10 Things to Know About Spending a Sea Day on a Cruise Ship with Kids for the First Time

 Ahoy, fellow seafaring families! From navigating onboard activities to conquering the high seas with ease, I've curated 10 essential tips that every parent needs in their cruise playbook. So, join me as I share my seasoned insights on turning sea days into a nautical haven for both kids and parents. Trust me, by the end of this post, you'll be ready to set sail with confidence and create oceanic memories your family will cherish forever!

1. Kids Club Exploration: Uncover the wonders of the onboard Kids Club – a treasure trove of entertainment and activities tailored just for your little sailors. We have brought our kids at every age! Sometimes they are interested and sometimes they are not. 

2. Pack a Swim Bag: A sea day calls for poolside fun! Pack swim essentials like sunscreen, floaties, and waterproof toys for a splashing good time. There can be many pools and hot tubs. Are your kids allowed in the hot tubs? Sometimes you will need to decide this. 

3. Schedule Downtime: Amidst all the excitement, don't forget to schedule downtime. A well-timed nap can make all the difference for both kids and parents.

4. Family-Friendly Shows: Check out the daily schedule for family-friendly shows. It's not just entertainment; it's an experience that everyone can enjoy together. We saw a Dr. Seuss show on our last cruise that I am sure many other cruisers missed out on. 

5. Navigating Mealtime: Plan your meals strategically to avoid long wait times. Opt for early or late dining to ensure a smoother experience with little ones. We usually choose the buffet. If we go to the sit down meals, we usually don’t order dessert because you run out of time. So just get your dessert at the buffet. 

6. Create a Cruise Scavenger Hunt: Turn exploring the ship into a game! Create a cruise ship scavenger hunt to keep the little ones engaged and excited. Many passengers hide little ducks on the ship. Try and find them. 

7. Check the Daily Newsletter: Don't miss out on important announcements and schedule changes. The daily newsletter is your go-to guide for all things happening on the ship.

8. Enjoy the View: Take a moment to appreciate the vastness of the sea. Whether from your balcony or a designated viewing area, the ocean provides a serene backdrop for family bonding.

9. Capture the Memories: Pack a camera or smartphone for impromptu photo sessions. Sea days are perfect for capturing candid moments against the breathtaking backdrop of the open sea.

10. Visit the Arcade: For a break from the sun, head to the onboard arcade for some friendly family competition. It's a great way to enjoy indoor fun together. This is an added expense. 

11. Watch the Sunset: Find a prime spot on the ship to witness the sunset. It's a serene and beautiful way to wind down the day with the family.

12. Connect with Other Families: Cruise ships are like floating communities. Encourage your kids to make new friends, and who knows, you might find some like-minded parents to share the adventure with. You kids will definitely find kids their age to hang out with. 

From poolside splashes to onboard workshops, each moment is an opportunity for family bonding amidst the vast expanse of the ocean. Now, dear readers, I'd love to hear from you! What's your favorite memory from a sea day on a cruise with your little ones? Share your experiences, tips, and the moments that made your family cruise truly special in the comments below. Let's keep the conversation sailing and create a community of seafaring parents sharing the joys of cruising with kids!

Find this Greater Than a Tourist book and other on Amazon. 

10 Things to Know About Going to The Natural History Museum with Kids for the First Time

 Hey there, fellow adventurers! Ever wondered how to turn a visit to the Natural History Museum into an unforgettable experience for your little explorers? I'm here to spill the secrets for making your first trip a roaring success. I've curated the top 10 things you should to know before stepping into the realm of dinosaurs, ancient civilizations, and awe-inspiring exhibits with your kids. 

1. Plan Ahead: Scope out the museum's website for special exhibits, events, and kid-friendly activities. Research the things your kids love so you can see them. There are also a few extra shows with times that you need to make it so plan accordingly. 

2. Timing is Everything: Beat the crowds by arriving early or later in the day for a more relaxed experience.

3. Snack Attack: Pack a snack bag for those inevitable hunger pangs during exploration. You can’t eat at the museum but there is a cafeteria that was fairly priced. 

4. Interactive Learning: Seek out hands-on exhibits to keep the little ones engaged and excited. There are certain shows you can see that will keep kids entertained and let them move around. 

5. Photo Ops: Capture the magic by bringing a camera – every moment is a memory in the making. These photos may be helpful as learning experiences as they grow up. There is also a butterfly room!

6. Dress Comfortably: Comfortable shoes and layers are key for a full day of exploring.

7. Rest and Recharge: Identify quiet spots for breaks when the kids need a breather. There are many lobbies to take a rest before you keep going. Believe me, this place is bigger than you think.

8. Mind the Time: Allocate sufficient time for each exhibit but be flexible – curiosity knows no schedule.

9. Souvenir Strategy: Set a budget for souvenirs beforehand to avoid impulse buys.

10. Reflect and Share: After your adventure, discuss favorite exhibits and discoveries – building lasting memories.

As we wrap up I hope your Natural History Museum visit is as fun as ours was.  Did you uncover a hidden gem or stumble upon a jaw-dropping exhibit that stole the show for your family? Share your stories, tips, and even the hilarious moments in the comment section below. Let's turn this blog post into a community hub of shared adventures, where we can swap tales of triumphs and tribulations in the world of parenting and museum exploration. Your voice adds a vibrant layer to our collective journey, and I can't wait to read all about it! Until then, happy exploring, fellow adventurers!

We watched night at the museum so we had to see the East Island guy. Dumb Dumb, give me gum gum! 

Find this Greater Than a Tourist book and other on Amazon. 

 10 Things to Know About Going to The Cruise Port of San Juan with Kids for the First Time

Ahoy, fellow cruisers! We just came back from our second trip to San Juan with kids and I want to share some tips with you. 

10 Tips for Going to The Cruise Port of San Juan with Kids:

1. Explore El Morro Fort: Turn history into an adventure by exploring the iconic El Morro Fort. Kids will love the expansive views and open spaces. Our kids do really love forts. The cost is free for kids. The views are great and they are many tunnels to explore while you share some history.

2. Stroll Through Old San Juan: The colorful streets of Old San Juan are a visual treat. Stroll through and let your kids soak in the vibrant atmosphere. I love the brink streets. Sidewalks are tight so if you have a stroller bring a small one. 

3. Sunscreen is Essential: San Juan's sun can be intense. Ensure your family is protected with sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. We tried to stay in the shade of the building on a hot day. 

4. Learn Basic Spanish Phrases: While many locals speak English, learning a few basic Spanish phrases can enhance your family's interaction with the locals. We interacted at some t shirt shops. While you don’t need to know Spanish, it was fun to try!

5. Capture the Colorful Street Art: San Juan is adorned with vibrant street art. Encourage your kids to appreciate and capture the beauty of these urban masterpieces.

6. Coordinate with Cruise Line Activities: Check if the cruise line offers family-friendly activities in San Juan. It's a great way to maximize your time on the island.

7. Discover Local Markets: Explore local markets for unique souvenirs and a taste of authentic Puerto Rican culture.

8. Plan for Snack Breaks: Keep snacks on hand to curb hunger during your explorations, especially if you have little ones with you. There is a Walgreens right off the ship that might be helpful for this

9. Watch the Sunset: Find a picturesque spot to watch the sunset over San Juan. It's a beautiful way to wrap up your day on this enchanting island.

As the sun sets on our San Juan adventure, I hope these tips infuse your family's journey with memories as vibrant as the city itself. Now, fellow explorers, share your thoughts! Have you been to San Juan with your kids? Any additional tips to add? Drop your experiences in the comments below, and let's build a community of parents sharing their secrets to a perfect family cruise!

10 Things to Know About Going to The Cruise Port of Grand Turk with Kids for the First Time

Ahoy, fellow cruisers! Ever wondered if the Cruise Port of Grand Turk is a hidden gem for family vacations? Well, I've sailed those turquoise waters with my little crew and uncovered the secrets to making it an unforgettable experience for families. 

10 Tips for Going to The Cruise Port of Grand Turk with Kids:

1. Pack Snorkeling Gear: The crystal-clear waters are perfect for a family snorkeling adventure. Don't forget the gear! We only bring a snorkel and goggles. I recommend a float and water shoes for this free beach right off the ship. There is great snorkeling by the rocks off the beach but it is very rocky to get there. I recommend very small children stay more to the pool so no one gets hurt. 

2. Sun Protection is Key: Pack sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to shield your family from the Caribbean sun.

3. Embrace the Cultural Experience: People will ask you for hair braiding. I do not do this incase my kids get lice. They will also try to sell you more things down the beach. That is fine, but there are free chair if you can get them before other cruise passengers. 

4. Caribbean Souvenirs: Encourage your kids to pick out souvenirs at the local shops, fostering a connection to the island. There are options at this cruise port. 

5. Plan Your Beach Day: Whether it's snorkeling, building sandcastles, or simply lounging, plan a beach day that suits your family's preferences.

6. Bring a Portable Shade: Consider a pop-up tent or umbrella for portable shade on the beach. There are some trees that might be helpful. 

7. Connect with Other Families: The cruise port is an excellent place to connect with other families for joint adventures. Kids can usually find kids their age to play with. 

8. Water Activities for All Ages: From paddleboarding to glass-bottom boat rides, there are water activities suitable for every age group. You need to pay for these further down the beach. We did not decide to do this. 

9. Mind the Cruise Schedule: Be aware of the ship's departure time and plan your day accordingly to avoid any last-minute rushes. Make sure you are on ship time. You can see this in the cruise app. 

10. Capture the Moments: Don't forget your camera! Grand Turk's scenic beauty is the perfect backdrop for family photos. Maybe even bring a water camera. 

Now, fellow adventurers, it's your turn! Share your favorite Grand Turk family memories or any additional tips you might have in the comments below. Let's keep the conversation alive and help other parents plan their perfect island getaway!

 

10 Things to Know About Going to The Cruise Port of Amber Cove with Kids for the First Time

 

Ahoy, fellow cruisers. Amber cove is a great cruise port where you can decide not to spend anything, spend a little or a lot! We spend a little and I will share with you what we did.  Join me as I spill the beans on the 10 things every parent should know when venturing to The Cruise Port of Amber Cove with their kiddos for the first time. Let's dive in!

10 Tips for Going to The Cruise Port of Amber Cove with Kids:

1. Choose Kid-Friendly Excursions: At the cruise port there is a free pool. You can also pay $6 for slides (11/23 Prices). You can also zipline for $26. You need to be a certain weight to do this. I also saw two children going together to increase the weight but I am not sure how that works. There is a small yellow building by the boat where you pay. 

2. Splash Around at the Pool: Amber Cove boasts a fantastic pool area. Bring swim gear for a refreshing dip and hours of family fun. Remember this part is free but some sections have loud music. There are free bathrooms around. The music had the curse words taken out. The pool does go in a circle. 

3. Visit the Play Area: Let your kids burn off some energy at the dedicated play area. It's a perfect pitstop for active little ones. There is a small grass section and free hammock if you can get there first. 

4. Try Food: In the Amber cove cruise area they had inexpensive food and a Nathans hotdogs if you like that. 

5. Capture the Scenic Views: The picturesque surroundings of Amber Cove provide the ideal backdrop for family photos. Don't forget your camera! You will need to walk up yourself but it is free and a the views are beautiful. 

6. Connect with Wildlife: If your kids love animals, consider excursions that allow them to interact with local wildlife. We saw lots of butterflies and dragonflies in November 2023. 

7. Stay Hydrated: Caribbean sun can be intense. Pack water bottles to keep your family hydrated throughout the day. Bring your own water bottles. 

8. Prepare for Shopping: The port features a variety of shops. Set a budget for souvenirs and involve your kids in picking out keepsakes. We went back on the ship and changed and then went shopping when we were done after the water activities and the zipplining. 

9. Coordinate with Other Families: Cruising is more fun with company. Connect with other families on the cruise and plan activities together. Our daughter loved doing on the waterslides with another child her age. 

10. Bring Portable Shade: There place only had shade by the building so that is where we sat. 

I hope these tips enhance your family's cruise vacation. Share your Amber Cove adventures or any additional tips you might have in the comments below. Let's build a community of cruising parents sharing their secrets to the perfect family getaway!

Find this Greater Than a Tourist book and other on Amazon. 

10 Things to Know About Going on the Carnival Venencia with Kids for the First Time

 Hey there, fellow cruisers with kids. I've got the inside scoop on embarking on the Carnival Venencia with your little ones for the very first time. As a seasoned family cruises, I've curated this list to ensure your Carnival Venencia experience is more fun and less work. We had a great time on our cruise and I hope you do too.

1. Plan Your Day Strategically: Scope out the carnival map and schedule in advance. Knowing where the kid-friendly attractions are located can save you precious time and energy.

2. Pack the Essentials: Sunscreen, snacks, and a change of clothes – be prepared for anything. Trust me, a well-packed bag is a parent's secret weapon.

3. Early Bird Gets the Fun: Arrive early to beat the crowds and enjoy popular rides with minimal wait times.

4. Height Matters: Check the height requirements for rides before your kiddos get their hearts set on them. The ropes course requires a certain height and so does the waterslides.

5. Embrace the Family Zones: There is the work out area, the basketball court (where they play more than basketball), and kids club areas.

6. Budget Wisely: Carnival goodies can add up. Set a spending limit for the arcade, treats, and souvenirs to avoid any post-carnival budget blues. There is a candy shop on board but we brought some of our own candy from home.

7. Stay Hydrated: With all the excitement, it's easy to forget the basics. Keep water bottles handy to ensure everyone stays refreshed. You can bring your own water bottle.

8. Embrace the Theme: Encourage the kiddos to dress up in theme-appropriate attire. It adds an extra layer of fun and makes for fantastic photos. Or don't dress the themes at all. Masks seem to be a thing on this cruise.

9. Know the Showtimes: Check the schedule for parades, performances, and shows. Timing your day around these events can add an extra layer of entertainment.

10. Take Breaks: Carnivals can be overwhelming, so don't hesitate to take short breaks. Find a shady spot to recharge and regroup.

I hope these tips help you get started on your first cruise. Please make sure your kids do not get in the way of walkers or wheelchairs. This includes on the elevators. If you want to get your kids tired and they can do it, let them go up the stair instead of on the elevators. Or teach them how to ride the elevators correctly. I hope you enjoy your first cruise with kids on the Carnival Venencia!

Lisa

Find this Greater Than a Tourist book and other on Amazon. 

Dr. Lisa Rusczyk- CZYK Publishing

 

I went to an entrepreneurship training this week which inspired me to write down my story again. Hi, I’m Lisa. I went to school to initially to teach online classes so I could be home with my children while perusing a career I enjoyed. I earned my doctorate in Education a year after my first child was born. I was an multimedia creator, instructional designer, and software training before having children.

While I was pregnant I had so many questions. I wrote a blog post to help others through pregnancy called “50 Things to Know Before Having a Baby”. That post went viral! I then took the post and made a book out of it which became the first book in the “50 Things to Know” series. After I published about 50 books, I started hiring other writers to write books and creating more series of books. I have a love of travel, so I created the “Greater Than a Tourist”, and “Eat Like a Local” series.

After the pandemic my children went back to school full-time but I decided to still work on my company CZYK Publishing which now has over 2,000 books, and 1,000 audiobooks. I continue to work on these series daily and learn how I can share more tips in an easy to learn format. I love working with people all around the world to do this from my computer at home.

I would like to tell others that want to become entrepreneurs that this was not my first idea for a business. I tried YouTube for a while, created content for teachers, published 50 online classes, and was an influencer to only name a few. While I had fun doing these things, for different reasons they did not work out. But it did not keep me from trying new things until something stuck. This has been a 10-year process.

Another thing that was helpful for starting my business is I used mostly free software on the internet to grow my businesses and lots of feedback. While this was time consuming on my part, I learned so much without going into debt. This allowed me to keep trying new things until I started creating an income. I hope people can learn from my journey as it was not straight but fulfilling. I appreciate all the education that I had that helped with each step along the way.

I believe life blows you like a sailboat. You get to readjust after every strong wind.

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