by Yolanda
The Journal
Trip stories, cruise industry news, deals worth knowing about, and what's new in the shop.
Is a Western Caribbean Cruise Right for You? Here's What I Actually Think
Twelve Western Caribbean sailings in and I still get asked the same question: is it worth it? For first-timers, my answer is almost always yes — but not for the reasons you'd expect. Here's the real version.
Flash Sale: 7-Night Caribbean Cruises From $499 Per Person
Multiple lines, multiple dates — but these prices won't last
Several major cruise lines just dropped flash pricing on 7-night Caribbean sailings starting at $499 per person. Here's which ones are actually worth grabbing.
Save Up to 35% on Norwegian Cruise Line — Early Booking Window Closes June 30
Free at Sea + early booking savings = the best time to lock in 2026-2027 sailings
Norwegian is running one of their strongest early booking promotions of the year, and it stacks with their Free at Sea amenity package. Here's exactly what's included and how to make the most of it.
Carnival Jubilee Calls Galveston Home — What Texas Cruisers Need to Know
No-fly cruising from the Gulf Coast just got a serious upgrade
Carnival's newest mega-ship has made Galveston its home port, and it's a game-changer for Texas families who want an amazing vacation without setting foot in an airport.
New! Travelholics Cruise Door Magnets — 6 New Designs Just Dropped
Personalize your stateroom door and never lose your cabin again
Our cruise door magnet collection just expanded with 6 new designs, including the most-requested 'Yolanda's Crew' style we've ever offered.
Royal Caribbean's Icon Class: Everything That's Changed for 2026
Bigger ships, bolder features, and a few things that surprised us
Royal Caribbean's Icon-class ships are redefining what a cruise ship can be. Here's the full breakdown of new amenities, what lives up to the hype, and what to book first.
48 Hours in Cozumel: A Cruise Port Insider's Guide
Skip the tourist traps. Here's where locals actually go.
Cozumel is one of the most visited cruise ports in the Caribbean — and most people only scratch the surface. After six visits, I finally know what to skip and what to savor.
Our First Alaskan Cruise — What No One Told Us
From Ketchikan to Glacier Bay: the raw, real story
We booked Alaska on a whim. Seven days later, I came home a completely different traveler. Here's everything I wish someone had told me before we set sail.