Cruise smarter, not harder. From evaluating ship layouts and amenities to maximizing loyalty programs and choosing the right drink packages, get the candid advice you need to plan your next mid-range getaway
We were on the Rhapsody of the Seas from May 2–9 and stopped in Antigua on Tuesday, May 5th. Instead of booking a ship excursion, we planned a full no-excursion day at Dickenson Bay, one of Antigua’s most popular beaches — and it turned out to be one of our favorite port days of the whole cruise. If…
If Ponta Delgada is one of the stops on your transatlantic cruise, you’re in for a treat — São Miguel is one of the most beautiful islands in the Azores. The best part is you don’t have to spend your cruise day figuring out complicated transportation just to get started. Ships dock right in downtown Ponta Delgada…
If you’ve ever found yourself overwhelmed by 5,000-passenger mega-ships, long lines at the buffet, or endless reservations just to get a seat at dinner, you’re not alone. On my recent trip through French Polynesia (sailing through Tahiti, Bora Bora, Moorea, Raiatea, Taha’a, and Huahine onboard the Star Breeze), I wanted to test whether small-ship cruising delivers…
You’ve booked your cruise—but now you have to fly there. With flight prices already adding up, the last thing you may want to do is pay even more to check a suitcase. Packing everything into one carry-on and a personal item can save money and make it much easier to navigate the airport, cruise terminal,…
After spending eight nights onboard, I have a lot to say in this Norwegian Breakaway review. Norwegian did several things surprisingly well. The buffet was better than expected, the drink package was easy to use, the Waterfront was great for walking, and Howl at the Moon was one of the best entertainment experiences we have had…
Welcome to my honest Windstar Dreams of Tahiti review! When most people think of French Polynesia, they picture one thing: an overwater bungalow in Bora Bora. And yes, that is absolutely a dream. But after visiting French Polynesia, I honestly think one of the smartest ways to see more of the islands is by cruise —…
Whether you are sailing into the spectacular harbor at the Bergen cruise port with only a few hours to spare, or you are flying in to spend a few days exploring by land, finding the top things to do in Bergen, Norway will help you make the absolute most of your trip. Known as the “Gateway to…
Most cruisers, especially when booking their first sailing, face a major dilemma: is a cruise balcony worth it, or should you just book the cheapest room available? Many travelers see staterooms as a strict binary choice—you either suffer in a budget-friendly, pitch-black inside cabin, or you splurge on a luxurious, breezy balcony. In that constant tug-of-war,…
