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Cruises

Our cruise experiences and adventures

Review: Comfort Inn Airport, Plainfield Indiana
2023 New England, Canada

Review: Comfort Inn Airport, Plainfield Indiana

The bed is firm, yet soft, providing a rare comfort that truly helps after a long journey. However, stepping off the elevator greeted us with a strange odor, possibly raw sewage, and an open maintenance panel that raised safety concerns for our kids. The motion detector lights in the foyer proved to be more of a nuisance than a convenience, waking us up during midnight bathroom trips. We’re off to breakfast soon, but the experience has been a mixed bag so far.

On the Road: Different Things at Different Times
2023 New England, Canada

On the Road: Different Things at Different Times

Stuck in traffic due to an accident, we’re surrounded by the sounds of sirens and the sight of smoke rising from the wreck ahead. With a tablet running gMaps and RadarScope, I’m monitoring our route while Roxan assists fellow travelers on the FB cruise forum. Thankfully, we weren’t involved in the crash, but it’s a stark reminder of how quickly things can change on the road. Plans for dinner in Indianapolis have evaporated...

Two People, 12 Days…
2023 New England, Canada

Two People, 12 Days…

Yup, seems about the right amount of packing. Whether you're heading for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, knowing how to pack efficiently can make a huge difference. It's not just about fitting everything in; it's about making sure you have what you need without overloading your luggage. Let's explore some tips to streamline your packing process.

Could a Cruise be in My Near Future?
2023 New England, CanadaGeneral

Could a Cruise be in My Near Future?

The Sunday morning 5:30ish alarm is already shut off, a rare moment of peace as events on the calendar begin to lighten up. This quiet time offers a chance to reflect and recharge, revealing how busy schedules can sometimes overshadow the simple pleasures of life. It's a reminder that...

They’re Here!
2023 New England, Canada

They’re Here!

They shall know you by your beads... a vibrant symbol of identity and culture that carries stories of tradition. In every bead lies a connection to the past, a testament to craftsmanship, and a celebration of individuality. The colors and patterns tell tales that transcend time, inviting you to explore the rich history behind each piece.

Wow, Just Three Weeks Away!
2023 New England, Canada

Wow, Just Three Weeks Away!

With our Facebook group swelling to 355 members, nearly 1 in 10 passengers will be part of this incredible cruise adventure! I can hardly wait to see the ship through the eyes of fellow travelers. In the four months since my last update, I've rebranded my travel agency to Sea Freedom Vacations and am gearing up for a group trip to Alaska aboard NCL Jewel next June. The excitement is palpable, and I'm prepping for the challenges ahead as we embark on this journey.

Light Houses, Trains and Tours
2023 New England, CanadaCanada

Light Houses, Trains and Tours

The vibrant fall colors of New England and Eastern Canada are a sight to behold, and our upcoming cruise promises to showcase this breathtaking annual display. With two insightful books as our guide, we’re ready to explore the charm of coastal ports like Newport, Rhode Island. Our adventure starts with the Rose Island Lighthouse and Harbor Tour, where we’ll delve into the history of this iconic landmark...

Three Cruises, Two Years — Sure, Why not?
2024 Mega Trip

Three Cruises, Two Years — Sure, Why not?

As we ponder our retirement, the idea of living on a cruise ship is becoming more appealing. With Roxan potentially working as a shipboard nurse, we’re exploring itineraries that could make this dream a reality. Our chosen path will take us from Istanbul to Venice, then to Rome, with stops in captivating locations like Greece and the Azores. This journey isn’t just about travel; it’s a test of whether cruise life is truly for us.

We’ve Chosen Our Next Two Destinations
2023 New England, Canada2024 Alaska

We’ve Chosen Our Next Two Destinations

This October, we're embarking on a 7-day cruise through the US Northeast and Canada, a perfect leaf-peeping tour. We're excited to experience our first Aft Balcony room on the NCL Escape, room 13312. But that's not all—next June, we're treating ourselves to a luxurious forward-facing Penthouse Suite on the Norwegian Jewel, where we'll enjoy stunning views and all the perks of being a Haven passenger, just without access to the Haven area itself.

These are our Vacation Heroes
2022 Alaska, Panama Canal Repo

These are our Vacation Heroes

Surina Taljaard, the General Manager’s secretary, was a beacon of support during our trip on Norwegian Encore. She coordinated surprises and helped set up Internet access for live blogging, all while maintaining a calm professionalism. Her genuine appreciation for guests truly made our experience special. Julius Cantel Villavelez, our Room Steward, quickly became a familiar face, always ready with extra towels or a firmer pillow, embodying the essence of hospitality.

October 31 – Puerto Vallarta, sort of
2022 Alaska, Panama Canal RepoMexican Riviera

October 31 – Puerto Vallarta, sort of

We woke up late Monday morning, but news that Roxan’s dad had taken a dramatic turn for the worse set us scrambling to debark the ship. As we rushed to arrange flights home, I struggled with ship WiFi and poor cell service, all while Roxan packed our bags. The timeline was tight; we had to meet customs by noon, and our laundry was still in question. Just when panic started to set in, Francisco knocked on the door with our clean laundry!

October 30 – Mazatlan
2022 Alaska, Panama Canal RepoMexican Riviera

October 30 – Mazatlan

Ironically, I ended up indulging in a 'Resort Day' at the same hotel I initially planned to visit for a day pass. For $95 each, we enjoyed a bus ride, access to pools, a beach, and a delightful lunch buffet. It was my first time swimming in the ocean, a refreshing experience after years of only dipping my toes in. Relaxing under a palm front gazebo, with stunning views and the thrill of parasailers overhead, made for a perfect day.