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6 Things to Never Bring on a Cruise

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6 Things to Always Leave at Home When You Cruise

This is the cruising time of year.  At least for me.  The majority of my cruise groups are in preparation for their upcoming cruises that happen during the summer months.  During this time I get a so many questions about what to pack and “can I take this”.  Yet, rarely does anyone ask what NOT to take on their cruise.  Cruise ships are floating hotels and they have problems similar to hotels but problems that are unique to sailing vessels.  

I am going to share 6 things that should never go with you on your next cruise.  Actually if these items are found in your luggage they can very well be confiscated.  So, save yourself the heartache and avoid the items I list below.  Let’s get started.

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By Kavonda L. Rogers

Household Appliances

I know some people love their morning cup of coffee or a crisply ironed shirt but these items are not allowed on cruise lines. Fire is the biggest issue for any ship at sea.  Household appliances pose a huge fire threat.  Two cruise lines offer laundry facilities: Holland America (some ships) and Carnival Cruise Lines (fleet wide). Also, Downy Wrinkle Releaser works wonders when an iron is not around.   As for the coffee you can order it from room service on any ship or find a cup on the pool deck.

Any and All Candle Products

Open flames of any type are completely forbidden.  Remember the fire hazard on cruise ships I mentioned in Household Appliances?  Instead bring a spray air freshener or linen spray to help keep your cabin fresh.  If you are flying their are tons of non-aerosol sprays that can be added to your checked luggage.

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Weapons and Restraints

Guns, handcuffs, brass knuckles and martial arts equipment (flails, throwing stars, belt buckle knives, etc.) aren’t allowed on-board cruise ships. Swiss army knives aren’t banned on all cruises; Carnival allows knives on-board, as long as the blades are less than 4 inches long, while Royal Caribbean prohibits all knives. The TSA has its own set of rules for flying.  So, if you are flying to your cruise port; do not pack these items at all. 

Liquor or Beer

Many cruise lines allow you to bring up to two bottles of wine or sparkling cider on-board. Beer and liquor of any kind is forbidden.  You are allowed to bring a 12 pack of canned sodas on to most cruise ships but this rule changes frequently so ask your travel professional or check with your cruise line.

Related: 5 Myths About Cruising

Toys for big kids and little kids

The idea of bringing motorized toys on-board to help you navigate the ship; sounds great. Yet, items like segways and in-line skates are a no-no. Also, items that can propel from the ship like kites, motorized cars, floaties, noodle tubes are not allowed. Leave the drones at home as well since maritime law forbids such items.  If you are worried about a child being bored travel sized board games, or handheld video games are a great alternative.  

large amounts of cash

Cruise ships are cashless environments. Many guests chose not to use their credit or debit cards for their shipboard accounts.  I think this is a great idea but be careful.   Purchases are made via cards that are issued by the cruise ships and double as room keys.  If you wish to apply cash to your account then do it as soon as you arrive on the ship as not to make yourself a target.  If you want to shop at ports then use your credit card at a reputable store and keep smaller amounts of cash for booth shopping.  

Were you aware of the forbidden items on cruise ships? Are you planning a cruise vacation in the near future? If so tell me where you are going. Also, if you want more tips and info about all things travel sign up for my newsletter below.


I’m Kavonda L. Rogers and I’m a Certified Travel Agent who specializes in Destination Weddings, Honeymoons and Group Travel in Mexico, Hawaii and the Caribbean.

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5 Free Things to Do in the Bahamas

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5 FREE THINGS TO DO IN THE BAHAMAS

I call the Bahamas the starter kit to the Caribbean.  With more than 700 islands it is a popular land and cruise destination.  

My first land trip and cruise trip traveled to the Bahamas and I still love the excitement of visiting this property over and over again.  

Since the Bahamas is so easy to reach (especially via cruise) I recommend it to first time travelers often and they have not been disappointed.  The Bahamas is affordable, fun and diverse so it makes it ideal for romantic getaways, family vacations and honeymoons.

 

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By Kavonda L. Rogers

Below are 5 of my favorite must see attractions for a visit to the Bahamas.  

Versailles Gardens

The Versailles Gardens are located on Paradise Island, Bahamas and overloos the Nassau Harbor.  

This is perfect spot to visit if you are looking for a break from the usual beach visits.  This historically garden is a great place to visit and has an amazing view of the sunset.

Also, the garden is rarely busy so you can take as many photos as you wish of the beautiful scenery.  

The Queen's Staircase

The Queen’s staircase of a major historical landmark in Nassau.

Usually, it is called the 66 Steps by the locals and it once provided a direct route from Fort Fincastle to Nassau, Bahamas.  

paradise beach

There are a lot of beaches in the Bahamas.  They all have varying degrees of interest and beauty.  Paradise Beach is a favorite for many travelers.

This beach is also great for snorkeling but be careful of the strong waves.  

junkanoo beach

If you are traveling to the Bahamas via cruise ship this is the perfect beach to visit.  It is a short 15 minute walk from the cruise ship and it’s free to enter.

During your walk you will get to explore downtown Nassau while you are trekking to the beach.  

It’s not the fanciest beach in Nassau but it is nice.  If you want to splurge some head over to the Bikini Hut and for $35 and you will get a lunch, unlimited shots and tropical drinks, 4 beers and an umbrella beach chair.

Dean's Blue Hole (Long Island)

If you are into adventure with your travel Dean’s Blue Hole is the spot for you.  The Hole itself is 663 feet deep and has gorgeous blue water.

If big holes are not your cup of tea; travel to the beach nearby and let the adventure members of your group have a moment.  

I hope you will consider a trip to the Bahamas. Are you considering any of these stops for your Bahamas vacation? If so let me know in the comments below. Also, if you want more tips and info about all things travel sign up for my newsletter below.


I’m Kavonda L. Rogers and I’m a Certified Travel Agent who specializes in Destination Weddings, Honeymoons and Group Travel in Hawaii and the Caribbean.

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The Truth About Cruising

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The Truth About Cruising

I am a self proclaimed travel addict.  This also makes me a cruise addict. (not by default just my opinion).  I have also created several cruise addicts. . i.e my mom, my fiance’ and my best friend.  Yet, I find the most myths and lack of information about cruising than any other form of travel.  There are many myths about all-inclusives as well but that is another post.  Let’s get started!

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By Kavonda L. Rogers

MYTH: There are only a handful of cruise lines.

I hear this statement quite often from people who have taken one or two cruises.  Why does it seem believable because many people base their information on advertisements.  If you only see advertisements for a small number of companies you may assume those are the only ones that exist.  Most advertisements you see are from main line cruise companies such as Royal Caribbean, Carnival or Holland America.  Yet, currently there are 25 major cruise lines. Virgin Cruise Lines (yep, just like the record company) will launch in 2020 making for 26 major cruise lines.  They fall into the following categories:

Mass Market (or Main Line)- These are the cruise lines most associated with cruising and usually the most affordable cruising options. Also, they have the largest ships to accommodate a large numbers of passengers. Main line cruises start at $399+ per person.  Examples are Carnival,Royal Caribbean, Holland America and Norwegian.

Premium– A step up from Mass Market and usually slightly smaller ships.  If you can call 2-3,000 passengers smaller.  Premium cruise lines focus on longer cruises (7+ days) and more exotic locations.  Premium cruises are more of an investment and start around $799 per person.  Examples are Princess, Disney, Celebrity, and MSC Cruises.

Luxury: Luxury cruise lines are just that.  They usually do not have ships with more than 1000 passengers.   They focus on exotic destinations and often have more overnight stays than the previous two categories.  Often times shore excursions and activities are included in the price.  Private butlers, free wifi are usually included.    Also, balconies, suites and penthouses are the norm instead of the exception. Luxury cruises start at around $2400 per person.  Examples are Crystal Cruises, Cunard,and  Azamara. 

Ultra Luxury: Ultra Luxury takes the Luxury catagory and puts it on steroids.  The ships are smaller housing from 100-800 guests.  The locations are off the beaten path with some occasional big ship stops.  Everything is included from drinks to food to shore excursions.  Butlers and personal concierge are the norm as well as spa packages. These cruises often have themes such as wine cruises, or culinary delights.   This is the best cruising has to offer.  Also, if you live far from the port no worries Ultra Luxury cruises include business class plane tickets in the price.  Ultra Luxury cruises start at $8000 per person and can cost as much as $25,000 per person.  Examples are Silverseas and Paul Gaugin cruises.

Now that you know the cruise levels let’s explore other myths. 

Myth: Cruises just go to the Caribbean

Yes, the majority of cruises go to the Caribbean around 50%, but the ocean cruising world is much bigger.  There are many cruises that go to other destinations.  For example their are Hawaiian and Alaskan cruises.  Not to mention all the European cruises (which also includes river cruises, but that’s another post).  More recently cruise lines are entering Central and South America with cruises going through the Panama Canal and to Rio De Janerio.  There is a cruise for everyone even veteran cruisers who want a bit more adventure with their cruise travel. 

Myth: Been there done that!

 

Many people feel that once they go to a specific port then they should never go there again.  Many times the ports where cruise ships dock are not close to the hub of the island.  I have been to several locations where I really didn’t get a feel for the area until my 3rd or 4th visit.  If you are doing a repeat visit to an area definitely contact me and I can give you some ideas to have a better island experience.  There is always something else to see when you don’t live there.  

Myth: All Inclusive Resorts are Better, Right?

 

I will admit that all inclusive resorts are amazing.  Especially, when you want to have time to dig deep and really immerse yourself in a particular destination.  Yet, as far as exploration of several locales in a short period of time cruising wins hands down.  The value of a cruise especially for 5 day plus cruises is exceptionally high.  My suggestion is to cruise to a destination to see if you like it.  If you like it and want to see more then go back and stay at an all-inclusive. 

I’m so glad you took a moment to read the truth about cruising. I tried to touch on issues that I have personally heard from clients over the years.

I’m Kavonda L. Rogers and I’m a Certified Travel Agent who specializes in Destination Weddings/Romance Travel, Group Travel and First Time Travelers. I am also a Destination Specialist for the Caribbean, Mexico, Hawaii, Central and South America.

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8 Things to Do in the Bahamas

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8 Things to Do in the Bahamas

I call the Bahamas the starter kit to the Caribbean.  Why?  Because it is one of the most easily accessible islands in the Caribbean.  The issue starts when people assume that because they stopped there on their first cruise they know it all and saw it all.  Oh, my dear friend you are so wrong!

The Bahamas is a collection of 700 islands.  Yes, 700 not one.  Out of that 700 only 30 are not inhabitable. That leaves 670 islands for you to explore.  The Bahamas is a big place with a lot of activities.  I will explore 8 places in the Bahamas you probably didn’t know about.  Let’s get started!

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By Kavonda L. Rogers

Eat Fish at Arawak Cay

While there are plenty of fine dining opportunities in all over the islands; one of the best authentic Bahamanian experiences is at Arawak Cay.  The Fish Fry is a short walk from the Western Esplanade of Nassau. If you are on a cruise it’s a quick $4 can ride.  Here you will find a cluster of shacks that whip up some of the best traditional Bahamian fish fry. If you go on a Sunday, you will also get the chance to be entertained by wonderful local bands and some gracious poetry readings on the pavements around the fish fry joints. It is very much worth the trip to be immersed in Bahamanian culture. 

Ride the Leap of Faith Waterslide

Imagine riding an almost vertical water slide through a shark-infested tank!! I will pass but children and adventurous adults love it.  Yes, at the 141-acre Atlantis Aquaventure waterpark, you will get to do just that and more. There are several waterslides on premise, but it is the sheer drop of the “Leap of Faith” that is the most thrilling.  Atlantis offers day passes to their water park for guests who are not staying at the Atlantis resort. 

Snorkel at Andros Great Barrier Reef

 

This is also an amazing place to scuba dive.  Filled with submerged shipwrecks, underwater blue holes and the third largest barrier reef in the world make the waters around Andros Great Barrier Reef some of the best and most scenic for water activities.  The underwater blue holes are home to some of the most colorful trumpetfish, parrotfish and speckled scorpionfish in these seas. Here you will undoubtedly find the most beautiful marine life. 

Ride in a Personal Underwater Sub

Apart from the 700 islands, the Bahamas has about 2,400 cays (coral reefs). These reefs are home to some of the most colorful and spectacular marine life known to man. One of the most unique ways to explore some of these reefs is in a personal underwater Sub, which looks like a moped with a helmet.

After a quick lesson on how to pilot your submarine you will then be released to explore the reefs.  You can even feed the fish, which is a great way to get them to slow down so you can get some amazing photos.   If you want to ride in the personal submarine let me know.  I can help plan it for you. 

Stay at Breezes Bahamas

Many of my clients are all inclusive junkies so I had to throw something in for them.  

If you are looking for wonderful white sand beaches and fabulous water activities not to mention great food; Breezes is an option for you.  This all inclusive resort is along the beautiful Cable Beach. It is a family friendly resort with activities for kids and adults alike. 

With 5 dining options on site there is no shortage of food options.  There is also free flowing snacks and beverages. If you are cruising to Nassau you can also purchase a day pass to visit during your port day.

Walk the Pink Sands on Harbor Island

Everyone has seen pictures of beautiful white sand beaches across the Caribbean, but what about pink beaches?  Pink beaches are a bit more rare and are found in Tahiti and Bermuda.  Yet, you can also find a pink beach at Harbor Island in the Bahamas.  

This is three miles of picture perfect pink sand fading off into aqua blue waters. This phenomenal pink color comes from a micro-organism called foraminifera and minuscule pieces of coral and shells that are washed ashore. You really must see it to believe it!  Don’t miss it. 

 

See the Swimming Pigs

 

Out in the Outer Exuma Islands is Big Major Cay is an island run by pigs.  Yes, pigs.  It is one of the most visited sites throughout the Bahamas.  The pigs swim out to the boats when they approach and even will swim with you in a playful manner.  If nothing else it is interesting to witness. 

Swim in Dean's Blue Hole

Most often if you see a photo of the Bahamas it is of Dean’s Blue Hole.  It is an amazing natural wonder that is a fave of scuba divers. 

What is a Blue Hole? A “Blue Hole” is a sinkhole that is not only filled with water but has a submerged entrance found beneath the surface. While there many blue holes in the world, Dean’s Blue Hole stands out because it is the deepest known to man. At 663 feet (202 meters), Dean’s Blue Hole is just west of Clarence Town on Long Island and on good days, the water is so clear that you can see up to 115 feet. It is an amazing site to behold and if you are brave take a dive. 

I’m so glad you took a moment to read about the wonderful things in the Bahamas and all it has to offer. Trust me it was hard to chose just 8.

I’m Kavonda L. Rogers and I’m a Certified Travel Agent who specializes in Destination Weddings/Romance Travel, Group Travel and First Time Travelers. I am also a Destination Specialist for the Caribbean, Mexico, Hawaii, Central and South America.

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Differences Between River and Ocean Cruising

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River Cruising Vs. Ocean Cruising

Almost every traveler knows about ocean cruising.  Let’s face it commercials and advertisements for Carnival and Royal Caribbean are everywhere.  Yet, river cruising is not as well known but it’s a growing part of the travel market.  Because of that growth I get a lot of questions about river cruises.  Today I will not only introduce you to river cruising but let you know how it differs from ocean cruising.  Let’s get started!

By Kavonda L. Rogers

How They Are Alike?

 

  • On both, you settle into a stateroom & unpack one time
  • Both visit several destinations in one cruise
  • Food and entertainment are complimentary
  • Room Setups are  similar, with private baths, storage, and most toiletries provided
  • There is a gym and some exercise classes available
  • An Internet center & WiFi are available
  • Relaxation Lounges are available
  • Both have a main dining room for dinner
  • Both have libraries on board
  • There are lectures and informational seminars about culture, history, destinations and other topics of interest
  • Great service
  • They have planned activities on both but less are available on the river cruise

How Are They Different?

  • River vessels are smaller and carry fewer guests
  • Rooms on river cruise vessels are smaller
  • River vessels visit more destinations in a single cruise and can visit areas the big cruise ships cannot
  • Shore excursions are included in the river cruise price
  • There are no Broadway Style shows or productions
  • If there is entertainment it is usually piano or a string quartet
  • This is not the best option for children since there are no programs or facilities for children
  • There are no pools, spas, or medical centers on river cruise ships
  • Internet service is free
  • There is no 24-hour food service on river vessels and the menu choices are more limited
  • Leave the seasickness meds at home since river cruising is very stable
  • River vessels have no lifeboats!

 

A Few Key Details. . .

Ocean cruise ships stop at fairly large ports while river ships stop right at the town you are going to visit. 

The most popular river cruising area is Europe because of it’s many small towns that are peppered along the many rivers.  Many times the ships can spend many hours in port so cruisers can immerse themselves in culture.

Many of the shore excursions are guided walking tours that focus on culture, history and of course food.   Many river cruises focus on wine, food or even certain types of music making them a favorite of people with those interests. 

Since most river cruisers are baby boomers or matures this makes for a not so friendly kid environment.  River cruises do not ban or exclude children it just is not the best environment for them. 

Lastly, river cruises are a highly. close knit social environment.  You will spend a lot of time with your fellow cruisers and get to know them over the 7+ days you are together. 

Have you considered a river cruise or is it not your cup of tea?  Please share. 

I’m so glad you took a moment to read about river cruising and all it has to offer. If you're interested in taking a river cruise; I'd love to help.

I’m Kavonda L. Rogers and I’m a Certified Travel Agent who specializes in Destination Weddings/Romance Travel, Group Travel and First Time Travelers. I am also a destination Specialist for the Caribbean, Mexico, Hawaii, Central and South America.

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10 Things to Know Before Traveling to Cuba

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10 Things to Know Before Traveling to Cuba

Cuba is the newest hot travel spot. . . why?  Because we haven’t been able to go to or interact with Cuba for decades.  Now we as citizens of the United States are allowed to travel to Cuba but boy are the guidelines confusing.  So, I will attempt to lower the confusion level and help you understand travel to Cuba.

Honestly, the best way to travel to Cuba is vis cruise. Mainly because the cruise lines have worked hard to eliminate several of the step involved in Cuba travel.  In order to travel to Cuba, you must participate in person to person educational experience.  There is no way around this rule.  Let’s jump into what you need to know to travel to Cuba.

 

By Kavonda L. Rogers

What Are the Legal Requirements?

You must have a passport to travel to Cuba; even if you are cruising to Cuba you must have a passport. This is also where the person to person educational contact comes into play.  All of the cruise ships have these activities setup through their shore excursions. 

You also need to complete a travel affidavit before you travel, and you will need to keep a copy for yourself and return a copy to your travel professional or the cruise line.

You also have to pay for a Tourist Visa.  The Visa costs $75 a person and is included with your cruise fare.  The cruise line will then handle the details with the Cuban government.

 

 

Which Cruises Line Travel to Cuba?

Currently, three cruise lines travel to Cuba.  Those three cruise lines are Carnival, Royal Caribbean and Norwegian.  There is only one cruise terminal in Cuba currently and it is small.  SO, you can expect the ships that travel to Cuba to be smaller. 

Royal Caribbean and Norwegian have ships that leave from Miami, Florida.  Carnival has 2 ships that leave from Miami and Tampa, Florida. 

 

What are the Itineraries?

The port is in Havana, Cuba and you will have at least one other stop in your itinerary.  Your stop in Cuba will be either 7-8 hours long or even possibly overnight.  If you can choose an overnight itinerary since there is so much to see in Havana. 

 

Basic Information

 

 

Money

Cash is King in Cuba.  The exchange rate for the dollar is 10% and 3% for the Euro.  You may consider purchasing Euros to stretch your dollar.  Very few places in Cuba accept ATM or credit cards so do not plan to use them. 

Exchange your money while at the cruise terminal and exchange it back before leaving Cuba.  Do not forget. 

Documents

Do not leave the ship without your travel documents.  Your travel documents include your passport, key card for the ship, government issued identification, and your travel visa.  You can be asked for any of these documents when you pass through customs and security each time you leave or come back to the ship.

Wi-fi

There is very little Wifi in Cuba.  There are also few cell phone towers that connect to US phones.  So, save your social media posts etc. for when you return to the ship.

Transportation

You can explore the four squares of Havana on foot if you chose.  If not, there are horse drawn carriages, taxis and pedicabs. 

Gifts and Souvenirs

You can bring back items from Cuba with no penalties.  We all remember when everything Cuban was banned from the United States and its citizens.  Now you can purchase Cuban cigars and Cuban rum.  Whatever you chose to buy counts toward your $800 duty free allowance.  Also, do not miss a chance to have an authentic Mojito which were created in Cuba.

Are you ready for a trip to Cuba?  Then definitely stay connected because I am planning a Cuba Cruise 2.0.  My Cuba Cruise for 2019 sold out in 3 days so be prepared.  If you are interested in Cuba Cruise 2.0 then feel free to send me an email at honeymoons@weddingsbyvonda.com so I can keep you updated.

I’m Kavonda L. Rogers and I’m a Certified Travel Agent who specializes in assisting first time travelers navigate the often confusing world of travel and I assist veteran travelers on how to take their travel experiences to the next level.

 

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