Suite Dreams in the Western Caribbean with Royal Caribbean's Voyager of the Seas

Where to Stay:

I highly recommend that you travel to Houston or Galveston the day before your cruise. If staying in Houston, I suggest the Thompson Houston. Not only will you adjust to any time changes in luxury, it is located in the heart of the city so you will have easy access to any essentials you may have forgotten to pack for your trip. If you decide to travel to Galveston to be near the port, make sure to grab a room at The Tremont House. This luxury hotel boasts Victorian-era architecture and modern conveniences. Make sure to enjoy a drink at the only rooftop bar in Galveston.

What to Pack:

When packing for your cruise, keep in mind that the ship will have special theme nights each evening. Don't forget formal attire while you enjoy French cuisine on Day Two of the voyage, while other theme nights include 70s, 80s and Caribbean themed parties.

Packing comfortable clothes for walking around ports is a must, and don't forget those swimsuits! Whether relaxing at the pool on a sea day or hitting the beach in Costa Maya, you will want some options. Make sure you bring reef-safe sunscreen like "Sun Bum" when visiting the ports. Most Caribbean locations require these sunscreens when visiting their beaches. My must-haves include a beach bag to hold all my pool essentials and a cute sun hat to block out that intense Caribbean sun. (Pro Tip: Buy some magnetic hooks to hang your sea pass card, hat and other items you want at your finger-tips. They will stick to all the walls in your stateroom!)

What to Know — On the Ship:

Complimentary Dining: Visit the Main Dining Room for breakfast, lunch on sea days and dinner. This is a more formal setting with a set menu each night. Looking for something casual? Try the Windjammer for buffet-style meals, open for breakfast, lunch and dinner each day. If you just need a snack to tide you over, make your way to Cafe Promenade, where you can find sandwiches and pizza, and it's open late.

Specialty Dining: If you are looking for something special, you can't go wrong with one of the specialty restaurants. Try Chops for an amazing Filet Mignon, Giovanni's Table for delicious Italian cuisine, or make your way to Izumi for some super fresh sushi, made to order. These dining options do come with an extra charge and require advance reservations.

Bars: This ship has something for everyone! Grab a drink by the pool at the Sky Bar, Pool Bar, or in the adults-only Solarium. Participate in some trivia in the Schooner Bar, or listen to live music in the Star Lounge.

Entertainment: So much to choose from! During the day, summit the rock climbing wall, slide down one of the waterslides or try out surfing on the Flowrider. Kids can spend their days hanging out in Adventure Ocean, playing Gaga Ball and making new friends while you enjoy the calm of the Vitality at Sea Spa. Don't forget to catch the nightly headliner entertainment or production shows in the theater. And of course, the Las Vegas-style casino is open all night!

What to Know — Ports of Call

Costa Maya: Most tours will take you on a bus ride (1–2 hours) from the port, so keep that in mind when booking an excursion. Right off the ship, you can find restaurants and shopping, as well as nearby beaches. (Pro tip: Head to one of the nearby beaches, like Yaya Beach and get a massage for as low as $20 an hour!)

Roatan: Head to the animal sanctuary to hang out with monkeys and sloths! It's not to be missed. If you aren't an animal person, visit the Roatan Rum Company where you can sample some local rum and chocolate.

Cozumel: If swimming with dolphins is on your bucket list, this is the place to do it! You can also take the ferry to the mainland and take a guided tour of the Tulum Mayan Ruins. This is something everyone should see at least once!

I absolutely recommend Royal Caribbean when planning a trip to the Caribbean. This vacation is guaranteed to have something for everyone, and it would be perfect for a family trip, a couple's vacation or a girl's getaway. Experience the beauty of the islands while enjoying the excitement of the ship and exceptional meals, with a little pampering thrown in. Let me know how I can help plan your perfect Caribbean vacation!

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Western Caribbean. In need of further inspiration? Check out Stephanie Stevenson’s guide, Unlocking the Caribbean's Best-Kept Secrets: A 5-Day Retreat to Saint Kitts and Nevis.