Cruises Archives

MIDDAY MANGIA

Specialty dining on a cruise ship typically takes place at dinner, right? Well, that is what I thought, but sometimes you get greater availability at lunch then you do at dinner. So, when our concierge suggested having lunch on an “At Sea” day, we decided to try it out.

I’m not one for a big lunch, but isn’t vacation (especially a cruise) typically 10 meals a day anyway? We slept in, skipped breakfast, and headed straight to lunch at Jamie’s Italian Kitchen by Jamie Oliver onboard Royal Caribbean’s Anthem of the Seas.

The restaurant was empty when we arrived but slowly started to fill as we began to eat. I will admit, it felt like we had the entire restaurant to ourselves, which to be honest, was nice! Our waiter was attentive and accommodating to any dietary needs, as well as substitutions.

Our waiter came out automatically with this huge meat plank. The Cured Meat Plank size was unbelievable, but 7 of us managed to finish it all. We then were asked to choose some more appetizers, which included Squid Fritti, Truffle Arancini, Truffle Burrata, Tomato Bruschetta and Ultimate Garlic Buns (which we kept as a side).

If we weren’t full enough already from the amazing appetizers, now we needed to choose our Main Course. My daughter is picky when it comes to sauces, so our waiter was more than happy to accommodate her with “buttered” pasta, as well as a single piece of salmon. The Super Salmon dish comes with a lot of things she would not eat, so our waiter suggested the salmon without it. She enjoyed every bite!

Most of us went with pasta, except my husband. We had a friendly wager of what he would order before he joined us at the table. (He LOVES lasagna!). He did not disappoint and chose accordingly. Our youngest member ordered yet another burger (not pictured).

The portions were appropriate in size. Pasta was fresh and savory in flavor. We all wanted to try some of the sides as well and ordered Polenta Chips, Charred Broccoli, Rocket Salad and the leftover appetizer Ultimate Garlic Buns. These sides were a miss for us. The salad and broccoli were too bitter for our taste. The polenta chips were just “ok”. However, the garlic buns were a homerun!

In typical fashion, we all ate too much and still had to fit dessert in. You must try it right? Those that did order went with the Banana split, Tiramisu and the Gelato/Sorbet. The flavor of the day for the Gelato/Sorbet was Mango, and we did not choose any toppings. Also, cappuccinos to help not put us to sleep after this huge meal.

This lunch delivered on its portion sizes, flavor and the flexibility for even the pickiest of eaters. Everyone enjoyed their meals and were very satisfied with this dining experience. I would definitely visit again!

CHOP IT LIKE IT’S HOT

CHOPS Grille onboard Royal Caribbean’s Anthem of the Seas is a popular specialty dining restaurant. Honestly, because who doesn’t love a piece of steak?

We were met with an amazing waiter, David, who went above and beyond. He stood out with his attentiveness, energy, and made sure everyone was taken care of. A real “hustler” in the best way. This made our experience outstanding.

The table started out with Lobster Bisque, Wild Mushroom Soup and Colossal Shrimp Cocktail. All were incredibly tasty.

For the main course, almost everyone got the filet mignon with choices from a 9 oz or 6 oz portion. My mom chose the NY Strip steak. All found the steaks to be flavorful and cooked to their liking. We had one that was a little more on the rare side than medium, we spoke up and they immediately provided a new steak cooked to perfection. Our youngest family member chose a hamburger from the kid’s menu.

Sides came out in individual portions but were shared among the table. We ordered Truffle fries

Gruyère tater tots, Mac ‘n’ cheese with bacon, Mashed potatoes and sauteed mushrooms. All were savory and gave that “just like home” feeling.

Most of us were super full but a few chose to partake in dessert. We did celebrate a couple of birthdays, and the wait staff made it memorable for sure.

Overall, a positive experience, our server David was top notch and made the meal shine. Meal was spot-on with presentation, generous portions and something for everyone. From indulgent to savory, CHOPS Grille will be on our itinerary when sailing again with Royal Caribbean.

Wonderland aboard Royal Caribbean’s Anthem of the Seas

Chasing Rabbits AND Flavors at Wonderland

Are you not an adventurous person when it comes to dining? I am not, I need to know what I am eating and if it sounds unappetizing, no thank you!

Prior to dining, I was extremely hesitant of how much I’d like dining in this specialty dining restaurant aboard Royal Caribbean’s Anthem of the Seas. Wonderland, themed after Alice and Wonderland, I was afraid of where this rabbit hole was exactly going to take me. However, I was pleasantly surprised!

And We’re Off…

Upon entering, our waiter David, built our trust by guiding us through the menu and selections. He assured us that he would not steer us wrong, turning our apprehension into curiosity and thus began our journey.

You begin the experience by “painting” the menu. You are provided with a frame and menu that is activated by water. They provide a paintbrush, and you paint your way to seeing the menu appear.

The menu is categorized into five elements – Sun, Ice, Fire, Earth, and Sea. Sun had radiant vegetables playfully reinvented, Ice is to chill and exhilarate the palette, Fire to emanate warmth, Earth to ground you whimsically and Sea to inspire you with the tide of imagination.

Cocktails and Appetizers

We began our culinary journey with Cocktails and Appetizers. We were met right away with theatrical presentation and whimsical theming.

I ordered the Cheshire Cat Cosmo, a glass brought to me filled with cotton candy. The drink was then poured over the cotton candy and magically melted away leaving the flavor behind. Others enjoyed the White Rabbit-rita for their cocktail of choice.

We ordered one appetizer from the Sun, Earth and Sea, two from the Ice and 3 from the Fire elements. The Bird’s nest and Mad Hatter’s Purple Potted shrimp were by far our most favorite dishes, ordering several times before the main course.

Main Course

Our main course consisted of the Earth and Sea elements. The Branzino, Chicken and Burger were hits. The pork was a little too fatty and the halibut needed a little more flavor. Most of us ate so many appetizers, we had trouble finishing the main course. With dessert ahead, we chose to leave some room for that!

Desserts

Presentation and theming were beyond measure here! Not a drop was left behind on any of these delicious plates. The kid’s banana split came out with a pile of cotton candy on top, only to lift the cotton candy to find the ice cream in a chocolate shell dish. The World – was exactly that, presented as a globe, to which they poured a hot fudge over top that instantly melted the world into an amazing shell of chocolatey goodness. The Mushroom Garden was the most colorful and cute dessert, made mostly of meringue. The Forbidden Apple was described by my daughter as tasting like raspberry pudding – can’t go wrong there!

Overall, the feeling before I walked into the restaurant and when I left were complete opposites. The immersive dining and the surprise factor at trying things I would not normally try won me over. I would highly recommend to my clients to TRY this experience. Traditional dining it is not, however, if you are in for an artistic, unique, creative and imaginative experience – it’s a home run!

Navigating the Seas of Change: Will Cruising Cost You More in 2024?

We love cruising and this year has proven to be a record-breaking year for the cruise industry. Everyone’s desire to sail has led to high demand and sold-out cruises for many. This year is on track for the same momentum.

Here is what you should consider if you want to sail the open waters this year.

Plan NOW

Planning now is crucial. The cruise lines use dynamic pricing, and this means the cost will continue to increase as the cruise fills up. Some cruise lines are already at 80% full for the year for all sailings. The sooner you plan, the better it will be for pricing and availability.

Know Your Travel Dates

You should determine which month you can sail. Keep in mind that most deposits may be non-refundable, so making changes will cost you more. Travelling with family means you need to confirm everyone’s schedule before booking your cruise.

Which Itinerary?

You have the option of several itineraries to choose from. We recommend you decide by starting with how many nights you want to sail because this also determines the destination. Is there a port you want to visit or skip? Which port is the cruise departing from and will it be easy for you to get there?

Which Cruise Line?

There are multiple options. I recommend you look at the age of the ship, the port of calls, the activities and restaurants, and the cruise lines private island. Is one more family friendly than the other or do you prefer adult only? You should consider what matters most to you! Not all ships are created equal, and we can help you decide on the best one.

Which Cabin?

Is pricing a factor? Look at the cost of each category because of dynamic pricing, a Balcony cabin may be cheaper than an inside Oceanview. If you are a solo traveler, you may pay more, so if you have a friend that can sail with you, we recommend it. Families may opt for two cabins instead of one for more space. Having two bathrooms is better than one with kids!

Your Budget

If you know your budget, this will help because of dynamic pricing and availability. You should also consider the final payment due date. The closer to the sailing may require paid in full versus a deposit. Will you fly to the port for your sailing? You should arrive a day before the cruise, so factor the cost of an overnight hotel stay too.

Embarking on a sailing adventure in 2024 is more than just a vacation – it’s a voyage of discovery, relaxation, and joy. At Fairytales and Sunsets Travel, we’re passionate about turning your sailing dreams into a reality. Let us be your compass as you navigate the seas of possibilities. Contact us today, and together, we’ll craft a sailing experience that exceeds your expectations. Bon voyage!

European River Cruise

A European river cruise is the perfect way to see the continent in style and comfort. Imagine gliding past stunning landscapes and charming villages, all while enjoying the luxurious amenities of your floating hotel.

One of the biggest advantages of a European river cruise is the opportunity to experience multiple destinations in a single trip. Many cruises travel along the Rhine, Main, and Danube rivers, stopping in cities such as Amsterdam, Frankfurt, Vienna, and Budapest. This allows you to see a variety of cultures and landmarks without the hassle of constantly packing and unpacking.

Another benefit is the intimate atmosphere of a river cruise. The ships are typically smaller than ocean cruises, which means you’ll be able to get to know your fellow passengers and the crew more easily. Additionally, because the ships navigate smaller waterways, you’ll be able to get closer to the sights and sounds of the places you visit.

River cruises are also known for their high-quality dining and entertainment options. Many ships feature multiple dining venues, from casual to formal, as well as lounges and bars for socializing. There are also onboard activities and lectures that provide additional opportunities to learn about the destinations you’re visiting.

In addition, River cruises often include shore excursions as a part of the package, giving you the chance to experience all the highlights and hidden gems of each destination, with expert local guides.

So why not book a European river cruise today and start planning your dream vacation?

Why River Cruises and Ocean Cruises Are So Popular

River Cruises

River cruises are a great way to experience multiples countries in Europe, Asia, Africa, and South America. The ships are smaller than the large ocean cruise ships, so you get a more intimate vibe while onboard. The river cruises travel the inland waterways and stop in cities and towns. You also get to skip the hectic train schedules with multiple stops and connections. You have the luxury of several meals onboard that are included with your cruise pricing. The cruise line will offer some amazing excursions with your port visits, some may even be included in the price! Most of your time sailing will be at night, so you are sound asleep floating down the river. When your cruise is sailing during the day, you will typically enjoy amazing scenery. Who doesn’t love floating by castles and adorable Bavarian towns! Imagine drinking your morning coffee from your stateroom and floating by castles and vineyards. A river cruise brings the option for foodies and wine connoisseurs to have an experience of a lifetime!

Ocean Cruises

Sailing the Caribbean, Mediterranean, and world-wide destinations are back and in demand! Everyone is so excited about sailing again, the demand is high, and cruises are selling out quicker. The ocean cruises also stop in the most popular ports for you to experience the country. They offer amazing excursions that are fun for the whole family. We also suggest if you are not excited about a certain port, stay on the ship and let everyone else visit the port. You can have the ship to yourself with less guests. It is important to note that the ship may not have all the stores or casinos open in port because they cannot sell tax-free items when at port. They also may perform maintenance or crew safety drills during this time. Ocean cruises excel with experiences to keep you entertained during your cruise. Sea days are great time to experience many of these. From the pools, surf simulators, concerts, rock climbing, dance classes, youth programs, and their private islands, you can see why everyone loves

The Disney Cruise Line Difference

What is the “Disney difference” when it comes to cruising?

My family and I took an 8-day Southern Caribbean cruise visiting Aruba, Curacao & Grand Turk back in 2018. We did not cruise with Disney but joined our neighbors on a cruise they had already planned and had the GREATEST time!

We sailed with another cruise line, “OTHER”, as it will be known going forward and it was an amazing time had by all! This was our very first cruise and I have to say – I’m hooked!

However, being a Travel Designer with most of my work associating with Disney, I had to compare based on what I know, to the experience I had with “OTHER” cruise line.

The most common statement I hear when talking about a Disney cruise is – “it’s SO expensive!” While cruising, I planned to research and try and find out “why is Disney priced higher than other cruise lines, what makes them different?”

During my research, I spoke with another couple on the ship who were avid cruisers with many different cruise lines. I asked “what is your favorite cruise line that you have sailed on and why?” They did not know what I did for a living, so it was just a few people talking. Their response “Hands down, Disney, no other line beats them, you pay a higher price, but you get what you pay for, their service is absolutely amazing.”

So, what makes Disney different from the cruise lines that offer better pricing? Here are my observations sailing with “OTHER” cruise line and how they compare to Disney.

STATEROOMS
• OTHER – We stayed in a room with a verandah – 1 bathroom – 185 sq ft
• DISNEY– Room w/ verandah – split bathrooms (2 toilets) – 268 sq ft (BIGGER)

DINING – Do you like options when dining?
• OTHER – You have other options but they were an additional cost and you have different servers
• DISNEY – Rotational Dining w/ the same servers – 3 different restaurants

ATMOSPHERE
• OTHER – Towel creatures appeared out of nowhere overnight – pretty cool!
• DISNEY – Characters appear during special moments on the ship – even cooler!

BEVERAGES – Thirsty for soda?
• OTHER – Soda was an additional cost
• DISNEY – Soda is FREE

ENTERTAINMENT
• OTHER – Comedy shows, musical groups, dance parties

DISNEY– Broadway-style Disney musicals found only on board

CINEMA
• OTHER – we had theme nights with movies that had already been released
• DISNEY – 1st run movies at sea – some even in 3D

FIREWORKS
• OTHER – None
• DISNEY – Yes!!

SERVICE
• OTHER – Everyone was so friendly, always a “hello” no matter where we were, and always willing to help
• DISNEY – Stated by my friend on the ship “They really go above and beyond, it is great for the kids as well as the adults. Whatever you need, they’re on it and catering to your every need, we absolutely love it!”

In conclusion, you are going to pay more to cruise with Disney. But Disney is different, it is their job to make things magical for you. Did I feel magic with “OTHER” cruise lines? No, but I guess I’m going to need to experience a cruise with Disney to feel that “difference”. Who’s coming with me????

Disney Vacations

As a Disney travel expert, I want to help you plan the most Magical experience for your family. Walt Disney World is among the most sought out destination among families of all time. There isn’t a time of year that is off limits to the Magic that Disney can offer. The busiest times of year are during the holiday periods, school breaks, summer breaks, and weekends year-round. The least crowded times are during the winter months. These are the best pricing months as well!

Did you know that Disney vacations are more than just Walt Disney World and Disney Land Theme Parks? Disney offers so much more!

Disney Cruise Line
- Caribbean
- Mediterranean
- Northern Europe
- Alaska
- London
- New York
- Southern California
- Barcelona
- Copenhagen
- Rome

Adventures by Disney
- Asia, Africa & Australia
- Central & South America
- Europe
- North America
- River Cruises

Resorts
- Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa – Hawaii
- Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort – South Carolina
- Disney’s Vero Beach Resort – Florida

There is one thing that is for sure, you won’t have a Disney vacation without it being Magical! If you are ready to book your next Disney adventure, call me. I am ready to help you create memories that will stay with your family for a lifetime!