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

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

Welcome, cruise adventurers! If your next Alaska cruise includes a stop in Juneau, you’re in for some serious magic. As your friendly neighborhood travel expert, I’ll guide you through everything you can’t miss—from glaciers that dazzle and wildlife that wows to culture-rich streets and tastes you’ll remember long after you sail away. Juneau truly stands out with its blend of natural wonders, historical charm, wild adventures, and warm local flair. Get ready to discover the u

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

Discovering Old San Juan Wander through the cobblestone streets of Old San Juan, where history and charm blend seamlessly. This 500-year-old neighborhood is a must-see for cruise travelers. Start your journey at the iconic El Morro Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. Stroll down Calle Fortaleza, lined with pastel-colored colonial buildings, and don’t miss the chance to snap a photo at the vibrant Umbrella Sky Project. For

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

Must-See Attractions in Ocho Rios Ocho Rios is a treasure trove of must-see attractions that promise unforgettable experiences. Start with Dunn’s River Falls , a stunning 600-foot waterfall where you can climb the terraced rocks or relax in the natural pools. For a touch of history, visit the Green Grotto Caves , which have been used by Arawak Indians and Spanish settlers. Adventure seekers will love Mystic Mountain , offering a rainforest bobsled ride and zip-lining. Don’t m

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.

Welcome to Grand Cayman, a tropical paradise that offers a plethora of must-see spots for cruise passengers. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a history buff, or someone who just wants to relax on a beautiful beach, Grand Cayman has something for everyone. Let’s dive into some of the top attractions you won’t want to miss during your visit. Exploring Seven Mile Beach Imagine stepping off your cruise ship and sinking your toes into the powdery white sands of Seven Mile Beach

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

Explore the Beaches of Cozumel Imagine sinking your toes into powdery white sand while the turquoise waves of the Caribbean lap at your feet—welcome to the beaches of Cozumel! This island paradise offers a variety of stunning beaches, each with its own unique charm. For a laid-back vibe, head to Playa Palancar, where you can snorkel among vibrant coral reefs. If you’re into water sports, Playa San Francisco is your go-to spot, offering everything from jet skiing to parasailin

When most people think about getting top-notch service from their cruise cabin steward, they assume dropping a big tip on day one is the golden ticket. But ask any seasoned cruiser—or even better, ask the crew themselves—and you’ll quickly learn that money isn’t the magic key. What really makes the difference? Small, thoughtful actions that show respect and make their day a little easier. And the best part? These gestures don’t cost you a thing. Across cruise forums and socia

When it comes to packing for your vacation, most people assume if it’s fine to fly with, it’s also fine to cruise with. After all, airplanes have some of the strictest rules around, right? Well, not always. Cruise ships operate under their own policies designed to keep thousands of guests safe while living together on the water for days—or even weeks—at a time. That means there are plenty of items you might breeze through TSA security with, but they’ll never make it past the

Planning a group vacation, retreat, or celebration can feel overwhelming—but when you book with The Cool Panda Travel & Event Coordination , we take care of everything for you. We specialize in groups of all sizes, from small family reunions to corporate conferences at sea, and we’ve built our services around making your experience organized, stress-free, and unforgettable . When you choose Cool Panda, you’re not just reserving cabins—you’re unlocking a full suite of perks, p