Cruise

Cruising is one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to travel… but the moment you step off the ship, you suddenly become a prime target for people looking to make a quick buck. I’ve seen a lot of these tricks firsthand, and I’ve heard even more stories from fellow cruisers who learned lessons the hard way. To help you stay safe (and keep that vacation money where it belongs), here are some of the most common tourist scams you might run into at ports, online, or even before

Embarkation day brings a mix of excitement, anticipation, and relief. You’ve finally stepped onboard, taken care of your muster drill, maybe grabbed lunch, and now the moment has arrived — your stateroom is ready. For many guests, the cabin steward is the very first crew member they speak with directly. And that initial interaction sets the tone for the entire week. After years of watching what travelers ask for — and seeing how those small requests improve the experience — I

Black Friday has transformed into one of the biggest travel events of the year. In 2025, we’re seeing some of the most impressive cruise promotions yet. Whether you dream of watching glaciers calve in Alaska, sipping espresso along the Mediterranean coast, or relaxing on a sun-soaked Caribbean island, cruise lines are rolling out serious holiday savings. From ultra-luxury small ships to mega-liners filled with thrills, this guide gathers all major 2025 Black Friday cruise dea

Why Settle for Ordinary? You’ve spent months planning the perfect conference — choosing the right speakers, scheduling breakout sessions, and ensuring every attendee leaves inspired. But what if there was a way to elevate the experience, energize your team, and create memories that last a lifetime — all while staying within your event budget? Welcome aboard. At The Cool Panda Travel & Event Coordination , we specialize in transforming standard corporate conferences into extra

So, you finally booked that dream cruise! You’ve spent weeks scrolling through photos of tropical beaches, stunning staterooms, and endless buffets. Maybe you’ve joined a Facebook group for your sailing, downloaded the cruise app, and started a packing list. But as embarkation day approaches, you might be asking: “What do I actually need to do before I get to the port?” Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or it’s been years since your last voyage, there’s a lot to know before

Planning a cruise from Los Angeles? The World Cruise Center in San Pedro is your gateway to unforgettable voyages along the Pacific and beyond. This blog covers everything you need to know before setting sail — from directions and parking to boarding procedures and nearby hotel stays. Here’s your complete guide to cruising from LA’s bustling port. Welcome to the Port of Los Angeles Port Details: Port Name: Port of Los Angeles Cruise Terminal: World Cruise Center, Berth SP-9

Scoring a last-minute cruise deal can feel like hitting the travel jackpot. You scroll through a few cruise sites, see that irresistible “75% Off” banner, and suddenly you’re imagining yourself sipping a frozen piña colada while the ship’s horn sounds and the skyline drifts away. But before you race to pack your swimsuit, it’s worth slowing down for a moment of reality. As any seasoned traveler—or anyone from The Cool Panda Travel & Event Coordination —will tell you, booking

Hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30 , and for many cruisers sailing to the Caribbean, Bahamas, or Gulf of Mexico , it can raise one big question: What happens if a hurricane is forecasted during my cruise dates? Great news—cruise lines are extremely prepared for hurricane season. These ships are floating cities equipped with advanced weather tracking technology and trained crews who know exactly how to navigate changing conditions. So while a hurricane can

Cruising solo used to come with one big problem — the dreaded single supplement fee. This fee meant paying almost the same as two passengers for a room you were using alone. For years, solo travelers had to choose between overpaying or finding a roommate. But not anymore. Cruise lines are finally recognizing that many travelers want the freedom, peace, and independence that comes with sailing solo — and they’re making it easier (and more affordable) than ever. Now, more ship

There’s something magical about stepping onto a cruise ship—the ocean breeze, the sound of the waves, and that incredible feeling that adventure is waiting just beyond the horizon. But before you pack your bags, there’s one big question every cruiser faces: Should you sail north to Alaska’s icy wilderness or south to the Caribbean’s sunny islands? Both are unforgettable, but they offer completely different vibes. Your choice says a lot about the kind of traveler you are. The

If you’re planning to set sail from Port Canaveral, you’re in for a fantastic experience. Nestled along Florida’s beautiful Space Coast in Brevard County, Port Canaveral is one of the busiest and most traveler-friendly cruise ports in the world. With easy access from Orlando, modern facilities, and proximity to beaches and attractions, it’s no wonder this port is a favorite for both first-time and seasoned cruisers alike. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything yo

Travel is one of life’s greatest joys. Whether you’re strolling along the canals of Amsterdam, climbing Machu Picchu, or enjoying the turquoise waters of the Maldives, every trip promises new experiences, culture, and adventure. But nothing can ruin a trip faster than financial stress — like finding out your debit card has been frozen while you’re halfway across the world. Fortunately, one of the simplest steps you can take to prevent financial headaches while traveling is to

Embarking on an Alaskan cruise or sailing out of Seattle’s bustling waterfront? Chances are, your journey begins at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (Sea-Tac) . Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or stepping aboard your first cruise, figuring out how to get from the airport to the cruise terminal can feel like a puzzle. With multiple transportation options available—from budget-friendly rail lines to private transfers—it’s important to choose the solution that fits your s

Embarking on a cruise is often associated with visions of azure seas, luxurious accommodations, and exotic destinations. The idea of sun-kissed decks, bountiful buffets, and late-night entertainment captures the imagination of many first-time and seasoned cruisers alike. But what many travelers don’t realize is that beneath the glittering surface lies a fascinating world of hidden treasures, unique experiences, and behind-the-scenes operations that most passengers never notic

Planning a cruise is one of the most exciting parts of vacation dreaming. You’ve researched the ports, picked your excursions, and maybe even started packing your swimsuit. But one question always pops up: Do you need a passport for your cruise? If you’re sailing on a closed loop cruise , the short answer is no—you don’t technically need one. You can travel with just a government-issued photo ID (like a driver’s license) and your original birth certificate with the raised se

Cruising with Carnival just got a refreshing upgrade! Introducing CHEERS! Zero Proof — Carnival Cruise Line’s brand-new premium non-alcoholic beverage package. Designed to elevate your cruise experience with variety and flavor, this package is the perfect choice for travelers who want more than just soda but prefer to skip the alcohol. Whether you’re sipping a handcrafted mocktail by the pool, grabbing a specialty coffee in the morning, or cooling down with a smoothie in the

Embarking on a cruise is one of life’s most exciting adventures. The moment you step onto the ship, you’re not just starting a vacation—you’re setting sail on an unforgettable journey filled with new destinations, delicious cuisine, and endless opportunities for fun and relaxation. But before you can sip that first fruity drink on deck or dip your toes into the pool, there’s one key detail that can make or break your embarkation day experience: having an embarkation day bag.

As we set sail on another unforgettable voyage, I invite you to join me in exploring one of the great mysteries of cruising: why it’s absolutely essential to put your phone in airplane mode once we leave the shore. Now, I know what you’re thinking. “But Melissa, I can’t live without my phone! How else will I post 47 selfies of me with the soft-serve machine?” Don’t worry, my tech-loving travelers. I’m not suggesting you toss your beloved device overboard or lock it in the ca

Hey there, fellow cruisers! Are you ready to embark on a nautical adventure filled with sunny skies, crystal-clear waters, and more buffet options than you can shake a fork at? Well, before you set sail, we’ve got some pearls of wisdom to share with you. Cruising isn’t just about exotic ports and fruity drinks—it’s also about rolling with the waves, both literal and figurative. So grab your life jackets (or at least your poolside margarita), and let’s dive right in! Don’t Pac

You’ve saved up your money. You’ve researched ships, itineraries, and ports of call. You’ve spent months counting down the days until embarkation. You and your friends are buzzing with excitement, ready to step onboard your floating resort for a week (or more!) of fun, food, and adventure. But let’s pause for a moment and consider one of the most important decisions you’ll make before your cruise ever begins: when should you fly into your cruise port? For many first-time crui