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Sicily – Messina Italy – Cruise Day 6
This was truly an unforgettable shore excursion! We admired the beautiful Italian villages and cinematic landscapes where The Godfather saga came to life around us. We began with a scenic countryside drive to the charming town of Savoca, taking in the breathtaking views along the way. We paused to enjoy a refreshing, authentic Sicilian granita—a…
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Adriatic / Ionian Seas – Cruise Day 5
Today was the perfect sea day — a welcome chance to slow down, relax, and recharge after several early mornings spent exploring fascinating ports and excursions. For the first time in days, we happily slept in and eased into the morning at a leisurely pace. Our first stop was the exclusive Elite Plus breakfast at…
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Kotor Montenegro – Cruise Day 4
Today, June 1, 2026 we experienced some of the most beautiful and historic places in Montenegro. We started by visiting the charming village of Perast, where we admired its elegant Baroque architecture and the impressive Cathedral of St. Nicholas as we strolled along the waterfront. Then, just off the coast, we took a short trip…
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Dubrovnik Croatia – Cruise Day 3
Inspired by George Bernard Shaw’s famous words, we discovered why Dubrovnik is often called “paradise on earth.” On this breathtaking panoramic journey, we were captivated by the city’s dazzling coastal beauty and timeless charm as it unfolded around us. We began on the iconic Stradun, the lively heart of Dubrovnik’s Old Town, where we strolled…
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Split Croatia – Cruise Day 2
We stepped into the timeless charm of Split as we wandered through the heart of the old city. We explored the incredible remains of Emperor Diocletian’s Palace—now a vibrant maze of cobblestone lanes, gothic churches, fascinating museums, charming art galleries, and lively cafés and restaurants. We descended into the atmospheric palace cellars for a glimpse…
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Ravenna Italy – Cruise Day 1
Despite dire warnings of a nationwide transportation strike affecting air, sea, and land travel across Italy, we made it to the ship without a hitch! Our shuttle arrived promptly at 10:00 a.m. in front of our hotel in the beautiful Marina Romea area near Ravenna and whisked us to Porto Corsini, the cruise port, in…
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At Sea – Day 13
Today was a fabulous sea day, and we kicked it off with some much-needed beauty sleep, followed by a late breakfast that was basically a brunch bonanza! For lunch, it was the Japanese Izumi restaurant onboard, where our taste buds danced with delight! The Poke bowl was the perfect light treat to balance out our…
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Ishigaki – Day 12
We arrived in Ishigaki, and stepping off the ship was super easy! The shuttle buses were all set and ready to whisk us off into the heart of town. As soon as we got outside, we were greeted by a downpour and some serious winds! It felt like the perfect day for yakiniku, hibachi and…
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Okinawa – Day 11
A Day in Okinawa: Adventures Await! This morning, we landed in Okinawa, and wow, what a gorgeous day it was! The skies were as clear as a blue ocean, and the temperature was just right—perfection! We docked around 11 AM, and after a smooth ride through Immigration, we hopped on a shuttle bus headed for…
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At Sea – Day 10
Ahoy, adventure seekers! Another fabulous day at sea, sailing towards the stunning shores of Okinawa, Japan! Today was supposed to be a sky-high thrill ride in the North Star aboard the fabulous Spectrum of the Seas. The North Star is a glass observation capsule that lifts guests over 300 feet above the ocean for breathtaking…
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Asian Cruise – Day 9
Arrival Back in Hong Kong We’re back in Hong Kong! We’ll be setting sail at around 4 PM, heading towards Okinawa, Japan. We can’t wait to explore Okinawa and then continue our journey to Ishigaki! Okinawa – Culture & History: Okinawa boasts a unique culture, influenced by its history as the Ryukyu Kingdom. We’ll be…
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South China Sea – Day 8
What a peaceful day at sea! We enjoyed a leisurely morning as the ship cruised through the South China Sea, making its way back to Hong Kong. We intended to have breakfast on our balcony, but as the winds picked up, we decided to move back to our cabin for a delightful breakfast in bed.…
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Vietnam Cruise – Day 5
Today was a wonderfully relaxing day at sea aboard the Spectrum of the Seas. We enjoyed royal treatment throughout the day, starting with a delightful breakfast on Deck 16 and followed by soothing piano tunes at the Schooner Lounge on Deck 5. Tonight was formal night, and we loved the attention from all the photographers…
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Hong Kong – Day 4
The big day is here! (12/09/25) Embarkation Day! We stepped aboard the stunning Spectrum of the Seas at the Kai Tak Cruise Terminal. This terminal, once the site of the old Kai Tak Airport runway, provides breathtaking views of the harbor. We’re finally heading to Vietnam! Currently aboard the Spectrum of the Seas, we’re en…
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Star Princess
Coming October 2026 We will be on the new Star Princess on an Ocean to Ocean voyage from Los Angeles, California to Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Stay tuned for a full review of this newest ship of the Princess fleet. Here’s a brief summary of Star Princess — the newest ship from Princess Cruises: 🚢 What…
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Celebrity Apex
The Celebrity Apex is the second cruise ship in Celebrity Cruises’ Edge Series, launched in 2021. It is known for its innovative, outward-facing design, features unique amenities like the Magic Carpet (a cantilevered platform) and Infinite Verandas (staterooms with balconies that can be closed to create internal living space). Review of Celebrity Apex Cruise (November…
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Ba Na Hills – Vietnam Cruise – Day 7
Perched nearly 5,000 feet above sea level, SunWorld Ba Na Hills boasted an ideal climate, usually 10 degrees cooler than at sea level. Our adventure began at a cable car station, from which we traveled across to the enchanting footbridge known as Cau Vang, or the Golden Bridge. Designed by TA Landscape Architecture of Ho…
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Hoi An – Vietnam Cruise – Day 6
The lantern-lit streets and cultural treasures of Hoi An beckoned us to a bygone era as we explored this ancient city’s most iconic landmarks, discovering an enchanting fusion of history, cuisine, and timeless beauty. We enjoyed a scenic coastal drive to the charming town of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a well-preserved…
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Royal Caribbean Spectrum of the Seas
The Spectrum of the Seas is packed with unique features that make it stand out in the cruising world! Here are some of the highlights: 🚀 Futuristic Attractions – **RipCord by iFLY**: Experience the thrill of indoor skydiving in a state-of-the-art simulator! Clay and Viv are booked on this adventure on this cruise. – **North Star**:…
