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”
Tag Archives: #excursions
Maximize Your Cruise Savings with Celebrity Cruises “Spend to Save Event”
Turn your vacation into another cruise during the Spend to Save Event. All eligible purchases before and during your qualifying cruise will earn a percentage back as a future cruise credit. *Available on select qualifying cruises only. 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. How It Works On the app, click on the person icon at the top, then your Captain’s Club information. If your cruise qualifies, it will show up under Special Events. Make purchases in the following categories prior to and during the cruise to start earning. Shore and ship excursions Drinks and drink packages Specialty dining and packages Spa treatments and fitness services Photos Internet Premium Access packages Onboard shop purchases Laundry Gifts and Extras Cashing In Approximately 7 days after your cruise, Celebrity will send an email with your future cruise credit (FCC). Find your next sailing within 60 days of receiving your FCC (and sail within 12 months), apply your credit and book it. That’s all you need to do! FAQ’s What is the Spend to Save promotion? The Spend to Save Challenge is a promotion available on select qualifying sailings. Guests on qualifying sailings will be eligible to earn a percentage of their pre-cruise and onboard purchases back as a Future Cruise Credit. Which pre-cruise purchases are eligible towards a Future Cruise Credit? Purchases made through Cruise Planner including beverages, specialty dining, photo, spa and fitness services, shore excursions, internet, laundry, Premium Access Pass, Gifts & Extras, and paid onboard Which onboard purchases are eligible towards a Future Cruise Credit? Onboard purchases made with your Seapass card are eligible. Please see exclusions in #4 below. What purchases are excluded from the Spend to Save promotion? The following purchases are excluded: cruise fare, future cruise purchases, stateroom upgrades, travel protection, casino, taxes, gratuities, promotional and paid onboard credits (OBC), flights, hotels, and transfers. I booked All Included with my Celebrity Cruise; will drinks and wifi count toward my Future Cruise Credit? Yes. You will earn the promotional percentage back based on a per diem value of your All Included fare. I made pre-cruise purchases for my sailing prior to learning about this promotion; will those purchases be eligible? Yes, all eligible purchases made for the qualifying sailing will be eligible. Is there a minimum spend required to qualify for this offer? No, there is no minimum spending required. Is there a maximum amount that can be earned? No, there is no maximum amount that can be earned. How do I know if my sailing is part of the promotion? This promotion is only for select sailings. If your sailing is eligible, you will receive information in your stateroom upon embarkation, and promotional emails pre-cruise. You may also view the details about the Spend to Save promotion within the Celebrity Cruises App. I am sailing with others in my stateroom. Who will the Future Cruise Credit be issued to? The Future Cruise Credit for Cruise Planner purchases made before the cruise will be provided to the payer of guest account used to make eligible purchases. The Future Cruise Credit for onboard expenses will be issued to the Seapass card account payer to which qualifying purchases are charged during the qualifying sailing, including those purchases made by the account payer for other guests. How do I know if I am the Seapass account owner? Seapass account owners are guests who have elected to pay for their own onboard expenses; they may elect to pay for their party’s expenses, as well. This selection is made during the online check in process and can be changed pre-cruise and during the check in process at the pier. What if I am in a stateroom with a friend or family member and we both have our own Seapass expense accounts? In this instance, each guest would receive a Future Cruise Credit for their individual onboard expenses. What happens if my cabin mate makes all the pre-cruise purchases but onboard the expense account is under my name? The guest who made the pre-cruise purchases will receive a Future Cruise Credit for those purchases, and the guest who owns the Seapass account will receive a separate Future Cruise Credit for the onboard purchases. Do I have to take any action to accept my Future Cruise Credit? No. The Future Cruise Credit will be emailed to you approximately 7 days after your completed sailing. I did not receive an email following my sailing. Who can I call to ensure I receive my future cruise credit? If you do not receive an email after your cruise, please check your Celebrity Cruises app. You can also call Celebrity Cruises at 844-418-6824. Celebrity will be able to validate your sailing and ensure you receive your Future Cruise Credit. My local currency is not in US dollars. How will my future cruise credit be issued to me? Your final future cruise credit will be issued in the local currency that you made your qualifying booking in. The exchange rate will be based on the sailing return date. Does my Future Cruise Credit have an expiration date? Yes, your future cruise credit must be redeemed within 60 days of issuance, and must be applied to a sailing departing within 12 months of the Future Cruise Credit issuance. Is my Future Cruise Credit applicable towards a future cruise I made onboard during my qualifying sailing? Yes, you can apply your Future Cruise credit toward an eligible booking you created with Future Cruise while onboard your qualifying sailing. Once you receive your Future Cruise Credit (approximately 7 days after returning home), you can apply your credit towards the booking you made onboard. How can I redeem my future cruise credit? Your Future Cruise Credit is redeemable online, through your travel partner or through our contact center team by calling us at 844-418-6824. I have an existing Future CruiseContinueContinue reading “Maximize Your Cruise Savings with Celebrity Cruises “Spend to Save Event””
Royal Caribbean Introduces a New Destination – Perfect Day Mexico
In October of 2024, Royal Caribbean announced it would be building another Perfect Day resort – a highly anticipated exclusive destination on Costa Maya, Mexico, 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. But there was a problem….the deal to purchase the Port of Mahahual and the surrounding land needed to be completed. Finally, the deal has closed after months of waiting – which means construction crews can start work!. Included in $292 million USD purchase is the cruise port and 34 of the surrounding properties. This will be turned into Perfect Day Mexico over the next two years and open in the fall of 2027. Local news outlet Riviera Maya News reported that the announcement of the deal’s closing was made on July 11, 2025, by Jay Schnaider, the Director of Product Innovation for Royal Caribbean. “We are now administrators of the port and have begun working on the development of Perfect Day Mahahual,” the company representative stated. This means that Royal Caribbean can officially assume operations because both the legal and the financial transaction has been completed. The Port of Costa Maya and the Port of Mahahual are basically the same place. Mahahual is the name of the small fishing village near the port, while Costa Maya (or Puerto Costa Maya) is the cruise port’s official name. It was confirmed that the cruise port, which receives hundreds of cruise ship calls every year, will remain open during construction. Costa Maya will also continue to accept other mainstream brands like Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, and MSC Cruises that sail to the popular spot on Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula after Perfect Day Mexico opens, But of course, only Royal Caribbean passengers (and guests of sister-brand Celebrity Cruises) will have access to Perfect Day Mexico. What to Expect at Perfect Day Mexico Perfect Day Mexico will span more than 200 acres on Mexico’s Caribbean coast, making it considerably larger than the original Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas, which is 125 acres. Perfect Day Mexico will raise the bar on vacations with record-breaking experiences, industry firsts and twists on Royal Caribbean favorites when it all comes to life in Fall 2027. There will be something for adventurers of all ages across seven neighborhoods. The new resort will be big enough to accommodate approximately 20,000 guests daily. In comparison, CocoCay can handle around 13,000 guests per day Highlights include: Loco Waterpark – Thrill-seekers can conquer more than 30 adrenaline-pumping waterslides across five slide towers, including the tallest waterslide tower – and waterslides – across North and South America. The more than 170-foot-tall Jaguar’s Peak features two dueling slides, taking riders through more than two minutes of pure thrill and the longest coaster waterslide in the world. Vacationers can scale new heights across the tower’s 10 slides, and they can even do so together on the tallest family raft slide, designed for four to six riders at once. There are more thrills across the waterpark with hydrolaunch slides that shoot riders into the air and the world’s first sombrero slide, modeled after Mexico’s iconic sombrero. Plus, adventure pools, a wave pool and slides designed for younger kids ensure there’s something for everyone. Splash Cove – The central neighborhood for guests of all ages to go all-in will introduce the longest lazy river in the world – with a crazy side. Along the hour-long float are multiple entry and exit points and plenty of ways to stay hydrated with float-up bars and a cupholder in every tube. And for those who dare, an optional crazy section of the river features unexpected twists and turns with waves, rapids and spins. In the center of it all is a seemingly never-ending 100,000 square foot pool – just one of Perfect Day Mexico’s more than 10 expansive pools that together span the size of four football fields. The little ones have their own adventures at Royal Caribbean’s largest Splashaway Bay with waterslides sized just for them. The first-ever Splashaway Cabanas right nearby make it the perfect home base for families. El Hideaway – At this adults-only neighborhood, day pass holders 18 years and older can party all day long with a zero-entry pool, swim-up bar and in-pool DJ. Those looking to celebrate big can max out the party vibes at the new Ultimate Party Cabana for 20 guests, with its own pool and bar. For unmatched chill, El Hideaway sets the scene with live music, toes-in-the-sand bars and cabanas. Costa Beach Club – Guests looking to upgrade their beach day to the next level of exclusivity can enjoy the white sand beaches, heated infinity pool and premium dining of Costa Beach Club. And for the ultimate retreat, adventurers can spend the day in a private cabana with a personal cabana attendant, thoughtful amenities and a dedicated pool. Chill Beach North and South – Vacationers looking to kick back can enjoy the natural beauty of Mexico along nearly 2 miles of white sand beaches at Chill Beach, spanning north and south from the pier. Guests can enjoy complimentary loungers, umbrellas and towels at all beaches and pools at Perfect Day Mexico. Fiesta Plaza – Where all the festivities begin: a vibrant arrival area transports vacationers straight to the heart of Mexico with live music and dance. Plus, the world’s largest sombrero sits atop the Tipsy Sombrero bar, welcoming guests with margaritas, cervezas and more. Along with all the fun are 12 regionally inspired dining options, from sit-down spots to grab-and-go eateries, with nearly all food spots complimentary to guests. Plus, there are endless reasons to toast “¡Salud!” at 24 bars, including six swim-up bars. Mariachi performances, art installations, and local artisans for souvenir shopping further bring the Mexican culture to life. By 2027, 90% of Royal Caribbean’s Caribbean vacationers will be able to experience a Perfect Day across Perfect Day at CocoCay and Perfect Day Mexico. Vacationers sailing from U.S. Gulf ports are in for the ultimate vacation days starting in 2027 with itineraries that visit both Royal Beach Club Cozumel and Perfect Day Mexico. Prices will be released soon – stay tuned! Final Thoughts: This is just the beginning for the expansion in exclusive Royal Beach Destinations. Royal Caribbean is planning to open moreContinueContinue reading “Royal Caribbean Introduces a New Destination – Perfect Day Mexico”
Experience Paradise: Royal Caribbean’s Beach Club Opening Soon
Looking for something new to do in Nassau? Remember looking out to the ocean and seeing the island with deserted homes? Royal Caribbean recently purchased it and has turned it into an amazing Beach Club! Starting December 2025, you will be able to experience the new Royal Beach Club by RCL. Beach days will hit next level at the first of its kind Royal Beach Club Paradise Island, Nassau’s newest beach club. Here, exclusive meets all-inclusive. From your first water transportation ride to your last drink at the swim up bar, each mouthwatering bite and everything in between, it’s all complimentary with their Unlimited Open Bar Day Pass. Swim, sip, and unwind on the powdery white sands of Family Beach or Chill Beach. Be sure to indulge in irresistible island fare like Pinwheel Shrimp Skewers and Vanilla Bundt Cake with guava sauce, all while soak up sweeping Caribbean views from three pools, each with its own vibe. Or you can head to Party Cove for the world’s largest swim-up bar fueled by dancing and nonstop beats. The ultimate beach day debuts in Nassau, The Bahamas December 2025. Cost: Day Pass (Unlimited Open Bar & Dining): Starting from $169.99 Day Pass (Unlimited non-alcoholic drinks & dining): $129.99 guests 13+, $109.99 guests 4-12 (ages 3 and under are free). All admissions include unlimited dining, unlimited beverages, free Wi-Fi, round-trip transportation and all general amenities. Want to bring the whole family with friends, try a cabana. Cabana rentals come in a few different sizes, with some of Royal Caribbean’s biggest (and most expensive) cabana rentals ever. Ultimate Family Cabana: $9,999.99 Includes day passes for up to 12 people Royal Pool Cabana: $2,999.99 Includes day passes for up to 10 people Royal Beach Cabana: $2,999.99 Includes day passes for up to 10 people Beach Cabana: $2,199.99 Includes day passes for up to 8 people The Ultimate Family Cabana comes with a cabana attendant, welcome amenity, dining area, private bathroom, private shower, private changing room, wet bar, reserved beach space, heated whirlpool, spiral slide, wooden swing, cozy hammock, loungers, suspended net lounger, frozen drink machine, TV, Bluetooth connection, charging outlets, lockable storage, and mini fridge. Those looking to party all day might consider renting the party deck. Located on the second floor of The Floating Flamingo (the world’s largest swim-up bar), it includes dedicated food & beverage service, lounge seating, mini fridge, cooler table, charging station, beach towels, ceiling fan, shoe cubbies and lockable storage. For larger parties, you can reserve both east and west sides of the Party Deck. For parties larger than 12 guests, entry to The Party Deck for up to 6 additional guests can be purchased separately. Party Deck: $4,999.99 Includes day passes for up to 12 people Located at Party Cove, the Day Bed comes with day passes for up to 2 guests, complimentary dining, unlimited drinks (alcoholic & non-alcoholic), free Wi-Fi, roundtrip transportation, and all general amenities. Day Bed: $649.99 Includes day passes for up to 2 people Deluxe Beverage Package (Full Cruise) + Royal Beach Club Combo: $139.99 per adult, per day Refreshment Package (Full Cruise) + Royal Beach Club Combo: $84.99 per adult, per day / $69.99 per child, per day Deluxe Beverage Package (Full Cruise) + Thrill & Chill Combo: $159.99 per adult, per day Refreshment Package (Full Cruise) + Thrill & Chill Combo: $109.99 per adult, per day / $99.99 per child, per day Bundle pricing for Coco Key and The Beach Club Want to experience the best of fun in the sun at both the beach club and Perfect Day at CocoCay, there’s a bundle option. The Royal Beach Club Paradise Island Refreshment Package + Thrill & Chill Combo includes: Royal Beach Club Day Pass Thrill Waterpark Day Pass Refreshment Package It’s priced per day of the cruise, rather than a flat fee like the other options. Royal Caribbean says the price of the bundle at checkout is up to 45% less than those products added to cart individually. Ultimate Beach Day offering The concept is to offer the very best beach experience. Royal Caribbean has two goals: offer an unparalleled beach experience and give passengers a high quality shore excursion choice in Nassau. Located on 17 acres at the western end of Paradise Island in Nassau, there’s a mix of party and family time. Regardless of which zone you end up spending most of your time, expect high energy throughout the club. Royal Caribbean did a lot of research from its customers, and they want a day with music, drinks, and a fun vibe. It’s not meant to be a quiet spot, even if you’re in Chill Beach. “It will be the most amazing beach day in essence,” said Jay Schneider, Royal Caribbean’s chief product innovation officer, earlier this year when he spoke about the plans they had to develop The Beach Club. “Chill is not quiet… It is relaxed, but there is a little bit of energy built into what our guests expect out of Chill,” Schneider said. Family Beach is designed for what Royal Caribbean calls “relaxed energy” because it’s a space where families can play, swim, and unwind together without sacrificing convenience or comfort. Family Beach 1 The Shallow End Pool & Swim Up Bar A zero-entry pool where you can walk right into the water and grab a drink or mocktail at the swim-upbar without leaving the water. 2 Beach Bars A great place to chill out with a refreshing beverage. 3 Paradise Grill Crush your tastebuds with delicious snacks and meals. 4 Ultimate Family Cabana* A one-of-a-kind private retreat with two stories of the best premium experiences. 5 Beach & Pool Cabanas* Get your own shaded retreat with personal attendant service and upgraded amenities. Party Cove 6 The Floating Flamingo and Swim Up Bar Sip through the day at the world’s largest swim-up bar – a two-story watering hole fueled by DJ beats and incredible views. 7 Bars Relax with a refreshing beverage 8 Paradise Grill Crush yourContinueContinue reading “Experience Paradise: Royal Caribbean’s Beach Club Opening Soon”
Explore Cork and Cobh: Historical Sites and Scenic Tours
Cobh, Ireland, offers a mix of historical sites, natural beauty, and engaging attractions. Explore the Titanic’s connection to the town, visit landmarks like St. Colman’s Cathedral, or enjoy walking tours, boat trips, nature and outdoor attractions. Located on an island in Cork city’s harbor, Cobh is known as the Titanic’s last port of call in 1912. The Titanic Experience Cobh is a themed attraction in the former White Star Line ticket office. More displays on the liner are in the Cobh Heritage Centre, which also explores how Cobh became an embarkation point during Ireland’s mass emigrations. North of town, there is the huge Fota Wildlife Park on Fota Island. 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 To Do in Cobh The Titanic Experience The Titanic Experience is located in the harbor, close to where cruise ships dock. Visitors go to the historic landmark building known as the White Star Line Ticket Office. This is the exact location where the last 123 Irish passengers came on the morning of April 11, 1912 to board Titanic bound for New York. On arrival, you will join a guided tour to experience a virtual and immersive journey on board Titanic discovering how third class passengers enjoyed such luxuries as running water and electricity in their cabins, along with the opulence of a First Class Suite. Once tragedy hits, watch and listen to the events unfolding through the eyewitness accounts given by Titanic’s Irish survivors. Guided Tours ONLY. Allow 1 hour to complete . It is highly recommended to purchase tickets prior to arrival. After visiting the Titanic Experience, you can also take a guided walking tour that highlights the Titanic’s history and/or visit the Titanic Memorial Garden. The garden is a short 20 minute walk from town and is open 24 hours. St. Colman’s Cathedral St. Colman’s Cathedral has been part of the Cobh skyline ever since construction was completed in 1911. Situated on the Cork coastline, there are stunning views of Cork Harbor and the Atlantic Ocean, making it one of Ireland’s most scenic churches. The cathedral is an active parish and continues to hold religious services. Recitals are often hosted here featuring choirs from around the world. You can check their website for the schedule. The cathedral features a 100m-high spire and a tower that includes a 49-bell carillon, one of the largest in Europe. Photographers won’t want to miss the opportunity to create their own version of the iconic Cobh photograph of St. Colman’s Cathedral behind the famous colorful houses. Be sure to go inside to see the beautiful alter and Celtic knot work tile floor. Cobh Heritage Center Situated within Cobh’s beautifully restored Victorian railway station, a building with its own historic story, this is an informative and sometimes emotional exhibition. The “Queenstown Story” is the story of Irish Emigration. The scattering of the Irish is one of the great migration stories. Follow the story from the 1600’s when sailing to the British overseas colonies was commonplace. You will also learn about the transportation of convicts to Australia and the connection between this port town and two of the biggest shipping disasters of the early 20th century, The Titanic &The Lusitania. Spike Island Located in the heart of Cork Harbor, Spike Island holds a significant place in Irish history, having served as a military fortress and a notorious prison. Here you can discover the stories of the captains and convicts, saints and sinners who once inhabited the island. Join a guided tour with one of the storytellers, explore interactive museums, exhibitions and immersive experiences. This is an easy excursion to organize on your own. Spike Island is reached by ferry from Kennedy Pier, a five minute walk from the train station. The ferry journey takes approximately 15 minutes each way Fota House and Gardens A short 10-15 minute drive from Cobh, the Fota House was once the home of the Smith-Barry family. This impressive mansion represents the finest example of Regency architecture in Ireland. Join a guided tour of the house, where you will hear fascinating stories about Fota’s vibrant past both from the Smith Barry Family and those who worked for them. Make time to explore Fota’s incredible grounds and encounter the great diversity of exotic plants that have thrived for over 200 years. Be sure to wander through the Victorian Working Gardens with fully refurbished Greenhouses that are still used today to produce incredible plants, vegetables, flowers and more. Cobh Rebel Walking Tour Cobh Rebel Walking tours involve an 80 minute leisurely walk and covers 16 War of Independents sites in Cobh. It tells the story of the Cobh Branch of the Irish volunteers, from their origins in 1912, through to their actions in the 1916 Rising, how they changed the name of their town from Queenstown to Cobh in 1920 and how they took the war to their British rulers, right up to the truce. What To Do in Cork Cork offers a mix of historical sites, vibrant culture, and natural beauty. Explore iconic attractions like Blarney Castle and the English Market, delve into history at Cork City Gaol, or enjoy the lively atmosphere of St. Patrick’s Street. Want to try Irish whiskey? A tour of the Jameson Distillery is a must. The easiest and most common way to get from Cobh to Cork is by train. There are hourly trains from Cobh to Cork’s Kent Station, with a journey time of around 25-30 minutes. Located right by the cruise terminal. Tickets can be purchased at the station. Blarney Castle Arguably the most famous attraction in Cork is Blarney Castle. It is believed that anyone who kisses the legendary Blarney Stone will receive the gift of eloquence. Built nearly six hundred years ago by the McCarthys of Muskerry, it was later occupied by one of Ireland’s greatest chieftains, Cormac McCarthy. Over the last few hundred years, millions have flocked to Blarney making itContinueContinue reading “Explore Cork and Cobh: Historical Sites and Scenic Tours”
Your Ultimate Guide to Discovering Edinburgh’s Charm
Edinburgh offers a rich tapestry of experiences. From exploring historical landmarks like Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyroodhouse and St. Giles’ Cathedral, to immersing yourself in culture and history, Edinburgh has something for everyone. An easy way to get to know the city is by walking around the World Heritage Sites in Old Town, the trendy shops and restaurants in New Town, and the museums and galleries in both. Be sure to take a break for afternoon tea and scones at a cozy tea room or duck into a traditional pub to grab a bite and a drink. 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. Edinburgh Castle Without a doubt, Edinburgh Castle is the #1 place to visit. This massive fortress and major part of the city’s history can be seen from almost everywhere in Edinburgh. Be sure you pre-purchase entrance tickets, as they do sell out. A guided walking tour is a great way to hear tales of the castle’s royal residents—including Mary Queen of Scots—and learn more about the rich history of the building. After the tour, be sure to wander the grounds. If you want to just explore on your own, you can purchase tickets here: Edinburgh Castle Palace of Holyroodhouse Step into the past at this magnificent palace, the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland. Open throughout the year, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, commonly known as Holyrood Palace, stands at the bottom of the Royal Mile in Edinburgh, at the opposite end to Edinburgh Castle. Here you can explore the Palace’s close associations with some of Scotland’s most well-known historic figures such as Mary, Queen of Scots and Bonnie Prince Charlie, and learn how it is used today by The King when carrying out official engagements in Scotland. The Palace has served as the principal royal residence in Scotland since the 16th century, and is a setting for state occasions and official entertaining. You can pre-purchase tickets here: Holyrood Palace Royal Mile One of the most iconic miles in Scotland, it is also one of the busiest. Wander along this iconic street, lined with shops, restaurants, and historic buildings, including St. Giles’ Cathedral. Sections of the street are pedestrian only and others are busy with tour buses and cares…be aware of where you are. It is beautiful but can be overwhelming so it’s recommended to visit early in the day to enjoy all it has to offer. Keep an eye open for street performers including bagpipers, actors and the occasional pop-up parade. Along the Royal Mile you’ll find the stunning St Giles Cathedral. A visit to this religious building is definitely one of the best things to do in Edinburgh. The cathedral is a simple, stone structure with gothic arches and beautiful stained glass windows. It is free to visit, but a donation is suggested. There are some guided tours at appointed hours or you can get an audio guide via your smartphone for a fee. Since it is still a working Cathedral, it may be closed at times for private events such as weddings or funerals. The Real Mary King’s Close Hidden beneath the Royal Mile lies Edinburgh’s deepest secret: a warren of hidden ‘closes’ where real people lived, worked and died. For centuries they were forgotten and abandoned…until recently. Now you can visit Edinburgh’s most famous Close, which makes Edinburgh’s Hidden History unmissable. This is one activity even the kids will love. Ghosts have been seen too! Tickets are limited and have a timed entry, so be sure to not miss out! National Museum of Scotland: Explore Scotland’s history, culture, and science through interactive exhibits Not only is this one of the most impressive museums in Edinburgh, it’s also free. The inside of the building is impressive in itself and the exhibits don’t disappoint either. Fossils from animals long gone, Scottish antiquities, and an amazing exhibition on modes of transportation through the ages just to name a few. Plus, there a great little hidden secret…..on the 7th floor there is a terrace and that has the most amazing view of Edinburgh Castle. Experience Scotch Whisky You can’t go to Scotland without tasting Scotch! As you wander around the city, you will see many whiskey shops. Many of the offer free tastings. Don’t be shy….they all love to share and educate visitors on their national drink. If you don’t have the opportunity to actually visit a distillery, a tour at The Scotch Whiskey Experience is a must. Located at the top of the Royal Mile, there are several tours to choose from plus dining. It is an entertaining few hours, no matter which tour you decide to do. Not a whisky drinker? Did you know that Scotland is also known for gin? Botanist and Hendrick’s are both well-known Scottish gins. There are lots of small distilleries too….be sure to try some. You can find many of them in the same shops that sell scotch. I have purchased small bottles to enjoy later. Royal Yacht Britannia Explore this former royal residence and see the history of the royal family. Step aboard Queen Elizabeth II’s former floating palace and experience this iconic attraction. Rated Tripadvisor’s No.1 UK Attraction, Britannia is one of the most famous ships in the world. Only 15 minutes from Edinburgh City Centre, Lothian Bus services from Edinburgh city centre are – 10, 16, 34 and 35. Edinburgh trams run from Edinburgh Airport through the city centre and down to Leith. To visit Britannia, get off the tram at stop Ocean Terminal. Allow 2-3 hours for your visit. Scott Monument This Victorian Gothic monument can be seen from most places within Edinburgh’s New Town. Built-in memoriam to author Walter Scott, this impressive structure is actually one you can climb. Following Scott’s death in 1832, a competition was held to design a monument to him. An unlikely entrant went under the pseudonym “John Morvo”, the medieval architectContinueContinue reading “Your Ultimate Guide to Discovering Edinburgh’s Charm”
Pregnancy and Cruising: Tips for Expectant Mothers
Thinking of taking a cruise while you’re expecting? It’s a great idea! This is the opportunity to relax and enjoy some time before your life is changed by a new bundle of joy. Be aware however, cruise lines do have pregnancy policies in place, and most do not allow passengers who are farther along than 23-24 weeks. Below, you can find a reference list of cruise line pregnancy policies. Be sure to confirm these with your cruise line at the time of booking, Restrictions are subject to change. 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. Can you cruise while pregnant? If you have a healthy pregnancy, then going on a cruise vacation is a lovely way to celebrate the upcoming addition to your family. That being said, it’s always safer to talk to your doctor before traveling, especially if you’ve had any issues with your pregnancy in the past. Carnival Cruise Line – Pregnant women are only allowed to sail if pregnant for less than twenty-four completed weeks at time of cruise disembarkation. All pregnant women are required to produce a physician’s letter stating that mother and baby are in good health and fit to travel, and that the pregnancy is not high-risk. The letter must also include the estimated date of delivery (EDD). MSC Cruises – MSC and/or the Carriers do not have on board any of the cruise vessels adequate medical facilities or equipment for childbirth; therefore MSC cannot accept a Booking and the Carrier cannot carry any Passenger who will be 24 weeks pregnant or more by the end of the Cruise. Norwegian Cruise Line – NCL will not accept guests who will have entered their twenty-fourth week of pregnancy by the time their travel with NCL concludes. A statement from the expectant mother’s doctor (letterhead form required), stating her due date and fitness to travel, must be sent to NCL’s Access Desk (accessdesk@ncl.com). Royal Caribbean International – Royal Caribbean International cannot accept guests who will have entered their twenty-fourth week of pregnancy by the beginning of the cruise or cruise tour. All guests are required to sign a health questionnaire at check in to ensure they are aware of Royal Caribbean’s pregnancy policy. A physician’s “Fit to Travel” note is required prior to sailing, stating how far along (in weeks) a guest’s pregnancy will be at the beginning of the cruise and confirming that the guest is in good health and not experiencing a high-risk pregnancy. The “Fit to Travel” note should be faxed to the Access Department at 1-954-628-9622. Contact RCL at 1-866-592-7225 or at special_needs@rccl.com if you have already booked a cruise or cruise tour and do not meet this requirement.Celebrity Cruises – Celebrity Cruises cannot accept guests who will have entered their twenty-fourth week of pregnancy by the beginning of the cruise or cruise tour. All guests are required to sign a health questionnaire at check in to ensure they are aware of Celebrity’s pregnancy policy. A physician’s “Fit to Travel” note is required prior to sailing, stating how far along (in weeks) the passenger’s pregnancy will be at the beginning of the cruise and confirming that she is in good health and not experiencing a high-risk pregnancy. The “Fit to Travel” note should be faxed to the Access Department at 1-954-628-9622. Contact Celebrity at 1-866-592-7225 or at special_needs@celebrity.com if you have already booked a cruise or cruise tour and do not meet this requirement. Disney Cruise Line – Women who will enter their twenty-fourth week of pregnancy during the cruise will be refused passage due to safety concerns. Neither a physician’s medical statement nor a waiver of liability will be accepted. In addition, Disney Cruise Line cannot be held responsible or liable for any complications relating to pregnancy at any stage. Holland America Line – Women cannot have begun their twenty-fourth week of pregnancy at any time before or during the cruise. Pregnant guests must provide a physician’s letter stating their expected due date and medical fitness to travel, and asserting that the pregnancy is not high-risk. You must also include your name, booking number, ship, and sailing date. Princess Cruises – Pregnant women are not allowed to sail if they are entering the twenty-fourth week of their pregnancy by the last day of the cruise. All pregnant women are required to produce a physician’s letter stating that mother and baby are in good health and fit to travel, and asserting that the pregnancy is not high-risk. The letter must also include the estimated date of delivery calculated from both last menstrual period and ultrasound (if performed), and may be faxed to the Fleet Medical Department’s confidential fax line at 1-661-753-0121. Azamara Cruises – Azamara Club Cruises cannot accept guests who will have entered their 24th week of pregnancy by the beginning of, or at any time during the cruise. All guests are required to sign a health questionnaire at check-in to ensure they are aware of our pregnancy policy. Once Onboard Be sure to request extra pillows and blankets, scout out exit routes and other walkways in the area around your cabin. Have a look at your bathroom facilities before you really need to use them so you know how things work. You may also want to try on your personal flotation device (PFD) found in your cabin to ensure that it will fit you properly. If you find it is too small, ask your cabin steward for another. You may be more prone to nausea enhanced by the ship’s motion. To minimize problems associated with seasickness, try to book a larger ship (more than 1,000 passengers) and a mid-level, mid-ship cabin. These tend to be more stable and do better in rough weather should you encounter it. Ships will normally be staffed with both a doctor and nurse. (Note that ships’ medical personnel charge a fee for their services.) Make sure to discuss your cruise and related travel plans with your doctor. Ask about various seasickness medications orContinueContinue reading “Pregnancy and Cruising: Tips for Expectant Mothers”
How to Enjoy a Cruise with Your Toddler: A Complete Guide
Traveling with a toddler can be overwhelming. After all, toddlers are restless on flights, don’t adjust well to new bedtime routines, and can be very picky eaters. 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. For these reasons, maybe you’re hesitant to book a cruise with a toddler. Truth is, taking a toddler on a cruise is easier and more fun than you might expect. Chances are, after sailing with your little one(s) for the first time, it wouldn’t be surprising if taking a family cruise becomes a yearly tradition. After all, cruises are the perfect opportunity for multigenerational family members to bond. Spend the day together at the pool, sign up for any number of group activities, and enjoy nightly family meals in the dining room or buffet. Let the grandparents play with the kids for a few hours while you get a massage, take a nap or spend some time onshore together. Of course, there are still many factors to consider before booking your next cruise vacation for your family. What is the best kind of stateroom to the which excursions do you want to take, here is everything you need to know about taking a toddler on a cruise. How old should a child be to go on a cruise? Infants must be at least 6 months old in order to be able to travel on most cruises. For transatlantic cruises, transpacific cruises, and some cruises to South America, as well as cruises with three or more consecutive days at sea, children must be at least 12 months old. What are some of the best cruises for toddlers? Cruising with your toddler for the first time? These are some of the best cruises to book. Cruises with departure ports close to your home city Taking a flight before boarding a cruise with a toddler can be taxing on both kids and parents. By picking a departure port close to home, you will be able to decrease travel time before your cruise begins, ensuring a smoother trip once you do take off on your actual vacation. If you don’t live near a departure port, consider arriving a day or two prior to embarkation. This gives you the chance to stock up on some travel essentials like diapers, their favorite snacks, and sunscreen. Another idea is to break the trip into shorter travel days. No one likes long days traveling in a car. Shorter cruises If you’re taking your first cruise with a toddler, why not try a shorter itinerary (3-4 days)? See how your little one adapts to the sea. If your toddler has traveled well on a cruise before, go ahead and book a longer itinerary (7-10 days), but choose one with multiple port stops and few consecutive days at sea in order to avoid seasickness, boredom and to allow more opportunities for activities on land. Cruises with family-friendly destinations Some ports are more family-oriented than others. For example, little ones might not find a European city tour as interesting as a day swimming with dolphins in the Bahamas or going to Tivoli Gardens in Amsterdam. Be sure to explore family friendly excursions and destinations before deciding on which cruise you’ll ultimately embark on. If you have older children, involve them in the planning process too. Are cruises fun with toddlers? Of course they are! Cruises are fun for kids of all ages, and there are plenty of activities to .keep your toddlers entertained. Kids under the age of 3 can enjoy Toddler Time at the ship’s playroom, They will be able to play with educational toys and interact with other kids around their age. Parental supervision is required, but children don’t have to be potty trained in order to participate. Certain toys and books will also be available to check out and bring back to your stateroom. Potty-trained kids over 3 can participate in the ship’s kids club. Open every day, these centers offer activities for kids with all kinds of interests, Xbox tournaments, culinary experiences, and art programs. You can rest easy that they are being taken care of while you get to enjoy some alone time. It’s a win-win situation for everyone. What should I pack for my toddler on a cruise? Preparation is key when traveling with a toddler on a cruise. We recommend packing the following essentials in your suitcase. Essential Packing Tips for Cruising with Young Children What’s the best stateroom for families cruising with a toddler? The type of stateroom you choose depends on your personal preference and budget. While all staterooms are family friendly, there are some advantages if you decide to book a higher category of stateroom on your cruise while traveling with children. Veranda Stateroom Parents traveling with toddlers may want to book a veranda stateroom. This type of cabin gives adults a little more in-room flexibility. Kids tend to go to bed earlier and a veranda stateroom allows parents to sit outside and still keep an eye on the kids. Just because they have an early bedtime doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the view—and maybe even a glass of wine. Oceanview Stateroom For parents of rowdier toddlers who might prefer to book a room without a balcony, an ocean view staterooms offers you peace of mind and large windows to take in the view outside. Suites If you prefer to cruise in a more spacious and exclusive stateroom, a suite is your best bet. Many suites offer private bedrooms, living areas, and outside verandas. They also include concierge service—which might come in handy if you’re having a particularly difficult day with the kids, plus access to VIP areas of the ship, and plenty of space for active toddlers who like to move around. What will my child eat on a cruise? What to feed a toddler on a cruise ship can be worrisome for parents of picky eaters. Luckily, cruises make it easy. In the main diningContinueContinue reading “How to Enjoy a Cruise with Your Toddler: A Complete Guide”
Extend Your Stay: Enjoy More Time Onboard Celebrity Cruises
It’s the end of the cruise….but you aren’t ready to leave. Do you have a late flight? Or checking into a hotel? In several European ports, Celebrity offers an “Extend Your Stay” program, which means you can store your luggage on board and relax by the pool. You’ll be able to use the WiFi, perhaps book a spa treatment, and enjoy a final, unhurried lunch on board. This program is available in: Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy | Barcelona, Spain | Venice (Ravenna), Italy | Athens (Piraeus), Greece INCLUSIONS EXTEND YOUR STAY · Luggage Storage · Access to public areas including the pool deck · Access to Retreat Lounge/ Sun Deck Access for Retreat guests only · Spa with pre-booked services (Guest must book and pay for the services before debark day) · Access to Oceanview Café for Breakfast and Lunch · Lunch at Sushi on (ML/SL class) or Le Grand Bistro (EG class) for Retreat guests only · Premium Wi-Fi Package for the duration of the stay. · Zero Proof Package (Coffee, Soda drinks, Water) · Premium Drink Package for Retreat guests only You can remain onboard on average up to 90 mins before the ship departure. Pricing starting from $69 per person and $99 per person for Retreat guest. *Pricing and inclusions are subject to change and may change by ship. FAQ What is Extend Your Stay? Extend Your Stay is a paid service that provides guests, sailing in select ports in Europe, the opportunity on turnaround day to stay onboard longer, store their luggage, have access to the buffet, public areas and relax before traveling. What does the Extend Your Stay program include? · Luggage Storage · Access to Oceanview Café for Breakfast and Lunch · Access to public areas including the pool deck · Premium Wi-Fi Package for the duration of the stay · Spa with pre-booked services · Remain onboard on average up to 90 mins before · Zero Proof Package the ship departure.* What does the Extend Your Stay program include for guests in The Retreat? Luggage Storage · Spa with pre-booked services · Access to Retreat Lounge / Sun Deck Access, (Guest must book and pay for the services before debark day) public areas, including the pool deck. · Premium Wi-Fi Package for the duration of the stay. · Lunch at Sushi on Five (Millennium/Solstice series) · Premium Drink Package. or Le Grand Bistro (Edge series). · Remain onboard up to 90 mins before the ship departure.* In which debark ports is this program currently available? ROM – ROME (CIVITAVECCHIA), ITALY · BCN – BARCELONA, SPAIN · BLQ – VENICE (RAVENNA), ITALY · ATH – ATHENS (PIRAEUS), GREECE Can Extend Your Stay guests leave the ship and then return during Turnaround Day? No – once Extend Your Stay guests leave the ship they cannot return. Are credit card purchases the only option after closing of the voyage? No purchases are available after the closing of the voyage. How will Extend Your Stay charge be shown on the guest statement? The guest statement will show a charge for ‘Shore Excursions’. How will guests sign up for the Extend Your Stay onboard? All guests wishing to sign up will need to sign up at the Shore Excursions desk the Celebrity App or for Retreat guests at the Retreat Lounge/Michael’s Club. Is there a cutoff time to sign up? Yes, 48hrs prior to arrival to the destination port. What happens with the guests’ luggage? Extend Your Stay guests will be assigned specific luggage tags. Same process as other guests, they will need to leave their suitcases outside their stateroom between 7:00pm and 10pm. The luggage will be kept in the pier terminal till they come off the ship to pick it up when departing the ship. How will guests receive turnaround day instructions for Extend Your Stay? We provide a letter with all instructions and schedule an in-person Extend Your Stay briefing. When are Extend Your Stay guests required to vacate their Stateroom/Suite? All guests will need to vacate their stateroom and move to one of the public lounges onboard by 8:30am at the latest. Is transportation to the Airport included? Transfers to the airport are not available but can be arranged for an additional fee. Exception: Port of Ravenna does include transportation with a specific departure time to the airport Can I combine the Extend Your Stay and the Disembarkation transfer? Yes, you can but the last transfer from the ship to the airport may be several hours before the Extend Your Stay ends. We highly recommend you check with the Shore Excursion team for the departure time of the latest airport transfer available and plan accordingly. How does the team onboard know what type of package is included on my Extend Your Stay package? On debark day, you will be given a sea pass card that you will use to order your drinks and to identify yourself as part of the program. The team onboard is well versed on Extend Your Stay package inclusions. Will my Wi-Fi package continue to be active until I leave the ship? For Wi-Fi access, on debark day, the team onboard will provide you with a voucher for you to activate it. Instructions on how to do it will be shared on the Extend Your Stay sent 24hrs before the activity starts. What is the process for booking Spa appointments on the debarkation day? To make a reservation for a Spa appointment, please proceed directly to the Spa desk before the cruise ends and inform the Spa staff that you have an Extend Your Stay package. The Spa representative will assist in processing payment and confirming the booking. Alternatively, a Spa representative will be available during the Extend Your Stay briefing to assist with booking. Keep in mind that reservations cannot be made on the day of debarkation. What’s the latest I can stay inside my cabin on the departure day? Access to the room is until 8:30am on departureContinueContinue reading “Extend Your Stay: Enjoy More Time Onboard Celebrity Cruises”
You Booked a Cruise – Now What?
This post contains affiliate links, if you click and buy a product, I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details. Make sure booking information is correct Check everything from the spelling of the names on the booking to the cruise dates. It is easy in the excitement of booking to click on the wrong year or month. This is a good time to make sure it’s all correct to save you some frustration later on. This is especially important if you use a Travel Agent, as they will have to make the changes for you and mistakes do happen. Make sure your passport or other boarding documents are current. This should actually be done before you book…you don’t want to be waiting for a passport to come in the mail when your cruise date is rapidly approaching. But this is still a good time to at least double-check and make sure you’re documentation is current. Your passport cannot expire within 6 months of the end of your cruise. Applying for a new passport or requesting a renewal can take up to 6-8 weeks…that does not include mailing time both directions. Don’t put it off….apply or renew now! Names must match exactly with the booking information, so if you have recently had a name change, be sure that your booking is in the name on your current passport or other boarding documents. I have seen so many newlyweds arrive and not be allowed to board because the passport name and reservation name do not match…not the way to begin a honeymoon. If traveling internationally to certain countries, you will want to check on visa requirements and apply for those as well. Visas are the responsibility of the cruiser, not the cruise line. Read more: What cruise documents do you need to board? Mark your calendar with important reminders Whether you want to use your phone’s reminder application or write down the dates on a calendar, take note of important dates like when final payment is due and when you can begin check-in for your cruise. Some cruise lines, like Disney, have specific dates when you can begin booking additional add ons. If your cruise is on one of those, be sure to not that on your calendar. You don’t want to miss your window of opportunity. Download the ship’s mobile app and join their loyalty club If you don’t already have an account with the cruise line, you should get one as soon as possible. You want to make sure you earn points for each cruise you take and receive the benefits on subsequent sailings. For an example, check out this link to see what Celebrity Cruises offers. The cruise line’s app serves many functions. You will be able to see the ship’s daily schedule, make reservations, check your onboard spending, view menus, see a deck plan and chat with other passengers. Port arrival and departure times will also be noted here. Save yourself time by doing this now and not having to hurry and to download the app while in the terminal. With most cruise line apps, when checkin opens, you can do this right on your phone, making the whole process a breeze as well. Read more: Celebrity Cruises Captain’s Club Consider purchasing travel insurance This is extremely important. We did not purchase travel insurance for many years. Let me just say…..we are VERY lucky we never needed it. Medical assistance onboard is very expensive and fairly limited. If you need a hospital or specialized doctor while at sea, you would need to be airlifted. If onshore while in port, you would have to depart the ship and go to a hospital in that country. Your medical insurance from home will not cover that or any other expense you would incur….hotels, food, transportation home, etc. You can purchase travel insurance through the cruise line or through private carriers. We have decided to purchase an annual policy, which we have found to be cheaper than buying one for each trip. A 3rd party travel insurance plan might offer more peace of mind if you’re looking for extra medical evac coverage or even cancel for any reason coverage. Also, check with the credit card you used to purchase the cruise…they may offer some built-in protections already, such as trip delay, lost luggage, some medical coverage, etc. Make travel and hotel arrangement Air travel If you don’t live within driving distance of the cruise port, you will want to start checking flights right away. The longer you wait to book a flight, the higher the chance that the costs will go up. However, this is not always the case. I recommend starting to research airfare costs and then track prices over the next few days. Be sure to book these well in advance of your cruise. Also, check and see if the airline is offering the ability to change the flights without penalty. Some have started doing this post-Covid, giving you flexibility in timing and price. You can use a price tracker through Kayak or Google flight price alerts to stay on top of any fluctuations. I like to look at flight costs and times before booking a cruise. Transportation can be a huge part of your travel budget. Of course, if you find a good cruise deal first, you can always look for an affordable flight later. Hotel arrangements If flying to a cruise port (and sometimes even driving), we always get a hotel for at least one night before the cruise. It would be horrible to miss your cruise due to a cancelled or delayed flight or traffic issues if driving. Staying in a hotel ahead of time helps alleviate some of the stress of travel and allows you to arrive at the port rested and excited to begin your cruise. You can often find hotels with free shuttle services to the cruise port. Many hotels close to a cruise port provide extra servicesContinueContinue reading “You Booked a Cruise – Now What?”