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KEY WEST

Being at home these days has me dreaming of sunnier days on vacation. One of my favorite vacations was going to Key West for my friend’s 50th birthday. There were four couples on the trip and I have to admit, I was a bit nervous traveling with others. I am not a late night person, and I also like being on my own some and not always with a group. I didn’t need to worry at all! Key West was the most laid-back and fun vacation. I didn’t have to worry that I wasn’t dressed up enough or out late enough. Anything goes in Key West.

I truly believe where you stay makes all the difference. We stayed at The Marker Waterfront Resort which was beautiful, and located right at the Key West Historic Seaport. It’s walkable to shopping, food and bars. The hotel has beautiful pools, but what really struck me was the decor of the hotel, and the spa-like aroma as soon as you walk in the doors. So relaxing!

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Crowded bars aren’t really my thing. I’m more of a dinner and glass of wine girl. However, we had to go to Sloppy Joe’s and check out the other bars as well. We had fun going out to dinner every night, eating everything from bar food to seafood. For a special dinner, we took a boat to Latitudes Restaurant for a truly upscale dining experience. The views of the sunset were AMAZING! When we walked into the restaurant, the sunset looks like a beautiful photo in the restaurant….it was so perfect. Latitudes did not disappoint as far as the food or beverages. It was a perfect 50th birthday celebratory night. My favorite breakfast I have ever had in my life was the Lobster “BLT” Benny from Blue Heaven and I’m not sure any breakfast will ever top that.

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There were other great moments. A Catamaran sunset cruise in which we saw a couple get engaged. Tour of The Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum. Renting electric cars and driving to the Southernmost Point. Having drinks and watching more beautiful sunsets at Mallory Square. There were so many other great moments, but the best part of the vacation wasn’t where we went or what we did. It was truly the feeling of being 100% relaxed. Now isn’t that a perfect vacation?

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Jodi Whoriskey – travel agent, wife, mom of 3 children and a Shih-Tzu

JZW Travel | jodi@jzwtravel.com | 610-466-5560

Should I Work With a Travel Advisor or Book My Vacation on My Own?

With so many travel websites available at our fingertips, it’s easy to wonder whether you really need a travel advisor. After all, you can book flights, hotels, cruises, and tours online in just a few clicks.

So why work with a travel advisor? That is a question we get asked almost daily.

The truth is that both options can work. The best choice depends on your travel style, how much time you want to spend planning, and how important personalized service is to you.

Booking On Your Own

There is certainly a sense of satisfaction that comes from planning your own vacation. If you enjoy researching destinations, comparing hotels, reading reviews, and managing every detail yourself, booking independently may be a good fit.

Benefits of booking on your own include:

• Complete control over the planning process
• The ability to make decisions at your own pace
• Access to online booking tools whenever you want

However, booking independently also means you’re responsible for everything. Researching destinations, comparing options, understanding cancellation policies, arranging transfers, coordinating flights, and solving problems if something goes wrong all fall on your shoulders.

Many of our clients will want to choose what they want for travel but still ask us to book it for them so we are there if any issues arise.

Working With a Travel Advisor

A travel advisor does much more than simply make reservations.

We take the time to learn about your travel style, interests, budget, and goals. Rather than spending hours sorting through thousands of online reviews and endless options, you receive recommendations tailored specifically to you.

Benefits of working with a travel advisor include:

Expert Knowledge

Travel advisors spend countless hours learning about destinations, resorts, cruise lines, tours, and travel trends. Many of us visit destinations firsthand so we can provide real-world advice instead of relying solely on online reviews.

Time Savings

Planning a vacation can take hours or even weeks of research. A travel advisor does the heavy lifting, allowing you to focus on the excitement of your upcoming trip instead of getting overwhelmed by the details.

Personalized Recommendations

Not every traveler is the same. The resort that’s perfect for one client may not be right for another. A travel advisor helps match you with destinations and accommodations that fit your unique needs.

Support Before, During, and After Travel

One of the biggest advantages of working with a travel advisor is having someone in your corner when things don’t go as planned.

Flight cancellations, weather disruptions, supplier issues, and unexpected emergencies can happen. Instead of spending hours on hold with airlines or suppliers, you have an advocate helping you navigate the situation. This is especially helpful when suppliers/airlines are backed up and we can be on hold for hours at a time.

Access to Industry Relationships

Travel advisors often have relationships with suppliers, hotels, cruise lines, and tour operators that can provide additional value, special amenities, or insider knowledge that may not be obvious when booking online.

The Hidden Cost of “Doing It Yourself”

Many travelers assume booking directly will save money.

Travel advisors can usually match the price a client sees or many times come in cheaper.

Choosing the wrong resort, booking inconvenient flights, missing important destination requirements, or overlooking travel protection can end up costing far more than any perceived savings.

A travel advisor helps you avoid costly mistakes while maximizing the value of your travel investment.

So Which Option Is Right for You?

If you enjoy spending hours researching every detail and are comfortable handling any issues that arise during travel, booking on your own may work well. Buy why not let a travel advisor book it for you and support a small business. Commissions are built into every trip so if you book on your own, you are still “paying” for a travel advisor. The supplier keeps the commissions. If a travel advisor books for you, that supplier pays the travel advisor those same commissions.

If you’d rather have expert guidance, personalized recommendations, time savings, and support throughout the entire process, working with a travel advisor can make your vacation planning easier and less stressful.

At the end of the day, vacations are about creating memories, not spending countless hours comparing hotels or worrying about what happens if something goes wrong. And let’s be honest, many of our clients have come to us after booking their own vacations and something goes wrong, such as a Hurricane, flight interruptions, weather-related events and more. Hindsight is 20/20.

Whether you’re dreaming of a Caribbean getaway, a European adventure, a cruise, or a once-in-a-lifetime honeymoon, having a trusted travel advisor by your side can make all the difference.

Ready to start planning? Schedule a complimentary consultation today at https://calendly.com/jzwtravel/vacation-consultation and let’s create a vacation that’s perfectly tailored to you. ✈️💛

Don’t Let Fear Stop You From Seeing the World

One of the things we hear most often as travel advisors has nothing to do with passports, resorts, or flights. It’s fear.

“Is it safe there?”
“Would you go there yourself?”
“Aren’t you worried about traveling there?”

And honestly, these are valid questions. News coverage and social media can make the world feel scary at times. But one thing we always remind our clients is this: every travel decision is personal. Our role is never to pressure anyone into taking a trip they are uncomfortable with. Our role is to educate, guide, and share our own experiences so clients can make the best decision for themselves.

Over the years, there are a few concerns we hear again and again.

“I Don’t Want to Go to Mexico…It Isn’t Safe”

This is probably one of the most common comments we hear. The reality is that we personally have never felt unsafe in Mexico. We stay aware of our surroundings, use reputable transfer companies, stay at quality resorts, and book excursions with trusted guides.

Yes, there are times you may see police or military presence, including officers carrying guns. But honestly, we often view that as reassurance that security is there to protect both locals and tourists.

Could something happen while traveling? Unfortunately, yes. But that is true anywhere in the world, including in the United States. There are places domestically where we personally would feel less comfortable than we do at many resorts and destinations in Mexico.

That said, if a client does not feel comfortable traveling to Mexico, we completely respect that decision. Travel should feel exciting, not stressful.

“I Heard You Get Sick in Punta Cana”

Another concern we hear often is about food, water, or drinks in Punta Cana and other Caribbean destinations.

Most major resorts use purified water systems, and bottled water is readily available. We also remind travelers that dehydration, heat, rich foods, and sugary alcoholic drinks can make anyone feel sick, no matter where they are vacationing.

We have traveled to Punta Cana numerous times and have never personally had issues. Thousands of travelers visit every single day and return home with wonderful memories.

But if someone is nervous about traveling there, that is okay too. Every traveler has different comfort levels and experiences.

“There Are Too Many Plane Crashes…I Don’t Want to Fly”

Fear of flying is incredibly common, especially with how quickly news spreads today. When incidents happen, they are heavily covered, which can make flying feel far more dangerous than it statistically is.

The truth is, there are more car accidents every single day than plane accidents. Yet most of us get into a car without a second thought.

That does not mean someone’s fear is irrational. Fear is personal. Some people simply are not comfortable flying, and we would never push them to do something that causes anxiety or fear.

“I Don’t Want to Get Sick on a Cruise”

Cruise ships also tend to make headlines whenever illnesses spread onboard. But viruses can spread anywhere people gather…schools, offices, hotels, sporting events, or classrooms.

We personally have been on many cruises, as have countless clients, without any widespread illness issues. Cruise lines also have extensive sanitation and cleaning procedures in place.

Would we cruise again? Absolutely.

But again, if someone does not feel comfortable cruising, there are countless other vacation options available.

Travel Is Personal

At the end of the day, travel is not one-size-fits-all. Some people love adventure and stepping outside their comfort zones. Others prefer destinations that feel more familiar or closer to home. Neither is wrong.

As travel advisors, our job is not to convince people to take trips they do not want to take. Our job is to listen, guide, educate, and help clients choose vacations that fit their comfort level and travel style.

We simply encourage people not to let fear, headlines, or social media completely close the door on seeing this beautiful world. There is so much out there to experience, and some of the most incredible memories happen when people allow themselves to explore beyond what they see on the news.

The world is still full of beauty, culture, kindness, and unforgettable experiences…and we feel lucky every day to help people discover it 💛

The Truth About Working With a Travel Advisor

There’s something I want to share — not as a sales pitch, but as honest insight into what it really means to work with a travel advisor.

One question that often comes up is: Why do some travel advisors charge a fee while others do not?

The answer is simple — every advisor structures their business differently.

Currently, I have stepped back from charging planning fees. That could change again in the future, because this is a business, and like any business, it has to make sense financially. But for now, when you work with me, there is no upfront fee.

Here’s what many travelers don’t realize:

Whether or not your travel advisor charges a fee, they do not get paid by the supplier until after you travel.

They are paid by the supplier — the hotel, cruise line, tour company, etc. — at no additional cost to you.

And here’s the important part:
That supplier keeps the commission themselves if you book directly with them and not through a travel advisor.

So whether you use a travel advisor or not… you are paying for one.

The only difference is who you choose to support.

What Happens When You “Shop” Your Advisor

If you work with a travel advisor who does not charge a fee, they spend time:

  • Researching properties
  • Comparing suppliers
  • Checking promotions
  • Confirming availability
  • Answering questions
  • Customizing your itinerary

And then you decide to take that quote and book it yourself?

That advisor makes nothing.

No compensation.
No commission.
No payment for hours of work.

Imagine going to your job, putting in the time and effort, and then being told you won’t be paid for it.

That is exactly how a travel advisor feels when a client ghosts them and books on their own.

And when you do that, the commission doesn’t disappear — it simply goes to a large corporation who you book your trip with, like Expedia or Marriott International, instead of supporting a small business.

“But I Found a Cheaper Price…”

If price is your only objective, you may not fully understand the value of a travel advisor — and that’s okay. Many people don’t understand the value until they need one.

Until a hurricane changes their destination plans.
Until flights are grounded for 24 hours.
Until a snowstorm cancels departures.
Until they spend hours on hold trying to rebook with thousands of other travelers.

That’s usually when someone says:

“I wish I had used a travel advisor.”

We’re Not Just Travel Agents

We are advisors.

We:

  • Visit properties and destinations
  • Build relationships with hotel contacts
  • Attend supplier trainings
  • Stay current on industry changes
  • Know which suppliers are best for which type of vacation
  • Match experiences to individual clients

Not every vacation is the same.
Not every traveler is the same.

And that’s exactly why working with an advisor matters.

This Is Our Career

Travel advising isn’t a hobby.

It’s not “just booking trips.”

It’s a profession. One we take seriously. One we invest time, training, and energy into.

And like anyone else, we deserve to be paid for the work we do.

So the next time you work with a travel advisor and then see a “shiny deal” online, pause for a moment.

Ask yourself:

Would I want to work for free?

If the answer is no, then give your advisor the opportunity to match it, explain it, or improve it for you.

Support small businesses.
Value expertise.
Understand the difference between price and value.

Because when things go smoothly, it feels easy.

But when they don’t — that’s when a travel advisor becomes priceless. 

Our Magical Stay at Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Our time in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines started off with me being hot, tired, and hangry. We left home at 3:30am, took two planes, went through immigration, and then took a car to a pier followed by a boat ride—finally arriving at the resort around 4pm.

But the minute we arrived at Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, everything changed. The journey faded away the second we saw how magical this place was. As a travel agent who has visited countless resorts, I’ll admit it’s easy to get a little “immune” to the beauty of it all. But not here. The island, the mountains, the ocean—it’s all simply breathtaking. And absolutely worth the trip.

Getting There

After clearing immigration and retrieving your luggage, you’ll find the Sandals representative waiting outside. From there, your transfer depends on your room category:

  • Butler Elite Guests enjoy a quick 15-minute ride to the marina, followed by a 25-minute scenic water taxi to the resort.
  • Other Guests will take a coach ride, which lasts about 45 minutes to an hour.

Either way, the arrival feels like the start of a true Caribbean adventure.

A Look at the Island

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is located just south of St. Lucia and north of Grenada in the Eastern Caribbean. The nation is made up of the main island of Saint Vincent plus 32 smaller islands known as the Grenadines, offering endless opportunities for exploration and natural beauty.

The Resort at a Glance

Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is spread across 50 acres of lush property yet still feels intimate and walkable. For those who want a little extra fun, complimentary Sandals bikes are available to explore.

Here are some highlights:

  • Accommodations: 301 rooms and 15 categories, including Sandals’ first Two-Story Overwater Villas and Two-Bedroom Beachfront Butler Suites.
  • Pools: Four pools (including an infinity pool and a heart-shaped pool!) plus two whirlpools.
  • Dining: 11 restaurants, with only two requiring reservations—Butch’s Steakhouse (highly recommend the Surf & Turf!) and Buccan, a family-style restaurant serving dishes with global spices. You’ll also find sushi, pizza, salads, seafood, Italian favorites, and even ice cream to end the night.
  • Bars & Entertainment: 9 cocktail lounges with options ranging from piano sing-alongs at the lobby bar to DJs at the plaza outside the Three Jewels Rum Bar. Nightly entertainment includes theme nights, live music, “Movies Under the Stars,” and the popular Island Vibes Plaza Party.
  • Activities: Land sports like volleyball, shuffleboard, croquet, and pickleball plus included water sports like snorkeling, kayaking, Hobie Cats, and even glass-bottom boat rides.

The Sandals Experience

Like all Sandals resorts, this one follows a no tipping policy, so you never need to carry cash to the swim-up bar. Exceptions apply for butlers, spa staff, independent tour guides, and airport transfer drivers.

Club Sandals guests enjoy room service from 7am to 10pm, while Butler-level guests get the luxury of 24/7 room service.

Why I Fell in Love with Sandals SVG

Now that you know the details, let me tell you why this resort captured my heart:

✨ The views – Ocean on one side, lush mountains on the other.
✨ The beach – Powdery white sand that feels untouched and private.
✨ The pools – Whether you’re in the mood for lively music at the main pool, serenity at the crescent-shaped pool, or romance at the tucked-away heart-shaped pool, there’s something for everyone.
✨ The food – Delicious, fresh, and so many options that you’ll never get bored.
✨ The staff – Friendly, welcoming, and always ready to go above and beyond.

So, if you’re worried about the journey to get here—don’t be. Because once you arrive, you’ll know without a doubt that Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is more than worth it.

👉 Thinking about visiting? I’d love to help you plan your dream Caribbean getaway to Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Reach out today to learn about the best offers and room categories!

So You’re Thinking About Becoming a Business Owner? Read This First.

There’s something incredibly exciting—and let’s be honest, a little terrifying—about the idea of becoming your own boss.

Maybe you’re tired of building someone else’s dream.
Maybe you’re feeling stuck, underappreciated, or burned out.
Or maybe, like I was, you saw an opportunity and thought: “Why not me?”

Whatever brought you here, know this: starting your own business is not a shortcut or a quick fix. But it can be the most rewarding, life-changing decision you’ll ever make—if you’re willing to do the work.

The Truth About Starting Your Own Business

Let’s not sugarcoat it. Business ownership is:

  • Harder than it looks
  • Sometimes lonelier than you expect
  • More rewarding than you can possibly imagine

It comes with risk—but also freedom. You trade in someone else’s rules for your own goals. You stop clocking in and start building something that’s yours.

What No One Tells You

When I first started as a travel business owner, I had doubts. People asked:

  • “It’s commission only?”
  • “You pay a monthly fee?”
  • “Do you have to recruit people?”

The questions came fast—and so did the judgments. I’ve been called everything from “a scam” to “part of a pyramid scheme.”

But here’s what they didn’t know:

  • I make more than the person who brought me in
  • I don’t have to bring on other agents
  • My paycheck reflects my effort—not someone else’s
  • My clients are real, my results are real, and my freedom is real

And when I mentor others and see them thrive? That’s proof enough for me.

Is Business Ownership Right for You?

This path isn’t for everyone. But it might be for you if:

  • You want more freedom and flexibility
  • You’re motivated and ready to learn
  • You’re tired of asking permission to grow
  • You’ve ever thought, “There has to be more than this…”

And if you’re not interested? That’s okay, too. We need people in every kind of role. Just don’t put down those who chose a different path.

What I’ve Learned After 5+ Years

Here’s what I wish someone had told me early on:

  1. You’ll never feel 100% ready. Start anyway.
  2. Community matters. Find mentors and people who get it.
  3. Success looks different for everyone. Define your own goals.
  4. This life is possible. You just have to believe it’s meant for you.

Why Booking with a Travel Advisor Still Matters in a DIY World

Every day, we’re filled with gratitude for our clients — those who choose to work with us and trust us with something as important as their time off.

We live in a world where booking a trip is just a few clicks away. Flights, hotels, packages — everything seems easy and accessible online. We hear it all the time:

“Oh, I usually book my own trips. I enjoy doing it myself.”

And that’s completely okay! We understand that for some, researching and planning can be part of the fun. You can still do that with us alongside you.

But here’s something else we hear — usually after the trip:

“I wish I had used you. I had an issue and ended up on the phone for hours… the hotel didn’t help… I didn’t know who to call…”

That’s where the difference lies.

The Value of Working With a Travel Advisor

When you book with us, you’re not just booking a vacation — you’re partnering with someone who is just as invested in your experience as you are. And that’s where our true value shines.

It’s not just about the price (though we’re often competitive or even better).
It’s about peace of mind.

If there’s an issue while you’re traveling, you don’t call a 1-800 number.
You call us.

We work directly with trusted contacts at resorts and top travel suppliers. We advocate for you. We solve problems, answer questions, and handle the unexpected — so you don’t have to spend your vacation on hold or feeling frustrated.

Our job isn’t just to get you there.
It’s to make your travel experience as smooth, enjoyable, and stress-free as possible.

Thank You to Our Amazing Clients

To those who already understand the value of working with a travel advisor — thank you. You’re the reason we do what we do, and your trust means the world to us.

To those who haven’t worked with us yet — we’re here when you’re ready.
Because it’s never just about booking a vacation.
It’s about experiencing it fully, joyfully, and without worry.

Our Stay At Sandals Royal Bahamian

Looking for an all-inclusive in the Bahamas? Our favorite is Sandals Royal Bahamian. We just spent the last 4 nights here after taking an easy 3 hour flight from Philadelphia, and a short 15 minute drive from the airport. This resort is 20 minutes from downtown Nassau and 30 minutes from Paradise Island. The footprint of this resort is small but a lot is packed into this walkable resort. They have 2 towers, East Bay and West Bay. East Bay is starting renovations tomorrow while West Bay was recently renovated. There are also villas, some with plunge pools as well. There are over 400 rooms and suites with 33 categories. Want an elevated experience? Book a Butler room! Looking for room service? Book a Club or Butler room.

There is no shortage of restaurants here and the food is wonderful! There are 10 different restaurants and 2 food trucks. Only 2 of the restaurants, Butch’s and La Plume require reservations. Some food specialties are Teppanyaki, Sushi, Italian, French, Steak, Crepes, as well as burgers, pizza, conch fritters, fish and much more. We loved eating on the pier at Gordon’s…and another traveler told us to try the nachos at Calico’s….they did not disappoint! There are 8 bars/cocktail lounges including swim up bars. Our favorite bars were Mr. B’s for delicious cocktails and the Balmoral Bar & Piano Lounge. Avi hosts fabulous sing alongs at the Balmoral while beautiful jazz and standards were played at Mr. B’s. They also host weekly theme nights as well as other entertainment.

Our favorite part of this resort is it feels like 2 resorts in one due to their private offshore island. A boat runs there numerous times a day. There you will find a pool with a swim-up bar, a restaurant, beaches and plenty of hidden spaces to sit. Snorkeling is also offered here as well as massages on the beach.

In addition to snorkeling, Sandals Royal Bahamian offers non-motorized water sports such as Hobie Cats, Water Trikes, Kayaks and Paddleboards …as well as Scuba Diving for certifed divers. Want to get certified? You can do that too for a fee. Interested in land sports? They have those too… Basketball, Croquet, Beach Volleyball, Billiards and Pool Table, Darts, Indoor Games, Shuffleboard, Table Tennis, Tennis and Pickleball. They have a gym that overlooks the beach and for those looking for a spa? Their Red Lane Spa is wonderful.

Call or text “Sandals” to 610-466-5560 or email info@jzwtravel.com for your Sandals quote!

I Can Book My Own Travel – Why Would I Use A Travel Agent?

If I had a nickel for everyone who said that there is no need to use a travel agent. They can book their own travel. It’s so easy on the internet.

If I had a dollar for everyone who after saying that, had an issue with a flight delay, missed connection, issue with their hotel, had to be on the phone for hours with an airline…and then said they now see the value in a travel agent.

The internet makes it so easy for people to book their own travel. The value of a travel agent is so much more than booking a trip for a client.

We travel. Many times we have been to resorts or hotels, we have done site visits or stayed at the hotel. The first thing we do when we work with a client is to talk to them, find out their wants and needs. We may know that Hotel A is a party hotel and that is not what a client wants. Or that Hotel B is a spread out resort and our client with mobility issues may have issues at that hotel. If we haven’t been to hotels ourselves, many times we have fellow travel agents who have that we can bounce ideas off of them.

We handle any issues. If there aren’t any issues, fantastic! But if there are any issues, do you want to spend your vacation trying to rectify them? Do you want to be on hold for hours with an airline? Or do you want to call/text/email your travel agent and let them handle the issues for you?

We build a package for you. We can get you the rail tickets in Europe, the private transfers, the excursions. Due to our travels, in many locations we know private reputable tour guides. Sometimes your package will have some of your party flying from one airport and others from another but staying at the same hotel. We have no issues building that package for you.

We work with different suppliers. Why should you look to find the best deal when you can have someone do that for you? You may find a really cheap deal but it may be with a supplier that won’t be there for you with any issues, or has hidden fees. We not only look for the deals but we also work with reputable suppliers.

We keep up with the rules and regulations. We keep up with what paperwork is needed to enter a country. Especially since Covid-19, that has changed a lot. Don’t go to the airport and find out you didn’t fill out forms you needed to fill out prior to traveling, or pay a tax that needed to be paid. We are the ones to keep up with the forms and let you know what needs to be filled out.

We are here to take the stress out of your vacation – you should be enjoying your vacation and not handling any issues that may arise.

Your question shouldn’t be “Why would I use a travel agent” but instead “Why wouldn’t I use a travel agent?”

Why We Love A Virgin Voyages Cruise

We just returned from our Virgin Voyages Mediterranean cruise and we absolutely loved it! Previously we sailed with Virgin in 2021 to the Caribbean and will be sailing to Greece and Turkey in September. This cruise line is for everyone, as long as they are 18 and over! This isn’t your typical cruise with the broadway shows and dining at a large table with people you may not know at a set time. Let us tell you why we love Virgin Voyages…

The food! You don’t feel like you are on a cruise ship but at a fantastic restaurant. Our favorite is the Wake which has steak and seafood. Both their breakfasts as well as their dinners are fabulous. Some favorites of ours are the steak and eggs, the benedicts, clam chowder and the filet. If you want Mexican, Pink Agave is amazing but it’s not your typical Mexican restaurant. We love starting off with the corn as well as the guacamole. Razzle Dazzle is great for vegetarians. They also have an Italian restaurant with your choice of pastas but make sure you get the meatballs as a starter! And for those willing to be surprised with their food, check out the Test Kitchen which has a multi-course meal which is chef’s choice.



In addition to their main restaurants, they also have hot dogs, wings, popcorn, candy available…as well as ice cream, their pizza shop is excellent, they have poke bowls and they also have a Galley which serves all different types of food all day.

The drinks – you don’t need to figure out which drinks package you need as you do on other cruises. You can purchase a pre-paid bar tab which usually comes with an extra $50 of drinks for every $300 tab you buy. Or you can pay as you go. Sodas are free as well. If you love champagne, just shake your app to order a bottle of champagne (costs extra)  to be delivered to you anywhere on the ship.

For entertainment, they have music performances around the ship, they have shows which are not your typical cruise line shows, they have Bingo, a pub crawl (which costs extra), a casino, day and night activities, and a night club to just name a few. Their spa is amazing! And you can get your hair done or even a tattoo on board!



For those who want to go on vacation and not dress up for dinners – men you don’t need a jacket on this cruise! Dress how you feel comfortable. Just bring a little bit of red to wear on Scarlet Night!

The ship is modern and beautiful, and whether you want to join the party or do your own thing, there is something for everyone on their ships. The majority of their cabins have balconies and if you want to indulge yourself, you can get a Rock Star cabin which comes with extra amenities.

We would be remiss if we didn’t mention how wonderful the staff is on board. They seem like they truly love their job. They are always there to help, seem so caring and always have smiles on their faces.

On our Mediterranean cruise, we departed from Barcelona, docked in Cannes (did a wonderful wine tasting excursion in Provence), went to Marina di Carrara in Italy (beautiful mountains of marble!) where we did an excursion of antipasti and wine in Tuscany, stopped in Ajaccio in France, and ended in Ibiza and saw the most beautiful sunset prior to arriving back in Barcelona. Each port was more beautiful than the last. This cruise has now given us the most beautiful memories of Spain, Italy and France. Thank you Virgin Voyages!

Book your Virgin Voyages cruise by contacting JZW Travel at 610-466-5560 or info@jzwtravel.com or you can book yourself using this link: https://tinyurl.com/JZWVIRGINVOYAGES

Our MSC Cruise

This week we sailed on the MSC Meraviglia. MSC is known for cruising in Europe and has been expanding into the US market. We sailed from New York stopping in Miami and then 2 stops in the Bahamas: MSC’s island Ocean Cay and also Nassau. Ocean Cay is filled with beautiful beaches surrounding calm waters. You can do water sports here, grab food and drinks, shop, and end the day with a light show on the lighthouse.

We chose to purchase the unlimited specialty dining package and as soon as we boarded the ship, we made our way to Deck 6 and the Ocean Cay restaurant to set up our dining plans for the week. The boarding process in New York needs some work and hopefully as time goes on, MSC will streamline the process. 

Our first 2 days at sea the weather was rough so it made for a rocky beginning. But by the time we were getting close to Miami, the weather was beautiful.

The ship has a main buffet, a pool grill, the normal dining room as well as specialty restaurants: Japanese, Teppanyaki, Mexican, Seafood and a Steakhouse. If you purchase the unlimited specialty dining, you get to choose from a set menu at the specialty restaurants. The menu wasn’t too limited at all though. Butcher’s Cut, the Steakhouse, was our favorite followed by Hola Tacos. The main dining was good, not great, but we definitely found some foods that we liked. For the main buffet, our favorites were the pizza, salad and fries.

For drinks, we purchased the Premium drinks package and next time would go one step below and choose the EZ Plus package.

If you are looking for a cruise with activities, you will find them here! They had 2 shows you had to pay for – it was $18 and came with a drink. However, since we had the specialty dining, the shows were $5. The shows were fantastic and we caught some free shows in their Broadway theater too. You could either wait in line for those shows or use the app and book it.

The ship also had both indoor and outdoor pools, hot tubs, water slides, kid areas, a casino and so much more. 

Their cabins were not the prettiest but were very clean. Make sure if you don’t want to pay the minibar prices, that you ask your steward to clear out your minibar. If you have a drinks package, go to a bar and ask for sodas or bottles of water and fill up your minibar yourself.

The staff on board were absolutely wonderful. They work very hard at what they do. They even acknowledged my birthday which was a nice surprise.

Overall, we were quite please with our cruise and would happily sail on MSC again.

I would love to help you plan your cruise vacation. Contact me at 610-466-5560 or jodi@jzwtravel.com. Jodi of JZW Travel

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