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Category: CRUISES

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!

Create Life Long Memories

Travel Is Worthwhile: Create Lifelong Memories

Traveling is an incredible way to enrich our lives and create memories that will last forever. Whether you’re exploring new cultures, trying new foods, or taking in breathtaking sights, traveling offers experiences that can change us in profound ways. In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to get caught up in our daily routines and forget the value ofhttps://blog.affordabletours.com taking a break from our usual surroundings. This is where travel comes in, reminding us of the beauty and diversity of the world we live in. Let’s explore the reasons why travel is worthwhile, and how it can shape us in unexpected ways

Can Travel Really Change Your Life? Exploring the Value of Travel

Traveling isn’t just about going to new places and seeing new things, it’s also an opportunity for personal growth and self-discovery. By immersing ourselves in different cultures, meeting new people, and experiencing the unfamiliar, we can expand our perspectives and gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us.

Travel can also be a form of self-care and relaxation, allowing us to escape the stresses of our daily lives and recharge our batteries. Whether it’s lounging on a beach, exploring a new city, or trekking through the wilderness, there’s something about travel that rejuvenates and inspires us, which is why travel is worthwhile.

Eiffel Tower at Sunset
Soak in the sunset at the Eiffel Tower in Paris

Famous travelers throughout history have experienced the transformative power of travel. From Mark Twain to Anthony Bourdain, their journeys have shaped their lives and left lasting impressions. Their stories remind us of the potential of travel to create lifelong memories and make a positive impact on our lives.

The Importance of Creating Lifelong Memories Through Travel

Traveling is not just about seeing new places, but also about creating memories that will last a lifetime. Memories are a fundamental aspect of traveling, and they are what make the experience unique and unforgettable. Memories can be formed in many ways, including trying new foods, meeting new people, experiencing different cultures, and engaging in outdoor activities.

One of the most significant benefits of creating memories through travel is that they can become a source of inspiration for future adventures. Remembering past experiences and the joy they brought can motivate individuals to continue exploring the world and discovering new places. Memories can also help individuals appreciate the present and remember the importance of living in the moment.

Some of the most powerful memories that can be formed while traveling include trying new and unique foods, visiting historical landmarks, and participating in cultural experiences. For example, trying local delicacies can provide a sensory experience that engages all the senses, and learning about the history of a place can provide a deeper appreciation of its culture and significance.

Personal travel memories are also unique and significant, which is why travel is worthwhile. Memories can be anything from a beautiful sunset seen from a mountain top to a conversation with a local resident. Such memories can serve as a reminder of the beauty of the world and the importance of embracing different cultures.

Happy couple taking memorable selfies.
Experience life together.

Travel is an excellent way to create lifelong memories that can inspire individuals to explore more of the world, appreciate the present, and remember the importance of experiencing new things. From trying new foods to engaging in cultural experiences, every travel memory is unique and significant. So, pack your bags and get ready to create unforgettable memories on your next adventure.

Embracing the Journey: Overcoming Challenges in Travel

Travel is not always smooth sailing. It often comes with its fair share of challenges and obstacles, from canceled flights to lost luggage and language barriers. However, it’s how we choose to respond to these challenges that can make all the difference in our travel experiences.

Prepare for the unexpected. This means having a backup plan in case of any mishaps, such as bringing a carry-on bag with essential items in case of lost luggage. It also means being flexible and open to unexpected changes in itinerary or plans. Some of the best travel memories can come from unexpected detours and unplanned adventures.

Another common challenge for travelers is communication barriers, especially when visiting a foreign country with a language barrier. However, this can also be an opportunity to connect with locals and immerse oneself in the culture. Learning a few key phrases in the local language can go a long way in making connections and creating memorable experiences.

Foreign signs
We’re here to help when things get confusing.

Travel can also bring personal challenges, such as stepping outside of one’s comfort zone or facing fears. Whether it’s trying new foods or engaging in adrenaline-pumping activities, overcoming these challenges can lead to personal growth and unforgettable memories.

Overall, while travel may come with its share of challenges, it’s important to embrace them and view them as opportunities for personal growth and creating lifelong memories.

Connecting Through Travel: How Building Relationships Creates Lasting Memories

Traveling isn’t just about seeing new places and taking stunning photos – it’s also an opportunity to connect with people from all over the world. Whether it’s through striking up a conversation with a local shopkeeper, meeting fellow travelers in a hostel, or joining a group tour, the connections we make while traveling can be some of the most memorable parts of the experience.

Connecting with locals can offer an insight into their way of life, cultural traditions, and unique perspectives on the world. Whether it’s learning to cook a traditional dish, participating in a local festival, or simply chatting with someone at a café, these interactions can create powerful memories and have a lasting impact on our worldview.

Similarly, connecting with other travelers can lead to lifelong friendships and provide a sense of community while on the road. From sharing travel tips and recommendations to embarking on adventures together, these shared experiences can create some of the most memorable moments of a trip.

Personal travel experiences often highlight the value of these connections. From attending a local wedding in India and being welcomed into the family’s home, to hiking with new friends in New Zealand and watching the sunrise over the mountains, these connections and relationships are often the highlights of our travels and can create lasting memories that go beyond the sights and sounds of a place.

In short, travel provides an opportunity to connect with people from all walks of life, creating meaningful relationships that can result in unforgettable memories. So, whether you’re exploring a new city or embarking on a multi-country adventure, take the time to connect with those around you and build relationships that will last a lifetime.

How to Create Memorable Travel Experiences

Traveling is an excellent way to create memories that will last a lifetime. However, creating a memorable travel experience requires planning, creativity, and a bit of spontaneity. Here are some tips to help you make the most out of your travels and create unforgettable memories:

Plan Ahead: Do Your Research

One of the best ways to create a memorable travel experience is to plan ahead. Research the destination you plan to visit and learn as much as you can about the local culture, customs, and language. Knowing some basic phrases and customs will help you connect with locals and create more meaningful experiences. Consider creating a rough itinerary that includes a mix of popular attractions and off-the-beaten-path locations.

Old map
AffordableTours.com helps you plan out the vacation of your dreams.

Try New Things: Be Open to New Experiences

Travel is an opportunity to try new things and push yourself out of your comfort zone. Try local foods, learn new skills or participate in activities that are unique to the region you’re visiting. The more you’re willing to try new things, the more memorable your travel experience will be.

Get Lost: Embrace Spontaneity

While it’s essential to plan ahead, it’s also important to leave room for spontaneity. Don’t be afraid to explore off the beaten path, take a detour, or get lost in a new city. Some of the most memorable travel experiences happen when you let go of the plan and embrace the unexpected.

Interact with Locals: Make Personal Connections

One of the best ways is to create a memorable travel experience is to connect with locals. Strike up conversations with locals, take a local cooking class, or stay in a homestay. Making personal connections with locals will not only create lasting memories and is why travel is worthwhile, but it will also deepen your understanding of the local culture.

New Friends Dinner Party
Create lifelong memories with new friends.

Document Your Experiences: Take Photos and Keep a Journal

Take photos and keep a journal to document your travel experiences. Photos and journal entries are a great way to relive your travel memories and share your experiences with others. Consider creating a scrapbook or photo album to display your travel memories.

Give Back: Volunteer or Make a Positive Impact

Making a positive impact while traveling is a great way to create meaningful travel experiences. Consider volunteering for a local organization or participating in an eco-tourism activity. Making a positive impact will not only create lasting memories but also is why travel is worthwhile because you contribute to the local community.

By following these tips, you can create travel experiences that will last a lifetime and is why travel is worthwhile. Whether you’re exploring a new destination or revisiting a favorite spot, remember to be open to new experiences, interact with locals, and make a positive impact.

The Lasting Legacy of Travel: Create Memories That Will Live On

Traveling can be an enriching experience that creates lifelong memories. These memories are not only valuable to us but also have the potential to become a legacy for future generations.

Let’s take a look at the importance of creating a legacy through travel and tips for preserving those memories.

Importance of Creating a Legacy:

Travel memories are more than just souvenirs or photographs; they are a legacy that can be passed down to future generations. Sharing our travel experiences with loved ones can create a sense of connection and inspiration and is why travel is worthwhile so you can pass adventure down. Our travel memories can inspire others to explore the world, embrace new cultures, and to live their lives to the fullest.

Tips for Preserving Travel Memories:

Preserving travel memories is crucial for creating a lasting legacy. Here are some tips for preserving your travel memories:

  • Keep a Travel Journal: A travel journal is a great way to document your experiences, thoughts, and feelings while traveling. It can be a place to record your daily activities, the people you met, the food you tried, and the places you visited. You can also add pictures, postcards, and other mementos to your journal.
  • Take Photos and Videos: Photos and videos are a great way to capture the beauty of a place and the memories you create. Take as many pictures and always back them up online or print them out to create a photo album.
Group Selfie
Don’t forget to take plenty of pictures to capture your magical moments.
  • Create a Travel Scrapbook: A travel scrapbook is another way to preserve your travel memories. You can add photos, postcards, maps, tickets, and other mementos to your scrapbook. It can be a fun project to do with your family or friends after your trip.
  • Share Your Stories: Sharing your travel stories with others is an excellent way to create a legacy. You can share your experiences through social media, blog posts, or even by writing a book.

The Power of Travel: Creating Memories to Last a Lifetime

The value of travel and creating memories cannot be overstated, which is why travel is worthwhile. Whether it’s broadening your perspective, overcoming challenges, connecting with others, or leaving a lasting legacy, travel has the ability to transform and enrich our lives in countless ways. As we reflect on past travel experiences and the memories created, let’s use them as inspiration to plan future adventures and continue to create new and meaningful memories. The world is waiting to be explored, and there’s no better time than now to start planning your next trip. So pack your bags, embrace the unknown, and get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime!

What Is Your Travel Style?

Traveling is one of life’s greatest pleasures, but with so many different destinations and
activities to choose from, planning a trip can be overwhelming. Identifying your travel style is
one way to make the planning process easier and ensure that you have the best possible
experience. Understanding your travel style can help you choose the right destinations,
activities, and accommodations for your trip and ensure that you have an enjoyable and fulfilling
experience.

There are several different travel styles to consider, each with its own unique characteristics and
appeal. These include world discovery, self-discovery, pure adrenaline adventure, family fun,
and sit back and relax. In the following sections, we will explore each of these travel styles in
more detail, providing examples of popular destinations and activities and tips for planning a trip
that aligns with your travel style. By the end of this article, you’ll better understand your travel
style and will be ready and eager to finding your perfect adventure!

World Discovery:

If you’re someone who is always eager to explore new cultures, cuisines, and landscapes, then
world discovery may be your travel style. This type of travel is all about immersing yourself in the
local culture, experiencing new things, and gaining a deeper understanding of the world around
you.

Popular world discovery destinations include cities with rich history and cultural significance,
such as Paris, Rome, Tokyo, and New York City. These destinations offer a wealth of
museums, art galleries, and historical landmarks to explore. Additionally, several UNESCO
World Heritage Sites, such as the Great Barrier Reef, Machu Picchu, and Petra, offer unique
and fascinating experiences.


In terms of activities, world discovery travelers enjoy exploring local markets, trying new foods,
and attending cultural festivals. They also tend to take guided tours of historic sites or attend
local cultural events. Additionally, world discovery travelers may choose to learn a new
language or take cooking classes in order to fully immerse themselves in the local culture.

When planning a world discovery trip, it’s important to research the local culture and customs in
order to have a respectful and enjoyable experience. Consider staying in locally-owned
accommodations such as guesthouses or bed and breakfasts, which will provide a more
authentic experience. Additionally, try to spend time in areas outside of the typical tourist
hotspots to truly experience the local culture.


World discovery travel is perfect for those who are curious about the world and want to learn
and experience new things. By choosing world discovery as your travel style, you’ll be able to
broaden your horizons and gain a deeper understanding of the world around you.

Self-Discovery:

If you’re looking for a more introspective travel experience, self-discovery may be your style.
This style is all about self-reflection, personal growth, and taking time to connect with oneself.
Self-discovery travel can be incredibly fulfilling, and it can also be a transformative experience
that leaves a lasting impact on your life.

Popular self-discovery destinations include places that offer a quiet and peaceful atmosphere,
such as Bali, Costa Rica, and the Himalayas. These destinations often offer meditation retreats,
yoga classes, and wellness programs, which can help you connect with your inner self and find
peace within.


When it comes to activities, self-discovery travelers may choose to embark on a solo journey, or
they may opt to join a group retreat or wellness program. These programs often include
activities like meditation, yoga, and mindfulness exercises, which can help travelers connect
with their inner selves and achieve a sense of clarity and peace. Finding Your Perfect Adventure

When planning a self-discovery trip, choosing a destination that aligns with your interests and
goals is important. Consider attending a wellness program or retreat that offers activities that
appeal to you, such as yoga, meditation, or hiking. Additionally, try to spend time in nature, as
being in a natural environment can be incredibly restorative and rejuvenating.


Self-discovery travel is perfect for those who are looking to disconnect from their daily routine
and reconnect with themselves. By choosing self-discovery as your travel style, you’ll be able to
gain a deeper understanding of yourself and your place in the world and return home feeling
refreshed and renewed.

Pure Adrenaline Adventure:

If you love an adrenaline rush and crave excitement, then pure adrenaline adventure may be
your travel style. This style is all about pushing your limits, trying new things, and experiencing
the thrill of adventure.

Popular pure adrenaline adventure destinations include places like New Zealand, Costa Rica,
and the Swiss Alps. These destinations offer a range of activities such as bungee jumping,
white water rafting, skydiving, and extreme sports like snowboarding and skiing.

When it comes to activities, pure adrenaline adventure travelers enjoy pushing themselves to
their limits and trying new things. They may choose to participate in extreme sports, like surfing
or rock climbing, or take part in adventure tours, like jungle treks or zip lining.

When planning a pure adrenaline adventure trip, it’s important to research and plan ahead to
ensure your safety. Consider booking with reputable adventure tour companies and read
reviews from past travelers. Additionally, make sure to pack appropriate gear and clothing for
the activities you’ll be participating in.

Pure adrenaline adventure travel is perfect for those who are looking to push their boundaries
and experience something new and exciting. By choosing pure adrenaline adventure as your
travel style, you’ll be able to step out of your comfort zone and create unforgettable memories.
So, whether it’s skydiving, bungee jumping, or white water rafting, get ready to feel the rush and
embrace the adventure!

Family Fun:

If you’re planning a trip with your family, then family fun may be your travel style. This style is
about creating lasting memories with your loved ones and enjoying activities everyone can
participate in.

Popular family fun destinations include theme parks like Disney World and Universal Studios
and beach destinations like Hawaii and the Caribbean. These destinations offer a range of
activities, such as water sports, hiking, and amusement park rides that are perfect for all ages.

When it comes to activities, family fun travelers enjoy spending time together and participating
in activities that everyone can enjoy, they may choose to visit museums, go on bike rides, or
explore nature trails together.

When finding your perfect adventure, it’s important to choose a destination that offers a variety of
activities for all ages. Consider visiting a theme park or beach destination that offers a mix of
activities perfect for kids and adults. Additionally, make sure to plan ahead and book any
activities or tickets in advance to avoid long lines or sell-outs.

Family fun travel is perfect for those who are looking to create lasting memories with their loved
ones. By choosing family fun as your travel style, you’ll be able to bond with your family and
enjoy activities that everyone can participate in. So, whether it’s riding roller coasters, building
sandcastles, or exploring a new city, get ready for some family fun and adventure!

Sit Back and Relax:

If you’re someone who wants to escape the stress of daily life and unwind on vacation, then sit
back and relax may be your travel style. This style is about taking it easy and enjoying activities
promoting relaxation and rejuvenation.

Popular sit back and relax destinations include beach resorts in the Caribbean, Hawaii, and the
Maldives. These destinations offer a range of activities, such as lounging on the beach, enjoying
a spa treatment, or taking a leisurely stroll through beautiful gardens or parks.

When it comes to activities, sit back and relax travelers enjoy activities that promote rest and
relaxation. They may choose to read a book on the beach, take a yoga class, or enjoy a
massage.

When planning a sit back and relax trip, it’s important to choose a destination that promotes
relaxation and rejuvenation. Consider booking a resort or hotel that offers spa services,
meditation classes, or yoga sessions. Additionally, make sure to pack comfortable clothing and
anything else that will help you unwind, such as a good book or a playlist of soothing music.

Sit back and relax travel is perfect for those who want to take a break from the hustle and bustle
of everyday life and focus on self-care and rejuvenation. By choosing sit back and relax as your
travel style, you’ll be able to unwind and recharge, returning home feeling refreshed and
rejuvenated. So, whether it’s lounging on a tropical beach, enjoying a spa treatment, or taking a
leisurely walk, sit back, relax, and let your worries slip away.

Choosing Your Travel Style:

Now that you know the different travel styles, how do you go about choosing the one that’s right
for you? Here are some factors to consider:
● Your interests: Think about what you enjoy doing in your free time. Do you prefer
adventurous activities or more relaxed experiences? Are you interested in exploring new
cultures or spending time with your family?
● Your travel goals: Consider what you hope to get out of your trip. Do you want to see
new sights, learn something new, or simply relax and unwind?
● Your travel companions: Think about who you will be traveling with. Are you traveling
with family, friends, or solo? Are your companions interested in the same activities as
you?

Once you’ve identified your interests, travel goals, and companions, you can start to narrow
down your options and choose a travel style that’s right for you.

If you’re having trouble identifying your travel style, try taking a quiz or researching to see which
style aligns with your preferences. Remember that there is no right or wrong travel style, and
what works for one person may not work for another.

What to Expect When Cruising Now

What to Expect When Cruising Now

Cruising is a great experience, and if you’ve never done it before, it is not too late to try! Booking is done in a second, and you can enjoy the perk of having everything included. However, since COVID hit, many people are worried that cruising will never be the same again.

Fortunately, cruising is not lost forever, and it is making its comeback with cruises being available today. Things will be a bit different from what you might be used to on a normal cruise, but they promise that the revamped buffets, smaller group sizes, and ‘vaccinated only’ zones are well worth the wait.

More Health & Safety Measures in Place

There are many more health and safety measures put in place since they re-opened the docks. One of the biggest is that those who are riding on the ships need to be fully vaccinated if they’re over the age of 16, this includes the crew. This safety measure is being used on many different transportation systems, as well as in hotels and other places of interest.

These health and safety measures also include distance planned events and activities, as well as reduced capacity inside the ships. If you are feeling any sort of sickness coming on, they have medical facilities that you can visit and be quarantined in before the sickness can get any further.

With so many precautions in place and more information on this disease, these cruise ships are now becoming more prepared in handling these sicknesses. These cruise ships have plans in place and know that it is a possibility that a breakout can happen. Minimizing the risks is what they are doing, so you never have to worry about getting sick with the knowledge of knowing they have you back.

Less Spots, Less Crowds, Less People in General

Since the capacity levels are much lower on these ships, this brings less people in general in the many common areas that you’d find yourself. Not just that, but there are going to be less crowds, which means less lines, and more to see and do without the hustle and bustle you’d normally have from a touristy area.

Whether you’re cruising across the world or just to the Caribbean, being able to get a spot and enjoy the time is good. Booking in advance is important to do because of this. Many people are already booking their spots on the ships, and they are booking out further. Even half capacity on some ships is making it harder for some to reserve spots on these boats.

More Money Saving Deals

To make these ships more appealing to those who are looking to explore more, they are offering additional money saving deals. Even though these ships are at a reduced capacity and are highly in demand, these cruise lines are still offering money saving promos to take advantage. Not only can you grab 40% off many of the rooms on the lines, but you can also even get most of the cost off your second passenger booking with you.

However, it is important to note that you must make sure to take advantage of these deals now. The lines are long for waiting lists, and many of them are booked out to 2023. Shipboard credits are a big seller for many, as well and not just price saving on the cruise itself. Now is the time to book these ships, especially if you want shorter lines and less crowds.

Your Vaccination Status

This is important to keep in mind because now, when you go anywhere, you must show proof of your vaccinations. The same is true for a lot of these cruise ships that are looking to book their rooms with those who are fully vaccinated. Not every cruise line requires them, and it is important to check whether the cruise line you’re going on requires them or not.

It has been shown that for many of them, like the Royal Caribbean cruise line, that you must show the original card when you are boarding the ship to have proof. Then, to go back and forth through the Bahamas, you have to have it uploaded online. This way, it can continuously be checked by authorities, should it be needed.

The same goes for those areas that you want to visit while you’re on land. Many of them only let those who are vaccinated inside the places. Therefore, you need to bring the vaccination paper along with you wherever you choose to go.

The same goes for the masks that you should wear in many of the common areas. This is for on and off the cruise ship. Many places might still require you to wear the mask in them, so having them on hand when you’re on and off the ship is recommended to be prepared.

Buffet Changes Being Made

The buffets that come included with the favorite meal choices are still going to be there and ready for you to enjoy. The only difference is that the passengers are unable to serve themselves. They will have to point at the food choices, and someone will serve them on a plate. You can still have as much as you’d like to have, because it is still a buffet after all! You just must do less work to get your food.

Cleaner Ships Mean Healthier Passengers

Since the CDC recommends regular cleanings for surfaces to reduce the spread of COVID, this means cleaner ships for all. This, in turn, means healthier passengers. The surfaces have to be regularly cleaned, the chairs, and everything that is being used in the common areas have to be sanitized regularly, as well. This extra layer of clean extends to the guest rooms, as well.

This means less germs that are being passed around on these boats. The best is yet to come, because on some of these ships, you can expect to get the best air quality. The ships have spent money to make sure that each passenger is able to breathe their own air in their state room.

This cleaner air, extra layer of sanitation and cleaner ship overall means less sickness for all the passengers, and not just from COVID. It protects them from other types of sicknesses that would otherwise end up getting everyone on the cruise ship sick.

Reservations and Technology Advancements

In the past, you could enter a ship and just walk around and find something to do as you please. This was a great way to learn how a cruise ship works. However, it is important to note that now you might just need a reservation for that thing you want to do for the night. This is not just for shows that are ongoing, but the gym and any of the other amenities that they are offering.

This is not only to reduce the amount of people allowed in a room, along with cleaning and sanitation reasons, but the cruise ship is easily able to do tracing should someone end up sick. This makes it easier for the cruise ship to contact anyone who might have been in contact with each other when they’re sick.

The technologies are also changing, not just the reservations. You can expect contactless and person less meeting in many of the places. You can look up the menus and other information with QR codes, but also virtual reservations and check ins, and virtual lines. Contactless payments are recommended and preferred, giving you more chances to spend time with those you came on the cruise ship with, instead of being around large crowds of people at once.

Slowly Returning to Normal

Even though everything seems to be different in these ships, they will slowly return to normal with time. The way that things are being done now are going to be done different in the coming months or even years. It might take some time to get back to normal.

Even now, many of the activities already seem to be back to normal for many of the passengers. This is something that is making the cruise ships, and even the passengers who regularly ride on them, hopeful for the future of cruising ahead.

Even though mostly everything is done digitally or virtually, including safety instructions and checks, it might be a little bit before you’re able to get more from the cruise. Things might seem weird now, but they might just check out for you in the end.

Just remember that the rules vary from cruise to cruise and place to place. It is important to check and know that being vaccinated is very important in order to get on many of the cruise lines and ships.

Be Flexible and Ready!

If you can be flexible with your times and hours that you can cruise, you have many more options to choose from. Since there are minimal spots on these ships, the more flexible and open you are for when you want to go or are able to go; the more chances you have to pick a spot and be able to head out on one of the ships.

One of the best ways to do this is by booking your cruise on a whim. If you are ready, choosing a cruise that is last minute and has one or two more rooms available is going to give you a great deal, but also open up more possibilities.

If you’re booking further out, then being flexible with what is available is good. A lot of people will not cruise during specific times of the year because of the cruise conditions. If you’re open to cruising during these times, you have more to choose from when booking a cruise and heading out.

Simulation Cruise and New Health Protocols

By: Leah Jorgensen

On July 28, I received an email. I was offered a 4-night Caribbean sailing on Royal Caribbean’s Independence of the Seas’ Simulation sailing. The kicker? It was sailing on August 1, and only available to fully vaccinated guests. So I quickly contacted my mother since she is retired and always up for an adventure, made sure we both had our passports and vaccination records, and accepted the offer! Three days later, my father and brother drove us down to Galveston to the ship!

For a Simulation sailing, just about everything is the same, but the guests are at 10% capacity, and the CDC was disguised onboard. Having 400 guests on a ship that has the capacity for 4,370 passengers made it feel like the ship was just ours! It was a little eerie how empty it was, but there was never a line or a wait for anything! The entire crew is vaccinated and had been in quarantine on the ship for 2 months already. They were thrilled to be working again after 15 months, and so happy to just see other people on board. I’ve never seen a happier crew, happier entertainers, and happier guests.

Embarkation was seamless! We could only arrive at the port at our assigned time, and everything was organized. Passports were checked, vaccination records were checked, recorded, and photographed, quickly went through security, and then we were allowed onboard!

One of the biggest headaches of starting any sailing is the safety drills. Due to Covid, they are no longer safe since social distancing needs to be followed. But Royal Caribbean now has a fantastic app for your phone! Once we made it to our rooms and picked up our Sea Passes, we watched a video on our apps of how to find and wear lifejackets, what to do in an emergency, and played the sound clip of the ship’s emergency notification horn. Then it was time to find our assigned lifeboat. Once there, a crew member verified we had watched the safety video and placed a sticker on our Sail Passes to show we had completed the safety drill.

Now I’m not one who wants to keep my phone on me when I’m on vacation (isn’t the point to get unplugged and out of reach?), but the app really was handy! Easy to use and find scheduled activities, we were able to make dinner reservations, reserve show tickets, and make our own personalized schedule. If you’re not sure where something is, the deck plans are there at your fingertips! Don’t worry about waiting in line at Guest Services- your on-board account is already in your hand!

Speaking of hands, we are still living in a pandemic. Every doorway now has hand sanitizer, but instead of just sitting there available, we were asked (required) to use it every time. And outside the Windjammer restaurant, soap and water stations have been installed, and are required to be used before entering. The amount of food has not changed, and the crew will happily put whatever you would like on your plate for you. (Really- I suggest taking the stairs as much as possible so you can fill up with less guilt!) The crew was constantly sanitizing hand rails, chairs, tables, anything that could be touched, and often disinfected the walls. The ships have always been clean, but it was spotless- all of the time.

Relaxing in the pool

Being vaccinated, I was allowed into any venue, activity, public area, and restaurant. But being a simulation, there were some people that were chosen to be “un-vaccinated”. Those who are vaccinated are given a purple plastic bracelet to wear- and they were often checked too. Those who were un-vaccinated had specific shows, time and location for main dining, and activities they were allowed to enter. They still had a full schedule and throughout the sailing were still allowed to see and do everything, but there were just specific times they were allowed to do certain activities. Everyone is still required to wear masks while moving around the ship, but we were allowed to take them off while sitting and actively eating and drinking, and while outside. The crew is still required to leave their masks on even while outside.

When we arrived in Cozumel, we parked next to the Adventure of the Seas, that is currently sailing out of Nassau, Bahamas. Vaccinated guests are allowed to leave the ship, but unvaccinated guests are only allowed off for a Royal Caribbean excursion. On the docks, we got the chance to talk with some very happy folks from Michigan who told us what a fantastic vacation they were having! Their sailing had about 900 guests and they were getting the Royal treatment as well! Mom and I were able to find a taxi (William in taxi 318) to get us to a beach to stick our feet in the water, which is all we were looking for, and back to the dock (I do not normally suggest ‘choose-your-own-adventure’ as there’s always a chance of being late and being left!)! All of the shops in Cozumel were ecstatic to see people shopping there again- the pandemic and halting of travel has really affected us all.

All-in-all, I felt extremely safe. The safety protocols are working and people are able to be back at work. This sailing was a dream, but I hope we don’t have to live through this again in my lifetime. If you do get a chance to sail on the Independence of the Seas, especially before January (and contracts move workers), tell pianist Timothy Boaz, guitarist Darla Fox, and waiters Sanjay and Red that I sent you!