Tag: CRUISE TRAVEL

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Cruise Tips Cruise Travel Packing

The Ultimate Cruise Packing Tips & Hacks

Grand Turk
The beach next to the ship is perfect for snorkeling and swimming!

Over the last decade, I have become a cruising experts. I’ve been on more than 15 cruises visiting destinations taking me all throughout the Caribbean and Alaska. During this time, I’ve learned a thing or two about cruising and I would love to share some cruise packing tips with you to help make your cruise all that more enjoyable. I should state that I sail exclusively with Carnival, however, a majority of my cruise packing tips, or hacks, can be useful to any cruise line.

Cruise Packing Tips & Hacks

Cruise packing is going to look different for everybody. For instance, if you have to fly into your departure port, you’ll be working with weight and baggage restrictions from the airlines. Trust me, I know that’s a pain! I dealt with it and made the best of it when I flew from Florida to Seattle for my trip to Alaska. Fortunately, I live in The Sunshine State and have the ability to cruise out of 4 different Floridian ports, all within driving distance. This makes packing a breeze!

Below is a list of things that I always pack when I cruise. Trust me, these items have made my life much, much easier! Feel free to click any of the photos for product information, reviews, and purchasing.

Over the Door Hanging Organizer

If you’re a heavy packer or sharing your cabin with others, you’ll want a bit of additional storage in your cabin, especially if you’re in an interior cabin! Cruise lines have done their best to maximize storage in the cabins but oftentimes, it simply isn’t enough. By bringing along an over the door hanging organizer, like one of the ones pictured here, you give yourself extra storage. I packed one similar to the organizer on the right. I hang it over the bathroom door and keep things like my hair straightener, aloe, medications, socks, undies, flip flops, shampoo, etc. You can load this thing down with all kinds of things!

You can also look into the organizers that tie at the top, rather than use a bracket to hang if your cruise line has banned this item.

​Yeti or similar tumbler

This is one of the first things that I started putting on my cruise packing list when I first began cruising. The cups that the cruise line provides for you are pretty freaking small. I have room service deliver me a carafe of coffee first thing in the morning and load my Yeti with coffee and creamer. The coffee stays hot a lot longer than the cruise line cups and I’ll have plenty of coffee to get me through the morning this way. Later in the day, I load my Yeti cup with ice and fill it full of juice from the Lido deck to enjoy while I’m poolside. This is a must, in my opinion! Make sure that you are courteous to other cruisers and use a clean cup to fill your tumbler.

Games

Wait, you pack games for a cruise? You’re darn skippy I do! I always add games to my cruise packing list!  You’ll actually probably be able to find some games on the ship (check the library) but I love packing games for sea days. Admittedly, I’m not much of a partier these days. Several years ago you’d find me in the ship’s clubs and bars dancing until all hours of the night. These days, I’m more likely to turn in early or organize a game night.

On our last cruise to Alaska, we had a game night during one of our Sea Days. It’s a great way to pass the time! One time, I invited a group of people that I met on an excursion in The Bahamas to join me for a game of Twister. Can I just tell you that was one of my best cruise memories? One game that I love bringing along is LCR because it is compact and can be turned into a drinking game or be played for money. I often take the games out of their boxes and pack them in a Ziploc to save space.

Sharpie

Sharpies a great thing to have on hand when you travel. If you’re traveling with your little ones, you can use them to write your phone number on their wrist just in case you get separated when you’re in port. I collect a green rock from every place that I visit. Afterward, I use the Sharpie to label where I got the rock. I do not recommend using the marker to write your cabin number on your key. If you happen to lose your card, the finder will have instant access to your cabin! Instead of writing my number on my key card, I write the cabins of the people I’m traveling with on the back of my card.

Gallon Size Ziploc Bags

These are great to have on hand! I take bags with me on excursions for storing wet bathing suits. They are also nice to have to pack away stinky socks and used underwear. I also like to use them to house my phone and other items I don’t want to get wet while at the beach.

Small Collapsible Cooler

If you ask, your cabin steward will keep this stocked with ice for you! These are great to have on hand to keep your bottles of water or other beverages cold throughout your cruise. They are nice to have on hand in your cabin and during shore excursions.  These are one of the newer items on my cruise packing list, although, to be honest- it’s not an absolute must.

Backpack

On the other hand, these are a must-have for your cruise. They are great for hiking through the jungles of Belize or Honduras, or zip-lining through tropical rain forests!  You’ll definitely want to add this to your cruise packing list.

Extra Hangers

Be sure to pack extra hangers! You’ll want to be able to hang all of your evening wear!

Power Strip

If you think that storage is a problem in your cabin, wait until you realize how few electrical outlets you have! Power strips are a must in my opinion. You’ll be glad you packed one when you need to charge all of your electronics or get ready for an elegant night!

Digital Clock

Believe it or not, your cabin will most likely not have a clock. This is completely intentional, but a little impractical considering how early many of the excursions leave. Sure, you could always schedule a wake-up call, but make your life a little easier and pack a digital alarm clock.

Lanyard

Lastly, pack a lanyard with you. It will make it easier to keep up with your room card! I like this Cruise Junkie one because it is detachable.

Pro Tip: Make sure you have these items with you when you head into port.

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Check out our Ultimate Guide on How to Plan a Cruise and start planning your dream vacation today!

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**Please note that this post contains affiliate links for your shopping convenience. All opinions are my own. Pinkie swear**

Cruise Packing Tips Updated: 11/17/21

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Alaska British Columbia Canada Cruise Excursions Cruise Travel Skagway The Yukon United States

Skagway, British Columbia, and The Yukon Territory

Weren’t the Endicott Arm and the Dawes Glacier amazing? Our next stop on our Alaskan cruise was Skagway, Alaska. Imagine waking up, stepping out onto your balcony, and being welcomed by this view. Welcome to Skagway, my friends! Skagway is home to colorful gold-rush era buildings, vintage locomotives, and some of the most friendly people you’ll encounter!

Our first glimpse of Skagway, Alaska

We had a lot on our itinerary for the day. We were heading to British Columbia and The Yukon, and of course, we had to explore this charming little town. We planned on fitting as much as we could so that we had a chance to really explore this area. First, we followed the White Pass Trail from Skagway up to Frasier, British Columbia passing cascading waterfalls, gorgeous snow-capped mountains, and some of the most spectacular lakes I’ve ever seen. Yep, you read that right- we headed into Canada!

British Columbia

Words simply cannot describe how stunning British Columbia was! The towering snow-capped mountains, the lush green evergreens, the azure glacier lakes were more gorgeous than I can put into words. Visiting this region was like a dream come true- I’m dying to go back!

I spent the hour-long ride from Fraser, British Columbia to Carcross, Yukon Territory gazing out the window with my jaw dropped. The vistas were breathtaking! This would be an amazing spot to pitch a tent for a couple of weeks and forget about the world.

Yukon Territory

Next, we made a pit stop in Carcross at the Caribou Crossing Trading Post for a delicious barbecue lunch and a chance to stretch our legs.

After lunch, we went to spend some time with animals. We fed goats, alpacas, and donkeys! This goat reminded us so much of our little terrier Parker. He had a way of forcing himself on you so that you’d pay attention to him.

Then, we had a meet and greet with some of the Alaskan sled dogs. We watched as they were harnessed up and carried sleds off into the hillsides.

Next, we made a pit stop at the Carcross Desert, which is often called “The World’s Smallest Desert”. It was a great spot to stretch our legs and admire the biodiversity of the area.

Our last stops in The Yukon were Spirit Lake and Emerald Lake, both well known for their impeccable green coloring.

Have you met my pet monkey Isabelle? Isabelle has traveled with me for nearly 2 decades. She has visited 18 countries with me and joined me on my trip into Canada since she missed out on my first trip to this amazing country!

Skagway, Alaska

Finally, it was time to check out Skagway! Isn’t it such a charming little town? It was covered with Gold Rush-era buildings painted in vibrant colors and decorative storefronts.

How cool is this building? It’s covered entirely in driftwood!

Lastly, we met up with some friends at the historic Red Onion Saloon, one of the best-known brothels in all of Alaska. The ladies of the Red Onion are all in full costume and character and are an absolute riot. The upstairs is a museum dedicated to the building’s past and the saloon’s role during the gold rush. The day was a perfect introduction to all of the wonderful things we would see throughout Alaska and western Canada.

While in Skagway…

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Slide on over to our post about checking out the famous Mendenhall Glacier in Tongass National Park just outside of Juneau. Be sure to give us a like on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for more travel tips and tricks. See you next time!

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Alaska Cruise Travel Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier United States

Sailing Through the Endicott Arm to the Dawes Glacier

After spending a couple of days in Seattle, Washington, we boarded our cruise ship and sailed northwards to Alaska. We were scheduled to sail through Tracy Arm Fjord but due to the high density of ice, we ended up going through Endicott Arm instead. I have to tell you, I was not at all disappointed by the change in our itinerary!

Dawes Glacier

What is the Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier?

Both the Tracy Arm and Endicott Arm are fjords in Alaska, about 45 miles outside of Juneau. The arms are the heart of the Tracy Arm-Fords Terror Wilderness. Both fjords are over 30 miles long, with 1/5 of this area covered in ice.

How is this area accessed?

Both fjords are typically accessed via the Stephens Passage and entering Holkham Bay. Float planes from Juneau and Petersburg also frequent the area.

Both fjords are commonly visited by cruise ships.

Our Experience

Endicott Arm & the Dawes Glacier were awe-inspiring. The combination of the gorgeous azure water, stunning jagged rocks, the Alaskan sub-alpine vegetation, countless waterfalls, the vibrant blue ice drifting by, and, of course, the wildlife, was more than I ever dreamed of!

What animals did we spot in the Endicott Arm?

  • Humpbacks
  • Dall’s porpoises
  • Seals
  • Eagles

We spotted our second humpback while entering the fjord. The opening was full of humpbacks feeding! Our friends were staying in a cabin at the stern (very back of the boat) that featuring an enormous wrap-around cabin. We were able to see countless whales playing in the ship’s wake as we made our way closer to the glacier!

Iceberg in Endicott Arm

The closer and closer we got to Dawes Glacier, the more vibrant blue the water became. We passed countless icebergs like this one. Aren’t they gorgeous?

Dozens of waterfalls flanked both sides of the passage cascading from high up in the mountains and splashing into the crystal clear blue water. Aren’t they incredible?

Although I was initially disappointed we weren’t able to go into Tracy Arm Fjord, Endicott Arm Fjord exceeded every one of my expectations. It was a fantastic introduction to Alaska!Save a Pin & Start Planning Your Adventure!

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Updated: 11/14/21

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Caribbean Cruise Travel Nassau The Bahamas

A Quick Beginner’s Guide to Nassau, The Bahamas

Looking for a quick and easy to understand guide to Nassau, The Bahamas? You’ve come to the right place!   In the this Guide to Nassau, will review the highlights on the island, discuss the best time to visit, and answer many popular questions about Nassau.

The Bahamas are a truly beautiful chain of islands full of gorgeous beaches, exciting history, and of course, rum. When many people think about the Bahamas, they think of the capital, Nassau, which is located on the island of New Providence. However, the chain consists of an impressive 700 islands and cays.

Believe it or not, The Bahamas aren’t actually part of the Caribbean…at least not geographically speaking.  However, because of the climate, culture, cuisine and close ties with many of the Caribbean islands, The Bahamas is often grouped with Caribbean nations.

A Quick Guide to Nassau

I like to tell people that The Bahamas are a great place for people to begin foreign travel. Visiting a foreign country can be extremely intimidating. Not only are you far away from home but many people worry about language barriers, cultural differences, and safety. Trust me, being lost in a foreign country where you can’t read any of the signs or speak with any of the locals is absolutely terrifying. With The Bahamas, you really don’t have to worry about any of that!

Parts of The Bahamas are located about 100 miles away from Florida. As a Floridan, I can tell you that The Bahamas are a lot like Florida! The Bahamas were colonized by the British in 1718 so the locals are fluent in English. Shops, vendors, and restaurants will all accept American currency as well. Speaking of restaurants, the food options here are just like you’d find here in The States! I honestly don’t even feel like I’ve left the country when I visit The Bahamas. Which is a great feeling for new travelers.

The Bahamas are the most popular islands in the region.  In fact, Nassau, is the cruise industries most visited port of call.  Each year, more than 5 million cruisers have Nassau on their itinerary.  This is more than any other cruise port in the world!  

What are some of the highlights of Nassau?

Nassau is the port most frequented by cruisers. Some of the highlights of Nassau include The Pirate Museum, Parliament Square, Fort Fincastle, and of course, the beach. The beaches here are pristine! We’re talking about sugary white sand, turquoise water, and gorgeous palm trees. Have I piqued your interest, yet?

When we’re in Nassau, we love hopping on a catamaran to explore some of the smaller surrounding islands. We also enjoy snorkeling while we’re here.

Of course, when many people think of Nassau, they think of Atlantis. Atlantis is an ocean-themed resort on Paradise Island in the Bahamas- just a short water taxi ride from Nassau. Since it is not actually located on the island of Nassau, I’ll be sharing information about it in a different post.

Pro Tip: Make sure you have these items with you when you head into port.

Downtown Nassau can easily be explored on-foot and you can see a lot of the main attractions in one day.  If you’d rather take a taxi, they are readily available.

Pro Tip: Taxis don’t have a flat fare like they do in the US.  You can negotiate the price of the fare (in fact, it’s pretty much expected!).  Be sure to ask the driver how much they want to charge you and negotiate before you get in the cab.

 

The Best Things to do in Nassau, Bahamas

There’s more to Nassau than just the beach!  The island has plenty of super affordable things for families to do.

The Pirate Museum:  This is many visitors favorite attraction on the island. The museum is self-guided and presents the history of Nassau and the pesky pirates that landed here hundreds of years ago.  There’s a full-sized pirate ship and a ton of interactive things to keep kids entertained. The Pirates of Nassau Museum costs about $12 per person (less for kids).  

Fort Fincastle:  Fort Fincastle is an easy 10 minute walk from the Pirate Museum.  It was built in the early 1790s to offer protection from pirates.  The fort sits on top of the highest point of the island.  Once upon a time, this offered a great vantage point for the islanders, today it offers a great vantage point for tourists.  

Guided tours will run you about $5 and are well worth it.

Fort Fincastle- Nassau, Bahamas

The Queen’s Staircase:  This popular attraction (and Instagram backdrop!) is literally right next to the fort and will take you about 5 minutes to see. It may not look like much, but the history behind the staircase is pretty remarkable.  The limestone stairs were hand-cut by slaves.  

The stairs offered defenders a quick way to get from the fort down to the beaches in the event that pirates came ashore.  The stairs were named after Queen Victoria, the British monarch that put an end to slavery.

The Straw Market:  Although we don’t love this place, many others do.  The Nassau Straw Market is an open air market located right by the cruise port.  Visitors often flock here to pick up cheap souvenirs such as beach bags, t-shirts, shot glasses, etc.  Most of the stuff was imported from China however, there are a handful of hand made items crafted by local Bahamians.

Pro Tip:  The vendors are really pushy and make it hard to simply “window shop”.  If you want to shop hassle-free, slip into one of the shops across the street, instead.

This is also a popular place for hair-braiding.  Be careful- this adds up really fast $$$ be sure you know exactly what you’ll be getting for the amount advertised.

Parliament Square:  Want a little glimpse at the history of The Bahamas?  Head to Parliament Square, home of the local government.  It’s located downtown, well within walking distance of the cruise ships.  

Junkanoo Beach- Nassau, Bahamas

Junkanoo Beach:  This free public beach is located really close to the cruise ship terminal, smack dab in the middle of downtown Nassau.  It’s location (and the abundance of eateries nearby) make it a popular beach for tourists.

Pro Tip:  This is a hot spot for thieves…the island is known for pirates, after all.  Consider investing in a beach safe to keep your valuables safe.

What We Love About Nassau & What We Could Do Without

What we love:

  • It feels familiar & it is easy to navigate
  • There are plenty of beaches and outdoor activities like boating, snorkeling, paddling, and more.
  • The historic and cultural attractions
  • The African, Caribbean, and Colonial influences.

What we don’t love:

  • It’s super touristy- but that kind of goes with the territory.
  • Most of the stuff in the Straw Market was made in China…
  • Vendors can be super pushy.

What is the best month to go to Nassau, Bahamas?

The best time to visit The Bahamas is any time between November and April. Personally, January is a favorite, of mine. During these months you’ll experience lovely weather and less crowds…and it’s not hurricane season.

The Bahamas have pretty decent weather year round.  The temperatures usually range between  75°F to 84°F, with seasonal variations.  During the above mentioned months, the evenings and mornings can be a little chilly, but the water is still warm enough to swim and the sun is perfect!  

The coldest month is January (with an average of 72°F) and August is the wettest (average rainfall of 6.2 inches).  July is the hottest month with an average temperature of 82 °F.

The crowds start to pick up in March and April when schools let out for Spring Break.  

Summers are hot, sticky, humid, and there’s a greater chance for rain.  Hurricane season lasts from June 1 and ends November 30th.

 

What is the cheapest month to visit Nassau?

High season is considered to be May, June, and July- these are definitely  the most expensive months to visit the island. 

The cheapest month to fly from the US to Nassau is in January.  This is also one of the cheapest times to cruise to Nassau.

Do I need a passport to go to Nassau, Bahamas?

If you are arriving to The Bahamas via plane, you definitely need to have a valid US Passport.

If you are arriving via cruise ship, you will need to have a passport, passport card, or an official birth certificate and government issued ID.  It is strongly suggested that you always carry a passport when traveling to a foreign country.

Parliament Square, Nassau

Which airlines fly direct to Bahamas?

American Airlines, Delta, United, Envoy Air, jetBlue, Qatar Airways, Azul Airlines, and Bahamasair all fly non-stop to Bahamas.

What language is spoken in Nassau, Bahamas?

When the British colonized The Bahamas a couple hundred years ago, they brought with them the English language.  Today, English is the official language of The Bahamas however, it is spoken with a Bahamian dialect.

Can you use US dollars in The Bahamas?

Remember how I said The Bahamas aren’t much different than Florida?  The currency is yet another reason the two are so similar!  The US Dollar is just as popular here as the Bahamian Dollar and they have an equal value, which makes transactions a breeze.

Is Nassau safe?

When you visit any new location, it is important to stay aware of your surroundings. I suggest staying within a few blocks of the port or catching a cab over to Paradise Island, home of Atlantis. The cabs are regulated and the prices are posted right near the cruise terminal to help ensure you won’t get ripped off. Although the crime rates are not high in Nassau, like with any touristy place criminals will target visitors. As long as you are smart about things, it is completely safe.

Can You Walk Around Nassau, Bahamas?

You can definitely experience Nassau on foot- without a tour!  There is plenty for cruisers to do within walking distance of the port including the Straw market, the Pirate of Nassau Museum, and much more!  Check out our Guide to Nassau on foot!

Do I Need a car in Nassau?

If you’re visiting via cruise or staying at a hotel in the tourist zones, you definitely do not need to rent a car.  A lot of the tourist district is walkable and cabs are readily available.

If you are staying outside of the tourist district, you may want to consider renting a car if you want to explore parts of the town on your own.

Be aware the Bahamians drive on the left side of the road.  The roads, especially Bay Street, can be rather chaotic and full of potholes.  Lots and lots of potholes.

At the time of publication, Rideshares such as Uber and Lyft are not available in The Bahamas.

Let Us Help You Plan Your Trip

Check out our Ultimate Guide on How to Plan a Cruise and start planning your dream vacation today!

You may also be interested in 7 Things for Cruisers to Do Within Walking Distance of the Cruise Ports to help start your planning. If Half Moon Cay is also on your itinerary, check out 5 Facts About Half Moon Cay.

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Be sure to give us a like on Facebook or follow us on Instagram and Twitter for more travel tips and tricks. See you next time!

Updated: 12/10/22

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Categories
Cozumel Cruise Excursions Cruise Travel Mexico

A Review of Cozumel Beach Buggy & Snorkel Excursion

Cozumel Beach Buggy & Snorkel Excursion– I have a secret. Cozumel has really grown on me. When I first visited the island over a decade ago, I wasn’t very impressed. The more and more I visit, the more appealing it is. This could be because the first few times I visited, I simply drank like a fish while I was in port…

I originally intended on taking the ferry to mainland Mexico and spending the day at a nature park called Xcaret. However, the ferry service was temporarily out of service for tourists (due to a recent terrorist attack on the ferry system) so I was forced to make other plans.

The Beach Buggies

My family ended up booking a beach buggy & snorkel excursion through Carnival. The beach buggy had a manual transmission with no 2nd or 3rd gears- which meant there was zero chance that I would be driving. I ended up hopping in the backseat with my niece, Frankenstein, where we enjoyed the breezy drive around the island. The buggy itself was a bit rough around the edges. It was a pain in the butt to drive and several of the people on our excursion had issues. We may have been better off just renting a Jeep. Our first stop was a beach about a 10-minute drive away from the port.

The Snorkeling Excursion

Our first stop was a beach about a 10-minute drive away from the port. The beach had a restaurant and bar area as well as changing rooms for those who needed to switch into their bathing suit. The sand was covered with lounge chairs, and palm trees laced with hammocks. The beach itself was rather pretty. After a safety briefing, we were led out on a guided snorkel tour. In my honest opinion, they should probably pick a different beach to snorkel. There isn’t much of anything to see and chances are you’ll see more people than fish. I lasted about 10 minutes in the water before I went to hang out in a lounge chair. I attempted to order a drink but had a hard time getting a bar waiter to come over to my chair.

Punta Morena

Next, we took a 45 minute down the coast to our next stop, Punta Morena, on the Atlantic side of the island. Many people don’t realize that much of Cozumel is actually undeveloped. Cruisers tend to hit the downtown area or take a ferry to the mainland and very few actually venture out to check out the island, as a whole. The island is so undeveloped that much of the Atlantic-side doesn’t even have electricity.

The ride from the beach to Punta Morena was alright. Although we drove along the coast, much of it was covered with heavy vegetation so we had brief glances at the turquoise blue water. Since we had to stick with our guide, we weren’t able to pull over and take advantage of some of the more scenic beaches.

We arrived at Punta Morena where we had a lovely lunch. The food was much like everything else I’ve had in the Yucatan, so I knew what to expect. Lunch was chicken, fish, or beef tacos or nachos served buffet style with rice and beans.

After eating, we had plenty of time to check out the beach area. Since we were on the Atlantic side, it was much too choppy and the current was too strong for us to be able to get into the water. The waves crashing against the rocky surface made for great photos, however.

Punta Morena also had a pool, bar and several lounge chairs and hammocks for us to enjoy. Overall, the restaurant itself was nice.

Lastly, we hopped back into the beach buggies and drove through downtown Cozumel so we could “see how the locals lived”. The drive back was rather lackluster.

Pro Tip: Make sure you have these items with you when you head into port.

My Opinion of the Beach Buggy & Snorkel Excursion

The tour itself was alright, however, I don’t know that I would do it again. I have done some pretty great things in and around Cozumel and this was by far my least favorite. I would definitely recommend visiting Tulum or checking out Rio Secreto over this tour. One thing that I think could have made it better was somehow fitting in a trip to the San Gervasio Mayan ruins. When we were at Punta Morena we were seriously within miles of the ruins. I think a short visit there would have made an excellent addition to the excursion. I’d suggest cutting a little time off of snorkeling or Punta Morena to make it happen.

That being said, I did have fun on the Beach Buggy & Snorkel Excursion. It would have been nice if the snorkeling was all it was made out to be, and if the buggies themselves were in better working order. However, it was a nice way to see the island of Cozumel. Had we not rented the buggies, I don’t know that I would have ever been able to see the Atlantic side of Cozumel.

While You’re in Cozumel

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Cozumel Cruise Excursions Cruise Travel Mexico Playa del Carmen

Rio Secreto-Drop Dead Gorgeous Caves in Mexico

Rio Secreto, Mexico

Rio Secreto is hands down one of the most amazing places in the Yucatan Peninsula.   Each year thousands of tourists flock to Mexico to enjoy the countries rich history and stunning beaches. If you’re a cruise goer, chances are you’ll visit Mexico as one of your ports. During my visits, I have experienced some pretty incredible things, from relaxing catamaran rides to thrilling snorkeling trips and visits to Mayan ruins. During one trip, I stumbled on something pretty remarkable. A little place called Rio Secreto.

What is Rio Secreto?

Rio Secreto is known as the Maya Riviera’s newest cenote. It was accidentally discovered by a farmer in 2005. The farmer was chasing an iguana when he found a hidden cave. Upon entering the cave, he found a secret underground river. The mouth of the cave opened up to several different rooms, a few of which are open for tours. Rio Secreto is a preservation site, so the tours are closely monitored and limited to a few groups each day.

Your guide will lead your group through the cave. Some parts of the river are merely ankle-deep whereas other parts are deep enough to require swimming. A majority of the cave is extremely open however, there are a few sections of the cave that are very narrow.

What is so alluring about Rio Secreto?

This nature reserve is one of the most alluring Mexican cenotes. It is the longest semi-sunken cave system in the Yucatan Peninsula. The site features almost 7 1/2 miles (12 km) of underground rivers to explore.

Another great thing about this magnificent place is the fact that you don’t need diving certification to check it out!

There are 15 different entrances to this cave system, which allows for a more intimate experience and allows you to really enjoy the caves. It’s almost like being on your own private tour!

Where is Rio Secreto Located?

Rio Secreto is located in Playa del Carmen. If you are cruising, you can access it from the ports of Playa del Carmen or Cozumel (via ferry to the mainland). It is also not far from Cancun.

What Should I Bring to Rio Secreto?

  • Mosquito Repellent
  • Sunscreen– Although you’ll be inside a cave, it is still important to make sure your skin is protected while you’re out of the cave.  Make sure you only use a biodegradable sunscreen while at any cenote.  
  • Towel
  • No-Slip Water Shoes
  • Change of Clothes
  • Cash

    There lockers available on-site to store your valuables.

What is There to do Nearby?

This site is located in the heart of the historic Mayan Riviera- a huge tourist location. There is plenty to do nearby including Xcaret (another adventure nature park), Xel-ha (a natural aquarium), and the Maya ruins of Tulum.

While You're in Cozumel...

Final Thoughts

Rio Secreto is one of Mexico’s best-kept secrets! It is located in Playa del Carmen and is easily accessible from Cozumel. I guarantee you won’t regret visiting this stunning site on your next trip to Mexico. The guides are not only very friendly, but they are extremely knowledgeable about the area’s history. This will help make this an experience one that you’ll remember for a lifetime!

For more information, be sure to visit their website.

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Check out our Ultimate Guide on How to Plan a Cruise and start planning your dream vacation today!

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**Please note that this post contains affiliate links for your shopping convenience. All opinions are my own. Pinkie swear**

 

Updated:  11/7/21

Categories
Cruise Travel Packing

What to Pack Your Cruise Embarkation Bag

The key to a successful cruise is preparation which is why I ensure I have all of the essentials in my embarkation bag.  Taking the time to take care of and organize things before leaving for your vacation can help it go much more smoothly. Making sure that you are organized from day one is the key to a successful vacation. Today we’re going to focus on what you should have with you in your cruise embarkation bag.

Embarkation day is one of my favorite parts of the cruise simply because it means that my vacation has officially started! Of course, days 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7 are my favorite parts of the cruise as well! Embarkation day can be stressful though, even to a veteran cruiser, like me. Checking in can be quite the process but if you do a little preparation beforehand, it most definitely helps move things along a little faster. Let’s put it this way, the more prepared you are- the faster you can get to the fun!

Whether you’ve cruised or not, I strongly suggest taking a look at my 12 Things You Should Do Before You Cruise to help ensure you don’t miss any important steps! Part of being prepared is having everything you need on hand and easily accessible.

Six Things Cruisers Should Have in their Embarkation Bag

1. Passport– All cruisers must have a passport or a birth certificate with a raised seal in order to board the ship.

2. Bank Cards– Although you set up your expense account prior to boarding the ship, I always keep my bank cards on me during check out just in case they need them.

3. Boarding Pass– Keep your boarding pass and passport handy at all times! Both of these documents will be checked multiple times before you board the ship.

4. Medical Information Sheet- One of the documents you’ll need to have filled out before you board the ship is a medical information sheet. The information is pretty generic, they’ll ask if you’ve had a fever or been sick within the last few days. Make sure you fill it out in advance.

Pro-Tip: All of these items can be stored in a Travel Wallet to keep them organized and all in one place.

 

5. Medication- It may be awhile before you get your luggage. Make sure you carry any necessary medication in your carry on.

6. Pens- I may go a little overboard in this department. I pack a couple of pens, a Sharpie, and a highlighter. These items stay in my bag during excursions so I like to have a few extras on hand, just in case.

Naturally, I throw some non-essentials in my bag as well. These include:

  • A notebook
  • A book
  • A sweater
  • A pouch with hand sanitzers
  • Chapstick
  • Small pouch (for my key fob)
  • Hair ties (again, I keep these in my bag for excursions so I like to have extras on hand.)

With these items in your embarkation bag, you’ll surely get your trip started off on the right track!  You should also check out 12 Things You Should Do Before Your Cruise and 10 Things To do on Your Cruise Embarkation Day, two posts that will help you get your trip started off on the right track.

All of these items get neatly placed inside a backpack. I keep my passport and documents in one section with my wallet and the remaining items in a different part of my backpack so they aren’t in the way if I need to grab something. Although I carry a bookbag (which is also the same bag I use in port), all of these items could easily fit inside of a large purse as well.

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Updated 12/6/22

Categories
Caribbean Cruise Travel Nassau The Bahamas

7 Fun Things for Cruisers to do Within Walking Distance in Nassau

Parliament Square, Nassau

Are you looking to explore Nassau on a budget?  You’re in luck!  There is plenty for cruisers to do within walking distance in Nassau!  Whether you’re looking to hit the beach, learn about pirate history, or do a bit of shopping; all of these things are all within walking distance of the cruise port! 

There are some cruise ports where you can absolutely 100% get away without booking an excursion. Nassau, Bahamas is one of those ports. There are a ton of things to do within walking distance of the port. There is also a taxi stand nearby where you can catch a cab to Atlantis, Cable Beach, and beyond.

7 Things for Cruisers to Do Within Walking Distance in Nassau, Bahamas

The Straw Market

The Straw Market is one of Nassau’s most famous landmarks.  Since it is right at the port, it is one of the most popular things for cruisers to do within walking distance. It is home to homemade Bahamian crafts, souvenirs, and gifts. Cruisers frequently pick up woven bags, dolls, conch shell jewelry, wood carvings, and t-shirts. Feel free to barter with the vendors. Vendors will gladly accept US dollars of Bahamian cash.

Related: 5 Things to Know About the Nassau Straw Market

Parliament Square- the heart of Nassau

The colors of the government buildings surrounding this square are gorgeous! Visitors love taking photos of this picturesque square, but aside from the cannons and statue of Queen Victoria, there isn’t much else to do. It’s lovely to see if you’re in the area. The square is located on Bay Street, a short walking distance from the port.

Queen’s Staircase

This is a great place to learn about some of the history of Nassau. Be forewarned that the people offering information expect a tip 😉 That being said, they are very informative so if you’re a history buff, it may be worth it. The stairs were hand-carved by slaves, which is extremely saddening and equally as impressive. Don’t cheat yourself by only viewing it from the bottom, walk up the stairs as well to really appreciate the views.

Fort Fincastle

This fort was built in 1793 by Lord Dunmore and can be found at the top of the Queen’s Staircase. The fort overlooks the city and Queen’s Staircase. There is a small charge ($3.50 per person) if you want to get into the fort itself however, it is free to walk the grounds. The grounds offer an excellent view of the cruise ships and Paradise Island (home to Atlantis). The fort itself is very small and will only take about 15 minutes to tour if you choose to go inside.

Bahamas Rum Cake Factory

This bright pink building is home to some of the best rum cakes in the world. These super moist bites of heaven are loaded with top-secret ingredients and baked to perfection before being soaked in Ole Nassau Bahamian Rum. The shop offers 7 unique and super delicious flavors. These cakes make excellent gifts for your loved ones.

Woodes Rogers Walk & Bay Street

These two streets run parallel to each other in the downtown area. They are full of wonderful shops where you’re sure to get a bargain! Be sure to shop around before you commit.

Pirates of Nassau Museum

This museum is great for kids and adults alike.  The Pirates of Nassau Museum is one of the most popular things to do within walking distance in Nassau! The museum highlights the history of pirates in the area.  It includes interactive elements and a full-size pirate ship! Visiting the museum a great way to beat the heat and learn about Nassau’s past.

Additional Info

For more information, check out our brief Beginners Guide to Nassau. If Half Moon Cay is also on your itinerary, check out 5 Facts About Half Moon Cay.

 

There is something for everyone within walking distance in Nassau!  You maybe have noticed we didn’t include any beaches in our list.  Don’t worry, we have a recommendation for that too!  Junkanoo Beach is a free public beach within walking distance of the Nassau cruise port.  From the Prince George Wharf (the cruise port), simply turn right at the street and follow the crowds.  

The beach is gorgeous…but this is pirate country, after all, so it is a haven for thieves.  You may want to consider an anti-theft travel tote.

Let Us Help You Plan Your Trip

Check out our Ultimate Guide on How to Plan a Cruise and start planning your dream vacation today!

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Updated: 12/10/22

 

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Categories
Cruise Travel

Embarkation Day: 10 Easy Ways to Make The Most Out Of Your First Day on the Ship

Embarkation Day is my favorite day of the cruise! Why? Simply because it means the cruise I have been waiting for is finally here! Of course, I also love Day 2, Day 3… you get the picture 🙂 If you’re anything like me, you’ve been planning your trip for quite some time. Here are some tips to help your Embarkation Day go as perfectly as possible.

Arriving on Embarkation Day

Arrive early- The earlier you arrive at check-in, the better. Many cruise lines, like Carnival, have you reserve your check-in time. My advice is to pick the earliest time possible! This makes checking in a breeze and gets us to the fun much, faster than those who are scheduled to check-in later.

Be Prepared– Make sure you have your boarding pass printed out beforehand. You should also make sure that you have already set up your expense account, filled out your health forms, and tagged your luggage with the appropriate luggage tags. Check out my list of 12 Things you Should Do Before a Cruise!

 

Ships docked in Nassau, Bahamas

Once You’re On The Cruise Ship

Explore the Ship– Your cabin will most likely not be ready when you board the ship (unless you have premium perks). Many of the cabin passages are closed off to travelers so cabin stewards can prepare the rooms for your voyage. There is so much to discover on each ship and there is no better time than on embarkation day to do it…well… unless you’re a night owl and explore while everyone else is sleeping, of course. This is one of the best times to get pictures of the ship. It’s also a great time to figure out where your meeting places will be and scope out potential hangout spots!

Bring a Well-Stocked Carry-on– There is a pretty good chance that your luggage will not arrive until later in the day. Trust me, the last thing you want to do is watch everyone else swimming just because you don’t have access to your bathing suit yet! 

 

Book Your Spa Appointments– Oftentimes, the spa will offer special deals on embarkation day. Take advantage of these deals by booking your appointments on day one.

Book Excursions– If you haven’t already booked your excursions, head down to the main lobby to check out what tours are available. Spots are limited on most tours and you don’t want to miss out! Need help selecting an excursion?

Meet Your Cabin Steward– Your cabin steward is the lovely person (or people) that will be taking care of your cabin each day. Trust me, you’re going to want to get to know them! Some cruise lines ask you to select whether you would like for your room to be tended to in the morning, or while you are at dinner- this is the time to do that! Your cabin steward can help you with things like replenishing your ice bucket, providing you with extra hangers, pushing your beds together, answering questions, etc. These are often some of the friendliest people you’ll meet on the ship!

Check Out the Daycare Options– If you’re traveling with children and will be taking advantage of the child care, I strongly suggest scoping it out on the first day. Get to know the folks who will be watching your little ones while you’re out enjoying some “you time”. If you did not pre-register, you’ll need to fill out the appropriate documents with them before you can take advantage of this service.

Let’s Get This Party Started!

Eat!– Let’s face it, most of us look forward to cruise food. I know I’m guilty as charged. Not sure where the food venues are? Follow the crowd to deck 9 to check out the Lido deck. Or…strike out your own path and discover many of the other eateries onboard!

Pro-Tip: Everyone and their mother (literally) will be at the buffet. Either find another restaurant or wait until a little later to avoid the rush.

Grab a Drink- Last but not least, grab a drink! You may even stumble on a sweet Happy Hour Deal! Relax and enjoy the special of the day! Your vacation has officially begun!

 

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Check out our Ultimate Guide on How to Plan a Cruise and start planning your dream vacation today!

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Be sure to give us a like on Facebook or follow us on Instagram and Twitter for more travel tips and tricks. See you next time!

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    Post Updated:  12/6/22

    Categories
    Cruise Travel

    12 Things You Absolutely MUST Do Before Your Cruise

    Did you know that there are some things you absolutely must do before your cruise?  One of our favorite things about cruising is the fact that you don’t have to do a lot of planning to make the trip successful. With other overseas trips, you have to arrange for transportation from Point A to Point B, have to book hotels, figure out where to eat, what to do, etc, etc. With cruises, however, all of that is planned out for you and wrapped up in a nice little package.

    It’s truly a stress-free way to travel! 

    Of course, cruise companies can’t take care of EVERYTHING for you, here’s a quick list of 12 Things You Should Do Before Your Cruise!

     

    The gorgeous blue waters of Aruba.

    12 Things You Should Do Before Your Cruise

    1. Firstly, dig out your passport, passport card, or birth certificate. You’ll need these in order to board the ship. Passport holders are also super handy to have. I love this family passport holder. It is the perfect way to store everyone’s passports, identification cards, and credit cards all in one place. Trust me, organization is the key when checking in! If you don’t have a passport, check with your cruising company to see if you can sail with just your birth certificate.

    2. Fill out the necessary documents. If you haven’t already, create an online account on your cruise line’s website. Once you’ve added your booking, you’ll be provided with a checklist of documents that you’ll need to fill out in advance. These forms may include customs forms, health questionnaires, etc. Filling these out in advance will help your check-in process run much more smoothly! Trust me, everyone in the line behind you will appreciate it!

    3. Next, print your boarding passes and luggage tags. Again, this is done at your cruise line’s website. These luggage tags are excellent to have on hand!

    4. While you’re on the website, set up your expense account.

    5. Then, Book Excursions. Many excursions fill up quickly, especially if you’re traveling during peak season. Make sure you don’t miss out on your first choice by booking early!

    6. Purchase any additional packages. This includes drink packages, spa packages, Faster to Fun Passes, etc.

     

    Click to download your free packing list.

    7. After that, create a packing list. I have found by jotting everything down on paper, it helps me out tremendously! It reminds me of anything that I may still need to purchase or dig out from the depths of the closet. Trust me, you don’t want to wind up on a cruise ship without your bathing suit, sunscreen, or even dress shoes! Once you’ve created your list, look it over a few times and think about the activities you’ll be doing on the cruise. For instance, some excursions, such as zip-lining and horseback riding, require that you wear closed-toed shoes. While you’re at it, check out What Every Cruiser Needs in Their Cruise Embarkation Bag.

    8. Charge it! Gather all of your chargers so you don’t leave any behind!

    9. Next, make two photocopies of your passport, identification cards, and credit cards. Keep one in your luggage and leave one behind with a trusted friend.

    10. Always, always, always call your bank before traveling abroad. Let them know what countries you’ll be visiting and when you’ll get back. TRUST ME! You don’t want to have your account frozen while you’re away.

    11. Speaking of money, go ahead and hit the ATM and pull out some cash money for your trip! You’ll need cash on hand for tipping shuttle drivers, porters, tour guides, etc.

    12. Lastly, if you’re flying, be sure to weigh your baggage! The cruise line won’t care how heavy it is but your airline sure will!

    We hope that this list of things to do before your cruise helps get your trip started off on the right fin…err…foot.  Safe travels!

    Let Us Help You Plan Your Trip

    Check out our Ultimate Guide on How to Plan a Cruise and start planning your dream vacation today!

    Save a Pin & Start Planning Your Adventure

    Be sure to save this pin for later! You’re going to need it come vacation time! Be sure to give me a like on Facebook for more great cruise advice. See you next time!

      **This post contains links for your shopping convenience**

      Posted Updated: 5/15/22

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