If your goal in 2024 is to try something new, a one-of-a-kind experience awaits you as the the world's largest cruise ship has arrived in Miami.
Cruise vacations are very popular. Especially for us here in Florida, it couldn't be more convenient. It's just a few hours from Fort Myers to Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Tampa or Port Canaveral to board a ship to take us around the world. I love to travel, but one vacation I haven't done yet, is to take a cruise. It's definitely on my list. I love the idea of being able to get out of the country for even just a few days and go check out a new country, or revisit an old favorite. The deals are there too. I got an email from one cruise line the other day that the second person cruises for free, plus all sorts of on-ship freebies like excursions and drink packages. So when I find out that fits my schedule, I'll be booking!
The World's Largest Cruise Ship Has Arrived In Miami
Brand new in 2024, Royal Caribbean has brought their Icon of the Seas to Miami. The boat officially debuts January 27th. This is the world's largest ship. According to a press release, guests will enjoy Category 6, the largest waterpark at sea with six record-breaking slides. There are also seven pools, including the first suspended infinity pool at sea, Royal Bay, the largest pool at sea, and Swim & Tonic, the largest swim-up bar at sea. There are 40+ ways to dine, drink and be entertained. All 7-night vacations to the Caribbean will include a stop at Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean's private island in The Bahamas.
I went on the site to look at bookings and right now, if you wanted to cruise aboard Icon of the Seas for Spring Break, prices start at $2200 per person. In July, prices start at $3100 per person. Of course, that's just for this ship in particular. There are weekend getaways on other ships starting at $300. There are some deals going on right now too. They're offering 60% off the second person, plus kids sail free. And even if you don't book now, keep an eye out for deals like that when you're ready.
Cruising as we knew it before the pandemic is almost back to normal, for the most part. One of the amenities enjoyed by most everyone, when planning and traveling on a cruise, is the food! There are so many options to choose from. So did you know that you should avoid these 5 foods on your next cruise?
According to a recent article written by the folks over at Travel + Leisure, there are some things your stomach might appreciate you staying away from. Some industry experts weighed in with their reasoning as to why some of these items should be passed up.
Sure this list does seem like common sense. But, we don't always think of these things when we are getting excited for an upcoming vacation. The last thing you want to do is eat something that will compromise your stomach. If you're someone who gets seasick anyway, keep reading. Can you imagine being on an excursion on a boat or bus full of people with nowhere to go? Nobody wants to be in that position.
So, if you're planning on a cruise any time soon, you may want to peruse the list of 5 Foods To Avoid On A Cruise.
Stay Away From The Spices
According to Nancy Mitchell, a registered nurse and contributing writer at Assisted Living Center, it may be a good idea to avoid high-fat and spicy foods that could "irritate the stomach lining and aggravate nausea."
Don't Skip Water
Consuming plenty of water can help reduce the chances of dehydration and headaches, which are associated with seasickness.
Think Twice About Outdoor Options
According to Aimee Takamura, director of wellness and sustainability at Restaurant Associates, if something doesn't look quite right, stay away from it. Look for things like the color of the food. Pay attention to who is using the utensils ahead of you. Are they using them correctly? Just be careful.
Skip Foods That Haven't Agreed With You Before
If there is a food option you've not really cared for in the past, this may not be the time to give it a second chance. DJ Mazzoni, a certified dietician tells Travel + Leisure, "Don't eat foods that have been triggers in the past or that you haven't consumed before." "Getting food poisoning on a cruise is doubly uncomfortable, due to the potential to become seasick, so it's best to play it safe."
Skip Alcohol When Seasick
This seems like common sense. If you're feeling queasy, you should probably leave the alcohol down until you're feeling better.
