Cruising from Southampton aboard Royal Caribbean Cruises was a life-long dream that was surpassed in every way. Southampton, the launching port of the Mayflower and the Titanic, was the perfect tee-off to France, Spain, Italy, Ireland, Portugal or the Canary Islands. I had gone to France in the past so I passed up on the 3-night cruise which would have brought me back to romantic Paris. I’ve never been to Ireland and found it darkly mysterious, the 12-night Scandinavian and Russian tour was appealing in its novelty, the 14-night Mediterranean cruise which would take me to France, Italy and Portugal was absolutely tempting, but at the end-of-the-day, I opted for the 12-night Spain and Canary Islands Cruise with various ports of call like the iconic Vigo, Spain and Lisbon, Portugal. I was definitely going to Europe in style!

I loved the fact that there were Cruise tours where the cruise experience is augmented by an equally memorable land tour. You imbibe local flavor, history and breathe in the scenery from the port of call and beyond.

Heavenly Onboard Experience

Whatever ideas you have about a cruise as a unique once in a lifetime experience are all true – if you are aboard one of Royal Caribbean Cruises. Hardly had we left Southampton when I was faced with so many choices, all designed to keep me entertained, excited and dining on delicious food from the many restaurants aboard. I am passionate about food and I was tremendously happy to know that 5-course gourmet meals at the main dining hall were included in the ticket price. There are other options for all tastes and preferences.

The fun didn’t seem to stop with entertainment and shows going on almost round-the-clock.  I’ve read on their site that “cruising is more than a vacation – an experience like none other” but was not prepared for the value for money I got. I indulged myself at the spa and fitness center, enjoyed some dancing and tried my hand at the casino tables. The energy of those who were into the ship’s tournaments and other athletic activities was infectious but truth be told, I loved the freedom of having the choice to be by myself or mingle with a whole lot of interesting people.

Cruising the Med

Spain was sunny with passionate people, bustling cities and laidback countryside. In a way, it was almost like the Italy I knew. I loved the food and wine – spirited, heady and utterly delicious! You can opt to take excursions or laze around in the beach.

If you love the beach, then the Canary Islands just off Africa is one place you would never wish to leave. From spectacular sun-drenched beaches to riding a camel through the dunes and dolphin-watching, these islands have so much to offer the nature-lover.

Portugal and Italy bring you back to a beautiful past with its culture and architecture. In Italy I didn’t miss the opportunity to visit Pisa, Rome, Venice, Rome, Florence and the Bridge of sighs.

I brought home more that photos of me having it all. I lived life and came back all the more refreshed. It simply is an experience to be repeated.