Cruisin' the Western Caribbean

A couple of months back, after Jill and I returned from a European cruise on Holland America, she said, “Dad, it’s time we go on a family cruise.”

When she’s right, she’s right!

Our last family cruise, you see, was in February 2014—roundtrip from Los Angeles aboard the Sapphire Princess, with port stops in Puerto Vallarta, Cabo San Lucas, and Ensenada. David, Jill, Debra, and I had a great time on and off the ship, including an excursion to La Casa de Dona Lupe, an "enchanted vineyard" located in the heart of Valle de Gudalupe. Based on those grins, I’d say we had already tasted the fruit of the vine! 

After a bit of research, I sent a text to David and Jill with a link to a 7-day cruise from Galveston, in December, on the Regal Princess, with port stops in Roatan, Costa Maya, and Cozumel, and three days at sea.

“Sara and I are in,” David replied within the hour.

“Ryan and I are in,” answered Jill later that day.

And with that, we booked our family cruise.
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I also booked a 7-day pre-cruise cruise for Debra and me that would sail a week earlier—same ship, same cabin, almost the same itinerary—with a two-night stay in Galveston ahead of time. 

From right to left: Ryan & Jill, Sarah& David, Debra & me

Without giving anything away, I can tell you that Debra and I had a great time, especially the week we spent with our kids and their significant others—a week in which we made memories that will last us a lifetime!

I look forward to sharing our stories with you.

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My Stories, One Port at a Time

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Galveston: The Island City

​It was a 2nd chance opportunity for Debra and me - a day of sightseeing on the Island City, Galveston. We had a wonderful time!

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Costa Maya: Chacchoben - The Place of the Red Maize

​I toured the ancient Maya ruins at Chacchoben - The Place of Red Maize. It was my first encounter with the Maya culture, and it was a fascinating experience!

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Belize City: The Maya Ruins at Altun Ha

​I went on a half-day tour of the ancient Maya ruins at Altun Ha, one of the most popular archaeological sites in Belize. The ruins were impressive, and the tour was a wonderful experience!

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Isla de Roatan: a Caribbean Wonderland

​As I learned on my half-day tour, there was more to Roatan than pristine beaches and world-class diving. I LOVED my introduction to the plants and wildlife that thrive in this lush tropical environment. 

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Costa Maya: A Maya Cultural Experience

The weather was outstanding when I toured the remains of an ancient Maya settlement in Limones, and then had Pollo Pibil for lunch at the home of a local family. All in all, it was an interesting experience. 

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Cozumel: Out and About Town

​I enjoyed a low-key day on Cozumel with a self-guided walking tour downtown and a look-see through the shops at Puerta Maya. It was just what the doctor ordered near the end of 14 days at sea!

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On the Regal Princess: Refreshing, Relaxing & Enchanting

​Debra and I spent two memorable weeks on board the Regal Princess. Three words describe our experience: relaxing, refreshing, and enchanting!

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