Cruisin’ is Life

The topic of cruising is typically a love or hate relationship. I personally can’t get enough. Of course I am biased, as there is no easier getaway for a Florida east coast resident. At our backdoor, we have these massive floating cities that can transport us to an island paradise over just a long weekend if need be. Or much longer if you desire. Plus not having to factor in the hassle of flying or worrying about excessive luggage, it is a no brainer. Add in that you only unpack once and the biggest convenience is that while you sleep, you get transported to a new port of call ready for exploration.

So when I looked back, I couldn’t believe that I have experienced 31 cruises to date. Really??!! Before you judge and think that I don’t have my priorities straight, I was lucky. Working at Disney for 15 years during the golden era of the cruise ships being launched, we could board for $35 per night last minute & I took advantage of it! Can you think of any other vacation that you would spend anywhere close to that? If you do, let me know because I’d be on that train tomorrow.

Plus working high profile events that could last weeks & being on call 24/7, I needed the release & complete disconnect from reality. From extensively travelling the Caribbean islands, to wading amongst the floating icebergs in Alaska, traversing the big Atlantic via a transatlantic trek, exploring the grand history of the Mediterranean & intro to Europe, sailing the majestic Panama Canal or just enjoying my fav hammock on earth at the remote island of Castaway Cay, cruises can transport you to otherworldly places with minimal stress or planning. (I get asked all the time what my fav location was & I think Panama Canal has a slight edge)

From 3 days to 14 days, my fav length is a 10 day excursion. It takes me a few days to actually relax & get into vaca mode. Plus I need a few days to stay up really late to stargaze on the top deck, which always means that sleeping in is a must. You have to make time for all the first run movies, see all the broadway type shows, chill in every pool, order a drink of the day daily, finish a good book or two, enjoy the competition on the shuffleboard deck, find the discipline to run the deck, explore a few land excursions or roaming around new towns…..the list is endless.

Post COVID, cruising will look very different and many people will be skeptical. I for one can’t wait…..for the deals & for the chance to escape once again!