Cruise ship free perks

15 Amazing Free Cruise Ship Perks that First Time Cruisers Find Most Surprising

Cruises are all-inclusive vacations with many luxuries and extras that come at no additional cost. Many first-time cruisers are often surprised by these unexpected freebies. From complimentary beverages and attractions, there’s plenty to enjoy without spending extra money. These unexpected perks are part of what makes a cruise vacation such a great value. Lobster and […]

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Woman upset in front of cruise ship

15 Cruise Mistakes that Can Turn Your Vacation into a Disaster

Cruises are relaxing all-inclusive vacations, but a few missteps can quickly turn your cruise into a nightmare. Here are some cruise mistakes to avoid so your vacation stays smooth and stress-free. Some of these are common mistakes that even seasoned cruisers make!  Not Having the Right Visa for Each Port Before going on your cruise,

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Costco Expensive Toys

15 Most Expensive Costco Toys for Kids & Teens Who Have Everything- Perfect Christmas Gifts (with Prices)

Are you looking for Christmas gifts for kids and teens who seem to have it all? Costco makes it easy to buy high-end, splurge-worthy toys. From impressive wooden dollhouses to fun bumper cars, Costco has plenty of big-ticket items perfect for that special kid or teen. KidKraft Dollhouse This dollhouse is an impressive Christmas gift,

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Christmas gifts from Costco

30 Christmas Gifts Under $20 at Costco to Buy Now Before They Sell Out

It’s not too early to start buying Christmas gifts. Costco is already in full holiday mode, the warehouses are already stocked with a wide variety of Christmas decors and gift items. You’ll find plenty of gift items priced under $20, shop early at Costco before these popular items sell out. Christmas Hand Soap If you’re

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Costco thanksgiving appetizers

27 Quick and Easy Thanksgiving Appetizers from Costco (Ready in 30 Min or Less)

Are you hosting Thanksgiving and looking for easy appetizer ideas? From creamy artichoke dips to convenient all-in-one charcuterie boards to hearty appetizers and kid-friendly bites, Costco is a great place to buy Thanksgiving appetizers. The best part is that you can buy these affordable appetizers and have them ready in 30 minutes or less, making

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Costco fall potluck ideas

40 Easy Fall Potluck Ideas from Costco for When You’re Too Lazy to Cook

Do you have a potluck coming up, but between work, life, and family, the thought of cooking from scratch feels overwhelming? Don’t worry—just go to Costco. From appetizers to main courses to desserts, here are the best no-cook (or minimal-cook) Fall potluck dishes that will save you time and make it look like you put

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Costco Christmas Decor

35 Costco Christmas Decor Finds to Buy Before They Sell Out (with Prices)

It’s that time of year again! Costco’s warehouse is stocked with Holiday decor items. From beautiful outdoor Christmas trees to Christmas throw pillows to festive tabletop decor to the best prices on holiday doormats, you can buy it all at Costco. But hurry—buy your holiday decor items now before they sell out! Christmas Hand Soap

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Fireplace design ideas

23 Luxurious Fireplace Design Ideas that Will Impress You

Are you renovating your home and thinking about updating your fireplace? Redesigning your fireplace can significantly enhance your home’s aesthetic and add warmth. Whether you envision a charming rustic farmhouse fireplace, a sleek and contemporary fireplace, or a cozy traditional style, these fireplace built-ins are sure to make a bold statement in your home and

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Annoyed woman in cruise cabin

16 Things You’ll Regret Leaving in Your Cruise Cabin on Port Days

When you’re on a cruise, it’s important to know what to bring down with you to port. Before heading out, make sure you have all your important port essentials, like travel documents. Leaving these items in your cruise cabin can lead to unexpected problems—just think about what could happen if you don’t have your passport

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Costco Fall Charcuterie board

26 Easy Fall Charcuterie Board Ideas from Costco for Fall Parties with Prices

Are you hosting a party this fall? Charcuterie boards make for a fun and easy appetizer. When putting together a charcuterie board, I always turn to Costco for my supplies. Costco has the best prices on a variety of meats, cheeses, and crackers, plus everything comes in bigger packs—which is perfect when you’re serving a

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Cruise Gourmet Food

15 Surprising Gourmet Foods You Can Get for Free on Your Next Cruise Vacation

Cruising is one of the best vacation deals.  You can go on a cruise for as low as $100 per person per night. This price includes everything—accommodations, luxurious turn-down service, all day kids’ club, plus the best part: unlimited food! And mind you, you won’t be stuck with just pizza and pasta. You’ll be treated

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Cruise Carry-on bag for families with kids

26 Things to Pack in Your Cruise Carry-On Bag If You are Cruising with Kids (Free Packing List)

If you have been on a cruise before, you know how important it is to pack a carry-on bag. Checking in all your luggage can be a mistake since there are essential items you’ll need on the first day of your cruise that should stay with you. This is particularly true if you’re traveling with

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Trader Joe's Fall Items

15 Best Trader Joe’s New Fall Items with Prices (Fall Snacks and More)

Trader Joe’s new Fall items are in stores and don’t disappoint. From Pumpkin Tortilla chips to Bat Shaped Potato chips for Halloween, there are many Fall snacks and food items to discover and fall in love with.  Many of these are returning Fall favorites. Stock up on them because they’re only available for a limited

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Royal Caribbean gratuity

Royal Caribbean Increases Automatic Gratuities: What You Need to Know

Gratuities have always been a hot topic in the cruise industry.  Royal Caribbean is increasing its automatic gratuities. Here is everything you need to know.  Starting November 1, 2024, the cruise line will increase its automatic gratuity rate by $0.50 per person per day. Previously, the gratuity amount was $20.50 per person per day for

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Northern Lights in New Jersey

Rare, Spectacular Northern Lights Seen on the East Coast- Photos NY, NJ, CT

On Thursday night, millions on the East Coast were treated to a rare and breathtaking display of the Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis. This magnificent light show, displaying vibrant hues of pink and purple, was reportedly visible all along the East Coast, from Boston to New York, New Jersey to Maryland, and

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Cruise Ship

Hurricane Milton Leaves Cruise Ships Stranded: Carnival, MSC, Disney Cruises

Hurricane Milton’s destruction continues as it moves further inland in Florida. The hurricane made landfall Wednesday night as a category 3 hurricane with sustained winds of 120mph near Siesta Key, just south of Sarasota. It caused catastrophic damage and flooding and led to the closure of several Florida cruise ports, leaving numerous cruise ships stranded

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Disney Cruise Hurricane- Image Credit: Suburbs 101

Cruise Ports Closed, Carnival and Disney Cruises Canceled as Hurricane Milton Strikes Florida

Just weeks after Hurricane Helene, Floridians are bracing for another powerful storm. This time, Hurricane Milton has intensified to a Category 4 after being downgraded from a Category 5. It is expected to hit the Tampa Bay area the hardest, but its effects will be felt even in non-coastal parts of Florida. As a result

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Florida Homeowner after Hurricane

Florida Homeowners at Breaking Point, Tips for Selling Home After Hurricane

During hurricane season, many homeowners reach a breaking point and get worn out from dealing with the impact of hurricanes. The uncertainty, fear, and expenses of maintaining a home vulnerable to hurricanes can become really overwhelming. Are you thinking of selling your home after a hurricane? Wondering how to sell your hurricane-prone home and still

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Florida Homes- No Hurricane

17 Best Places to Buy a House in Florida with Low Hurricane Risk 2025

Are you thinking of buying a house in Florida, but you’re afraid of hurricanes? Florida’s coasts are most vulnerable to hurricane damage. However, there are many inland cities and towns where residents can enjoy the Florida lifestyle with reduced hurricane concerns. Whether you’re looking for a retirement community or a family-friendly town, here are the

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Haines Alaska Cruise Port

Alaska Cruise Port Responds to Massive Influx of Cruise Passengers

Haines, a popular Alaska cruise port, is experiencing a significant increase in tourism. Approximately 100,000 cruise ship passengers visit the small town annually.  As a response to this surge, officials in Haines have made the decision to implement a cruise passenger tariff for the first time, beginning in 2025. This decision comes as the town,

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Cruise ship rough seas

Which Cruise Ships are Left Stranded at Sea Because of Hurricane Helene?

Hurricane Helene has made landfall in Florida as a category 4 hurricane, bringing deadly storm surges, flooding, and 140 mph winds. It is causing major havoc on cruises. Due to numerous port closures in Florida, multiple cruise ships are left stranded at sea because they have nowhere to dock. They are sailing aimlessly, waiting for

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Cruise ship at Port Canaveral

What Happens When Cruise Ports Close as a Result of a Hurricane?

Cruising during hurricane season is risky because unexpected changes can happen at the last minute. A common issue is the closure of ports, which can have a cascading effect, leading to multiple cruise delays and even cancellations. Why Do Cruise Ports Close? Cruise ports are closed when it is considered unsafe for ships to dock.

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Royal Caribbean Cruise Hurricane

Hurricane Helene Closes Tampa and Jacksonville Cruise Ports Affects Carnival and Royal Caribbean Cruises

Hurricane Helene is gaining strength, prompting the US Coast Guard to shut down Port Tampa and the Port of Jacksonville in Florida. As a result, some Royal Caribbean and Carnival cruise itineraries are being disrupted and changed at the last minute, and sailings are also getting delayed. Cruise Lines Impacted by Florida Port Closures The

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Cruise ship

Hurricane Helene Disrupts Cruise Itineraries and Florida Port Closures

As Hurricane Helene grows stronger, it’s causing significant disruptions in the cruise industry. This has led to last-minute changes in itineraries, port closures, and numerous cancellations. Major cruise lines like Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean Cruise Line, MSC Cruise Line, and Disney Cruise Line are all being impacted. Hurricane Helene Intensifies Hurricane Helene is rapidly

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Cruise ship gratuity

What Happens If You Don’t Pay Gratuities on Your Next Cruise Vacation?

Gratuities are a vital part of the cruise staff’s compensation. They allow guests to express gratitude for the hard work and outstanding service provided by the staff. Typically, cruise lines collect the gratuities and distribute them among cruise staff members as part of their overall compensation package, including bonuses and incentives. How Much is Cruise

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Cruise Ship Food & Drink- Loyalty Perks

What is the Celebrity Cruise Captain’s Club Welcome Party?

Celebrity Cruise Captain Club Welcome Party is an exclusive invite-only party for its loyalty members. This elegant party is a loyalty perk for Captain’s Club members.  When is the Captain’s Club Welcome Party? The Captain’s Club Welcome Party typically takes place on the first sea day at around 5pm, before early dinner seating time. Who

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Cruise ship rain

36 Essential Things to Pack When Going on a Cruise During Hurricane Season (Free Packing List Printable)

Are you going on a cruise during hurricane season and wondering what to pack? The Atlantic Hurricane season is from June 1 to November 30. If you are going on a Caribbean, Bahamas, Bermuda or Mexico Cruise during that time, you will find this cruise packing list useful. Below are the things to pack on

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Cruise Ship Food & Drink- Robot Bartender

How to Get the Best Price on Cruise Beverage Packages?

The cruise beverage package is an optional add-on that gives you unlimited drinks for a fixed price. You can enjoy alcoholic beverages, sodas, smoothies, and coffee. The drink-all-you-can package makes sense if you are a heavy drinker. How Much are Cruise Beverage Packages? Cruise Beverage packages are expensive. The premium beverage package is $80 to

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Cruise Ship Food- Room Service Breakfast

What are the Free Room Service Breakfast Items on Cruises?

Cruise lines nowadays charge a room service fee in their efforts to cut costs. However, some breakfast items can still be delivered to your room for free.  Continental Breakfast Cruise lines such as Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean, and MSC charge a room service fee for hot breakfast items. However, continental breakfast is complimentary.  Pastries Pastries

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Cruise Ship in Rough Seas

What Happens If a Hurricane Hits While You’re on a Cruise?

When you cruise during hurricane season, encountering a hurricane while on the ship is a real possibility. The unpredictable nature of hurricanes means bad weather and storms can ruin your cruise vacation. So, what exactly happens if a hurricane hits while you’re on a cruise? Cruise Itinerary Rerouting The captain will do everything to keep

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Cruise ship in hurricane

The Best and Worst Cruise Destinations During Hurricane Season

Are you thinking of going on a cruise but unsure about the safest destinations during hurricane season? Hurricane season spans from June 1 to November 30 each year and can significantly impact cruise vacations with bad weather, canceled ports, and delays. That’s why it’s important to know the best and worst cruise destinations to take

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Cruise ship during hurricane

The Worst Things That Can Happen on a Cruise During Hurricane Season

Are you going on a cruise during hurricane season? If so, you need to know the potential worst case scenarios that can happen. While you might be fortunate enough to experience perfect beach weather, it’s important to be mentally prepared for these worst case scenarios. It’s the risk of going on a cruise during hurricane

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Costco Healthy Lunch Box ideas

20 Healthy and Filling School Lunch Box Ideas from Costco that are Easy to Prep

Are you struggling to come up with healthy and filling school lunch box ideas that are easy to prepare in the mornings? Costco is my go-to for school lunch box foods. Whether you’re packing for a high school lunch or for a little kid’s school lunch, these healthy lunch box ideas are just perfect. The

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