Barb Strait

Smooth Sailing: The Benefits of Cruising with a Passport

By- Elizabeth Schaaf One of the great things about cruising as a United States citizen is being able to cruise without a passport when the cruise begins and ends in a domestic port. It’s one less expense, one less thing to worry about, and some feel why get one if they don’t trave a lot. … Read more

Experience the Magic of the Holidays at Universal Orlando

By Jenny Wheeler As the holiday season approaches, Universal Orlando transforms into a winter wonderland filled with festive cheer and exciting experiences for the whole family. From enchanting shows and dazzling light displays to delightful character encounters, here are the top holiday offerings you won’t want to miss at Universal Orlando from November 17 to … Read more

Mount O’bama- A Peak Named After Him, Yet he has never been!

By Straight Away Travel Imagine having a mountain named after you!  Would you go there for the ceremony?  Of course you would!  Well, one of our recent Presidents did not!  On my recent trip to Antigua, I hiked the peak that was named after President O’bama, and quickly learned that he has never step foot … Read more

The Grog Walk: A Boozy Adventure on Virgin Voyages

By Alison Meeks Virgin Voyages is all about redefining the cruising experience, from ditching the traditional buffet for gourmet dining to shaking up the entertainment scene. Among its many unique offerings, one stands out for its fun and adventurous spirit – the Grog Walk. What is a Grog Walk, you ask? Think of it as … Read more

Breakfast and Brunch on Virgin Voyages

My- Megan Sexton Breakfast and Brunch There are so many choices for Breakfast and Brunch while on board the Scarlet Lady! The Wake and Razzle Dazzle are the two restaurants that offer a sit down Breakfast and Brunch meals. You can pre-book a reservation at these restaurants or just try for a walk in table. … Read more

Happenings Cast and the Social Aspect of Virgin Voyages

If you have cruised before, you are probably very familiar with cruise directors and their role on the ship.  They introduce the entertainment each night on stage and come over the loudspeaker for announcements.   When you set off on your first Virgin Voyage, you will not hear a cruise director on the loudspeaker.   … Read more

Rainforest Room on DCL

Seeking a more secluded and serene space to unwind during your Disney Cruise? Wondering if such a tranquil retreat exists beyond the bustling decks and designated adult-only areas?  The answer? Absolutely.  Enter the Rainforest Room.  Nestled within the serene enclave of the Senses Spa, the Rainforest Room offers an exclusive adult-only experience, available on all … Read more

Icon of the Seas

What’s New Well, I am back from my first 2024 adventure! The inaugural sailing of Icon of the Seas definitely did not disappoint? So what was it like sailing on the largest ship at sea? ICONIC!!!! This 250, 800 ton ship offers a whole new class of adventures boasting 8 different neighborhoods from thrills to … Read more

Celestial Park at Epic Universe

Straight Away Travel is so excited about Universal’s Epic Universe coming in 2025. Universal is slowly releasing information on each “world” coming to Orlando next year. The first “world” they have introduced us to is Celestial Park. Universal tells us that at the heart of Universal Epic Universe, explorers will find a world between worlds. … Read more