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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

Planning Your Puerto Vallarta Cruise Stop Maximizing your cruise stop in Puerto Vallarta starts with a little advance planning and some strategic choices—the kind that leave you reminiscing, “That was the best day of the trip!” First things first: check your ship’s docking schedule. Most cruises dock for a window of 6 to 10 hours, a golden opportunity for both sun-soaked adventure and laidback exploration. Begin by prioritizing your activities. Some of the most-loved experien

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

Discover Cabo San Lucas Shore Excursions Welcome to Cabo San Lucas , a sun-soaked port where dramatic landscapes meet vibrant culture, giving every cruiser the perfect reason to extend their shore leave just a little longer. Whether you’re chasing adrenaline rushes, discovering the city’s artistic flair, or simply seeking tranquility beneath a sun hat, you’ll find shore excursions here as memorable as the crystal blues of the Sea of Cortez. From your first step off the tender

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

If you’re docking in Alaska’s rain-kissed “First City,” you’re in for a treat. With its famed totem poles, lively boardwalks, and untamed wilderness, Ketchikan offers cruise travelers the perfect blend of culture, adventure, and wildlife—all just steps from your ship. Planning a day of sightseeing in this vibrant port can feel a little overwhelming, but don’t worry—we’ll guide you through the must-see landmarks, natural wonders, and cultural hotspots, all while sprinkling in

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

Planning Your Skagway Cruise Stop in Alaska Alaska’s Skagway cruise stop is a bucket-list moment—if you play your cards right. Nestled at the northernmost point of Alaska’s Inside Passage, Skagway may be home to a modest 7,000 residents, but every summer, it rolls out the red carpet for over a million eager cruise guests. The result? A joyful buzz…and the occasional crowd. The secret to an unforgettable Skagway adventure? A little advance planning. With limited time ashore, y

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