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3/29/2022 • Blog, Cruises •
If your vision of a cruise shore excursion is following a guide and a flag, you haven’t experienced a Virgin Voyage excursion. Virgin Voyages has taken the typical shore excursions and kicked it up a notch. The group sizes are small, and they offer experiences that are immersive by taking you off the beaten path. Virgin refers to their excursion as “shore things”. They can be booked through your travel agent or directly through the Virgin app. They are an excellent way to experience the culture and the area of each port. They give you memories to take home with you. For example, In Puerta Plata, in the Dominican Republic, I explored the jungle and mountains via a dune buggy. We had a small group of 28 people. This was a great way to explore the non-tourist area of the city. We got dirty – ok, VERY muddy riding through […]
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3/22/2022 • Cruises, Tips, Walt Disney World •
The anticipation of a Disney Cruise can be grand. There’s so much to plan, and for most travelers, it is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Your Me and The Mouse Travel Specialist will guide you in the best options for your travel party: before, during, and after your cruise. One such option, is visiting the Walt Disney World Resort for a few days before embarking on your cruise that leaves from a Floridian port! There are benefits to visiting the Most Magical Place On Earth BEFORE your cruise… Here are the Top Five! 5. You will be too relaxed (and tired) to visit the Walt Disney Resort! Cruising changes your mood, and changes your routine, to a Hakuna Matata lifestyle! To then switch gears and amp up for a theme park visit is exhausting. Rest your tired feet, be pampered, and end your vacation refreshed! 4. By arriving a few days early, […]
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2/1/2022 • Blog, Cruises •
Virgin Voyages launched their first cruise ship in the US in October 2021 and they have set the bar high for adult only cruising experiences. Virgin is different than other cruise lines for a variety of reasons. For me, it is a very laid-back environment that gives you the feel of sailing on a yacht vs a cruise ship. Again, it is adult only for anyone 18+, which provides a wonderful opportunity to reconnect. What’s included in the cruise fare? • All dining locations are included • No surprise costs at the end of your cruise and gratuities are included • Free internet onboard • Fitness classes • Soft drinks (Tea, filter coffee, non-pressed juices, water, and sparkling water, and Sodas) Dining and Lounges • The dining experience is beyond the typical cruise line with 10 different eateries all included. Menus have been created by Michelin star-rated chefs for experiences […]
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1/28/2022 • Blog, Cruises •
When you set sail on a Virgin Voyages adult-only cruise, you will find that dining is a huge part of your sailing experience. Virgin Voyages has re-imagined cruise ship dining for their guests in very pleasing ways. You will not find buffets, large dining halls, or assigned dining times on a Virgin Voyages cruise ship. Instead, you will find more than 20+ dining options using the freshest ingredients. All food is made to order ensuring the delivery of high-quality food options throughout the ship with less waste. This cruise ship never sleeps. If you are hungry for a late-night bite, visit The Galley, where you will find an American-style diner open 24 hours serving breakfast all day. The Galley has a casual atmosphere where you can grab a quick meal at a variety of food hall-style restaurants. Food choices include soups, salads, burgers, tacos, panini sandwiches, a sushi bar with […]
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8/24/2021 • Cruises, Tips •
As a long-time cruiser with Disney Cruise Line, I have always enjoyed the stop at Disney’s Castaway Cay. On my recent, first trip on Royal Caribbean, this is where they had to reach the bar that Disney has set so high in the category of private islands. I am happy to report that Perfect Day Coco Cay was everything and more than what I expected. There is so much to do on this island and not enough time so with that in mind, here are my top 5 “must-do” activities: 1. Zip Lining – By far, this was my favorite activity and the best way to get some spectacular views of the island. There were 3 segments, all very mild and low-key. Each segment lasted about 20 seconds and whisked you over the top of several different areas of Coco Cay. Even those who are not huge thrill-seekers will enjoy […]
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8/20/2021 • Cruises, Tips •
WE DID IT!!! We accomplished a long-term “goal” of successfully traveling as a family on the Disney Cruise Line. There have been many factors over the 20 + years since my husband and I went on our first Disney cruise that has stood in the way of successfully accomplishing this goal. Fear was the biggest hurdle. As I have previously shared, my oldest son is living with Fragile X Syndrome. Would he tolerate the motion of the boat? Would he be able to tell us if he was feeling unwell or would he only display undesirable behaviors? Would he want to participate in the various activities? Would he want to get off at the various port of call? The following tips are what we did to prepare by hoping to lessen any potential behaviors that might come along with his constant desire to know, "what's next." 5. Research your ship […]
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8/10/2021 • Cruises, Reviews •
When you are sailing onboard your Disney Cruise, take time to pamper yourself and make a reservation at the SENSES Spa. The full-service spa includes massages, manicures, pedicures, and salon services. When cruising, I recommend treating yourself to the Rainforest Deluxe Cruise pass. This fantastic spa package is available on all sailings and includes unlimited access to the scented showers, aroma steam, sauna rooms, and private jacuzzis. Depending on your Disney Cruise ship, you can also enjoy the warm loungers that overlook the ocean (Disney Dream and Fantasy cruise ships) or relax and unwind with the tranquil sounds of water in an exclusive relaxation room (Disney Magic and Wonder cruise ships). This package also includes scented body scrubs of your choice to use to exfoliate while enjoying the Rainforest showers and saunas. No appointments are necessary for you to use your Rainforest Spa package. Simply check-in with your stateroom key at the […]
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8/6/2021 • Cruises, Reviews •
For fans of Disney’s Wreck it Ralph, or anyone with an imagination and a sweet-tooth...you’ll want to explore Vanellope’s Sweets and Treats aboard the Disney Dream! You’ll find this confectionary inside the Cabana’s, with limited hours. Vanellope’s has a wide array of candies, ice creams, gelatos, and confections, that you’re sure to find something for everyone in your family to enjoy*. It’s whimsically decorated to resemble “Sugar Rush”, Vanellope’s video game in Wreck it Ralph...complete with Sour Bill, King Candy, and Vanellope herself! While I could gush about the insane amount of goodies I drooled over this summer while on board the Disney Dream, I want to talk about Vanellope’s specialty items! The menu for Artisan Sundaes is jam-packed full of movie-referenced concoctions for you and your family to enjoy. The BEST part??!! You can special order ANY of these sundaes AND they will hand-deliver for your dessert any night […]
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7/27/2021 • Cruises, Tips •
How many times have you had an itch to get on vacation, but the thought of making a reservation at the last minute would cost an arm and a leg? Disney Cruise Line may have a solution for last-minute planners. Many times, Disney Cruise Line releases promotional rates called IGT (Inside Guaranteed), OGT (Oceanview Guaranteed), and VGT (Verandah Guaranteed). Granted, you may receive a lower fare if you book as soon as Disney releases their new itineraries, but many people have a hard time planning that far in advance. If you happen to discover you have extra vacation days at work or you just need a little time away, these fares may be right up your alley. They are usually quite a discount from the regular fares that you would book last minute. Disney generally releases these fares after the pay in full date, which for most sailings and stateroom […]
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7/20/2021 • Cruises, Tips •
Woohoo!! Your cruise is booked but now you are wondering how you’re going to get to Port Canaveral. No worries - we're here to help! It is highly recommended that you fly in at least one day prior to your cruise! This may impact the means of transportation you chose. Here are a few options to consider. Disney Cruise Line Transportation Disney Cruise Line shuttles passengers from the airport (MCO) to the port. The cost of the ride is $35/person each way, however, it only runs the day of embarkation and debarkation. If you are flying in the night before and staying at a local hotel and are utilizing this option, I would suggest staying near the airport. The Hyatt Regency is located inside the airport and will be an easy elevator ride down to the bus. Otherwise, a hotel that provides shuttle service to and from the airport is […]
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