EJtheTravelDiva's Blog

A Simple Beautiful Vacation

2012-03-07T00:10:00.000-06:00

One of my favorite movies was Jim Carey's The Truman Show. I thought it was such a cute and touching movie. The life lived in that movie was very simple, quiet and relaxed. Something that is on the other end of the spectrum from my current life. Because that life depicted in The Truman Show was so different from my every day life, I was extremely excited to visit Seaside, FL (not too far from Destin, FL) where the movie was shot.

Normally when I vacation, I am in a popular hotel or resort. This trip, I decided to try something different and I was pleasantly surprised with white picket fences, a town square, bicycle rentals and ice cream shops. I not only stepped out of Nashville, TN, but I seemed to have also stepped out the year 2012.

I found myself thinking that I could live in this three-story, five-bedroom home, called See Ya, with an elevator and an incredible view of the ocean, huge gourmet kitchen and several outdoor sitting areas that is perfect for my morning cup of White Chocolate Mocha Espresso from Amavida Coffee.

The house was clean, nicely decorated and perfectly positioned for me to walk every where I needed to go during my stay. I ate at The Shrimp Shack where they had awesome seafood and they made me feel at home with a picture of the Tennessee Titans Cheerleaders on their wall. Go Titans!

I shopped at Modica Market where they had everything that you need for your stay in Seaside and not to mention the best desserts! I dinned at The Great Southern Cafe where they claim to have the best Mojitos ever and I have to agree with them. But what brought me to my knees with pleasure was their cheesecake with an awesome pecan sauce sitting atop of it. It was worth the entire trip.

I travel many places and stay at many hotels all over the world and there are not many places that I am not ready to go home. Seaside took me to a time where things were simple and beautiful. From the atmosphere and decor inside the house to the atmosphere and spirit of the town, I took nothing for granted. Everyone can find peace in this town--from couples, to family reunions, multi-generational groups and business groups, there is something for everyone.

I have a strange love for hotel rooms, but my three-night stay in the See Ya cottage rental definitely changed my mind about hotel stays vs. villa/vacation home rentals. I am certain that I will be back to visit the simple, beautiful life and can't wait to bring others with me to experience it.

I visited more than one home in Seaside like Beau Soliel, Love Me Tender/True, and many others. For more information and help selecting the right home, email me for more details on Seaside and other vacations at erica@ericjamestravel.com

Ball Out of Control, Around the World, On a Budget!

2012-02-10T18:05:00.000-06:00

What if I told you that there is a way to ball out of control, around the world and do it with an affordable pay schedule that fits your budget? Would you start traveling to the places that are on your wish list?

If you answered, "Yes!" then pull out your list, pick your first destination and give me a call today!

What prompted me to tell you how to "ball on a budget" was today, I realized that I only owe $169 more dollars on my 6 Day Western Caribbean Cruise in May 2012. As I do every payday, I put $50 towards my upcoming cruise--well almost every payday. That is when I realized that I have been paying on this cruise since last year and now I am down to $169!

Just like many of the big retailers in the world has layaway plans for things you wish to buy, so does the travel industry. Paying on your vacation like a layaway allows you to travel where you want and pay over time. For example, if you wanted to take a cruise, a year from now, a small deposit can hold your cruise, today, and the balance can be paid in monthly installments throughout the year, with your balance due by a specified date, provided by the cruise line. The same system will apply for all-inclusive resorts and many other vacations packages.

My travel agency, Erica James Travel, has provided this option for many of our clients and groups. Sometimes it is hard to drop large sums of money on a vacation, at one time. Booking your travel through a travel agent is the best way to finance a vacation and develop a payment plan that fits your budget. When booking directly, on most travel websites, full payments are required at time of booking. A travel agent can help you establish and set up payment plans.

Alaska 2011

I go on several trips a year and my friends often say, "How are you able to travel to so many places every year?" I have my wish list and I put it in order of importance and then I plan ahead! I arrange my budget where I can set aside $50 per payday and I apply it to travel. Once I have decided on a vacation destination, I put a deposit down and I begin my bi-weekly payments until my vacation is paid in full.

And that, my friends, is how I ball out of control, around the world, on a budget!

I Live For Life's Moments

2011-12-13T17:11:00.001-06:00

I believe that life is about moments in time. I live for those moments, in life, that are out of my everyday routine. What better way to experience those special moments than through travel? Traveling to me, is about unique experiences in different places. That is what makes up a great vacation, to me.

I recently was able to have one of those moments while traveling to Mexico in November 2011. During my visit at El Dorado Seaside Suites, I was treated like a VIP guest. At this adult-only boutique resort, everyone is a VIP guest. I got to see, first hand, why the call it a Gourmet Inclusive® vacation experience.

When I arrived at the entrance of El Dorado Seaside Suites, I was greated with a spectacular welcoming. First a nice cold beverage, a cool and soothing towel to comfort and to relax me from my journey. Then a parade of authentic music from a Mariachi Band that played as I danced to the rhythm of their song. It was a fantastic welcoming and set the entire stage for what was in store for me.

I walked down the beautiful floral grounds of the resort, as the mariachi band followed me, onto the beach where I was in for an experience of a lifetime.

My evening began with a wine tasting and food pairing by the resort's Executive Chef and Staff. They said that pairing food with wine is more of an art than a science. It was a great experience and learning lesson. Pairing the right wine to the right food, did make a difference in taste. I enjoyed my lesson.

After the wine tasting, the resort provided me with my very own apron with my name embroidered on the apron. That was such a beautiful and personal touch. I put on my apron and I decided that I wanted to learn how to make guacamole, so I was put in front of a table full of fresh organic vegetables that are grown on-site by El Dorado Seaside Resorts.

They have a 70,000 sq ft Greenhouse at El Dorado Royale that produces fresh fruits and veggies that are cooked and served daily throughout several of their sister properties. The Executive Chef, took time from his busy schedule to personally teach me how to make guacamole.

I made the guacamole, while others in my group made different food. To be in Mexico and get personal attention and instructions from such an awesome chef, it was a feeling that I will cherish for the rest of my life. We all sat down for great food made from a great experience. It was a good time had by all and an experience that I will never forget. A month later, as I walk by my apron that is hanging in the kitchen, I smile a little smile as mind wonders back to a time that was very unique, special and authentic.

Sitting by the pool, lying on the beach and seeing sights is awesome during vacation. I challenge all of you to do more on vacation---experience that moment that allows you to venture away from being the normal, to dive deeper into the authentic treasures that you can find, on vacation, that enrich your lives and create lasting memories.

Erica James Travel has the programs, connections, and relationships to help you create that one-of-a-kind experience. With Erica James Travel, you will find personal attention and unique travel ideas that are created exclusively for you.

To book your next "moment" in life, call Erica James Travel at (615) 405-2167 or e-mail at erica@ericajamestravel.com

Savannah, GA: Southern Charm

2011-10-06T15:16:00.009-05:00

As I was making way down south for a travel seminar, I decided to take one day and stop in Savannah, Georgia to get a sample of a city that I have heard so much about. I thought to myself, I will look around, pick a hotel, get a feel for the city to see if this is a destination worth learning about for my clients. As I am always striving to be an expert on many destinations so that I can provide great recommendations for all of my clients.

My mother frequently visited Savannah and would tell me how much she loved the city and how it seemed as if there was a park on every corner. This September, I made a stop in a city that was listed in the top 10 city destinations in the U.S. This southern city had all the charm needed to sweep me off my feet. My only disappointment was, I was passing through for one night.

Although I was there for one night, I developed a slight crush on this southern destination that charmed me and swept me off my feet in just one night. Here's a couple of reason's way:

Savannah's Historic District is the central location for several hotels, Bed & Breakfast's and some cozy restaurants and shopping. I stayed at Springhill Suites by Marriott on Montgomery Street. The outer appearance was very historic, much like all the buildings surrounding this southern gem. However, the inside lobby was the opposite of the historic outer shell. It had a completely modern design that stopped me in my tracks because it was a pleasant surprise.

Light-colored hardwood floors with matching wood tables and turquoise furniture and curtains. I have been to a lot of Springhill Suites and I will have to say that the decor of the lobby was by far the most impressive that I have seen to date.

I quickly checked in and could not wait to see what the rooms of this hotel had to offer. If the lobby impressed me, then I was sure the rooms would not disappoint.

I entered my room and again was hit with the "wow" factor. The room had the same modern decor as the hotel's lobby. Don't get me wrong, I have been in a lot of nice hotels, however, this Springhill Suites was unlike any other Springhill Suites that I had been to. And the best part was....the price was outstanding! I believe that is what really shocked me. I looked at my nightly room night and then I looked at the room and that was the reason for the "wow" factor. The price was excellent, the hotel was fabulous, there was free breakfast, and it was in walking distance to great shopping like the Marc Jacobs Store, there was a park, and some great restaurants.

From my hotel, I was able to walk to Belford's Seafood and Steaks. At first glance, this restaurant had exactly what I was looking for---outside seating. It was a beautiful night in Savannah, as well as, this city had beautiful views and I wanted to enjoy it by dining outside and Belford's allowed me to do just that. The view was great, the service was great, the menu was great and the price was great. However, I have to mention that Belford's had some of the best collard greens that I have ever had in my life--no offense to my Grandmother! If you like collard greens, please make sure you order them on your next visit to Belford's.

The next day, after I checked out of my hotel, I stopped by a pub called Molly MacPherson's on W. Congress Street. This was a great little put with a lot of character. I found myself looking around the entire time I was there. I wanted to read and study everything that was on the walls, see all their interesting pictures and just soak up the feeling of being in a real Scottish feeling pub that was located in the south. I ordered the fish and chips and it was great. The price was reasonable and I enjoyed myself.

I left Savannah, Georgia after my lunch. I was smitten with this city and my first date with Savannah was enough to warm my heart and make me want to see more of this city.

If you are considering a unique getaway, consider visiting Savannah, Georgia for your next trip. It will not disappoint. Please contact me to inquire about the great rates at Springhill Suites by Marriott, suggested tours, great restaurants, and other suggestions via e-mail at erica@ericajamestravel.com or phone (615) 405-2167.

10 Reasons I Love Royal Caribbean Cruise Line

2011-07-20T15:47:00.006-05:00

There is no secret that I enjoy cruising. The best part about cruising is getting a sample of the many wonderful destinations that our earth has to offer. The next best thing that I like about cruising is Royal Caribbean International Cruise Line. I have cruised on several Royal Caribbean International Cruises and found them all to provide me with everything that I need, want and love.

Here are ten reasons why I love Royal Caribbean International:

Activities. I have been on several cruise lines and have found myself struggling to find something fun to do while on the ship. When I cruise with Royal Caribbean, I am struggling to get to everything that I want to do. They have great shows, exciting trivia, funny game shows, karaoke, the best night club with great music and the belly flop contest is hilarious.

The Promenade: Royal Caribbean has a place called the Royal Promenade on the ship. It has great shopping, pubs, desserts and my favorite 24 hour snack bar that has great pizza and sandwiches.

Bon Voyage Party: I love the Bon Voyage Party! It is so live. The music is great. The energy is high. And they know all the latest line dances/twines.

Service: The service aboard Royal Caribbean is outstanding!

The coupons for the past guests are incredible.

Johnny Rockets. Do I need to say anymore? The best hamburgers, onion rings and milk shakes are on Royal Caribbean.

The Solarium. I like the Solarium because I am not a fan of getting tanned in the sun or a fan of wild kids in the pool. Therefore, the Solarium is the perfect place for me to enjoy the pool. The Solarium is an adult-only, covered pool area. It is the perfect place for me to enjoy the pool and relax without getting a tan from the sun and splashed by kids. I can still see the ocean from the huge side windows with a great view.

The Dungeon. One of my favorite clubs is the Dungeon. The architecture is fabulous and the music keeps me on the dance floor all night long.

I love that if you have an upcoming cruise that you are interested in taking, you can book it while on the ship and receive up to $200 onboard credit for your next cruise.

The pricing. I can always find an itinerary that I like with great pricing to fit my budget. I know with Royal Caribbean, I will always get more bang for my buck.

Swimming with Dolphins

2011-03-23T11:28:00.013-05:00

People who know me, know that I am a very adventurous person. When I vacation, I like to do things outside of the box, things I've never done before, and things that make me say, "Wow!"

I cruised with Royal Caribbean in November 2010 and one of the ports was Cozumel, Mexico. Although I have visited Cozumel before, I decided to try a different experience.....and I left saying, "Wow!"

Before leaving for my cruise, I booked my shore excursion call Swim with Dolphins Experience. This was something that I always wanted to do, I had the opportunity and I was not going to miss it.

Once the cruise ship docked, I hoped in a cab and went to my WOW experience. Before getting in the water, I met with an instructor to learn hand signals. Since Dolphins cannot hear voices, I had to learn sign language for Dolphins. After receiving my instructions, I head to the water to meet Luis, the dolphin, and put my sign language into action.

First step, putting my arms out and letting Luis swim up and lay in my arms so that I can give him a hug. He swam around and laid his slippery, rubbery body right in my arms. It was amazing!

Next, I swam out into the ocean with a boogie board and waited for Luis to join me. He came from behind me and put his hard nose on the bottom of my foot and pushed me down the ocean on the boogie board. It was the best feeling ever!

After that fun, I swam back out to the ocean and again waited for Luis to join me. And again, he joined me. However, this time, I gave him the signal that I wanted to ride with him, not the boogie board. He swam up next to me, I grabbed onto his fins and I rode, at a fast speed, down the ocean on Luis belly. Now that made me say "WOW!"

After playing in the water with Luis, I held my hand up for him to jump out of the water and touch my hand. I knew my hand signals, so Luis followed my cue. He also came up to me, I grabbed his fins and we danced a little jig.

We had so much fun together, Luis and I ended our play date with a little kiss on the cheek. I was so smitten.

I am reliving that fun time, as I type. It was an adventure that made my entire trip worth taking. My Dolphin experience is what vacations are all about. I encourage everyone to step outside the box and do something, on vacation, that will make you say, "Wow!"

Contact Erica James Travel to help you maximize your next vacation so that you will come home saying, "Wow!"

www.ericajamestravel.com

(615) 405-2167

A Place For All My Personalities

2011-02-15T12:38:00.011-06:00

I believe that each human being is made up of many different personalities and we need different things to appeal to each personality. On one of my travels, I a resort called Beaches in Turks & Caicos that appealed to my many personalities. This All-Inclusive Resort has something for everyone and it definitely had something that just made me adore this happening resort. Most travelers are familiar with Sandals and Beaches Resorts. Sandals the All-Inclusive Adult Only Resort and Beaches being the All-Inclusive Family Oriented Resort. No matter your age, Beaches will peak your interest. From the Sesame Street Parade that brought out my inner child to the DJ Academy for teens to the fabulous adult night club Liquid.

With Sesame Street being a proud sponsor of Beaches Resorts, you are sure to have a good time as the characters lead a festive street parade every week through the resort. The live island music will surely make you want to jump into the streets and dance along with your favorite characters. The characters are not limited to the weekly parade, each one of them host their own fun activity with the children at the resort. You have everything from bird watching with Big Bird to story telling with Elmo and entertaining numbers games with The Count. The furry characters of Sesame Street definitely know how to make a vacation fun!

For the teens, they have awesome activities such as the DJ Academy and Xbox 360 games. They have a state of the art Xbox Game Oasis Center that features Xbox and XBox 360 games of every variety for every member of the family. With unlimited playing time, you might not see your kids for awhile.

In the DJ Academy, you get the opportunity to learn how to scratch, mix and and blend old school style--on vinyl albums! How cool is that? For the teens who do not want to go old school, the DJ Academy will also teach you how to mix on your iPod and CD's. After taking in all the street knowledge of being a DJ, participants have the opportunity to perform for their family or compete in a DJ battle.

Not only does Beaches have something for every age group, they have some of the finest restaurants, a night club, amazing pools, fabulous rooms of all kinds, and a wonderful beach. My mood went from adult to child to adult and back again. I recommend this location for not only families but for singles, couples and anyone that would like a variety in their vacation.

As a Certified Sandals and Beaches Specialist, I am always here to help you plan your vacation at these wonderful resorts. Please contact me at erica@ericajamestravel.com or at (615) 405-2167 for more information on Sandals and Beaches Resorts.

Love At First Sight!

2011-01-13T11:53:00.011-06:00

When someone asked me, "Where is your favorite place to vacation, in the United States?" I would often answer, "Vegas, Baby!" or "I love South Beach." However, recently, I have discovered a new favorite place to visit--Austin, TX.

I am known for finding the night life regardless of where my travels take me. Many might think that there is no way I could find an awesome night life in Austin, TX. Think again! Should you ever find yourself wanting to vacation outside of the normal Florida, Las Vegas, or California, please consider visiting Austin, TX.

I took a short getaway trip to Austin, TX and I fell in love at first sight with this quaint city with a beautiful view and a cool vibe. I checked myself into the Sheraton Austin Hotel at the Capitol. This hotel had just undergone a multi-million dollar renovation that offered me a newly designed sleeping room, updated lobby with a fabulous bar, and a pool where I could take relaxation to the next level. The Sheraton was centrally located to everything that I needed for my short getaway.

If you are ever in Austin, TX, please do not leave without dining at The Oasis Restaurant--Sunset Capital of Texas. When I arrived, the line was out the door. However, it moved fairly quickly and before I knew it, I was sitting on one of many decks overlooking the water and anticipating the sunset. The food was great and the drinks were awesome. Both great companions for the guest of honor--the sunset. The atmosphere was relaxing and the view was breath-taking. Another great place that I dined while in Austin was Manuels that boast having award winning Mexican cooking and I found it to be true. The food was great and the Pina Colada was heaven. You cannot leave Texas without checking out their BBQ, so I made a visit to the Stubb's Bar-B-Q. Being from Tennessee, I had to try out Texas BBQ. Different taste, but still great!

I spent my night life on 6th Street. The best known street in Austin that stretches 7 blocks of non-stop partying. You cannot go to Austin without walking down Sixth Street. Lined with historical buildings that are home to some of the most fun restaurants and bars where you are guaranteed to find a spot to fit your personality. My first stop was Shakespeare's Pub. I went to the top of the pub so that I could get a great view of 6th street. The music was great in this spot. I stopped at The Trophy Room where I decided to do something that was on my life's "to do" list and that is ride a mechanical bull. Wow, what fun! I stopped by The Library and had a few cocktails while listening to their music. And on my way back to the hotel, I made a stop at Pizzeria for a slice of pizza that was delicious!

Yes, it was love at first sight when I took my two day getaway to Austin, TX and I cannot wait to return to continue my love affair with this city. If you want to take a trip outside of the normal popular places, consider Austin, TX. You will truly enjoy it.

Sandals Royal Bahamian

2009-12-08T09:08:00.007-06:00

Looking for Luxury at it's finest?
If you are looking for luxury, relaxation, and a vacation that will wow you, Sandals Royal Bahamian is the vacation for you! I use the word, vacation, lightly because to me, it was more of an experience than a vacation.

I walked into the hotel and was greeted with a warm smile, class, and a glass of champagne--first class check in. I was already impressed before I got to my room. I did not have to worry about any luggage. My bags were in my room by the time I reached my room. It took me sometime to get to my room because I had to stop and take in the view.

The view was even better from my room, as I opened my door to my balcony to see the sand and the beach. I was in heaven.

It is very hard for me to express my experience at Sandals because it was luxury from beginning to end. The landscaping was beautiful, the decor was fabulous, the staff was friendly, the entertainment was enjoyable, and the service was outstanding.

There is nothing like All Inclusive resorts! I enjoyed going to the many different restaurants that were on-site. The food was delicious. Anything and everything that you can imagine eating, they had.

I enjoyed the pub and it's karaoke. I went next door to an outdoor seating of some very smooth romantic music. After sometime outside, I decided to walk to the next building where there was a live band that was simply awesome. I took a small boat to a private island and had the best time with food, drinks, and entertainment. I danced for hours on this private island. It was great!

I cannot say enough good things about Sandals. But I will say, do not make any other vacation plans until you visit Sandals first. And since I am a Certified Sandals Specialist, allow me to help you with your next experience.

Ensenada, Mexico

2009-11-15T11:12:00.005-06:00

Erica James decided to experience one of the "fun ships" of Carnival Cruise. On October 16, 2009 Erica James departed Nashville, Tennessee to Long Beach, California where she would board Carnival Paradise.

After being dropped off at the port, Carnival Cruise Lines had a very easy, smooth, and fast check-in process. As soon as I got out of the car, I walked over to luggage tag, tagged my luggage with my room number on it. A Carnival Cruise employee put my luggage on a cart and I headed for check in.

Due to completing all my information on-line, all I had to do was sign a few papers, get my room key, and head straight to board Carnival Paradise.

On the first night, we went to the formal dinner. Excellent menu. The one thing that I love about cruises, is the ability to try and eat anything and everything that you want. I love having more than one course. I have been on Royal Caribbean cruise before and enjoyed their formal dining. I was completely thrown for a loop while dining in the formal dinning room aboard Carnival Cruise. Well it is the fun ship, right? After dinner, the music changed, the waiters stopped serving and asked at least one person from each table to join them to dance to Flo Riders' Get Low. A rap song...during a formal dinner? It was different. I was surprised. However, I got up from my table and I joined the Carnival Staff and I danced in my cocktail dress, laughed and had a great time. It was dinner with a touch of spice! At that moment, I knew I was on the "fun ship".

After dinner, I decided to club hop. Sounds funny saying that due to the fact that I was on a cruise ship. Well, I was able to do it. My first stop--a live band. Sat down, ordered a few cocktails and enjoyed watching people with their disco dancing. After a few minutes of sitting down, I decided to get up and join them and dance all night to the live band.

Next stop, a hip hop club with a DJ. Wow! Once I stepped into this club, I forgot that I was on a cruise ship. I thought I was in some hip city, dancing to the hottest jams, with the hottest people. It was a great! Had a great time before I called it a night.

October 17, we reached the port of Ensenada, Mexico! I departed the ship and enjoyed my day at the famous Papas & Beer Bar. And, wow, what an experience! If you are in Ensenada, Mexico you do not want to miss stopping at Papas & Beer for some hard partying and should I say...interesting fun!

Papas & Beer is a bar that that is filled with a young crowd that puts no boundaries on partying. This is a fast past fun place to enjoy a good party and a lot of good drinks. Dance on the bar and receive a free shot. Lay on the bar and take a body shot. Ask for a shot and get flipped upside down by your waiter. Papas & Beer is a favorite of Erica James. On your next cruise to Ensenada, Mexico, get of the ship and visit Papas & Beer.

October 18 was a fun day at sea aboard Carnival Paradise where I enjoyed a few shows, the casino and another fun night at dinner.

I highly recommend taking a ride in Paradise abroad Carnival Paradise.

Crusing The Caribbean Seas

2009-01-22T09:01:00.016-06:00

Saturday, September 20, 2008

Today was an exciting day. We (My 2 sisters and myself) hopped a plan to Orlando, FL because we are taking a 7-day cruise beginning tomorrow through the Caribbean. After we touched down in Orlando, FL, we took a taxi ($100) to Port Canaveral, FL to our hotel, The Sheraton. The taxi drive was long and expensive. We know next time to pay, in advance for the cruise line shuttle services that they have to and from the ship. Nevertheless, we checked into our hotel and we are going to relax and get a good night sleep because we set sail tomorrow. I will chat with you all later.

Sunday, September 21, 2008
It is a beautiful day in Port Canaveral, FL. We woke up this morning and we could actually see our ship from our hotel room. We are so excited. We are about to check out of our hotel and take the shuttle up the street to the ship. It is wonderful that the Sheraton has a free hotel shuttle to the ship check in.

We are sailing on Royal Caribbean and I have to say that everything was so organized and moved extremely smoothly as we checked in. The long was line, but it moved quickly and in an orderly fasion. I am a very organized person and I love organization. Check us out after we went through checking in and as we are about to step onto the ship for 7 days of non-stop fun. That's me on the end with the stripped dress, I am the middle child.

Our first day on the ship, after safety training, we went straight to the pool area where there was the biggest pool party. There was music and line dancing. I participated. I got out there and did every popular line dancing with a group full of strangers. All anyone cared about was having a good time. I think I danced forever, non-stop. Our first day on the ship, we walked around and looked at everything. We also decided to walk on every floor on the ship--all 14 floors! There was everything from shopping stores, a gym, a day spa, restaurants, night clubs, you name it it was on the ship.

Monday, September 22, 2008

Our second day on the ship and we are still sailing away! Today, we relaxed by the pool side, took a few more pictures and took in some activities like TV Show Trivia. The host of all trivia on the ship, his name is Simeon. He is a site to see. He is hilarious, live, and animated. We loved him! Tonight was one of two formal dinners on the ship. We dressed up, went to a cocktail party before dinner to meet the Captain and then we hit the formal dinner where we feasted on Escargo (for the first time), Talpia, Steak, Bread, Dessert and outstanding service. After dinner, we hit the night club, Dragon's Lair. That was the happening spot! The music was banging and everybody in the club was shaking what their mama gave them. We danced the night away.

Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Today, we arrived in Labadee, Haiti, a private island that is owned by Royal Caribbean. We had planned on zip-lining today, but it rained and the winds were to strong for us to do so. We were pretty excited about our activities, but it was cancelled, so we had to make do with the time on the island. So, we decided to relax on the beach. My sisters, relaxed on the beach, I decided to enjoy the water. I did however, get my sisters to get in the water...well a little bit....they didn't want to get their hair wet.

Wednesday, September 24, 2008

<>>After a night of sailing, we woke up this morning in Ocho Rio, Jamaica! We did not stay on the ship, we decided to get off the ship and experience Jamaica. We experience Jamaica a little too much because we missed our shuttle bus to our activity. We read our instructions incorrectly and we were totally on a different time zone (in our minds) than they were in Jamaica. When we got off the ship, we decided to walk around the streets of Jamaica, which we were bombarded by the locals begging us to let them take us somewhere in their taxi. Apparently the taxi business is the number one source of income because they were really aggressive. But, we had a good time walking around, doing a little shopping, and experiencing some culture. After that, we checked our time and realized that it was time to go to the shuttle bus service and catch our bus to the beach. We purchased a beach package that included all water activities, all the food and drinks that you could take in. But when we got to the shuttle, the shuttle had left an hour ago. We read our information wrong and were devastated. But the locals worked with us, and after heavy negotiations, they decided to take us to the beach by cab for $50. I talked them down from $100. We got to our destination and we drank so much Rum Punch and ate so much Jerk Chicken that our mouths were on fire, that's why we had to keep drinking the Rum Punch (smile). While in Jamaica, I kayaked, snorkeled, and went sailing. Again, my sisters chilled on the beach beause of their hair. Well, I did get my little sister on the sail boat. We enjoyed our day in Jamaica, we were on-time for the shuttle bus back to the ship and got back on the ship.