Showing posts with label Bahamas. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Bahamas. Show all posts

Sunday, April 19, 2026

So, What’s It Like in Royal Suite Class?

4:48 PM 0

    On Royal Caribbean Cruise Line, staterooms in Sky and Star Class provide many inclusions that make family vacations pretty SUITE! 

The first, and most obvious, is the vast array of spacious accommodations that offer oversized balconies, large (and sometimes TWO) bathrooms with full-sized bathtubs, upgraded toiletries, and copious storage space. When you are traveling with a larger group, having this extra space to unpack and spread out is essential.


The luxury extends right down to the details in your room. You’ll enjoy a Pillow Menu for a perfect night’s sleep, plush bathrobes, and a Lavazza espresso machine for that first cup of coffee on your balcony. Plus, with stateroom service twice per day, your "home at sea" stays perfectly tidy.

Suite Guests have access to an exclusive lounge space with small bites and beverages available throughout the day, along with cocktail hours each evening. Some ships even provide sodas, specialty coffee, beer, and wine for guests’ enjoyment all day. A dedicated Suite Concierge is available in the lounge to assist with reservations, entertainment, and port excursions. In fact, the Concierge will contact you a week or more in advance to handle the heavy lifting before you even pack your bags.

     In addition to the lounge, suite guests are also privy to their own dedicated dining venue, Coastal Kitchen, which offers an elevated menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner in an intimate setting. And if a quiet meal is what you long for, suite guests not only have room service at no additional charge, but if something on the Main Dining Room menu strikes your fancy, orders can be delivered directly to your stateroom for a private meal “at home.”


    The "VIP" treatment follows you all over the ship and even onto land. You’ll have access to the Suite Sun Deck—a private oasis with daybeds, chaises, and an exclusive bar. On many ships, this deck even features its own hot tubs and cabanas. When it's time for a show, there’s no need to line up early; you have a reserved seating section in every theater, including the Ice Rink and AquaTheater.


     Even your time in port is streamlined. Suite guests enjoy priority tendering, getting you to the pier faster. If your itinerary includes Labadee or Perfect Day at CocoCay, you’ll gain access to exclusive suite-only beach areas—like Barefoot Beach—complete with upgraded lunch menus that take "island food" to a whole new level.
Of course, you’ll want to share your amazing trip with folks at home, so everyone in the suite receives VOOM Surf and Stream internet included in the fare.

Clearly, when you’re booked in a suite on Royal Caribbean, you’ll want to begin your vacation right away. You’re in luck—suite guests have a dedicated check-in line and are among the first welcomed onto the ship. And when the trip sadly ends, priority departure ensures your transition back to reality is as smooth as your time onboard!

If you have questions or need help with booking or planning, I'd be happy to assist. Feel free to contact me to help you plan your next FamilyTale.

Mickey Chick is a passionate traveler who has explored various corners of the globe. As a travel advisor for FamilyTale Vacations with years of travel experience, she enjoys sharing her tips and insights to help fellow explorers make the most out of their journeys. She believes that travel is not just about sightseeing but also a transformative experience that opens doors to new perspectives and enriches our lives. You can follow her adventures on her blog and social media channels.
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Location: The Bahamas

Sunday, February 11, 2024

Why Choose a Cruise?

10:22 AM 0


Ahoy, Adventure Seekers! Why Choose a Cruise? Get Ready to Set Sail on the Vacation of a Lifetime!

     Ah, the open seas! There's something magical about the idea of sailing away on a grand adventure, exploring multiple destinations, and indulging in endless fun and relaxation. As a travel advisor with a passion for all things cruise-related, I'm here to show you why choosing a cruise is the ultimate vacation experience. So grab your life jackets, put on your sea legs, and let's dive into the fantastic world of cruising!



1. Unpack Once for Multiple Destinations:

Once you unpack,
you're ready to see it all!

    Raise your hand if you've ever experienced the struggle of packing and unpacking multiple times during a trip. *Raises both hands* Trust me, it's no fun. But fear not! When you choose a cruise, you only need to unpack once. Say goodbye to the hassle of lugging around heavy suitcases and hello to stress-free travel. Your cozy cabin becomes your floating home, and you can explore different destinations without worrying about re-packing or checking in and out of hotels. It's like having a magical moving hotel room that takes you to incredible places! You simply arrive at your luxurious floating hotel, settle into your cozy cabin, and unpack your bags. And guess what? That's the last time you'll have to unpack on this trip! 
Visit Multiple Destinations
    A major perk of cruising is that you get to visit multiple destinations without the hassle of constantly packing and unpacking. It's like having a magical genie who transports you effortlessly from one incredible place to another. Picture this: you wake up in a new destination every day, ready to embark on thrilling adventures. That's the beauty of a cruise! Whether you're dreaming of exploring the ancient ruins of Greece, snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean, or indulging in mouthwatering cuisine in Italy, a cruise offers a smorgasbord of destinations to satisfy every wanderlust-filled heart. It's like a buffet of travel experiences, where you can sample the best of each port of call. So whether you're dreaming of exploring the stunning fjords of Norway or basking in the sunshine of the Caribbean, a cruise allows you to do it all without the stress of lugging around suitcases.



2. Food, Fun Activities, and Entertainment:

    

Breakfast on the Boardwalk: Oasis of the Seas

A Cruise is a Food-Lover's Paradise
Now, let's talk about the real star of the show on a cruise: the food! Prepare your taste buds for a culinary adventure like no other. From gourmet dining experiences to mouthwatering buffets and specialty restaurants, cruise ships are a food lover's paradise. You'll have the opportunity to savor a wide variety of cuisines, indulge in decadent desserts, and even try your hand at cooking classes or wine tastings. Bon appétit!

Kitchen Tours and More
Specialty Dining: 150 Central Park
    But wait, there's more! Cruises are not just about the food. They offer a plethora of fun activities and entertainment options that cater to everyone's tastes. Whether you're a thrill-seeker looking to conquer a water slide or a laid-back lounger searching for the perfect spot by the pool, there's something for everyone on board. Dance the night away at vibrant nightclubs, catch a Broadway-style show, or test your luck at the onboard casino. The possibilities are endless, and the fun never stops!


3. No Travel Hassles:

    Now, let's address one of the most significant concerns when it comes to travel: passports. Guess what? You may not even need one! If you choose a closed-loop cruise, which departs from and returns to the same U.S. port, you can leave your passport worries behind. Just grab your driver's license and birth certificate, and you're good to go! It's like a secret loophole that allows you to explore the world without the hassle of renewing or obtaining a passport. 

    Another perk of cruising is that you can often sail from a port close to home - no flights necessary!! The lasting memory of your vacation should be of the relaxation and rest you enjoyed while sailing the seven seas instead of the stresses associated  with air travel - delays, cancellations, TSA...  So, pack your bags and set sail on an unforgettable adventure, hassle-free!


Conclusion:

    Why choose a cruise, you ask? Well, why not? Unpack once and explore multiple destinations, indulge in mouthwatering cuisine, enjoy endless entertainment, and leave your passport at home for a closed-loop adventure from a local port. Cruising offers the perfect blend of relaxation, exploration, and excitement, making it the ultimate vacation choice.

As your go-to travel advisor, I'm here to help you plan and book the cruise of your dreams.  Contact me today, and let's set sail on an adventure you'll never forget!



#go2ndstar

Mickey Chick is a passionate traveler who has explored various corners of the globe. As a travel advisor for FamilyTale Vacations with years of travel experience, she enjoys sharing her tips and insights to help fellow explorers make the most out of their journeys. She believes that travel is not just about sightseeing but also a transformative experience that opens doors to new perspectives and enriches our lives. You can follow her adventures on her blog and social media channels.
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Location: New York, NY, USA

Sunday, January 28, 2024

Mickey Chick's Practically Perfect Packing List

8:40 AM 0

Mickey Suitcase
        
     Planning for your next adventure can be exciting, but it can also be a bit overwhelming when it comes to figuring out what to pack. Fear not! We've got you covered with our ultimate standard packing list. Whether you're jetting off to a tropical paradise or exploring historic
cities, this comprehensive guide will ensure you have everything you need for a comfortable and memorable journey. So grab your passport and let's dive into our top picks!


1. Travel Essentials:

    •  Passport, ID, and copies of important documents
    •  Credit cards with no foreign transaction fee
    •  Cash for tips and small purchases
    •  Have a backup payment method.
    •  Universal adapter
    •  Portable charger
    •  Cords and connectors for all electronics
    • Travel-sized toiletries
    •  Medications

2. Clothing:

    •  Comfortable walking shoes
    •  Versatile clothing
    •  Swimwear
    •  Weather-specific clothing

3. Travel Accessories:

4. Entertainment and Technology:

5. Health and Wellness:

    •  Eyeglasses, reading glasses, hard case
    •  Extra set of contact lenses, contact solution, contact case
    •  First aid kit
    •  Sunscreen
    •  Hat and Sunglasses

 


Mickey Chick is a passionate traveler who has explored various corners of the globe. As a travel advisor for FamilyTale Vacations with years of travel experience, she enjoys sharing her tips and insights to help fellow explorers make the most out of their journeys. She believes that travel is not just about sightseeing but also a transformative experience that opens doors to new perspectives and enriches our lives. You can follow her adventures on her blog and social media channels.
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Location: The Bahamas

Sunday, February 23, 2020

Coco Beach Club @ Royal Caribbean's Perfect Day at CocoCay

12:12 PM 0
A DAY IN PICTURES: 

Coco Beach Club 

Royal Caribbean's 

Perfect Day at Coco Cay

The Patisserie, the specialty coffee and pastry outlet onboard Royal Caribbean's Anthem of the Seas, welcomes us to this private island in the Bahamas and sets the tone for today's adventure.


Although the clouds threatened a few morning sprinkles, they didn't last long and the day turned out to be sunny & pleasant.
They made it pretty easy to make ourselves at home - pointing the way to coffee and pastries to nibble on before the restaurant opened for lunch and providing lots of loungers to choose from.



While we chose a lounger near the pool and tiki bar, the Coco Beach Club offers a plentiful array of seating options for different family sizes and preferences. 

With it's infinity-edge pool, teak furniture and decking, and large, thick towels awaiting guests, the Coco Beach Club is a private beach resort on an already exclusive island.

Guests to the Coco Beach Club can enjoy amenities such as a large pool deck with abundant seating, shady umbrellas, life-preservers, and floating beach mats...



No matter where you choose to sit, you'll enjoy a picturesque view of the area's offerings...

...with spectacular views of the calm, teal shore of South Beach.

Of course a day at the beach isn't complete without a waterfront beach lounger...and extra-attentive beverage service!

A newly dredged shoreline at South Beach offers a soft sand bottom, sandbars for all-day frolicking among the calm, clear, turquoise waters.

We couldn't resist getting a panoramic shot of the beach club shoreline, flanked by the the first  over-the-water bungalows offered on a cruise line's private island.

A comfy lounger overlooking a crystalline infinity pool offers a perfect slice of paradise.

While the food offerings throughout CocoCay are both tasty and abundant, a special al-fresco restaurant at the Coco Beach Club provides stunning beach views and elevated options. Be sure to make your reservations early to have your choice of seating times.

The menu leans toward fresh seafood, but is quite varied.
After placing an entree order, guest can enjoy a buffet of starters such as vegetable crudite, hummus,  Greek and Caprese salads, and ready-to-eat shrimp.
Don't forget Beach Club specialty drink:
the Coco Cuvee


The filet mignon was grilled to perfection and to-die-for!
Don't skip dessert!
This caramel and chocolate brownie
left us super-satisfied. YUM!



The island easily - and comfortably- accommodated two large ships: The Mariner of the Seas and The (slightly bigger)  Anthem of the Seas. This is impressive planning on Royal Caribbean's part, as it was President's Week - so both vessels were filled to the brim with families. 

I hope you enjoyed our photo tour of the Coco Beach Club at Royal Caribbean's private island, Perfect Day at Coco Cay. Be sure to contact us if you have questions, comments, photo requests, or would like more information about planning your own cruise adventure.
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Location: CocoCay, The Bahamas

Saturday, August 17, 2019

Looking for Last-Minute Cruise Deals?

8:45 AM 0

What about those “last-minute” cruise deals?


For many years now, “conventional wisdom” has suggested that travelers wait until the last minute to book a cruise, because that’s when the best deals are to be had. The thinking goes that they lower the prices to fill the ship if it hasn’t been selling well. This hasn’t been true for quite some time. In fact, depending on what you value, this type of thinking can actually wind up costing you more.

1.     The best deals are usually found the further out you book – in fact, the closer to the opening of the schedule, the better the cruise fare will be. You will also have a wider selection of stateroom class and location. (We’ll talk more about that later.)

2.     If you require a flight to your embarkation port, last-minute airfare will be at some of the highest price-points, with limited choices on flight times and carriers.

3.     Plus, since it’s recommended to arrive at least a day prior to your cruise departure, hotel space may not only be limited, but you will have also lost the ability to take advantage of special discounted rates or special deals such as free breakfast or cruise-length parking included at no extra charge.

4.     Even if you’re traveling from a port closer to home, a last-minute cruise will require immediate payment in full, robbing you of the ability to make smaller, incremental payments.

5.     Most cruise lines offer specialty dining and drink-packages available for purchase at a slightly discounted rate prior to sailing. Furthermore, these packages are often subject to special sales, which further reduce the financial impact of purchase, and also allow cruisers to spread out the expenses of the vacation prior to the sail date.

6.     And speaking of sales… From time to time cruise lines will offer some fantastic fare specials that they use to fill the ships - reducing the need to offer fire-sales closer to departure. When these price-drops occur, your travel advisor can usually apply these special rates, such as Reduced Airfare, or Kid-Sail-Free to your reservation. As the embarkation date approaches, these offers disappear.

7.     When vacationing with kids, it’s also important to consider their school, sports, and social schedules. Ships tend to sail a little lighter when school is in session, so “last-minute” rates are generally offered on these trips. The short notice will likely make it difficult to coordinate time off from work, as well as interfere with academic or athletic obligations.

8.     Since cruising is such a great time to connect with family, many multi-generational and extended family groups enjoy cruising together. Those wishing to be together will often want to have rooms nearby each other – especially when the children outnumber the adults. Larger families who require larger accommodations either book the more spacious quads and mini-suites, or opt for connecting cabins. Reserving two of these staterooms, which feature a door to the adjacent cabin, can be a great bargain for bigger broods, so they tend to fill up fast. However, there are rarely any of these available the closer to sailing you get - rendering them unlikely to appear in last-minute inventory. Choosing from the more costly suite options will negate any savings you might have anticipated by waiting to book.

9.     Today’s cruise ships have become destinations in and of themselves. They offer a multitude of activities, rotational and specialty dining venues, as well as various entertainment options. A late booking impedes your ability to book the best specialty restaurants and dining times, private-island cabanas, entertainment showtimes and activity options. Although your cruise fare includes most of these offerings, last-minute reservations will be limited, if available at all.

10. Do you prefer a rear-facing balcony?  Would you like a forward-facing oceanview room? Will a stateroom above or below the nightclub interfere with your rest? Do you or someone in your family suffer from motion sickness? Would you like a balcony stateroom so you can enjoy the view while your toddler naps? Choosing the just-right cabin for any special requirements or concerns is an important part of the planning process. A major drawback of waiting for a last-minute deal is often losing the ability to choose your cabin or book the stateroom category of your choice.



As my mother always said, “the cheap turns out expensive.” There is value in the ability to make choices, plan, budget, and take advantage of special offers along the way. Clearly, it is to the traveler’s advantage to book as early as possible.
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Location: The Bahamas

Saturday, June 1, 2019

Exclusive Presidents' Week 2020 Cruise Offer

5:40 AM

Mickey Chick's Magical Adventures has teamed up with Second Star Travel for an Exclusive Presidents' Week Sailing on the Royal Caribbean Anthem of the Seas.

Since the itinerary includes a stop at Port Canaveral, Florida for day of Theme Park Fun, a free personalized theme park itinerary from Second Star Travel will be added to other special amenities.

Contact Second Star Travel to reserve your stateroom today!
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