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Beyond the Booking

Thoughtful advice, destination insight, and expert perspective to help you travel better from the very start.

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Best Travel Snacks for the Road: Delicious Ideas for Every Diet

Best Travel Snacks for the Road: Delicious Ideas for Every Diet

Planning one more road trip before fall takes over or getting ready to make the long drive to Galveston before getting on a cruise ship? From low-carb and vegetarian options to classic family favorites, these easy travel snacks will help keep everyone fueled, happy, and ready for the next adventure. Plus, a few simple tips for making road-trip snacking easier.

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MSC Seascape Review: What We Think "European Cruising" Actually Means
Travel Stories Melisa Travel Stories Melisa

MSC Seascape Review: What We Think "European Cruising" Actually Means

What does "European cruising" actually mean? Before sailing aboard MSC Seascape, we heard everything from "the food is terrible" to "the ships are beautiful." We boarded with an open mind and came away with a very different perspective. In this honest review, we share what surprised us most about MSC, from the relaxed atmosphere and impressive buffet to the entertainment, dance classes, and little details that set it apart from other cruise lines. If you're considering an MSC cruise and wondering whether it's the right fit for your travel style, here's what we learned after spending a week onboard.

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Our Adventure of the Seas Excursions: St. Croix, St. Maarten, San Juan & Nassau
Destinations, Travel Stories Melisa Destinations, Travel Stories Melisa

Our Adventure of the Seas Excursions: St. Croix, St. Maarten, San Juan & Nassau

Our Adventure of the Seas sailing included four very different ports: St. Croix, St. Maarten, San Juan, and Nassau. From breakfast in Old San Juan and a nostalgic America's Cup yacht race to a relaxing beach day in St. Croix and Royal Caribbean's new Royal Beach Club, here's how our family spent each port day and what we'd recommend to fellow cruisers.

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Adventure of the Seas Review: A Relaxed Caribbean Cruise with the Right Mix of Ports and Sea Days
Travel Stories Melisa Travel Stories Melisa

Adventure of the Seas Review: A Relaxed Caribbean Cruise with the Right Mix of Ports and Sea Days

Our family recently sailed an 8-night Southern Caribbean itinerary aboard Adventure of the Seas, visiting St. Croix, St. Maarten, San Juan, and Nassau. From sea days spent on the FlowRider and relaxing on our balcony to dining at Giovanni's Table and exploring the ship's hidden gems, here's our honest review and who we think this Royal Caribbean ship is best suited for.

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National Margarita Day
Destinations Melisa Destinations Melisa

National Margarita Day

Missed National Margarita Day? We’re on island time.

Bring cruise vibes home with this pineapple jalapeño margarita inspired by Royal Caribbean’s Playmakers, plus a mocktail version for the whole crew. Warning: may cause spontaneous cruise planning.

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