From my very first "Circle the Caribbean" 10 night cruise, aboard Royal Caribbean's Grandeur of the Seas, I knew I was in love with cruising! Now, over 20 years later, I get to do my dream job, helping others find their own joy through discovering travel! Cruising is by far my favorite form of vacation travel, but I do love a good land adventure every now and again!
We are a family of cruisers! Our favorite cruise line when traveling with our kids is Royal Caribbean. You can always find something fun to do, whatever your age! Our kids have cruised all over the Caribbean, and we are excited to finally be taking them on a Greek Islands Mediterranean cruise in 2026! Our oldest daughter will be graduating high school and loves Greek history and mythology, and cannot wait to explore these beautiful islands and experience the rich culture and history first hand. What an incredible journey it has been!
Here are some of my favorite Caribbean excursions...
This excursion is all about enjoying the thrill of the outdoors, an ideal combination of an invigorating cruise, an idyllic beach and Caribbean ambiance. Sit back and enjoy the views of this island archipelago en route to White Bay on Jost Van Dyke. The catamaran will nose up to the beach to allow you to step ashore on one of the British Virgin Islands most magnificent beaches. You’ll find yourself in paradise with crystal clear blue waters lapping at a picture perfect white sand beach fringed by palm trees.
Don't miss your chance to visit the world famous Soggy Dollar Bar. Here you can enjoy a refreshing Painkiller, the famous cocktail invented here.
Visit an animal sanctuary where rescued wildlife including monkeys and sloths call home. Enjoy some interaction with the animals at the sanctuary, hug and hold 3-toed sloths and look for the white-faced Capuchin monkeys as well as spider monkeys.
Travel to an iguana farm located at the beach. There are so many iguanas here that roam freely in a protected haven, there are too many to count. Some can grow up to four feet long! Have a personal interaction and one-on-one with Roatan's most exotic species where visitors can feed and touch these friendly reptiles.
At Royal Caribbean's exclusive private retreat —Coco Beach Club® —every moment is elevated. Drift along the finest line possible between poolside and seaside in an infinity pool overlooking the ocean. Sip your favorite tropical cocktails along the water’s edge where a poolside attendant is always close by. And when the craving hits, savor upgraded complimentary dining from the clubhouse. For the ultimate indulgence, treat yourself to your own private cabana with dedicated cabana attendant service or soak up endless views of blue from the first Overwater Cabanas in The Bahamas.
Here are my favorite Mediterranean cruise excursions.
Explore the ruins of Pompeii, an ancient Roman town destroyed by the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D. Though buried under several feet of ash and pumice, much of the city was preserved. Upon entering Pompeii through the Sea Gate, you'll quickly arrive at the city's hub, the Forum. From there, you'll continue touring this fascinating archaeological site, discovering an array of paintings, inscriptions, and even pedestrian walkways, all immortalized by the eruption. Put on your headset and discover how Pompeii looked 2000 years ago.
Discover the vivid colors and spectacular natural scenery that is found only in the Luberon region of Provence. On a scenic drive to Lourmarin you'll be amazed at the picturesque woods of green pines, multi-shaded rocky outcrops, and colors that are reminiscent of an artist's palette. Arrive at the hilltop village of Lourmarin, listed as "one of the most beautiful villages in France," and enjoy a guided tour, then time on your own to wander the narrow, winding streets with their lovely old, restored homes while taking in lively atmosphere of the town that author and philosopher Albert Camus called home.
Belvedere, Cinque Terre, a national park and territory protected by UNESCO, is known for its dramatic scenery, which you'll admire as you journey through two lovely villages. The area is dotted with cliffs that rise sharply from the sea, sheltering secluded rocky beaches and coves. From Portofino, begin your tour with a scenic coach drive to Levanto, then board the train to reach Monterosso. Enjoy a guided walking tour and then embark on your own exploration. A taste of pesto bruschetta with a glass of wine at a local restaurant completes your visit. Then, board a local minibus and enjoy a scenic Cinque Terre drive to Manarola, where you'll follow your guide and then be able to explore on your own.
While cruising is our favorite pastime, when at home you can find us at our local theatre, volunteering to clean up our beautiful Florida beaches and having fun with our school's parent teacher student Co-op!