The travel blog
Trip reports, honest reviews, and points & miles news from around the world — written after actually staying, sailing, and flying.
Disney Believe Reveal: First Sailings, Booking Dates and My Reaction
The Disney Believe sails December 18, 2027 from Port Everglades. First sailings, booking dates, every venue announced so far and where the reveal fell short.
When Is the Best Time To Book a Cruise?
Book early on a refundable deposit, then use Black Friday and wave season to reprice. A travel agent's guide to every cruise booking window.
How to Book a Princess Cruise Through a Travel Agent (and Why It Costs Nothing Extra)
A Princess cruise costs the same whether you book it direct or through a travel agent, and the agent route usually adds onboard credit and a second set of eyes. This is how it works.
What To Know Before Sailing on Princess Cruises for the First Time
Princess is the premium line most first-time cruisers never consider, and it should be on the list. This guide covers who it suits, what the fare includes, the Medallion, and how to book it right.
Best Princess Cruises for Alaska in 2027: Ships, Homeports, and Glaciers
Princess is the biggest cruise line in Alaska, with eight ships and 85 Glacier Bay calls in 2027. This guide picks the right ship and itinerary for each kind of traveler.
Princess Plus vs Princess Premier: Is the Upgrade Worth It in 2026?
Princess Plus and Princess Premier are the two fare bundles every Princess guest has to decide on. This is the full comparison with 7-night math and my recommendation by traveler type.
Princess Cruises Sale Explained: What the Current Offer Includes
Princess runs a sale almost every month, and the terms change more than the headline does. This is what the current offer includes, what it leaves out, and how I would use it.
First-Time Cruise Tips: 30 Things Nobody Tells You Before You Sail
30 first-time cruise tips from a travel agent who has sailed 40+ ships: what the fare really covers, when to check in, which cabins to avoid, and what sells out on embarkation day.
The Best Cruise Lines for Families in 2026
A travel advisor and 40+ cruise veteran compares Disney, Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Norwegian, and MSC for families in 2026: kids clubs, price, and who each line suits.
What to Do When It Rains on a Cruise
Rain on your cruise? Here are the best indoor activities, rainy port day tips, packing advice, and refund facts so a wet day still feels great.
What NOT to Pack for a Cruise: Banned and Useless Items
A cruise YouTuber and travel advisor breaks down what NOT to pack for a cruise: banned items that get confiscated at security plus the useless gear that just wastes suitcase space.
What's Included on a Virgin Voyages Cruise (and Extras)
A travel advisor breaks down what's included on Virgin Voyages, from wifi and dining to gratuities, plus the drinks and spa perks that cost extra.
Virgin Voyages vs Royal Caribbean: Which Should You Book?
Adults-only Virgin Voyages or family-friendly Royal Caribbean? I compare what's included, cabins, food, price, and vibe to help you pick.
Virgin Voyages Ships Explained: The Fleet by Size
A friendly guide to the four Virgin Voyages Lady ships, how they compare by size, where each sails, and how to pick the right one for you.
Virgin Voyages Loyalty Explained: Sailing Club & Extras
A travel advisor explains the Virgin Voyages Sailing Club, Blue and Deep Blue Extras, Bar Tab credit, and whether the loyalty perks are worth chasing.
Virgin Voyages Gratuities Explained: Why Tips Are Included
A travel advisor explains Virgin Voyages gratuities: what's covered, the auto service charge on drinks and spa, whether to tip extra, and how to budget.
Virgin Voyages Drinks: What's Included and Is the Bar Tab Worth It?
Virgin Voyages has no traditional drink package. Here's what's actually free, how the Bar Tab and its bonus credit work, and whether you should pre-buy or pay as you go.
How Much Does a Virgin Voyages Cruise Cost? (Real Budget)
A travel advisor breaks down Virgin Voyages cruise cost: all-in fares, base ranges by cabin and season, what still costs extra, and a real budget.
Solo Cruising: A Complete Guide for Single Travelers
A travel advisor's guide to solo cruising: cutting the single supplement, studio cabins, solo meetups, safety, the best lines, and budgeting.
What's Included on a Royal Caribbean Cruise (and What Costs Extra)
A travel advisor explains exactly what's included in your Royal Caribbean fare and what costs extra, from dining to drinks to wifi, plus how to budget.