The best vacation we ever embarked upon was a cruise. While the Florida beach was great, kids do grow up and digging holes in the sand isn't as much fun as a teenager as when you were 6 or 7. More entertainment alternatives are required and a cruise is the perfect choice for many reasons.
PACKING: I absolutely hate packing but even worse is the unpacking. When all five of us come home from a vacation, our suitcases can sit half-unpacked for so long I have to begin dusting them. On a cruise, you’ll get to visit several different destinations but only unpack once. What a deal! According to the Cruise Diva, Linda Coffman, a packing list is very important and I couldn't agree more. Even with a packing list, I once managed to leave several outfits destined for the dining room hanging in my closet at home.
FREE FOOD: I shouldn’t say “free” because it’s included in the cost of your cruise, but it will feel like it’s free when you don’t have to dig through your pockets for another burger or hotdog or slice of pizza. You know what it’s like to be strolling down the beach only to hear “I’m hungry” and only nachos from that one little place down the way will do. Of course, if you were smart and planned ahead, you’d have a cooler of nutritious munchies ready for just this particular moment. Or you can take your kids on a cruise and send them to the food court or whatever you’d like to call it for a meal or snack or whatever they desire. Watch a Princess dining video or look at the many choices available on Carnival.
On a cruise, meal times are no longer a battlefield with my husband insisting they order from the children’s menu even though they’re 13 and 15 because it’s cheaper. If you go away hungry after eating in the dining room on a cruise ship, it’s your own fault. Your waiter will bring you as many entrees that you can possibly put away. If you’re still feeling a little “empty”, head up to the Lido deck where the choices will astound you and if midnight finds you still awake and hungry, more eating opportunities await at the midnight buffet.
FREE ENTERTAINMENT: Once again, paid for in the price of your cruise. For my three, alternating between ping pong and going down the huge several-stories slide kept them satisfied for hours. The majority of cruise lines have kid's programs which are also included in the price of the cruise. They even offer group babysitting in the evenings so parents can get some grown-up time.
We’ve been fortunate to go on several cruises and we now have our favorite islands which I’ll share with you.
We’ve been fortunate to go on several cruises and we now have our favorite islands which I’ll share with you.
Remember when I said a gorgeous beach was a must? Even though it's extremely "touristy" (is that a word?) Magen's Bay is our favorite. Beautiful clear water, necessary if you intend to keep away from Stingrays. Calm with no waves or current, the water is great for floating along and for swimming. The island of St. Thomas is busy and bustling all day because it is a very popular stop for cruise ships. You'll find many shopping opportunities if that's what you seek. The people are friendly and eager to help and answer questions. The last time we visited St. Thomas, we happened upon a gentleman and his donkey. For a few dollars you could have your picture snapped standing next to a donkey named Oprah!
This island is unique because ships don't actually dock there. Instead, passengers must be tendered to the island in smaller boats, kind of like water taxis. Grand Cayman is very upscale and rich looking. Must have something to do with all those banks that call the island home. Should you decide to rent a vehicle, remember you'll be driving on the other side of the road. I don't want to tell you want to do, but I'd definitely recommend purchasing insurance.
Cruise Critic is a wonderful resource for those interesting in learning about the world of cruising. I rely on it myself, especially the forums which come in very handy for up-to-date information on a particular ship. You'll also find information on many destinations, like Grand Cayman.
The most beautiful beach I've ever visited, 7 Mile Beach, was on Grand Cayman. White, powdery sand; crystal clear, blue-green water; great for swimming and floating around on a raft; no stingrays. Now that you mention stingrays, this is funny. You can actually visit a place called Stingray City near Grand Cayman, where you get to swim with stingrays. You can even feed them. Even though these creatures make my top ten list of "things to avoid at all cost", I went on this excursion. All I can say is it was magnificent and when one of these guys swims up next to you, the feeling can be compared to a cat rubbing itself against your legs.
Cruises have always been the best choice for our family. In fact, I'm in the process of planning one right now. The most difficult task is deciding where to go. We'd love to do a southern Caribbean route from San Juan, but the airfare for five is a little pricey. That dream will have to wait. I'd love to hear about some of your travel adventures.
Until next time,
luv2travelwithme
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