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Showing posts from May, 2020

The Best Cruise Line Private Islands

Really, any cruise line private island could be on this list of the best: all of them are lovely tropical getaways designed to provide a relaxing experience. While cruise line private islands have that in common, each has unique features, and focusing on the differences enabled us to make these picks: Castaway Cay, Disney Cruise Line. We rate this 1,000-acre island in the northern Bahamas highly for its wonderful array of family activities, combined with serene adults-only spaces. There’s a splash playground for the youngest guests, a club for school-aged kids and a teen hideout. Everyone can enjoy kayaks and paddleboats, foosball and table tennis in the Game Pavilion, and snorkeling in the crystal-clear lagoon. Rent a cabana – in the family area or at adults-only Serenity Bay – to enjoy comfortable lounges, a stocked mini-fridge, your own shower, beach gear and butler service. Guests rave about the quality of the food at Castaway Cays’ beach buffet, too. CocoCay, Royal Carib...

Transatlantic Cruising: A Great Vacation Choice

If you want a different type of cruise experience, a transatlantic cruise might be what you’re looking for. If you seek tranquility, a transatlantic voyage gives you time to find it. A cruise ship usually takes at least six days to cross the Atlantic Ocean, and more if there’s a stop or two along the way; some transatlantic crossings take two weeks or more. Most of the cruise is spent at sea, and you can spend time reading, writing and reflecting; enjoying portable hobbies like knitting or embroidery, or simply gazing at the changing colors and moods of the ocean. The peacefulness of a transatlantic crossing is a wonderful opportunity for romantic partners or old friends to reconnect. You’ll also have lots of time to enjoy the amenities of the ship: for example, working out in the gym, pampering yourself in the spa, and trying all of the dining options. Transatlantic cruises tend to bring extra entertainment and learning opportunities on board, so you could learn to paint, ba...

Try a Suite for Family Cruise Fun

When you plan a cruise for your family, you’re the best judge of how much cabin space you need. If you plan to be up on deck or exploring the shore most of the time, using your cabin just to shower and sleep, consider an economical standard inside or outside stateroom. But, if you need a little more elbow room to be happy, consider a cabin designed with families in mind. You’ll spend a bit more, but the extra space and amenities may raise everyone’s enjoyment of your family cruise vacation. Disney Cruise Line caters to families, and its ships offer many connecting cabins so parents and kids can enjoy separate-yet-connected spaces. In addition to a full bath, most Disney cabins have an additional half bath, a major advantage for families. You can also go way upscale: on the Disney Magic , the Concierge Royal Suite with Veranda sleeps seven, with four TVs and floor-to-ceiling windows. You’ll love the walk-in closets, granite and marble baths, down duvets, and pillow menu. Norwe...

Picture-Taking Tips for a Cruise

Wherever you may cruise, you’ll want to capture some beautiful images to preserve and share your memories. But, taking good (or great) photos while on a cruise takes some special know-how, starting with how to handle the movement of the ship. Anytime you take a photo onboard, the movement of the ship, however gentle, can make the camera shake a little, which can result in blurred images. Tripods don’t really help because they can’t mitigate the movement. Instead, use your body to steady your camera: spread your feet a bit wider than usual, hold your elbows close to your torso, and hold your camera with both hands. Depending on the angle you want, you can also literally lie down on your stomach (but not if you’re in a high-traffic area) and use the deck to steady the camera. On ship or onshore, pay attention to the light. Lots of cruise ports are in sunny climates, but the sun may not be your friend when you’re taking a photo. The basic rule is not to take a photo when facing ...