Passport Princess
Being a certified passport princess now comes with the exciting duties of using that blue book to good use. However, let me just say being a middle child, and only daughter in a big family is NOT for the faint of heart. Between making sure luggage meets travel requirements, checking everyone in at the airport, and arriving at our destination, all I ask is, where is my W-2??? Nevertheless, there’s something magical about setting sail on the open sea, watching the shoreline disappear as you trade daily routines for sunsets, ocean breezes, and endless buffets. My recent 5-day cruise on Royal Caribbean was exactly that—a perfect blend of relaxation, fun, food, and most importantly walking. Each day brought new sights, adventures and experiences throughout the week. Here’s a peek into what made this trip so memorable, from delicious rum cake to a festive Thanksgiving night at sea.
Day 1: All Aboard & All You Can Eat
After finally landing in Orlando, we trekked our way to the hotel and spent the night to recoup from a long day of traveling. The following day we hit the ground running and made it to our destination. Let me just say (or write), cruises are literally apartments on water, if not bigger! It’s said that Allure of the Seas can fit nearly 5500 passengers, very overstimulating and very overwhelming.
With that being written, the moment we stepped onto the ship, me and the fam were greeted with upbeat music, friendly smiles, and the sweet scent of vacation freedom. After settling into our stateroom, the first stop was the Windjammer buffet—a massive spread with everything from fresh salads to carved meats and international dishes. I may or may not have gone back for seconds. 👀 When you’re on a cruise, your subjected to new rules of sensible reasoning. For instance, imagine walking from one side of the boat to the other only for five and six hotdogs (if you know, you know 🤭). Which is how Boardwalk Dog House quickly became a family favorite too. There’s something oddly perfect about grabbing a gourmet hotdog with your choice of toppings while watching the ocean roll by. On a cruise, theres no such thing as big-back behavior!
The other perk of the cruise is the amazing service and daily furry animal models we were greeted with every morning after room service!
Day 2: Themed Night Fun & Dance Floors
We docked at a tropical port where we explored white-sand beaches, picked up souvenirs, and stumbled upon a charming little bakery offering locally made rum cake. Moist, buttery, and soaked in island rum, it was a sweet, boozy slice of paradise I instantly regretted not buying more of.
Back on the ship, dinner was a multi-course affair at the Main Dining Room, where the service is as delightful as the entrees. You can go casual or dress up—it’s all about your vibe.
Day 3: Island Adventures & Rum Cake Dreams
This was themed night number one, and everyone brought their A-game. With “Tropical Night” on the itinerary, think floral shirts, and sundresses. The ship was decked out with palm leaves and tiki torches, and there was a poolside party with dancing.
Later that night, we hit up the karaoke bar, where someone absolutely nailed “Don’t Stop Believin’.” (It wasn’t me, but I was definitely backup dancing.)
Day 4: Chill Vibes & Surprise Hotdog Obsession
I dedicated this day to full-on lounging—poolside napping, ocean gazing, and one too many ice cream cones. But lunch? Back to the Boardwalk Dog House. I can’t explain it, but these hotdogs hit different at sea. Whether you wanted a bratwurst, chicken sausage, or a classic beef frank, it was gourmet comfort food done right.
Dinner featured Italian night in the buffet and fresh seafood in the main dining room—something for every craving.
Day 5: A Thanksgiving at Sea 🦃🍂
Our last night was a Thanksgiving-themed dinner, and Royal Caribbean pulled out all the stops. The menu included roast turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and even pumpkin pie. The tables were decorated with autumn leaves and golden accents, and the vibe was warm and festive—like a giant family dinner with hundreds of friendly strangers.
Even though we weren’t home, the spirit of gratitude was in the air. People toasted to new friends, families laughed over dessert, and I felt genuinely thankful for the experience.
Final Thoughts
A 5-day Royal Caribbean cruise offers so much more than just a vacation—it’s an escape, a floating feast, and a themed party all rolled into one. Whether you’re in it for the rum cake, the hotdogs, the buffets, or the themed nights (especially that Thanksgiving finale), every moment is a memory waiting to happen.
Would I do it again? In a heartbeat. 🛳️✨
