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Review: Trena and Dawn’s Excellent Hawaiian Adventure!

By: Trena Holloway, Senior Travel Consultant, CTA

Aloha From Hawaii

Our Adventures started with booking flights from Dallas Fort Worth to Honolulu non stop on the American Dream line. With many options we chose these flights because they offered Business Class within the US, and not only because of the lay down flat seat option but in business class you get perks! They also offered Premium and Economy just like going to Europe.

Did someone mention perks? We sure did! A few of them like 2 free checked bags or how about the 1st class Priority Lines and boarding. Breeze right past that long line. The best Perk of all is the access to the Admirals Lounge only for Business class passengers. We where super happy to have access to this lounge.

Up the elevator we went with an effortless check in, greeted by a huge smile and a wonderful glass of Champagne with fresh squeezed orange juice. Yum! This is how we like to start our vacation. The lounge area opens up in front of you with a beautiful full buffet of sandwiches, salads, breakfast options, and a juice bar with full top shelf cocktail bar. TV ,relaxation rooms with lay down large leather chairs, work out rooms with private showers. A wonderful well appointed lounge to just sit and relax watching the planes to unwind before your flight.

Once on board, American Airlines did not disappoint with the full entertainment lay down pods. Personal entertainment handheld systems control lights and sound the TV and seat functions. Get comfortable with the pillow and blanket they have waiting in every seat in business class. Full dining experience with an appetizer and salad full course meal service that is completed with a sundae of your choice. Did you forget your eye mask or socks on flight? How about a Toothbrush or Toothpaste to freshen up before you land? Don’t worry they have you covered with your personal goodies bag. They have thought of everything from earplugs, floss, earphones, eye masks and socks . A first class flying experience. Arrive fully rested and ready to go.

Arriving in Honolulu was a breeze and off to baggage claim we went, and then we took the train to the rental car counter. A bit of advice at airports, take the extra time to get everything into the system, join the club with the car rental agency you chose, do the online check in so you can go straight to your car because the first time we did not do that and wasted hours, and who wants to wait hours when you are on vacation!! Not Us!

Taking the drive from the Airport we stopped at Pearl Harbor which is very close to the airport. It is one of the main attractions on Oahu. Driving onward through the Harbor area of the Island, we could see the the Norwegian Cruise. “Pride of America” which is the only U.S Flagged ship that sails year round from Honolulu to the islands. Fun!

Where to Stay?

With so many options of hotel styles on Waikiki you can find most any type of hotel, condo or vacation rentals here. I recommend doing at least 2 nights here so you can visit some of the highlights of the island. You can rent a car and journey freely or you can join an excursion or you can book an escorted tour with companies like Globus, Trafalgar and many other operators that give you that Island hopping experience and free time to go exploring.

With tons of oceanfront and ocean view properties in Waikiki we chose the Honolulu Hilton Hawaiian Village resort. This resort was very big and It sprawls out over 22 acres of prime beach gorgeous landscaped areas. Koi ponds with turtles wander the grounds, We visited the shops, grabbed a Starbucks in the morning and walked through the park next door. Even though we did not use the the resorts pools, water slides or go into the Saltwater Lagoon, it was definitely a multi generational hotel with beach front dining.

The beach activities did not disappoint. You can snorkel and get the gear to go all from the hotel. They have concierge desks in the Lobby to assist you in scheduling any activity you could ever want. The Hotel has its own pier right from the beachfront for any on water activity you would want to join. Grab a bicycle and pedal down the front streets. Hit the fitness center, or just lounge by the pool in a gorgeous cabana. This Hotel has been featured in many TV shows thru the years and is used by many Tour companies even the King himself “Elvis” has famously stayed at the Hawaiian Hilton Village.

While we opted to do our own thing, we visited the Dole Plantation for the best pineapple soft serve ice cream and rode the Pineapple Express, visited the pineapple fields during each of their growing stages. This is on the north side of the island, which is less touristy. We drove along the coast and enjoyed the breathtaking views. The North Side has a laid back country feel away from the city. Down the road is the macadamia farm, which offers fresh macadamia nuts and coffee stocked with snacks of all kinds. It was so delicious! Stay hydrated and try drinking fresh coconut water along the way. As you keep venturing down the coast make sure you visit the Polynesian center. It has a wonderful Luau and you get to learn about the history of Hawaii and the Hawaiian people while eating wonderful food and drinks of the island.

Whether you opt for a day or 2 visit or spend a week, there are plenty of activities and things to do in Honolulu. I think we did it all in 2 days. One thing we learned is that all the beaches in Hawaii are alcohol free and no smoking.

Onto our favorite Island Maui. We flew Hawaiian Airlines non stop We flew to Maui in 45 minutes seamless inter Island carrier of Hawaii. We arrived in Kahlua Airport and went straight to the pick up for the car rental with our easy online check in. We chose to rent a private beachfront villa, Travel Leaders Network Villas by Distinction which is the consortium for Affordable tours has many to choose from. For our accommodations we stayed at the Kapalua Villas, a 2 story floor to ceiling full glass front villa overlooking the cliffs and Kapalua Beach. In one of the largest Hawaiian Nature Preserves. Surrounded by the protected West Maui Rain Forest and 2 Marine Sanctuaries. A gorgeous peaceful side of the Island for rest and relaxation.

With tons of Beaches that have public access. We walked down the trails to a private beach area. In the same area as the Ritz Carlton with its championship golf course with course side dining. We had brunch at its oceanfront property and it was worth every penny. It is a breathtaking Hotel from the moment you pull up onto the grounds with gorgeous views from anywhere on its 55 acre property. The 6 world class dining options are world class dining, the breakfast buffet during the week is a hidden gem, they will valet park your car for your visit. Beautifully landscaped grounds, perfect pools with luxury cabanas, the spa, the gym and many community areas to sit on a bench in the garden area or maybe by a fire pit and sip wine. A concierge is there to assist you with any sight seeing you may want to do. Then of course there are the small, quite beautiful shops. Luxury at every turn.

We explored the mountainous 1 lane roads winding around the coast with beautiful views and stops along the way to see the outstanding landscape. It was breathtaking. There are so many different areas on Maui to stay all with their own personality and flair. Driving from Kapalua you come to the next resort area which is Kanapali beach and resorts. This community has numerous first class hotels and beautiful beaches with a large outdoor shopping mall, and tons of wonderful restaurants. We visited the Sheraton
Kaanapali and it featured one of the best pools in Maui with a lazy river and wonderful Hawaiian luaus at sunset.

Other hotels include the Westin, the Kaanapali resort and more and we walked it all. It is a great place for the whole family. You don’t even have to leave the resort community, there is something for everyone, including indulgent spas, world class golfing and restaurants. Not too far down the road from Kaanapali. Lahaina is a Historic Town with original buildings turned into museums of the history of this town and port area. This is where you would board a Fishing charter or a dinner sunset cruise. The largest and oldest Banyan tree is in the heart of this city, and we sat with locals playing music in the park.

Walking the streets and visiting the shops and art Galleries with vendors and artists selling their crafts along the coast line was fun. We visited Fleetwoods on front street Mic Fleetwoods restaurant and gift shop and we had lunch on the deck with an ocean view. One of my all time favorite bands! We kept going and found another popular location for the Maui Islands for family visitors is the Wailea Area another upscale area of Maui. This area is lined with Luxury Resorts Golf Courses shops and Beaches galore. We visited the Four Seasons Resort and had a great lunch and talked to guests around the bar, and learned a lot. This hotel is full of family energy. Beautiful landscaped grounds. The pool area has a fabulous restaurant overlooking a beachfront that is perfect for snorkeling. Many famous people stay here with their families to bask in the peace and sun in the private cabana next to that perfect pool. Maui has something for everyone and is the perfect vacation destination for any age any traveler as you can customize your journey to fit any of your travel needs or wants. The Grand Wailea, the Fairmont Kea Lani, are other great options in this area that we visited.

Lastly we traveled up into Upcountry, where we met locals and way less touristy than the resort area. We traveled up to the road to Hanna another highlight of Maui. We had such a great time meeting locals and enjoying the wonderful weather in June. Good bye 100 Degree weather and hello, 75 breezy days! Whatever you decide to do on your Hawaii vacation, there is no wrong or right way, it’s your way! I could keep on and on and on.

Review: Pacific Coast Adventure With Globus

By: Michael Walstrom, Senior Travel Consultant (CTA)

Seattle – We arrived a day early and booked an extra night at the Sheraton Grand which is in a great location and has very good rooms.

Day 1: We started at the Starbucks Reserve and then walked the city.  The Space needle and Chihuly Gardens were the highlight of the day.  We met with the group for an orientation at night.  

Day 2: Up bright and early for a city tour and Pike Place Market.  We also grabbed a ferry on our own to Bainbridge Island to spend the afternoon

Day 3: We left Seattle to head to Oregon with a stop at Multnomah Falls and stopping for the night in Portland which still has far too many issues.  

Day 4: After breakfast we stopped at the International Rose test garden and then headed for the beautiful Oregon coast.  We stayed in the seaside village of Newport in an ocean  view balcony room.  As a group we went to a seaside restaurant 

Day 5: We departed to view more of the coast and stopped for a dune buggy ride with the forest on one side and the ocean on the other.  and stayed the night in North Bend at a casino-hotel

Day 6: We headed off to Redwood national park for a little hiking and viewing of the scenic Rogue River.  Took a scenic Jet boat ride on the river. We stayed the night in Eureka, California

Day 7: Early morning back thru the Humboldt Redwoods State Park where Redwoods were enormous and up to 1800 years old.  Journeyed through small towns on the way to San Francisco with a stop in Sausalito which is simply beautiful.

Day 8: After a morning tour of San Francisco with the group (outside of Tourist areas SFO still hurting badly) we headed by Bart to Livermore (spectacular ) to visit some old friends and check out a few wineries.  The following morning we headed home bright & early

Overall a very good adventure and learned a lot about the logistics of how Globus operates the tours  

Raise a Glass: Discovering the Best Bars in Ireland

When it comes to pub culture, few countries do it better than Ireland. For centuries, pubs have served as the cornerstone of Irish social life, providing a place for friends, family, and even strangers to gather over a pint of Guinness or a dram of whiskey. With so many pubs to choose from, it can be overwhelming for visitors to know where to start. Today, we’ll take a closer look at some of Ireland’s most famous bars, from historic pubs serving customers for centuries to trendy microbreweries offering a contemporary twist on the traditional Irish pub experience. So whether you’re a first-time visitor to the Emerald Isle or a seasoned traveler, come along as we raise a glass to discover the best bars in Ireland.

The Temple Bar, Dublin

The Temple Bar is a famous pub located in the heart of Dublin’s cultural quarter, known as Temple Bar. The neighborhood is named after Sir William Temple, a renowned politician, and diplomat who once lived in the area. Today, Temple Bar is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, with a vibrant arts scene, trendy boutiques, and plenty of pubs.

The Temple Bar pub itself has a long and storied history, dating back to the early 1300s. Over the centuries, the pub has been known by many names and has had many owners, but it has always been a hub of social activity in the city. Today, The Temple Bar is known as one of the most famous pubs in Ireland and a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the traditional Irish pub culture.

You’ll be greeted by a warm and lively atmosphere as soon as you enter The Temple Bar. The walls are adorned with memorabilia and decorations that celebrate Irish history and culture, from old photographs of Dublin to vintage Guinness signs. The pub is also known for its extensive whiskey collection, with bottles lining the shelves behind the bar.

One of the main draws of The Temple Bar is its live music sessions, which take place every day of the week. Traditional Irish musicians take to the stage to perform classic ballads, jigs, and reels, creating a lively and upbeat atmosphere. Visitors are encouraged to join in the fun by singing along, clapping their hands, or even trying to play an instrument themselves.

The Temple Bar is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Irish pub culture. Its central location in the heart of Dublin’s Temple Bar neighborhood makes it the perfect place to stop for a pint or two after exploring the nearby landmarks such as Dublin Castle or St. Patrick’s Cathedral.

Sean’s Bar, Athlone

Sean’s bar, located in the town of Athlone in County Westmeath, is often referred to as the oldest pub in Ireland. Its history can be traced back over 1,100 years to the time of the Vikings, who established a trading settlement in the area. The pub is said to have been a popular watering hole for the Viking warriors who once roamed the town.

Today, Sean’s Bar retains much of its historic charm, with a cozy interior featuring exposed brick walls, low ceilings, and a warm fireplace. The pub’s décor celebrates its long history, with old photographs and memorabilia adorning the walls.

Sean’s bar is also known for its traditional Irish music sessions, which take place every night of the week. Local musicians gather to perform classic Irish ballads, jigs, and reels, creating a lively and authentic atmosphere. The pub’s small size means that visitors can get up close and personal with the musicians and feel like they are part of the action.

In addition to its historical significance and lively music scene, Sean’s Bar is located in the heart of Athlone, making it a great place to stop for a pint after exploring the town’s many landmarks. Nearby attractions include Athlone Castle, which dates back to the 13th century and features interactive exhibits on Irish history, as well as the beautiful River Shannon, which flows through the town.

The Porterhouse, various locations

The Porterhouse is a chain of microbreweries and pubs with locations throughout Ireland, including in Dublin, Bray, and Belfast. The Porterhouse has been brewing its own beer since 1996, making it one of the first microbreweries in Ireland.

The Porterhouse has gained a reputation for its innovative approach to brewing, with a wide range of beers that go beyond the traditional stout and ale offerings. Visitors to The Porterhouse can try everything from hoppy IPAs to fruity saisons and rich porters.

In addition to its impressive beer selection, The Porterhouse also offers a food menu featuring classic pub fare with a modern twist. The menu includes dishes like gourmet burgers, fish and chips, and hearty stews made with locally sourced ingredients.

Live music is also a regular feature at The Porterhouse, with a range of genres on offer, from traditional Irish music to jazz and blues. The pubs often feature local talent, as well as more established acts, creating a diverse and dynamic atmosphere.

The Porterhouse has several locations throughout Ireland, each with its own unique charm. In Dublin, visitors can stop by the original Porterhouse location on Parliament Street, which features a cozy interior with exposed brick walls and a traditional pub atmosphere. The Porterhouse in Bray, meanwhile, is located on the seafront and offers stunning views of the Irish Sea. The Belfast location, housed in a former linen mill, boasts a spacious interior with industrial-chic décor.

No matter your location, The Porterhouse is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Irish craft beer and pub culture. Nearby landmarks include Dublin’s Trinity College, the historic town of Bray, and Belfast’s Titanic Quarter, which features the Titanic Belfast museum and the famous Harland and Wolff shipyard.

John Kavanagh’s (The Gravediggers), Dublin

John Kavanagh’s, also known as “The Gravediggers,” is a traditional Irish pub located near the historic Glasnevin Cemetery in Dublin. The pub has been in operation since the early 1800s and has gained a reputation for its authentic atmosphere and historic charm.

The pub’s name comes from its proximity to the cemetery, as many gravediggers and mourners would stop in for a drink after a long day of work. Today, the pub retains much of its original character, with a cozy interior featuring wood-paneled walls, antique mirrors, and a warm fireplace.

One of the main draws of John Kavanagh’s is its traditional Irish music sessions, which take place every Sunday night. Local musicians gather to play classic Irish tunes, creating a lively and authentic atmosphere. The pub’s small size means that visitors can get up close and personal with the musicians and feel like they are part of the action.

In addition to its music scene, John Kavanagh’s is also known for its hearty pub food and wide selection of beers and whiskeys. Visitors can try classic Irish dishes like beef, and Guinness stew or fish and chips washed down with a pint of the pub’s own Kavanagh’s Ale.

Nearby landmarks include the Glasnevin Cemetery, which is home to over one million burials and features guided tours of its historic graves, as well as the National Botanic Gardens of Ireland, which offer a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle. Overall, John Kavanagh’s is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of traditional Irish pub culture.

The Brazen Head, Dublin

The Brazen Head is one of Ireland’s oldest pubs, with a history dating back to 1198. Located in Dublin’s historic city center, the pub has been a popular gathering place for locals and visitors alike for over 800 years.

The pub’s interior features dark wood paneling, low ceilings, and flickering candles, creating a cozy and intimate atmosphere. Visitors can admire the pub’s historical artifacts, including old photographs and antique knick-knacks, which adorn the walls and shelves.

In addition to its historic charm, The Brazen Head is known for its traditional Irish food and drink menu. Visitors can try classic Irish dishes like shepherd’s pie, Irish stew, and fish and chips washed down with a pint of Guinness or a glass of Irish whiskey.

The pub also offers a wide range of craft beers, ciders, and a selection of wines and cocktails. For those looking to experience the best of Irish spirits, The Brazen Head also offers whiskey tastings and a chance to sample rare and vintage bottles.

Nearby landmarks include Dublin Castle, which dates back to the 13th century and features exhibits on Irish history, as well as the famous Christ Church Cathedral, which is one of Dublin’s most iconic buildings. Overall, The Brazen Head is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of traditional Irish pub culture, with its historic charm, delicious food, and wide selection of drinks.

The Long Hall, Dublin

The Long Hall is a beautifully preserved Victorian pub located in the heart of Dublin’s city center. The pub has been in operation since 1766 and has gained a reputation for its ornate decor and traditional Irish pub atmosphere.

The pub’s interior features stunning Victorian-era details, including ornate plasterwork, crystal chandeliers, and marble-topped counters. Visitors can admire the pub’s beautiful mahogany bar, which has been in place since the mid-1800s and soak up the historic atmosphere.

In addition to its beautiful decor, The Long Hall is known for its live music sessions, which take place several times a week. Local musicians gather to perform classic Irish ballads, creating a lively and upbeat atmosphere. The pub’s small size means that visitors can get up close and personal with the musicians and feel like they are part of the action.

The Long Hall is located in Dublin’s city center, just a short walk from many of the city’s most famous landmarks. Nearby attractions include Trinity College, home to the famous Book of Kells, and the Grafton Street shopping district, which features a range of high-end shops and boutiques.

Overall, The Long Hall is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Irish pub culture in a historical and beautiful setting. Its central location in Dublin’s city center makes it a great place to stop for a pint after exploring the nearby landmarks.

The Palace Bar, Dublin

The Palace Bar is a historic pub located on Dublin’s Fleet Street, just a stone’s throw from the famous Temple Bar neighborhood. The pub was founded in 1823 and has been in the same family for over a century, making it a beloved institution among locals and visitors alike.

The pub’s cozy atmosphere and old-world charm make it a popular destination for those looking to experience the best of traditional Irish pub culture. The interior features dark wood paneling, a warm fireplace, and vintage mirrors, creating a cozy and intimate atmosphere.

One of the main draws of The Palace Bar is its impressive selection of whiskeys. The pub stocks a wide range of Irish and international whiskies, from rare and vintage bottles to more affordable options. Visitors can sample a whiskey flight, take a guided tasting, or simply enjoy a dram of their favorite whiskey.

Live music is also a regular feature at The Palace Bar, with a range of genres on offer, from traditional Irish music to jazz and blues. The pub often features local talent, creating a lively and dynamic atmosphere.

Nearby landmarks include Dublin Castle, which dates back to the 13th century and features exhibits on Irish history, as well as the historic Christ Church Cathedral, which is one of Dublin’s most iconic buildings. Overall, The Palace Bar is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of traditional Irish pub culture in a cozy and historic setting.

The Spaniard, Kinsale

The Spaniard is a famous pub located in the picturesque seaside town of Kinsale in County Cork. The pub has been in operation since the 17th century and has gained a reputation for its lively atmosphere and nautical-themed decor.

The pub’s interior features a range of nautical artifacts, including ship’s wheels, antique diving helmets, and even a life-size model of a pirate. Visitors can admire the pub’s historic charm and soak up the coastal atmosphere.

In addition to its lively decor, The Spaniard is known for its traditional Irish food and drink menu. Visitors can try classic Irish dishes like fish and chips, bangers and mash, and hearty stews made with locally sourced ingredients. The pub also offers a wide range of beers, ciders, and wines, as well as a selection of Irish whiskeys and spirits.

Live music is also a regular feature at The Spaniard, with a range of genres on offer, from traditional Irish music to rock and roll. The pub often features local talent, creating a lively and dynamic atmosphere.

Nearby landmarks include the famous Charles Fort, a star-shaped fortress that dates back to the 17th century, as well as the historic Kinsale Harbour, which offers stunning views of the coastline. Overall, The Spaniard is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Irish pub culture in a charming and historic coastal setting.

This brings us to the end of our journey through the best pubs in Ireland. From the lively Temple Bar in Dublin to the cozy John Kavanagh’s in Glasnevin, these pubs offer a unique and unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a fan of live music, traditional Irish food, or just a good pint of Guinness, there’s something for everyone in these iconic establishments.

So, what are you waiting for? If you’re planning a trip to Ireland, be sure to put these pubs on your itinerary. Take in the historic charm, soak up the lively atmosphere, and experience the best of traditional Irish pub culture. Sláinte!

Review: Bermuda Aboard Oceania Riviera

By: Richard Doll, Senior Travel Consultant (CTA)

After taking many cruises with many different lines I just had the opportunity to sail with Oceania.  I have to say it did not disappoint.  The highlight of our itinerary was to be three days in Bermuda, which I was really looking forward to.  Alas, Mother Nature did not cooperate, at boarding we were informed the ship would not be able to make it to Bermuda due to inclement weather and high seas.  This put a lot of pressure on the staff to keep the guests happy, and they really did a great job.  Oceania is known for having “The Finest Cuisine at Sea”, and now I know how they earned that distinction.  From the Grand Ballroom main dining room, to the four specialty restaurants we dined in, everything was spectacular.  

We did visit Charleston, SC and that was a very charming historic town.  The general consensus among the guests was the cruise was very nice, the food was outstanding, and everyone I talked to just decided they would have to book a new cruise to Bermuda.  That seems like a fantastic idea to me!

Review: Western Caribbean aboard Carnival Vista

By : Jason Hogan, Senior Travel Consultant (CTA)

Day 1: Galveston; Embarkation

We started our morning at the Sunflower Café down the street from the Port of Galveston. It is an
excellent choice for breakfast that never disappoints. With full bellies, we parked at Lot B and headed to
the Cruise Terminal nearby.
We purchased Faster to the Fun which turned out to be a great decision throughout our cruise. We
breezed through security and check-in, and we were on the ship in less than 10 minutes. Our rooms
were already available when we boarded, so we relaxed before heading out to explore the ship.
That evening we were surprised with a brand-new menu featuring dishes curated by Emeril Lagasse. This
menu debuted on the Carnival Dream on June 20, 2023. We were lucky to be the first guests to try it out
on Carnival Vista and the food was delicious!

Days 2 and 3: Sea Days

The next two days we took it slow, enjoying the various amenities around the ship. We played in the
Casino which had a great selection of newer slots, as well as table games. We checked out the water
park, WaterWorks, and the kids enjoyed the water slides. We tried the included Pasta Bella pasta bar for
lunch in Cucina del Capitano. Service was quick, and the food was very good. We also visited Cherry on
Top where the kids got some candy, and we went to one of the shows called Rock of Ages in the Liquid
Lounge. The band and performers were great, and they covered quite a few well-known rock songs from
the 70’s and 80’s. These days were well spent while we rested up for our port days to come.

Day 4: Mahogany Bay, Roatan

After a light breakfast at the Lido Marketplace, we headed to the gangway for our day in Roatan. We
had a spot in mind already at the beach in Mahagony Bay. Instead of walking, we took the Magic Sky
Ride gondolas to the other side of the port. This dropped us off right where we wanted to be, and we
were the first to arrive at our beach spot.
The kids snorkeled most of the morning and saw a myriad of sea life including flounder, crabs, conch,
rockfish, lionfish, angel fish, pipe fish, and even an octopus. After an exceptional morning at the beach,
we rode the gondolas back to the main port area for some shopping. We then headed back to the ship
to rest up before dinner.
Our Maitre’d, Melvin, invited us to a private tasting of the new dishes on the menu that evening. We
were given an exclusive tour of the galley before meeting the head chef and being presented with
several dishes to sample. We tried each one and it was difficult to critique any of them because they
were all so tasty. This was an awesome experience for us to see how the kitchens operate on such a
large scale to accommodate everyone onboard.

Day 5: Fort Street Tourism Village, Belize City, Belize

Faster to the Fun came in handy this morning as it provided a priority tender into port. Instead of having
to collect a tender ticket early that morning and queue with the rest of the ship, we were able to hop
right on our priority tender to shore.
We did not have plans for Belize, so we explored the port area for a few hours and did some shopping at
the many stores located here. Before boarding our tender back to the ship, I decided to pick up some
Lobster Fritters from the Wet Lizard. My family and I enjoyed them on our way back to the Vista. Many
people on the tender commented on how good they smelled and believe me they were amazing! These
will now be a must when we call on Belize.

Day 6: Terminal Maritima Puerta Maya, Cozumel

Today we booked our family at Paradise Beach Cozumel. We were the first ship in port so getting off was
quick and easy. We made our way to the taxi stand and quickly had a ride to Paradise Beach.
Less than 10 miles from port, Paradise Beach is a newer, family friendly beach club with a large pool,
water inflatables, and an extensive menu of food and drinks which are all included with the all-inclusive

day pass. We also rented a day bed here which was well worth the money. This afforded us a semi-
private spot for the whole family to enjoy while we were there.

The kids decided to snorkel most of the day here as well since the water was teaming with sea life yet
again. This time they saw starfish, lobster, sea urchins, and many different types of fish. We also
sampled quite a few dishes and drinks from the all-inclusive menu during our time there, and the wait
staff were very attentive to our needs. All in all, I would highly recommend Paradise Beach if you are
ever looking for a beach club in Cozumel.

Days 7 and 8: Sea Day and Galveston; Debarkation

Needless to say, we were exhausted after our beach time and exploration in the ports. Our last sea day
was spent packing up and enjoying a couple of things we had not yet tried. Guy’s Burger Joint and Blue
Iguana Cantina are lunch options located by the Beach Pool on Lido Deck. We tried both, but we really
enjoyed the burgers from Guy’s. We also decided to take in a movie at the IMAX Theater onboard. They
get the newest releases, so we decided to see Blue Beetle which had just come out the day before. Our
theater experience was surprisingly good, so much so, I forgot I was on a cruise ship until the movie was
over.
Faster to the Fun saved the day again on debarkation day. We were able to go directly to the Liquid
Lounge to be the first guests allowed off the ship. The process only took about 15 minutes once our
group was called. After clearing customs, we made our way back to Lot B and headed home. We
reminisced on all of our experiences, and we all agreed that we had a wonderful time. Overall, an A+ for
Carnival and the Carnival Vista!