I had already been on one cruise, and was about to embark on another.  In September 2005, we went on an adults online cruise with a few other couples, my sisters, a brother-in-law, and an adult nephew.  It was only a short 3 night trip to the Bahamas, but it was so much fun.  And in November of 2005, we took the kids on a week long cruise that went to Mexico, Grand Cayman, and Jamaica. A Caribbean vacation is where it’s at for me!  I’m bummed we didn’t get to do a cruise this year, but it just wasn’t in the cards with buying our new house and everything that went along with that.  But I definitely want to start planning for next year! 

We’re a bit burned out on going to Nassau and Mexico, so I’ve been looking into new destinations.  How do you decide which tropical destination is best for you?  Read, read, read!  I found some great articles that offer details on each of the tropical islands in the Caribbean - where to stay, things to do, what to eat, and what to see.  We only had a day in Jamaica when we cruised there, so we tried to make the most of it, and like this article mentions, you’ll find unique Jamaican cuisine, mountain climbing, & wildlife sanctuaries there.  During our day in Jamaica, we visited a beatiful garden at the top of a hill overlooking the city of Ocho Rios.  After that, we headed to Dunn’s River Falls - a must see!  You can literally climb up the side of the mountain by walking up the falls.  And for a snack after the falls, we stopped for some Jamaican Beef Patties and Red Stripe - when in Rome, you have to eat the local food!

On that same cruise, we also stopped at Grand Cayman.  We took a tour by bus that allowed us to visit a turtle farm and go swimming with sting rays out at String Ray City.  Our tour guide was a wealth of information about his country, and drove us to Hell, and past the 7 Mile Beach. 

I think the best way to visit the Caribbean is by cruise ship - and if you need help choosing the right cruise for you, look no further than these cruise ship reviews.  Our 7 night cruise was with Carnival, on one of their newest ships, the Carnival Victory.  I found forums where you can talk to other past and present cruisers to find out about their trips, and get the highlights, or lowdown on the ships, the food, the staff, and the places they went.

I’d rather be cruising!!