Going on an all-inclusive cruise can be a great way to keep to a budget during a family vacation...as long as you know what's included in your cruise fare and what will cost you extra. Unless you're a frequent cruiser or a Crown and Anchor member with perks, you'll want to know what's included on a Royal Caribbean cruise. Included on a Royal Caribbean cruise: Beverages: filtered tap water … [Read more...]
Cruise planning: Cruise line comparison chart and more
August 3, 2021 By
A cruise is a great way to enjoy multiple destinations while only unpacking once. Cruisers combine the convenience of an all-inclusive resort with the adventure of ports of call and international experiences. However, planning a cruise involves a special set of considerations that planning your average trip does not. How will you get to your departure port? Should you book excursions ahead of … [Read more...]
River cruise vacation: What to expect on a Vantage Travel river cruise
July 15, 2021 By
You only unpack once. You never have to plan, drive, or navigate in a foreign country. You wake up in a new city each day. All your meals are inclusive. If this sounds like a dream, you haven't tried a European river cruise! Whether you embark on a river cruise as a couples' getaway (highly recommended!) or with older kids or teens, we have a full review of what you can expect on a … [Read more...]
Guide to family cruising in Croatia with kids
July 14, 2021 By
Sailing holidays are perfect for families, where you can set your pace and plan your own schedule, especially if you have children on board as well. Moreover, you stay together like a well-knit group in your floating home as you sail off the stunning Croàtian coastline. Check out this handy guide for a multi-activity family cruise in Croatia. Best time to sail The best time to go sailing … [Read more...]
Disney cruise checklist: Five items we were glad we had (and five we didn’t need)
June 9, 2021 By
When you and your family feel safe cruising again, be ready! On our voyage on the Disney Fantasy, we packed carry-on only for four people to Disney World and the Bahamas, which I felt was a feat in itself. Turns out, we still brought things we didn't need (and others we were very glad we had). If you're lucky enough to be packing for a Disney cruise, learn from our triumphs and mistakes using … [Read more...]
Mega cruise guide to family cruise vacations
March 3, 2020 By
Wondering how to pick the right cruise? Our cruise guide will steer the way! A cruise is a great way to enjoy multiple destinations while only unpacking once. Cruisers combine the convenience of an all-inclusive resort with the adventure of ports of call and international experiences. However, planning a cruise involves a special set of considerations that planning your average trip does not. How … [Read more...]
On a budget? Cruise tips for saving money!
July 25, 2017 By
Cruise vacations remain some of the most budget-friendly family vacation options available. While I admit to being quite picky about cruises, experience has taught me that cruises make for excellent multi-generational trips, allowing diverse family groups to have a great time together without extensive effort, stress, time, and, if you do it right, money. On a budget: cruise tips! How to save … [Read more...]
Impact travel with teens: What to expect on a Fathom cruise
July 11, 2016 By
If you have kids over age 8, and are ready to dive into some form of volun-tourism while you vacation, a Fathom cruise to the Dominican Republic may be a great place to start. Fathom cruises combine the fun of a cruise vacation with a meaningful way to give back, and, perhaps even more importantly, a way to connect with local people in a meaningful way, getting to understand local issues, customs, … [Read more...]
Scotland barge cruise tips: Seeing Scotland by waterway
July 15, 2015 By
Scotland barge river cruises are gaining in popularity by the minute, and it's easy to understand why: these itineraries allow for all-inclusive convenience and luxury without sacrificing the intimate look at local scenery and culture lost when booking a larger ocean cruise. Scotland barge cruise tips: Scotland, with its canals and locks, is an especially ideal country to explore by waterway. A … [Read more...]
Five reasons to book Alaska small ship cruises
February 9, 2015 By
A year ago, we wrote extensively about our small ship cruise experience with Alaskan Dream Cruises. If you liked what you read (and saw in our small ship cruise review video), now is the perfect time of year to book your summer cruise. However, I realize Alaska small ship cruises are a serious vacation investment. If hikes, kayaking, wildlife viewing and shore excurions are on your list, you'll … [Read more...]
