Did you know that Greece has around 6,000 islands and islets, scattered across the Aegean and Ionian Seas?
I recently spent an unforgettable seven days sailing through the dreamy Greek Islands aboard a chartered sailboat, exploring the stunning shores of Mykonos, Kea, Corfu, Kythnos, Syros and Paros.
With the weather breezy yet beautifully sunny in late June, packing the right outfits was key for staying comfortable and looking chic on and off the yacht. It's essential to pack light, breathable clothing such as linen and cotton, which are suitable for warm weather, along with swimwear and a cover-up. Consider layers like a cardigan or a fashion scarf or sarong for evenings. For visiting religious sites, pack a scarf or shawl to cover your shoulders if needed.
From sun-soaked strolls through whitewashed villages to alfresco dinners by the sea, I relied on stylish and affordable finds from Amazon that perfectly balanced fashion and function. If you’re planning a Greek island getaway or a Mediterranean cruise, these outfit ideas are a must for your suitcase:
Perfect as a beach cover-up or on a windy night or morning coffee stroll. It's not too heavy, but light and airy while still providing some protection. People kept asking me which shop I purchased it in while walking around Mykonos. I went with white, but love the teal, orange and pink options too.
You'll stay cool and colorful in this easy-to-pack and store Greek-inspired dress. Loved how the green pops in photos against the whitewashed villages and blue-domed buildings. Although I have since ordered in red/pink too. Also, it's available in mini or long styles, but I went with short like me, lol.
This sporty two piece bathing suit features a swim crop tank top, adding a youthful and trendy flair, while the high-waisted bottoms offer modest coverage. The fun print fit in perfectly too.
I received lots of compliments on this Greek Goddess cover-up dress. While I purchased the beige gold, it's available in many other colors too like Royal Blue, Hot Pink or Teal, which would also be a hit here against the white stone homes.
Loved that this is a one-piece, airy, cool and the print reminded me of an outfit from the movie Pretty Woman. I ordered an XS, which fit, but I probably could have went up to a size Small instead for more room around the bust.
Loved the breezy feel of these. Bonus, it has pockets for euros and your phone or in my case ... cat treats to give out. They are silkier and shinier than the photo on Amazon appears to be, which I loved.
AirLight Linen, this maxi dress feels like a cool breeze on a warm day. It's light as air, breathable and gets softer the more you wear it. The relaxed silhouette is easy enough for a sunny-day stroll, while the balloon sleeves and twirly skirt are ready to be shown off. Pairs just as well with bare feet as it does with sandals.
Nestled along the picturesque shores of Florida’s Gulf Coast, Marriott Sanibel Harbour Resort & Spa offers a perfect escape for travelers seeking luxury, relaxation, and a touch of adventure. The 85-acre paradise features a world-class spa, water sports, four pools, fine dining and more.
If you're unfamiliar with the area, Sanibel is a barrier island near Fort Myers off the Southwest Florida Gulf Coast. Southern Living Magazine named Sanibel Island one of the best islands in Florida in 2023.
The island has a laid-back tropical, Caribbean feel that offers the family oasis of Martha's Vineyard and boasts stunning sunsets that drop off into the water. Beloved for its white-sand beaches and abundance of natural treasures and wildlife, it's no wonder Sanibel is a vacation haven for both locals and tourists alike.
Whether you're planning an unforgettable vacation or looking for a serene staycation, this destination has something for everyone. Here's why you should make Marriott Sanibel Harbour Resort & Spa your next getaway spot.
A Stunning Waterfront Location
Perched on the edge of the Caloosahatchee River and just moments away from the iconic Sanibel and Captiva Islands, the resort boasts breathtaking views of shimmering waters, golden sunsets, and lush greenery. It's the perfect backdrop for creating lifelong memories.
Luxurious Accommodations
Sanibel Harbour Resort offers a variety of spacious rooms and suites designed with comfort and style in mind. Each space features modern amenities, plush bedding, and private balconies to soak in the stunning scenery.
Relaxation at the Sanibel Harbor Spa
Get pampered with a massage or beauty treatment at the luxury Sanibel Harbour Spa.
This freestanding spa offers 40,000 sq ft of pure bliss and 28 lavish treatment rooms. You can rejuvenate your body and mind in a serene and soothing environment with a wide range of options, including massages, facials, and body wraps.
Best of all, the spa is open to the public, which most Southwest Floridians do not know. Simply book a treatment and you can enjoy the beautiful spa facility, indoor pool, sauna, salon, steam rooms, couples lounge and large fitness center.
TIP: Take full advantage of the deals by checking their site often for the latest specials. Right now, the spa is offering the following Spa Add On Promotions at up to 70 percent off regular pricing, as well as a $50 BOGO guest pass.
Endless Activities and Amenities
From lounging by the pool to exploring the surrounding waters, there's no shortage of activities at the resort. Take a sunset cruise, kayaking, or unwind on the private beach. Fitness enthusiasts can enjoy state-of-the-art facilities, while food lovers will delight in the resort's exceptional dining options, featuring fresh, locally-inspired cuisine. The grounds also have a picturesque boardwalk for peaceful nature walks through the mangroves on the property.
Sports enthusiasts will love the resort’s eight brand-new pickleball courts, perfect for friendly matches or competitive games in a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere. They even offer tennis and pickleball clincs with Pro Ninka Salopek on Friday, Saturday and Sundays and afterward you can enjoy the Marriott Spa as well.
Beyond the resort, the nearby Sanibel and Captiva Islands offer an array of attractions. Explore pristine beaches known for their abundant seashells, enjoy boutique shopping and dining in charming island settings or visit the JN 'Ding' Darling National Wildlife Refuge. The Education Center also includes a children's area with interactive exhibits.
Fine Dining + Courtyard Steakhouse
After an active day, head over to the Courtyard Steakhouse, which offers a delectable menu of premium steaks and gourmet dishes. The restaurant’s indoor and outdoor seating overlooks the tennis courts, providing a unique dining experience where you can enjoy fine cuisine courtside.
The resort also has Tarpon House for breakfast, lunch and dinners too and the lively Charley's Cabana Bar with live music, dinner and drinks. And for those not wanting to leave the pool, there is flag service for drinks and bites too.
Ideal for Staycations
Marriott Sanibel Harbour Resort & Spa is the ultimate staycation destination if you're a local Floridian. Enjoy the feeling of being far away while staying close to home. Take advantage of exclusive resident offers and rediscover the beauty of your own backyard.
Side note: as a local who's been to Sanibel several times, I was glad this resort was before the toll bridge too, making it an easily accessible and affordable staycation spot.
Visit and Support Sanibel Post-Hurricane
In September 2022, Hurricane Ian, a Category 4 storm, struck Sanibel Island with devastating force, bringing winds exceeding 150 mph and a storm surge between 8 to 15 feet. The island suffered extensive damage, including the destruction of the Sanibel Causeway, which severed the primary connection to the mainland.
However, in the two years since the hurricane, Sanibel Island has made significant strides in its recovery efforts. The natural environment, including beaches, seashells, and wildlife, has rebounded remarkably. So, come support this travel gem by visiting as it relies heavily on tourism.
So, whether you’re looking for a romantic retreat, a family-friendly adventure, or a rejuvenating solo escape, Marriott Sanibel Harbour Resort & Spa offers the perfect blend of luxury and leisure. Book your stay today and experience the magic of Florida’s Gulf Coast like never before.
Virgin Voyages isn't your grandmother’s cruise ship 🚢 but a luxury party ship!
It's an adults-only, award-winning cruise line with included luxuries (tips, wifi, quality food) and the most 5-star reviews on TripAdvisor.
No buffet lines either, instead over 20 eateries, and more than 10 bars and lounges. Plus, private Karaoke rooms, candy stations, a lively casino, quality shows, adult pajama parties, cabaret performances, and soooo much more!
Travel Tips for Sailing on Virgin Voyages Scarlet Lady
Dining Reservations
I'm an alpha travel planner who likes to do research before a trip, but this was a last-minute booking for us, and by the time we got our confirmation number and registered within the app almost all the dining reservations were full. We only managed to secure a spot at Test Kitchen and Razzle Dazzle, but nothing else. This had me stressed, however, like at a typical restaurant they welcome walk-ins too.
So, if you're able to book a time and spot ahead of time, good on you, but don't get too stressed about dining. Typically, show up to the restaurant 30 - 45 minutes before your desired dining time, put your name down and you'll likely get in.
Or you can head to Sailor Services once on board so they can pop you into anything available, but the line was long by the time we did this that we didn't bother and still could dine at most of the restaurants we wanted to visit. Also, keep checking the app throughout your stay because people cancel and change their plans constantly.
Our favorite dining outlet outside of the quick-service options in The Galley, which replaces the typical buffet setup was Pink Agave, the modern Mexican restaurant and we got into that being on the waitlist on the first night.
Book Theater Shows Immediately
As soon as you get on board, wait to go to your room or up to The Galley to eat, instead head straight down to the Box Office near Sailor Services and reserve your spot for Duel Reality and Ships in the Night.
They will let you know what show times are available and will book it for you. And while you are in line, open your app and try to book the Supper Club (dinner and a show) one night too. We were able to grab that ourselves, but needed the cast to book the big theater performances and luckily we got tickets for both shows.
There are other shows that do not require a ticket like the hysterical diva drag show in The Manor, just wait in line and you'll get a seat. Luckily, if you have a conflict, they do this show more than once during the sail.
Secret show tip from my friend Josie: "One thing we did was cool and almost missed out was there’s a random magic type show, I think it’s called the mentalist. It’s held in the afternoon one day…go to it! If you go to that you get a card to attend a secret show later that day in the belly of the ship! Only like 100 people get to do it a trip!"
Carry on Wine
You are allowed to bring two bottles of wine per cabin in your carry-on luggage to store in your room. We totally took advantage of this option!
Pack Something Red
Each sailing has a Scarlet Night where everyone wears red, so don't be the party pooper in another color. You can be as dress or casual as you want, just as long as it's red.
Not sure what to wear? Try these dresses from Amazon (I actually own them all):
On the first night there is an epic pajama party at 10:45 p.m., while it sounds late, we had so much fun dancing that we didn't head back to our cabin till after 2 a.m. I was afraid we might be the only ones in PJs, but no, there were people in robes, onesies, etc.
Our red silk stripe pajamas below from Amazon were a big hit, but these matching palm tree ones would be too. Go all in and order these ahead of time, you'll thank me later!
Go on a Grog Walk!
This is a pub-crawl-like experience and can only be booked through the app once you are on board.
It was sold out each day and time for us and I was so bummed. We went to Sailer Services and they couldn't get us in either. However, after I gave up, my husband looked at the app again and someone must have canceled because two spots opened up and we grabbed them.
For $50 per person, you get 4 cocktails each, a tour of the ship, VIP seating at lounges during the walk and the chance to meet new friends with fun get to know you games along the way. They even let you stop and change into your PJs for the pajama party portion where you'll reconvene and end the walk. We met a lot of great people, solos and couples during the grog walk who became our vacation friends during the trip. Well worth it.
Sipping on a tropical Mai Tai cocktail along the way adds to the island vibe, making the experience feel even more like a true getaway. With its refreshing blend of rum, lime juice, orgeat syrup, and orange liqueur, it’s the perfect drink to enjoy while soaking in the cruise atmosphere.
Shake for Champagne
Shake for Champagne is a novelty in the Virgin Voyages app for all sailors. It is what it says. You open the app, shake your phone, and a server brings you a bottle of Moët for $95.
We meant to do this, but never got around to it. Instead, we frequented Sip, the champagne lounge on board often for our sparkling kick.
Book the Splash of Romance Package
Whether you're feeling romantic or not this is a great value. Available for only 90 cabins per voyage, this $200 add-on is a no brainer and well worth it. If you pre-book the Romance Package you'll get:
Priority Boarding
Curated daily cold-pressed juices
Two 3-Hour Thermal Spa Passes
A Shake for Champagne bottle
Exclusive Sail Away Hour Sultry bites
I called to get this as it showed sold out on the app, but they let me add it.
Don't Worry about Plugs
I normally bring my cruise-approved no surge power outlet when I go cruising, but there were several USB plugs in our Sea Terrace cabin already so we didn't need it for a change. One less thing to pack, unless you have a lot of tech that needs charging.
Tips for Virgin's Beach Club in the Bahamas
Set your alarm and get off the boat early to grab an umbrella chair by the pool. Why not the beach? Because the pool party is where it's at in the afternoon. The pool turns into a dance party with dozens of floats being thrown into the water. You can snag a prime float if you hang by the stage five minutes before the party begins. Don't feel like getting into the water? That's OK, you can watch from your chair.
Also, you can order an engraved coconut with natural coconut juice (with or without rum) by the pool bars too. This makes for a great photo opp and electrolytes.
For more travel adventures, follow me @TaraMetBlog on Instagram.
Traveling with your extended family means having the unique opportunity to create lasting memories, strengthen your filial bonds, and explore exciting new destinations with the people you love. But moving from place to place in a large group, full of people with different needs and preferences, has its challenges as well. If you’re not ready for them, your travel adventure can quickly turn from a highly anticipated trip into an unpleasant experience that you won’t be in a rush to repeat.
From conflicting preferences to logistical considerations, there are several issues that you’ll have to consider when planning a multigenerational trip. To that end, here’s a list of helpful tips to make traveling with extended family easier, more convenient, and more fun for everyone involved:
Plan and Communicate in Advance
One of the keys to a successful trip with extended family is thorough planning and open communication. You should discuss your destinations, travel dates, and activities as a group to avoid miscommunication and dissatisfaction with your overall plans. Establish a shared itinerary that includes planned meals, snacks, and transportation, while still baking in time for free days or optional activities. This way, everyone will know what to do and expect for every leg of your trip.
Assign Roles and Responsibilities
Assigning roles and responsibilities among family members can ensure that the trip goes smoothly and that all family units are accounted for. Designate someone to handle transportation arrangements, another person to research and book accommodations, and perhaps someone to take charge of meal planning. This not only lightens the load for one person, but it also creates a sense of shared ownership over the travel experience that will ultimately make it more enjoyable for all family members.
Take Everyone's Needs Into Consideration
Next, it’s important for you to consider the specific needs of each family member going on your trip. This includes children, family members with disabilities, and grandparents. Doing so will allow you to create a more inclusive travel experience for everyone. Plan activities that cater to different age groups and interests, and look for accommodations that ensure accessibility and comfort for family members with mobility challenges.
Establish a Budget and Expense-Sharing Plan
You should also make it a point to establish a budget and expense-sharing plan before embarking on your trip. Make sure that everything on the trip is paid or will be paid for, and be cautious about going over your budget.
Discuss your financial arrangements openly so that everyone’s comfortable with the proposed budget. This may involve splitting costs for accommodation, transportation, meals, and other shared expenses. Transparency and clear communication about financial expectations will help avoid conflicts during the trip and ensure a fair and equitable distribution of costs.
Assist in Shopping and Packing the Right Travel Clothes
It would also be good for you to help your extended family members purchase and pack the right travel clothes, as this will save time and prove extra convenient for family members who need assistance. Discuss the climate and the activities you plan to do at your destination to ensure that everyone’s wearing the appropriate attire.
For example, if your itinerary includes an easy day hike, you can shop for comfortable leggings and high-quality windbreakers with your family. Not only will this guarantee that everyone’s in the right clothes for hiking, but it’ll also give you a chance to coordinate your outfits and make your trip more fun.
If you’re one of your family’s most seasoned travelers, offer tips on efficient packing techniques such as rolling clothes to save space or using packing cubes for better organization. Your relatives will be thankful to receive practical advice on travel wardrobes and packing hacks. Also, see my guide for What to Pack for a Trip to Iceland.
Plan Out Your Meals in Advance
Planning your meals in advance can save you time, reduce the stress you’ll experience over the course of your trip, and ensure that everyone's dietary needs are met. Research local restaurants, markets, or grocery stores at your destination so that it’ll be easier to find a place to buy snacks or have a meal. You can also prepare some meals together as a family to foster a sense of togetherness and enjoy home-cooked meals while on vacation.
Balance Group Activities with Individual Time and Downtime
While shared experiences are essential for bonding, it's equally important to allow individual members of your family to have personal time and relaxation. Again, plan a mix of group activities and free time, enabling everyone to pursue their interests or simply unwind.
Whether it's exploring a museum together or enjoying a quiet afternoon by the pool, finding a balance between your family group dynamic and personal downtime will contribute to a more enjoyable and rejuvenating trip.
Schedule Regular Check-Ins and Family Meetings
To ensure open communication and address any concerns that may arise during your trip, schedule regular check-ins and family meetings. You can set a time to check in with each other each night that you’re away, or hold a meeting after breakfast to brief everyone about your schedule for the day.
Your family meetings can give everyone the time and opportunity to voice their thoughts and share feedback about the trip, like how practical it may be to choose one mode of transport over another. Based on what you hear, you can make the necessary adjustments together.
Capture and Share Memories of Your Family Trip
Lastly, don't forget to capture and share the beautiful moments you’ve created together as an extended family. Take photos, record videos, and keep mementos of your journey that each of you can display in your homes. Encourage everyone to share their perspectives and experiences, whether through a shared photo album or a travel journal. Doing so will allow everyone to cherish the trip long after it's over—and perhaps even develop wanderlust for the next family adventure. If you're dreaming of making future getaways even more memorable, looking into yacht sales with IYC Yachts might just be your next big adventure.
And Keep In Mind
When you make plans to travel with your relatives, you may be in for a fantastic adventure filled with laughter, joy, and unforgettable moments. Though planning a multigenerational trip may be more difficult than putting together an itinerary for a smaller group, your mutual hard work and attention to detail will all be worth it.
Try these tips so that you can better navigate the challenges of multigenerational travel and make your journey one that your entire family can look forward to. Once you’ve got the motions down, you may already be thinking about your next awesome adventure with your whole clan!
Did you know that the Margaritaville brand of restaurants and resorts, now has a cruise ship?
The Margaritaville-at-Sea Paradise is the only 3-day and 2-night cruise sailing from the Port of Palm Beach, Florida to Freeport, Grand Bahama Island.
On this floating island vacation, you can relax, unwind, enjoy the entertainment and frozen concoctions, soak up the sun, and cruise for a quick & easy escape!
Keep in mind that this is not a luxury liner and it doesn't claim to be. You get what you pay for and the value for what you pay is really good and cheaper than a staycation at a hotel for 2 nights, plus food, and travel. Even the ferry to the Bahamas is over $200 round trip, and for $599 a couple can take a cruise ship instead with a beautifully renovated room and have way more fun. It's what you make of it, so why not have a great time? Yah, mon!
Below is what you can expect on board and tips to make your sail more enjoyable!
Travel Tips for Sailing on the Margaritaville Cruise
Get the Express Boarding Pass & Chill Packages
This is literally your "License to Chill" right from the start of your trip at embarkation. The lines at the Port of Palm Beach were long to check in, however, with our Express add-on we got to not only skip the line outside but go straight inside the customs area to a separate check-in section. This saved us at least an hour and eliminated the stress and annoyance of waiting in line when you just want your vacation to start. The same VIP express experience applies for disembarkation too.
Now, I'm not big on doing paid upgrades, but this one is worth it. Some of the Chill packages come with WiFi for 2 devices and other fun additions like the JWB Steakhouse dinner for 2, which is my next tip and recommendation.
My friends also splurged for the Champagne Breakfast and raved about their Huevos Rancheros, pastries, Bloody Mary's and overall experience. We regret not doing this since the breakfast buffet was crowded and basic, similar to a setup at a Spring Hill Suites setup or something similar at a comp hotel breakfast.
Dine in the JWB Steakhouse
I was really impressed with our meal at the JWB Steakhouse. We had a package for two to dine at the specialty dining restaurant and chose to dine there on our first night onboard. I ordered the Ribeye and my husband had the filet, which both of us enjoyed.
You can make your reservation for either night of your stay in the port, just after the check-in area. Look for the dining table before boarding the ship and do try and request a window seat if you're able.
If you didn't book a steakhouse package at booking, you can still do so once on the ship and they will charge to your folio.
Fins Dining Room
If you'd rather not pay the extra $55 for the specialty dining per person upgrade, you won't be disappointed with the main and complimentary dining room - Fins. Our group ate there on the second night and also enjoyed our appetizer, entre and dessert there too. No complaints and the dining room was nicely designed too.
To dine here there are two seatings at 6:00 p.m. or 8:45 p.m. on each night of the cruise. We had no problem sitting at 6 p.m., but saw a long line for the later seating. We chose the earlier one though so we wouldn't miss the entertainment that night.
Don't Forget about the Coffee Shop
Regular coffee is provided at no extra charge in the mornings in the Port of Indecision Buffett, but if you're looking for a more Starbucks-like experience there is a Margaritaville Coffee Shop counter where you can order a latte or cappuccino at an extra cost, but it wasn't too expensive. I did this the morning before disembarking.
Bring Your Own Lanyard
I wore dresses or bathing suits the whole time without pockets and I didn't want to carry a purse, so I was glad I had packed my own lanyard to attach my room key and charge card.
After receiving our key, I went to the Guest Services area and they kindly punched a hole in mine to attach to my lanyard clip, or you can buy a lanyard with a clear sleeve to slip your key in. My husband was fine putting his in his short pockets.
Cabins are Spacious & Newly Renovated
Although it's an older ship (small pools, low ceilings, no balconies) and you'll have some Love Boat episode flashbacks, I was very impressed with how nicely the rooms were redone and how spacious and modern they were with a flat-screen TV and bright furnishings.
You can view our Ocean View Room Tour in my Instagram highlights here.
It's been a while since I sailed without a balcony room, but honestly, I didn't miss it. The window in our Ocean View cabin was large and with how limited your time is on the ship, we didn't spend much time in our room just to shower and sleep.
Meanwhile, our friends had an interior room, which had even more space than we did, and they were quite impressed with it too.
Toiletries
Shampoo, condition, body wash, and soap are all provided in your bathroom. We also had two robes hanging in our closet, which I took advantage of. For those who love to travel with their signature scent, the enchanting aroma of Delina perfume makes a perfect addition to your toiletries, offering a luxurious and sophisticated fragrance to enhance your evenings onboard.
Plugs and Hairdryers
There are even two USB ports and a USB C port too. A hairdryer is provided specifically for their voltage, so do NOT bring your own because it will blow a fuse. Trust me, I know!
Boat Drinks are not to be missed
Honestly, how disappointing would it be if a Margaritaville cruise had bad margs? Well, no worries, because the drinks were great, especially their blended concoctions like the infamous margarita, pina colada and painkiller, after all, as Jimmy Buffett sings "it's five-o-clock somewhere."
I also appreciated that they carried bottles of Josh Cellar wines, which I had with dinner. The by-the-bottle price was reasonable too.
You can purchase before sailing or while on board a drink package of 5 or 10 drinks per person, which includes drinks up to $12. There is another package for higher-end drink options too. We both had a 5-drink package and then charged the extra two drinks we ended up ordering to the room.
You will need to pick up or purchase your wristband for your drink package once on board the ship in the Euphoria Lounge. Some folks had multiple wristbands - more power to them.
Explore Your Shore Excursion Options
The cruise line offers several shore excursions for your day in Freeport, Bahamas from swimming with pigs to dolphin encounters or resort day passes. There isn't much to do at the pier except a few stalls for shopping, so you'll either want to stay on board or book a shore excursion.
But unlike other cruises that I've been on, you can't book your tour ahead of time only once you check-in. If you're a type A planner, this part is a bit frustrating. I didn't like the uncertainty, but two of our friends were able to book the excursion they wanted easily at an all-inclusive resort once they got there.
We wanted something more adventurous though and booked through Trip Advisor for a day of Kayaking and more. It was more expensive ($160 each) than the Margaritaville shore excursions, but this island experience was amazing and made our entire trip!! Instead of being with a big group, it was just four of us, so it felt like we were getting a private tour. We were picked up at the pier in a lovely SUV, then took a boat ride out to the kayaks on Sweetings Cay, spent time on a private beach, went to a Turtle Park and had lunch too. The water was so clear we saw sharks, stingrays, sea stars, and more without goggles even. We still had time to get back on board and do some shopping too.
Catch the nightly live entertainment show
There is a 7:45 and a 9:45 nightly show in the theater. One night it's the fun Margaritaville musical and the other night is a comedian/magician. We enjoyed both a lot. The theater itself is adorable too with tables and comfy chairs by the stage making it more cabaret-style.
On the first night we went to the late showing since we were enjoying the piano bar out in front of the theater first, and the second night after a busy day in the Bahamas we went to the earlier show time.
Pre-Sale Spa Credit
Save 10% on Spa and Salon services when you purchase before you board. If you plan on pampering yourself with a spa treatment during your sail, you might want to take advantage of the $90 Pre-Sale Credit worth $100. I did, and my credit was applied to my Swedish Massage service, which was excellent.
You can book your spa time and treatment before boarding at the Spa area kiosk as well. I chose a late afternoon appointment on the second day after our shore excursion, which was perfect.
BOGO for Cops, Teachers & First Responders
Active and retired military, first responders, law enforcement officers and educators sail free on Margaritaville-at-Sea, they just have to pay for the second guest, taxes, gratuities, and port fees. If this applies to you claim your cruise offer here.
Thus, you'll spot a lot of cops and teachers gone wild ;) Other friends who went on a previous sailing said the teachers were hooking up with the cops, not that I can blame them, lol.
Travel with Friends
Since it's such a short trip, there isn't time to make friends, which is why I'm thankful we traveled with two other couples making a fun group of six. The best part of being with a group is that you can eat together, and take in a show, but still do your own thing too - dancing, casino, etc.
But Leave the Kids at Home
Granted this is just my personal parenting recommendation, so take it with a lost shaker of salt ;)
While there were a couple of kids on board (maybe like 20 total), the activities are geared toward adults. And frankly, many of the guests are there to party. You'll see bachelorette parties, girlfriend trips, and singles looking to mingle, etc. This is why I'm glad we were there for a couples' getaway and that my boys stayed behind.
The ship does have a kids camp though, but it looked small and boring and there is an hourly charge per child that would add up costing you. And as I said before, the pools were tiny with no lifeguards. Plus, the women that were by the pool were scantily clad and everyone is drinking it up, so again I'm very glad I didn't have to worry about what my kids would see or having to entertain them too.
Oh, and we could hear the bass of the music in our cabin until midnight, which was when we were heading to bed so that was fine, but again not for little ones.
#1 Selling Cruise Essential - Cruise Approved Power Strip
