Did you know October is National Plan a Cruise Month? We are recent converts to the joy of cruising! I always thought of cruises as a romantic, couple thing. But they’re amazing for families too!! If you know us, you know how much we love to explore! Sitting on a beach is relaxing is great – but we get itchy for an adventure after about a day or so!!
We spent months planning our trip to Greece. We were going to be staying with friends in Athens, but we wanted to see some of the beautiful islands. But when we started pricing up the ferry, hotel, rental car, food, etc to visit just one island, we quickly realized that our dream of island hopping might just be out of reach with our budget. Then, our friends suggested we look into a cruise. We were blown away! For a fraction of the cost we were expecting, we were able to visit four islands — and had plenty of time to relax in between!
We left from Athens…
We visited Mykonos. Greece. This was our favorite stop – such a fun, exciting island! Tons for adults to do, but also super kid friendly.
Next stop was Kusadasi, Turkey – where we took an excursion to Ancient Ephesus that was just incredible.
Had a quick stop in Crete:
Then we visited Santorini which is not overrated even a little. Heaven on Earth.
Now take a moment and think about this…
Can you even IMAGINE dragging three kids all over like this in foreign countries where we only knew a handful of phrases? The logistics, the whining, the luggage???
Instead, we had a home away from home. Every evening, we returned to the ship, were greeted by smiling, familiar faces and could have a relaxing dinner together. Then we tucked into our room where the kids could bathe, put on their jammies and cuddle up with their blankets or stuffed animals. Instead of frazzled and distracted, we were able to relax and really enjoy exploring!
There are more cruise options and destinations available to travelers than ever! From exploring Asia and Europe to relaxing in the Caribbean, from several weeks to only a few nights, the possibilties are endless. Next up for us? ALASKA! We’re planning a trip to Alaska in 2017 and I think adding on a cruise would be incredible!
Are you looking to cruise with your family? The cruise industry is kicking off the #CruiseSmile #Sweepstakes to celebrate National Plan a Cruise Month!
Picture yourself on a luxury voyage to Tahiti, on a European river cruise on the Seine River from Paris, on a magical family-friendly three-night Bahamian voyage at sea and even a 14-day Far-East Discovery cruise visiting exotic ports throughout Southeast Asia….
Now through October 31st, enter your best #CruiseSmile selfie each day for a chance to win one of 31 cruise vacations for two.
To enter, simply upload your “cruise smile” selfie at www.CruiseSmile.org and share the entry with friends. For more chances to win, post your photo on Twitter or Instagram using #CruiseSmile and #Sweepstakes and share your #CruiseSmile with friends to earn even more entries into the sweepstakes.
GOOD LUCK!!