station with a change of trains in Reading. Most trains take about 1.5-2.5 hours depending on stops to reach Southampton Central. Once you arrive, you will need a taxi to transfer you the last 2 miles from the railway station to the cruise port. There will be taxis waiting outside the station. You can purchase one-way or roundtrip train tickets or Britrail passes from Rail Europe The cheapest way to get to Southampton is with National Express bus services. They run scheduled coach services to Southampton from London (Waterloo Station), Heathrow, Gatwick and most major cities. Again, you will need to make your own way to the cruise port from the bus station (about 1.6 miles) where the coach journey terminates. I NEED A HOTEL….WHERE SHOULD I STAY? Enjoy an stress-free start to your cruise holiday by staying in one of the excellent hotels near the port. If you are traveling with your own car to Southampton, try to select a hotel that offers cruise parking…some will also offer a shuttle service to the port. Look for options to book a Cruise & Park package when looking for hotels. There are many excellent hotels available. The closest to the port are Holiday Inn and Leonardo Royal Hotel. Another excellent choice is you are looking for a luxury hotel is Harbour Hotel Southampton. We have stayed at the Doubletree by Hilton in Chilworth in the past and taken a taxi to the ship, but in the future, we are going to stay closer to the terminal and the city itself. WHAT IS THERE TO DO? Southampton is a bustling coastal city with history going back all the way to the Stone Age. There are over 90 listed buildings and 30 ancient monuments in the Old Town, which includes medieval watch towers and dungeons, an array of churches, fine timber-framed Tudor houses, inns and hole-in-the-wall pubs. The city sustained extensive damage in the Second World War but it has managed to retain some of its medieval architecture. Exploring this charming corner of the city is one of the best things to do in Southampton. A great place to start this journey is the Bargate….formerly the main gate of the city. This is possibly Southampton’s most iconic structure and was built around 1180. Walking some of England’s best-preserved medieval Town Wall, nearly half of which still stands since the 15th century, is a must for any guest of Southampton. The Old Town Walls are recognized as some of the country’s most intact and impressive. These walls first enclosed the town following a raid by the French in 1380. Today, about half of the original walls still remain. The city has developed a self-guided walk for those who want to work their way through the history of the listed buildings and ancient monuments. How it works: Download the app “GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities” from iTunes App Store or Google Play Store to your mobile phone or tablet. The app turns your mobile device into a personal tour guide and its built-in GPS navigation functions guide you from one tour stop to next. The app works offline, so no data plan is needed if you are traveling abroad. Just be sure to download the app while you have wifi. Visit the Tudor House and Gardens. This is Southampton’s most important historic building, reveling over 800 years of history in one fascinating location at the heart of the Old Town. The timber-framed building facing St Michael’s Square was built in the late 15th Century, with King John’s Palace, an adjacent Norman house accessible from Tudor House Garden, dating back a further 300 years. Tudor House gives a unique insight into the lives and times of both its residents through the years, and of Southampton itself. This is perfect for all ages and interests and is a family-friendly activity. https://tudorhouseandgarden.com Visit the Medieval Merchant’s House Around the corner at 58 French Street, is the Medieval Merchant’s House, another of Southampton’s cultural treasures tucked beneath the old walls. Complete with replica period furnishings, this is another fascinating view into Southampton’s medieval world. This building is part of the English Heritage group, so if you are a member, admission is free. https://www.english-heritage.org.uk Explore Southampton’s aviation history. Southampton also has many ties to aviation, particularly during the era of the seaplane. If you enjoy airplanes and aviation, a visit to the Solent Air Museum this is an excellent choice. Here you will the opportunity to get up close to over 20 beautifully preserved planes, including a de Havilland Vampire fighter jet and the famous Spitfire. The latter was produced by the Southampton-based aviation manufacturer, Supermarine, which was also renowned for its success in the high-risk 20th-century seaplane race, the Schneider Trophy. Much of the museum is dedicated to this extraordinary race that helped generate engineering advancements that bore fruit for fighter jet design during the Second World War. Many of the Spitfire planes were made underground nearby in theContinueContinue reading “Discovering Southampton: Must-See Attractions and Activities Before Your Cruise”
Norwegian Fjords Cruise Packing Tips
Sailing the fjords of Norway is amazing. The scenery is stunning and there are many excellent excursions. But….“WHAT DO I PACK!”. We have sailed the fjords several times. I use a modified version of my What To Pack For Alaska list. This list also works well for Iceland cruises. First off remember….it’s not the middle of winter! Just because you are heading to the great northern region of Norway, that does not mean it will be snowing and cold. Sure, it could rain and/or be windy (and therefore be a tad chilly) and you may get chilled while sailing into the fjords. BUT….once the ship stops, if the sun is shining, it can be very warm. If you are sailing in May or September, be prepared for cooler temperatures. Later in the summer, it can be warm and humid. The most useful suggestion I have is layers, layers, layers! Bring a lightweight waterproof jacket….heavy down coats are NOT required! Neither are UGGS! Seriously, light weight layers is the answer. The dress code onboard is generally “smart casual” during the day and most evenings, with optional “Evening Chic” nights where guests can dress up a bit more, though formal wear is not required. Ultimate Guide to Celebrity Cruise Dress Code Here are the items that have worked for me. Norway Fjords Packing List: 2 pairs jeans or other long pants (in case one gets wet) Leggings are very popular and are perfect for travel. Fleece lined and water resistant are a great option if you are sailing early in the season or later…or if you easily get cold. I recently sailed Norway in late May and was fine wearing regular leggings. 3-4 shirts to wear with jeans/pants/leggings. one or two pairs casual pants to wear onboard 1 nice outfit for formal/dress up nights 1 or 2 skirts and/or nice pants and shirts/sweaters to wear with them – choose colors that work well together to create more outfits (think capsule wardrobe). 1 or 2 hooded sweatshirts – pullover or zip up 1 waterproof jacket or warm vest… or poncho. This jacket is waterproof, lightweight and good for hiking and travel. It keeps you dry when you need it and packs down small. I have worn a vest under a rain coat for additional warmth. A waterproof poncho would also be very useful. This one folds up into a small packet, is lightweight, has a front zipper and pockets and is available in several colors! A good travel size umbrella can also be very useful. scarf, hat and gloves (for sailing into the fjords) 1 or 2 pair dress shoes/sandals 1 pair sandals for pool deck swimsuit and coverup (Many are probably thinking…seriously? a bathing suit? Yes! The ship’s pools will be open and the hot tubs will be running….enjoy them!) 2 pair good walking shoes I recently purchased these trail inspired slip-ins by Skechers for our active travels. Men and women styles. I use this waterproof spray on my shoes. Hint…wet shoes can be smelly. I use these to remove odors, you get enough for 3 pairs of shoes. They also work really well in your suitcase to remove odors and keep the it smelling fresh. It’s also smart to protect your clothes from dirty shoes with shoe bags. Good sunglasses – the glare off the deck will be very strong. You will definitely want some good binoculars while cruising the fjords. Most ships provide some in your cabin but the quality is usually not very good. We bring a good travel size with us. Just discovered these amazing mosquito/bug repellent patches…so much nicer than using bug spray! Socks and underwear (duh) Workout clothes – if you plan to hit the gym When going ashore, it is nice to have a good bag. I like to use a crossbody bag, Protect your valuables from pickpockets and thieves. This bag is also RFID protected. Sunscreen (glare off boat can be strong) A travel first-aid kit .is a necessity. Pain killers (ibuprofen, aspirin, etc.) and a few bandaids…easier (and cheaper) than going to the ship’s doctor. This is a great first aid kit for traveling. Magnetic chip clips to keep papers organized…cabin walls are metal, so magnets will work. Stonger magnetic hooks are very useful to hang up coats and hats. Keep the cabin organized! After sailing many times and finally having our luggage go missing due to luggage tags being torn off, we now use cruise line luggage tag holders. Highly recommend. Many stores are not providing free bags with purchase in an effort to reduce waste. I take reusable grocery bags. Cabins have blackout curtains but light can still sneak through the bottom or sides. In Norway, the sun sets very late and rises super early. An eye mask is very helpful. Are you prone to motion sickness? These sea sick patches will make your cruise more enjoyable! AND….they are Captain Kate approved! These are the exact same ones she uses onboard, while flying and when in the car. 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. The ship will have US and EU outlets but for any hotel you stay in pre or post cruise, you will need one. 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. Be sure to bring printed copies of travel documents – while most cruise guests rely on digital versions, it’s always a good idea to carry a printed copy of your itinerary, travel insurance details, and any booking confirmations as a backup. What cruise documentsContinueContinue reading “Norwegian Fjords Cruise Packing Tips”
Sail Smoothly: Must-Have Cruise Documents and Boarding Advice
Cruise documents…what are they and which ones you need? To help you avoid any major mishaps, let’s walk through the basics and touch on some additional items you might want to bring along just in case. Boarding a cruise ship is different from boarding a domestic plane flight. Because cruises involve international travel, you won’t be allowed to sail if you don’t have the proper documents and identification. Therefore, you will want to know EXACTLY what to take with you. And then double and triple check your list to ensure you haven’t forgotten anything. The check-in process can be intimidating if you have never done it before. To make it easier, let’s explore exactly what cruise documents are, which ones you need and how you obtain them. With this information in hand, you will be all set for a successful and stress-free embarkation day. 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. What are cruise documents? Necessary cruise documents include acceptable official forms of identification and your boarding pass. If you are visiting countries that require visas, you must also have those with you. These items must be presented upon arrival at the port. After port officials check and verify each these documents at the terminal, will you be permitted to board your ship. Many cruise lines are now providing online boarding passes. Take a screen shot or add it to your wallet on your phone for easy access. At a time when eco-friendliness is top of mind and nearly every traveler has a mobile phone, it’s easy to rely on apps to keep everything in one spot and avoid wasting paper. But…what would happen if your phone was lost, stolen or broken during your travels? For this reason, I always advise printing hard copies of anything you might need in a pinch. Try to use as little paper as possible. It’s better to be safe than sorry. ALWAYS…..pack all necessary travel documents in your carry-on luggage in an easy to access place. Also, be sure to carry on any medications and valuables, such as jewelry, car keys, glasses, etc. Documents needed for cruisers to board a ship Identification For most cruises, you’ll need a passport book that’s valid for at least six months from the day your sailing ends. In some cases, you can use a passport card instead of a passport book. This will only work if you are re-entering the United States via your ship from Mexico, Canada, Bermuda or the Caribbean. If your cruise is a closed-loop voyage, according to U.S. Customs & Border Protection, you can embark with an Enhanced Driver’s License, which is a state-issued driver’s license that provides proof of identity and U.S. citizenship; a government-issued birth certificate (issued by the Vital Records Department in the state where the person was born) or passport; and if 16 or older, a government-issued driver’s license or picture ID denoting photo, name, and date of birth. To qualify as a closed-loop cruise, the places these itineraries can include must be contiguous territories of the United States. That includes Mexico and Canada, because both share land borders with the U.S., and several of the islands of the Caribbean. The Enhanced Driver’s License allows you to re-enter the U.S. from Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean and is valid at land and sea border crossing but not airports. So, if you are boarding in Alaska and flying home from Vancouver, an Enhanced Driver’s License will not work. NEXUS card. If you are a U.S. or Canadian citizen, you may use a NEXUS or FAST Trusted Traveler Card for closed loop cruises to Alaska, the Caribbean and Bahamas, Pacific Coast, Canada, and the Panama Canal. For cruises to Europe and Transatlantic sailings, a passport is still required for travel. Different documentation is acceptable for minors under 16, including an original, notarized, or certified copy of their birth certificate, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or a Certificate of Naturalization. Voter registration cards and Social Security cards are not considered proof of citizenship, nor are school ID’s. If you do choose to take advantage of this opportunity to travel without a passport, there are a couple of warnings to keep in mind. If something goes wrong and you have to return to the U.S. by air, you will need a passport to board a flight. Also, if you miss the ship in one of the ports, you will have to make your own way home or to catch up with the cruise, which would be difficult without a passport. Additionally, if you are a U.S. permanent resident, you must carry your green card. You can use it instead of a passport on closed-loop sailings, but carrying a passport from your country of citizenship is highly recommended. Also note that if your green card is expired, you likely will not be allowed back into the U.S. You are responsible for contacting the embassies in the places you’ll be visiting to make sure there is no additional paperwork required. If you are a US citizen and want to apply for a passport, this is the link. Be sure to apply at least 6 months prior to departure from the USA. https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/how-apply.html Boarding passes Just like a flight, a cruise boarding pass is the document that shows you’ve checked in for your sailing, set up an onboard account for purchases and chosen a boarding time. It will also includes important information like your name, booking number, cabin number and any packages you may have booked with or purchased, such as a beverage package. Most cruise lines are now using mobile apps that allow you to check in prior to arriving at the terminal. If you don’t plan on using the app, be sure to arrive with a printed copy of your boarding pass….having one will speed up the check-in process on boarding day. If , for some reason you arrive without aContinueContinue reading “Sail Smoothly: Must-Have Cruise Documents and Boarding Advice”
14 Things You Should Do Before You Leave for a Vacation
Vacation time is finally here! You’ve researched what you want to do and where to stay. Made list upon list of things you need take. But have you really thought of everything? 1. Contact your credit or debit card company There is nothing worse than being on vacation and having problems with your credit or debit card. Believe me….I’ve had it happen. And in a foreign country too. UGH! Most credit card companies need to know your travel plans. Some are no longer requiring you to do this, but make sure to check before leaving. And make sure you have enough available credit on your credit cards! If you are going to be gone when a payment will be due, be sure to schedule it! Also….make sure to use a card that does not charge a foreign transaction fee if you are going abroad! 2. Contact your cell phone company. Are you traveling abroad or going on a ship? Talk to your service provider to find out cheapest plan for making calls, sending text messages and accessing Internet from your smartphone. Many cell phone companies offer affordable day passes to U.S. customers for International talk, text, and data plans. Most cruise lines have internet access, so it is easy to stay in touch with people at home using FaceTime or WhatsAp. 3. Notify your home security system operator. This is especially important if you are not going to be available by phone. Give them a secondary phone number if possible, in case they need to contact you. 4. Confirm all reservations. Double-check all your reservations: flight, hotel, car rental, restaurants, attractions and any other services or experiences you’ve planned. Flights can change at the last minute….you don’t want any surprises at a check-in counter. Our son once showed up for a hotel reservation, not realizing he made it for the wrong month! Advance preparation helps avoid disaster. Keep a record of your reservations either in paper form or on your phone. I like to make a master itinerary if going on a longer, more involved vacation. I’ve also been known to take photos of my confirmations. It’s always good to have a backup. 5. Make advance payments on bills that have due dates during your trip. You don’t want to get hit with late fees! Make sure all credit cards, housing expenses (e.g., rent, utilities), and other monthly bills will be paid on time. You’re going on vacation…why worry about missing a payment! 6. Check the weather. This may seem like an obvious one, but many travelers forget to do it. Check the forecast for your destination and pack appropriately. You can also join a Facebook group if going on a cruise or to a popular location….people love to share their knowledge! 7. Eat, throw out or give away any perishable food. Who wants to return home to a stinky fridge! Run the dishwasher, take out the trash and clean the sink. Make sure there’s no food in the drain that could rot or attract bugs while you’re away. Yuck! 8. Leave an itinerary with a friend or family member. Your emergency contact should have a copy of your travel plans and locations. 9. Clean out your wallet. Remove any items you don’t need while on your trip. Remove loyalty cards, gift cards, extra credit cards, and leave any other unnecessary contents at home. Only take what you will absolutely use or need while traveling. 10. Place a hold on your mail delivery. This is very important if you’re going away for more than a couple days. You could also arrange for a neighbor or family member to collect your mail until you get home. 11. Bring in outdoor furniture, water plants, stop the paper if you get one. Don’t leave any outdoor patio chairs, cushions, toys, etc. outside….especially lightweight items that are easy to blow away or be taken. I’ve also heard people say to turn off the water to appliances…like the dishwasher and clothes washer. I don’t recommend this….the one time we did it, it caused our dishwasher to short circuit, resulting in a large repair bill. That was an unwelcome expense to return home to. 12. Close curtains, leave lights on a timer and change your thermostat. Uncovered windows make it easy for people to look in and see if there is anyone home. Having lights go on and off at different times also provides the illusion that someone is home. Set your thermostat to keep the house cool or warm, depending on when you are traveling. No one wants to come home to frozen pipes in the winter! And high energy bills to cool the house in the summer aren’t necessary if you’re not home! 13. DON’T….post on social media that you are going to be gone! This is the NUMBER ONE thing the police tell people not to do before leaving for vacation. Yes, it’s exciting to share your plans, but you never know who is lurking around, looking for an empty home. You can always share those photos when you return. 14. Arrange for someone to stop by and check on the house. If possible, have a neighbor, friend or family member check on the house. Leaks happen….we had one that our housekeeper discovered and saved us thousands of dollars in damages by finding it early! Better yet….have someone house sit for you. This is also a great option if you have pets. Saves boarding costs! 15. Unplug anything that uses a lithium battery. Before you leave, UNPLUG your rechargeable batteries and power banks! A Lithium-ion battery can not absorb overcharge. Fires can happen from the overcharging, and thus overheating, of these batteries. This includes cars, golf carts, scooters, drills, etc. Most importantly….relax and enjoy your vacation. You’ve earned it! Let’s connect: Join me and other cruisers on Facebook at Zest4Cruising, A Celebrity Cruises Forum, A Celebrity Solstice Cruise Forum, A Celebrity Reflection Cruise Forum, A Celebrity RETREAT class forum, A Celebrity River Cruises Forum, A CelebrityContinueContinue reading “14 Things You Should Do Before You Leave for a Vacation”
Cruise Packing 101 – what not to forget!
You’ve booked your cruise, hotels, plane reservations….now what? First step is probably think about what to pack! A good packing list essential. Cruising is a travel experience where you want to be prepared with everything you need in advance. I’ve learned it’s easier to bring it from home than trying to find it in port. I have found these cruise accessories and travel gadgets to be really useful for space-saving and more! Below, I share some of the most useful things to bring on a cruise….from items that help with packing for a cruise to genius items that will organize your cruise cabin space. I will also include a few items you may not have thought of bringing, but really should be on in your suitcase! There’s a possibility you already have some of these things at home. You might be wondering if you need all the items on this list. You can pick and choose what you think you will need and use. Just remember, the items below are some of the most popular and well reviewed cruise essentials sold on Amazon. Many of these items are things that I bring and use on my own cruises. So let’s get started! 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. Amazon Prime Free Trial Amazon Prime comes with many benefits, including faster, free delivery, movies and TV shows (Prime TV) and even borrowing Kindle books. If you don’t already have Amazon Prime, you can sign up with a 30 day free trial. 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 travel wallet 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! My favorite brands currently are London Fog and TravelPro. Pro tip – If you have a neutral or common color suitcase, like black, blue or grey, make sure to add something colorful and unique so that it stands out and you can find it easily at the airport or cruise terminal. 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 from Lo & Sons. There is a zipper section on the bottom for shoes or items that might leak. 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! Below are Amazon links for several cruise lines. Celebrity MSC Carnival Norwegian Cruises Princess Cruises Royal Caribbean Holland America 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. I’ve recently started using compression packing cubes. Our last trip, my bag only weighed 38 pounds but was packed full because the clothing was bulky. These cubes decrease the bulk and give you more room. 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 . 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. Pop Socket Card Wallet No need to carry a bag onboard! This pop socket wallet is a sleek and secure way to carry your seapass card along with your phone. Magnetically attaches to your phone. It has an attached phone grip, so you can avoid phone drops and kickstand your phone. Holds up to 3 cards and is RFID protected. Travel Binoculars Most cruise ships provide binoculars in your cabin but they aren’t very good. We like to bring a small, travel size pair. Travel Umbrella Most ships provide umbrellas but they tend to be large and difficult to carry. We always pack a compact umbrella, no matter where we are traveling. Ireland is famous for the occasional downpour. 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! This hanging bag comes in lotsContinueContinue reading “Cruise Packing 101 – what not to forget!”
Explore Anchorage: Must-Do Activities and Attractions
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. What is there to do in Anchorage? LOTS! Some of our favorite activities are renting bikes, visiting the Ulu factory or just walking around downtown. There is also a great museum that is well worth the time. (Several of the cruise line busses depart from this location.) You can even go to a baseball game! And don’t forget to get a reindeer sausage…absolutely delicious! Baseball Baseball in Alaska, you ask? Yes! Anchorage is home to two teams of the Alaska Baseball League: the Anchorage Glacier Pilots and Anchorage Bucs. In addition to the Glacier Pilots and Bucs, high school and American Legion games are played at Mulcahy. It has a natural grass outfield and an infield of FieldTurf and has one of the largest capacities of any outdoor sports facility in Alaska. Many college players go north each summer to play and to be seen by major league scouts. Biking Biking is a great option for all fitness levels, because the experience is what you make of it. Take relaxing rides along paved trails and enjoy the scenery. Or….try a thrilling mountain bike adventure. Biking makes for a great individual or family activity away from larger tours. There are many trails in and around Anchorage and several places to rent. One of our favorite rides is the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail. The trail starts in the downtown area and stretches for 11 miles, offering breathtaking views of Alaska’s natural beauty. It is an easy journey around the Anchorage airport, with paved paths and the chance to see wildlife and beautiful scenery. Be sure to give the wildlife a wide birth though….they are WILD and will attack is threatened. Seeing grizzly bears and moose in Anchorage is common, showing a city living in harmony with the nearby wilderness. Ulu Factory The Ulu factory is close to downtown. It is down the hill, close to the train station. The factory provides a free shuttle, if you choose not to walk. It runs from 10:00am and to 7:00pm June, July and August Inside you can watch the knives being made, the blade and handle assembled and packaged. A staff member will be happy to take you on a personal tour. You can also see a demonstration on how to use, sharpen and care for an Ulu knife and cutting bowls. There is a nice gift shop in the building where you can purchase the knives and other Alaska products. Just behind the building is a salmon creek with viewing platforms. If the salmon are running, this is a great location to see them. Anchorage Museum The Anchorage Museum is a large art, history, ethnography, ecology and science museum located in a modern building in the heart of Anchorage. It is dedicated to studying and exploring the land, peoples, art and history of Alaska. The museum is located at 625 C Street. Cost of admission is $18/adult, $12/senior, student or military with ID, $9/ages 3-12 and free for 2 and younger. We found it to be a pleasant way to spend a few hours and learn more about Alaska. Earthquake Park In 1964, Anchorage was hit by a devastating earthquake, one of the most powerful quakes ever recorded, significantly impacting Anchorage. The city initially considered developing the affected area but opted to preserve it as a park due to the soil’s instability. This decision has provided a space for reflection and education on the forces that shape our world. Earthquake Park Visitors can engage with informative plaques detailing the quake’s events and its effects on the region. It features an extensive walking trail, offering a peaceful journey through shaded forests and alongside the bay with picturesque views. This park is more than just a green space; it’s an educational journey into a pivotal moment in Alaska’s history. It offers a unique opportunity to understand the 1964 earthquake’s impact and enjoy the natural beauty that has emerged in its wake. Explore Downtown Downtown is very walkable with shops, a tourist information center (where you can get information on a free, guided walking tour) and the Alaska Public Lands Information Center (where you can learn about Alaska’s wildlife and wilderness through a scavenger hunt for children). At least one of the shops will have a piece of glacier ice you and touch! Visit a Brewery or Distillery If you are a beer lover, you can visit two breweries downtown….49th State Brewing Co and Glacier Brewhouse. Mid-town you will find Broken Tooth Brewery, Cynosure Brewing and Matanuska Brewing Company. Each brewpub has a full menu of beers and food available. There are also several distilleries in Anchorage you can visit. Alaska Spirits and Anchorage Distillery are two of them. Where to Eat? Snow City Cafe serves classic comfort dishes for those searching for hearty meals. For a more upscale dining experience, Jens’ Restaurant & Wine Bar serves fine food and wine with a touch of Alaskan influence in a fun and elegant atmosphere. Other dining options include Ginger, which offers Pacific Rim cuisine and classic Asian specialties. Club Paris, which offers a traditional steakhouse experience for both lunch and dinner and Kincaid Grill, which specializes in seafood and Alaskan Regional cuisine. We ALWAYS make sure to visit one of the hot dog carts downtown and get a reindeer sausage. Believe me…there is nothing like it! You can get a regular or spicy one, with or without grilled onions. YUM! Aviation Museum Is anyone in your group an aviation enthusiast? The Alaska Aviation Heritage Museum offers a fascinating look into aviation’s pivotal role in Alaska’s past and present. Aviation is a vital mode of transportation across the state’s vast and remote areas, making this museum a must-visit for anyone interested in the unique aspects of Alaskan life. The museum is home to an impressive collection of educational exhibits, including numerousContinueContinue reading “Explore Anchorage: Must-Do Activities and Attractions”