There are so many options on where to stay when planning your visit to Walt Disney World. It can become overwhelming knowing exactly what would be the best place for you and your family. Staying on Disney property comes with many benefits as to why to stay at an onsite Disney Resort Hotel. These benefits can include:

• Complimentary Transportation: Whether it is by the Disney bus system, water taxis, or even transportation in the sky via the Disney Skyliner- Disney will make sure you get around property in style!


• Early Park Admission: Guests can get extra time in the theme parks with 30 minutes of early entry. Guests staying in Deluxe and Deluxe Villas can also maximize their time with extended evening hours.


• Proximity: Staying in a Disney Resort Hotel means you will be close to all of the magic.


• Theming: All of the Disney Resort Hotels are themed in unique and magical ways. You will feel all of the detail and story telling everywhere you look.


• Activities and Recreation: Whether it is lounging by the pool or having a movie night under the stars: Disney Resorts have something to keep everyone entertained even if you do not have a park day.

Embarking on your first cruise is an exciting and memorable experience, but it's essential to be well-prepared to make the most of your journey on the high seas. Whether it is your first cruise or just looking to refresh your knowledge, these tips will cover everything you need to know before setting sail.

Preparing Documents:

• Make sure to double check passport or visa requirements for your port destinations.


• Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond the cruise end date.


• Make copies of important documents, including your cruise reservation, ID, and insurance details and keep together to make your boarding process as smooth as possible.

• Pack a carry on bag such as a tote bag or a backpack with items such as a sweater, your swimsuit, phone charger, medications- anything you may need or want as you wait for your luggage and stateroom to be ready.


• Do not forget formal or themed attire for themed events and dinners.


• Consider the dress code for different areas of the ship.


• Always check weather ahead of time to ensure you are packing what you need. Hats, sweaters, sunscreen, good walking shoes.

• Embarkation day is a great time to explore the ship and see all of the amenities they have to offer.


• Attend the onboard orientation to learn about facilities, dining options, and entertainment.


• Familiarize yourself with safety procedures and emergency exits.


• Download your cruise line's app as they will inform you of the daily schedules and hours of operations of shoppes or facilities.

• Explore the various dining choices, including formal dining rooms, buffets, specialty restaurants, and room service.


• Ensure you have your preferred dining time.


• Double check the fees for room service is any are applicable.

• Take advantage of onboard activities, such as fitness classes, spa treatments, and entertainment shows.


• Check the daily schedule for events and plan your time accordingly.


• Check your ship's themed events to give you opportunities to pack necessary  clothing.

• Depending on the port, research what excursions are offered and what would best fit your style or explore independently.


• Consider the level of activity and any specific requirements for each excursion.


• Be mindful of the time and return to the ship well before departure.

• Understand the cruise line's gratuity policy and budget accordingly.


• Be aware of additional costs for onboard purchases, shore excursions, and other optional activities.

Cruising has become a popular way to unwind, explore new places, and indulge at sea. Given the popularity comes many choices when deciding not only what itineraries to sail but what ships to sail on. Among the various cruise options available, Carnival Cruise Line stands out with it's vibrant atmosphere and lively entertainment. Many cruise ships offer all of the bells and whistles but when embarking on your first cruise, it can be overwhelming. Let me introduce you to one of the ships in Carnival's fleet, the Carnival Paradise, a ship that offers unforgettable journey filled with excitement, relaxation, and endless possibilities. Let's dive into what Carnival Paradise entails and if it would be a good fit for you and your family.

Accommodations:

Carnival Paradise is a Fantasy-class cruise ship that first set sail in 1998. Over the years, it has undergone refurbishments to ensure it meets the evolving expectations of modern cruisers. With a capacity for over 2,000 passengers, this ship offers a perfect balance of intimate spaces and lively communal areas. This ship has various staterooms to accommodate different preferences as well as different budgets. Whether it is a cozy interior cabin to a spacious suite with a private balcony, you will be sure to find a stateroom to best fit you and your needs.  During my sailing, we stood in an ocean view stateroom that had 2 port holes. The room itself had plenty of space and storage for the two of us. The room can be viewed on the smaller side for a larger family or party but we found it to be perfect especially given we spent most of our time exploring the ship or our port of call. Since it was our first cruise, we did not mind having the two port holes to look out of as we were unsure of how well we would do with the views of the water. If you are more comfortable with the idea of your first cruise, I recommend getting a stateroom with a larger window or a balcony to take advantage of the views.

Cruising Delights:

This ship offers many dining options whether it is formal dining rooms,  to the casual buffet, Guy's Burger Joint, or even some Latin flavors at BlueIguana Cantina. Room service is also available for fee to ensure no matter what time of day it is, you will be able to indulge. Whether you or someone in your party are picky eaters or an adventurous foodie, you will be sure to find something you enjoy. Of course many frequent cruisers will be able to relate when I say some of the best ice cream you will ever devour will be on your ship as you float in the middle of the ocean.

On-Board Activities: 

Carnival is known for it's lively entertainment and Carnival Paradise is not an exception. During our sailing, there were plenty of activities such as trivia games, Punchline comedy shows, and of course games of bingo and Deal or No Deal. Even during breaks in between shows there were plenty of opportunities to explore spaces such as the pool, hot tubs, waterslides, spa, fitness center, casino, and the kid's clubs. A few nights of our sailing there were also themed events such as a white out party followed by silent disco, an 80's night, and captains dinner where many of the guests dressed accordingly and enjoyed various activities or listened to the themed music.

Although I enjoyed all of the amenities this ship had to offer as well as my ports of call,  I believe what really made my time even more enjoyable was the service I received. Between our wait staff in the dining room to our room attendant, everyone managed to remember us by name and made sure we had everything we needed our entire stay.  If you're looking to book your first cruise and are overwhelmed with all of the options, I think Carnival Paradise is a great option. It gives you many of the benefits and recreations as the larger ships do but also gives you some intimacy to get to know your sailmates and gives you a smaller ship to get familiar with.