The travel blog
Trip reports, honest reviews, and points & miles news from around the world — written after actually staying, sailing, and flying.
Carnival Clears Up the Free Drinks Rule for Platinum and Diamond Members: How To Claim Them and How FunPacks Stack
John Heald explained how the two complimentary drinks for Carnival Platinum and Diamond members work under Carnival Rewards: the first two drinks count unless you opt out at the bar, and FunPacks stack on top.
Carnival Is Marking Sail & Sign Cards for Guests Who Prepay Gratuities: What the Crew Love Sticker Means
Carnival has started placing a "Crew love" sticker on the Sail & Sign cards of guests who prepay gratuities. What it is, where it has appeared, and what it does not change about the $17 and $19 daily rates.
Half Moon Cay Guide: Carnival and Holland America's Private Island
Carnival renamed Half Moon Cay to RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay and opened a new pier in 2026. This guide covers what is included, what costs extra, and how I would plan the day.