cruise life is the good life
Have you ever been on a cruise? If not, I hope you’ve got some money in your travel budget, because you’re about to book one.
I’ve been on two cruises now, both on Carnival cruise line, a.k.a. the “fun ships,” and they’re not lying. My first cruise was only five days long (too short!), and we had two ports in Cozumel and the Yucatan peninsula, both in Mexico. On my most recent cruise, we went to San Juan, Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, and Nassau, Bahamas. All sunshine, jungle, sea breeze, history, and suntan.
Here’s why I’m a cruise person, and you should be, too.
1. once you’re on the boat, there’s nothing to worry about
A cruise ship is not just a floating hotel; it’s a floating city. You don’t have to worry about getting from place to place, or finding accommodations or meals. Your room is always nearby, and you can even have room service delivered right to your door. They’ll make your beds every day, provide you with fresh towels, prepare your meals, and clean your dishes. The service is unlike anything you’d experience in even the nicest resort.
No need to worry about transportation, no need to unpack and repack every time you arrive in a new city. No waiting for the train, sitting on the bus, or calling an Uber. They even have daycare for your kids and a plethora of options to keep them entertained so you can do the things you want to do. You won’t need to learn a new language, either; while the cruise ship is a melting pot of cultures, you can choose to try new things or stick to what you’re comfortable with. It’s truly a stress-free way to travel.
2. it’s cheaper than most forms of travel
Speaking of stress-free, cruises can also be much cheaper than other forms of travel. When you factor in all the meals, entertainment, and lodging that are included, it’s often a better deal than trying to book everything separately. A Carnival cruise averages $90-100 per person, per day. Now compare that to booking a hotel, eating breakfast, lunch, and dinner while traveling, and paying for musicals, comedy shows, waterparks, etc.
Plus, you can often find great deals on cruises if you’re willing to be flexible on dates or destinations. Cruises are always looking to fill their vacancies last minute, so if you have some time off, you can sometimes book a 5-day cruise for just $100! Seriously!
3. see multiple destinations in one trip
One of the best things about a cruise is that you can visit multiple destinations in one trip. Instead of just going to one city or country, you can visit several while relaxing on the way there. On my last cruise, we got to explore the cobblestone streets of Old San Juan, hike through the rainforest in the Dominican Republic, and relax on the beaches of Nassau. It was like three vacations in one!
While the days at sea are fun-filled, the stops at each port of call offer a chance to experience new cultures and adventures. From snorkeling and zip-lining to sightseeing and shopping, there’s something for everyone. Plus, most cruises include ample time at each port to explore at your leisure. Just don’t be late getting back to the ship. We love to stand on the top deck to watch the people run for it as the ship prepares for departure. More free entertainment.
4. cruise culture is just fun
But it’s not just the destinations that make a cruise so enjoyable. There’s also the cruise culture itself. Everyone on board is there to have a good time, and it shows. From the deck parties to the musical productions to the towel animals on your bed each night, there’s always something to do and see.
Families and cruising parties love to make matching T-shirts and decorate their doors each time they cruise. If you’re cruising solo, you’ll find many others looking to welcome you into their circle, or you might even find your soulmate at a singles night. Almost everyone you meet will be friendly, willing to share a joke or cheer you on in a dance-off.
5. all-inclusive entertainment, food, and lodging
And of course, there’s the all-inclusive aspect. When you book a cruise, you’re not just paying for a room. You’re paying for all your meals, some drinks, service, travel, and entertainment. That means you don’t have to worry about budgeting for extras – it’s all included. And with so many options for dining and activities on board, you’ll never go hungry or bored.
There’s never a dull moment on a cruise ship. From water parks and mini-golf to Broadway-style shows and comedians, there’s always something to keep you entertained. Most major cruise lines have gyms, spas, and fitness classes, so you can stay on top of your wellness routine even while on vacation. And if you’re a foodie, you won’t be disappointed – there’s an endless variety of restaurants, bars, and cafes to choose from, most included in your cruise fare.
6. time for reflection and self-care
Sometime you just need a vacation. Being out at sea, surrounded by the calming sound of waves, has a therapeutic effect on the mind and body. Additionally, cruise ships are equipped with top-of-the-line gyms, spas, and wellness centers, offering a wide array of treatments and classes that cater to different preferences and fitness levels. I love to book a massage after a long day exploring the ship or an island. There’s something about walking out of the spa into the salty Caribbean air and looking up at the night sky without a care in the world.
One other aspect of cruising that has significantly contributed to my wellness is the time I get for reflection and mindfulness. The absence of everyday distractions and the opportunity to explore new places encourage personal growth, and there’s no better way to connect to oneself than disconnecting from work, chores, other obligations, and even social media.
Cruising is an affordable, stress-free, and fun way to travel while improving one’s overall well-being. With endless opportunities for relaxation, entertainment, cuisine, and adventure, it’s easy to see why so many people become devoted “cruise people” after their first experience. Whether you’re looking to connect with yourself, explore new destinations, or just have a great time with friends and family, cruising has got you covered – you might just never want to travel any other way!
-w.w.
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