Embark Cruises

It's and today we want to highlight one of our must-go-to's whenever we are in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Whether you are looking for a breakfast treat, a delicious sandwich or a cup of coffee - Pilao Bakery Cafe is the perfect place to stop.

It's located in the Geleria Paseo Portuario and is within easy walking distance from the cruise port.

Save this post for the next time you are in San Juan!

Happy - this week we are talking about one of our absolute favorites, Izumi on Royal Caribbean.

is one of those specialty restaurants that we genuinely look forward to every single sailing. It's an extra charge, but we splurge on it, because if you are a it's worth every penny without question.

Here is the thing about Izumi. It's actually the most popular specialty restaurant by volume across the entire Royal Caribbean fleet and once you sit down you immediately understand why - fresh sushi, signature rolls, sashimi, and on ships with the hibachi experience, a chef cooking right at your table who is equal parts talented and entertaining.

A few insider tips worth knowing before you book:
🍣 Book through the Royal Caribbean Cruise Planner before you sail and you can usually snag a discounted rate before dynamic pricing kicks in.
🍣 The hibachi fills up fast on almost every sailing. Book it as early as possible or you will be waitlisted. Ask us how we know. 😄
🍣 The prix fixe menu starts at around $45 and gives you an appetizer, two mains, and dessert.

Have you been to Izumi? Drop your favorite roll in the comments. 👇

Did you know today is National Sunscreen Day? ☀️

We talk a lot about packing lists and travel tips around here and sunscreen is always at the top, and here are a few things worth knowing before your next trip:

🌊 Reef safe is not optional at many destinations. Mexico, the Caribbean, and Hawaii all have restrictions on certain chemical sunscreens to protect coral reefs. Oxybenzone and octinoxate are the two most common banned ingredients. Check your bottle before you pack.

🚢 Cruise ship pool decks are sunscreen traps. The reflection off the water and the deck amplifies UV exposure significantly. Reapply more than you think you need to.

🏖️ SPF 30 minimum, SPF 50 if you are fair skinned or spending a full day outside. Dermatologists recommend reapplying every two hours and immediately after swimming regardless of what the bottle says.

☀️ Don't forget the easy to miss spots. Ears, back of the neck, tops of feet, and the part in your hair if you are outside all day.

🧴 Buy it before you travel. Sunscreen at resort gift shops and cruise ship stores costs significantly more than what you would pay at home - and pack extra.

Protect your skin! The world is too beautiful not to see it comfortably.