Cruisin' with the Kiddos
If you haven’t already noticed, our family loves to travel! I’m sure this is a familiar concept for most Suburban Chic Moms. According to a recent training that I attended called Bridges Out of Poverty, the middle class generally spends a portion of their financial resources on vacationing. When you think about it, we spend a great deal of time working long hours in the careers that we’ve worked so hard to attain; we feel as if we owe ourselves some rest and relaxation a couple of times out of the year. Nevertheless, in talking to some moms, even though the financial resources are available, I’m finding that they are either fearful of traveling with small children or they feel as though vacation time is solely for the adults. While I value the benefits of getting away with your mate, girlfriends or traveling solo, vacationing with my family provides me with the opportunity to spend quality time with them (one of my love languages) and share new experiences. These shared experiences create memories that leave lasting impressions. #priceless
For Spring Break 2019, my husband and I took our 4 year old daughter and 14 month old son on a cruise. IT. WAS. AN. ABSOLUTE. BLAST. We’re already looking forward to doing it again! We sailed the Carnival Valor out of the Port of Galveston, which is a little more than an hour away from our home.
Team Newton spent four technology free days resting, relaxing, playing, swimming, eating and just being with no distractions, schedules, agendas, alarm clocks or bedtimes.
The highlights of our trip:
Cozumel Beach Day - My daughter is a water baby to the fullest extent. One of the things on her 2019 vision board (yes, my four year old has her own vision board) was a trip to the beach. We scheduled an excursion directly through Carnival’s excursions desk. It started with a 45 minute catamaran ride (new shared experience) to, Passion Island, a private island where white sandy beaches are surrounded by crystal clear turquoise waters. This excursion included an open bar and all that you can eat Mexican cuisine. There was an interactive play area equipped with attendants to entertain the kiddos, in case you need to step away to grab a bite, take a restroom break or just grab a moment to yourself. The highlight of my daughter’s trip was the entire beach experience while my son was more impressed by the unlimited supply of watermelon.
Scarlett’s Steakhouse aboard the Carnival Valor - I don’t necessarily consider cruise line food to be top notch. In my honest opinion, it’s just that there is an over abundance of food that is easily accessible 24 hours a day. However, the steakhouse aboard the ship changed my preconceived ideas. The food was absolutely divine and the service was on par with any fine dining experience in your city. The steakhouse comes with an additional cost ($38 per person), but it was well worth it!
Spa Day - I’m always preaching about the importance of self-care and me time for moms. Even on a family vacation, I made sure to make this a priority. On the last day of the cruise, I went to a Ladies Only Pamper Party hosted by the spa staff where they discussed the importance of a skin care routine and demonstrated the appropriate techniques and products for a facial. It reminded me of an old school Mary Kay party. It was a fun break from my family that allowed me the opportunity to laugh and interact with other like minded adults. At the end of the party, the spa was offering half off of spa packages. My package included a body brush, full body massage and a facial. I was in heaven for 70 minutes. A great reminder to schedule these types of appointments more regularly when on land.
Since we’ve been home, i have been scrolling back through my camera roll trying to relive the precious moments from our first family cruise. I would encourage anyone that is considering a cruise for their family vacation to do it! Traveling with little ones whether by car, plane or boat can be fun, enjoyable and practically stress free! It all depends on you… preparation and your outlook are what matter the most! You’ve got it, Momma!
I’d love to hear from you! If you have any questions or comments, drop them below in the comments section!