Kelsey Parry

Royal Caribbean's Ovation of the Seas offers an unforgettable journey through the Last Frontier for those craving the adventure of exploring Alaska's majestic landscapes while enjoying the comforts of a state-of-the-art cruise ship. Embark on a seven-day sailing from Seattle, Washington, and immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of Alaska's glaciers, wildlife and charming port towns.

While just narrowly having been knocked out of first place for the world’s largest ship, Wonder of the Seas is certainly not out of the running for one of the best options for a cruise vacation! Next-level specialty dining exclusive to the ship, upgraded attractions and cabins, and a suites-only neighborhood are just some reasons Wonder of the Seas is a great option for travelers who want to make the most of their holiday.

Whether you’re a Virgin Voyages veteran or new to the adults-only cruise experience, there’s never been a better time to sail with Virgin than right now on Brilliant Lady. As the fourth and final ship in Virgin’s fleet, I’m back from her New York City inaugural sailing with the details on her exclusive dining concepts, groundbreaking entertainment, and refined spaces. This isn’t just another cruise—it’s Virgin’s most polished vessel yet, and here’s why you should be on it.

Launched in late 2020 and quickly overtaken by Wonder of the Seas as Royal Caribbean’s newest ship, Odyssey of the Seas is a fantastic offering that often flies under the radar. Not as large as Royal Caribbean’s Oasis or Icon-class vessels (but still plenty big), Odyssey is able to port at smaller locals and spends much of its summer traveling to the best of the Mediterranean cruise ports.

Ready to explore Florida in style and comfort? Whether you're new to train travel or an experienced one, this guide will help you learn about Premium and Smart Class. Here's your step-by-step itinerary for a smooth, enjoyable and luxurious ride.

Calle Ocho, the vibrant heart of Miami's Little Havana, offers a culinary journey like no other. This bustling street is home to some of the most authentic Cuban flavors and lively entertainment in the city. Whether you're a food lover, a music enthusiast, or just curious to explore the great neighborhoods of Miami, Calle Ocho offers iconic dishes, refreshing drinks, and excellent live music.

Whether a new cruiser or already loyal to Royal Caribbean and looking to explore the stunning beaches and vibrant culture of the Caribbean, a seven-day sailing aboard Icon of the Seas is the ultimate way to experience the beauty and excitement of these tropical paradises. With incredible ship amenities and unforgettable shore excursions, this cruise promises a vacation like no other.

Cádiz, where history, beach vibes and incredible food collide. This coastal gem has everything from the freshest seafood to the best local Sherry bars and scenic strolls along the sea wall. Whether you're here to eat, wander or just take it all in, this guide will show you the local favs and hidden gems you should include on your next visit.

For those loyal to Royal and looking to check the Norwegian Fjords off their bucket list, a seven-day sailing with Royal Caribbean on Anthem of the Seas is the perfect option for experiencing the beauty of Norway while enjoying exciting cruise activities.

With a sparkly new terminal in Galveston, cruising Royal Caribbean from Texas has quickly become one of the most accessible and convenient ports of departure and embarkation in the U.S. While most itineraries sail the Western Caribbean, they will soon have the addition of Royal Caribbean’s private island Perfect Day at CocoCay to look forward to, along with the usual Roatan, Costa Maya, and Cozumel ports of call. Harmony of the Seas’ recent arrival to Galveston from Florida has upped the game in Oasis-class cruising options for those looking to depart from ports other than Florida and New York.

Whether sailing Royal Caribbean’s Allure of the Seas from Orlando (Port Canaveral) or Galveston, Texas, as we did, Allure of the Seas is a great value Oasis-class cruise experience. Now that Allure of the Seas is sailing quick and easy three or four-night itineraries from Florida, it is the perfect opportunity to give the world’s largest ship class a try and experience all they have to offer.

With a swanky new terminal in Miami, cruising Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Seas from Florida is an exciting (and convenient) jumping-off point for any cruise adventure. Miami's vibrant cultural and food scene makes your pre-cruise stay an almost secondary mini-vacation for double the fun.

New to the cruising scene and making one heck of a splash, Virgin Voyages has taken the standard cruise vacation and turned it on its head (in the best possible sense). Setting out to solve many reoccurring cruise woes and appeal to habitual and non-cruisers alike, Virgin Voyages has created a great product that makes for an exciting, inclusive, and memorable vacation experience. Looking for wild and crazy? Sure, it is there, but only if you seek it out. Looking for a more relaxing vibe? Virgin also has you covered, regardless of what vacation element(s) you may be searching for on any given day.

Get ready to set sail on an unforgettable adventure with Virgin Voyages' Valiant Lady! This isn't your typical cruise — it's a vibrant, electrifying experience that redefines sea travel. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or a first-time cruiser, you'll find endless excitement and relaxation tailored just for you. From dazzling sunsets to epic beach parties, this voyage promises a whirlwind of fun, luxury and memories that will last a lifetime.

Looking for a quick getaway that packs in excitement, relaxation and tropical vibes? Look no further than the Ultimate Weekend, a three-night cruise aboard Royal Caribbean’s newest ship, Utopia of the Seas. This round-trip adventure from Port Canaveral takes you to the beaches of Nassau and the thrills of Perfect Day at CocoCay, all in time to head back to work on Monday morning.

Welcome to Galicia and the stunning Rías Baixas! Known for its albariño wine, gorgeous coastlines and unbelievably fresh seafood. Galicia is perfect for travelers who want to enjoy top-quality wine and food amid a rich cultural history. Here’s your six-day itinerary, where you’ll explore the highlights of the region from the fabulous home base of Casa Beatnik.

Ready to take the leap and try adults-only cruising? Maybe you have already sailed with Virgin Voyages and wondered what else you could have experienced during your vacation. Here is my step-by-step guide with considerations and timelines to help make ship happen.

Ketchikan, Alaska, a hidden gem on many Alaska cruise itineraries, offers travelers a taste of authentic Alaskan culture and natural beauty. From breathtaking fjords to quaint seafood joints, explore the wonders of this charming port town with my comprehensive guide to the best excursions, restaurants and bars.

Nestled amidst picturesque landscapes, Juneau, Alaska, beckons cruisers with its blend of natural wonders and cultural delights. Make the most of your stop at the Port of Juneau with my curated guide to unforgettable experiences and delicious seafood and cocktails near the port.

Welcome to Skagway, Alaska, where frontier history meets stunning landscapes. Whether you're seeking adventure in the great outdoors or craving a taste of local cuisine, make the most of your time in this picturesque town with my comprehensive guide.

Road-tripping through Ireland and Northern Ireland is on many travelers’ bucket lists. However, the front-end travel planning, rental car regulations, navigation, and driving on the left side of the road can seem daunting enough that many never take the leap and book (when they most certainly should)! Here’s a step-by-step guide for a 10-day road trip through many of the top sights in the Emerald Isle while staying at the best of Ireland’s independent pub inns and historic properties.

Welcome to Palm Beach (West Palm Beach and Palm Beach Gardens), where coastal elegance meets culinary innovation. Get ready to taste delicious food and explore the area's diverse dining scene. It features a mix of local favorites and hidden gems, including famous restaurants like Buccan, Coolinary & The Parched Pig and Cholo Soy Cocina.

Welcome to Miami Beach, where sun-soaked days give way to electrifying nights. With a rich blend of classic dive bars, trendy hotspots and hidden speakeasies, Miami Beach offers a nightlife experience like no other. Whether you're here for a weekend getaway or a short escape, this guide will take you on a journey through the best bars Miami Beach has to offer. This includes Sweet Liberty, Bar Derrière, Swizzle Rum Bar, The ScapeGoat, Kill Your Idol, Club Deuce and Ted’s Hideaway.

Welcome to Key West, a sun-soaked paradise at the southernmost tip of the continental US. Immerse yourself in the island's unique blend of natural beauty, rich history and mouth-watering cuisine. Here's how to make the most of your three-day adventure in Key West.

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure at Virgin Voyages Beach Club at Bimini, a tropical paradise in the Bahamas. This guide will explain everything you need to know about exploring the Beach Club at Bimini and making the most of your day. Whether you're seeking relaxation, adventure or a mix of both, this itinerary ensures a seamless, luxurious experience.

Using Southampton as a jumping-off point for your next cruise adventure is a fabulous experience and a great addition to any itinerary, pre- or post-cruise. As with all cruise adventures, it’s recommended to arrive at the embarkation port at least one day in advance (ideally more when traveling from the U.S. to European destinations), and Southampton has some amazing sights for day trips and within the city itself.

Whether you find yourself booking Royal Caribbean for the first time (or tenth), here is a step-by-step guideline of many important timelines and considerations to help take your cruise to the next level (and start relaxing that much sooner).

Whether planning a purpose-driven vacation to Greece or spending a few days pre- or post-cruise, Athens is a phenomenal city in which to dive into local history, culture, food and wine. The culinary scene in Athens is truly top-notch, so plan to spend three to four days in the city, sightseeing during the day, then eating and drinking your way around town in the evenings.

Amidst the unspoiled beaches of the Greek island of Milos, travelers can find extraordinary culinary delights and experiences with even more spectacular views. Milos is a breath of fresh air after experiencing the excitement (and chaotic tourism) of glitzy Santorini and Mykonos. Locals are intermixed with visitors throughout the island in an authentic, unhurried experience that truly brings out the best of Greek culture, cuisine, and landscape. To experience the best culinary scene on the island, I recommend staying the first few nights in the hilltop town of Plaka, followed by the remainder of your stay in the quaint seaside town of Pollonia.