TRAVEL BLOG & INFO

Planning a Disney vacation is magical… but also a little overwhelming. Between apps, reservations, Lightning Lanes, snacks, and the sheer excitement of being there, it’s easy to feel like you need a second brain just to manage your day. If I could hop in a time machine and give my first-timer self a pep talk, these are the 10 things I’d absolutely share. Consider this your friendly shortcut to a smoother, smarter, more joyful Disney trip. 1. The app will be your best friend T

Travel is more than a hobby for me; it’s a way to live the history I teach and to experience the cultures I’ve studied for years. In 2026, I am embarking on a journey that fulfills my lifelong travel dreams. This year is my big travel year, a chance to visit some of the most fascinating places in the world—places I have taught about as a world history teacher. From ancient ruins to modern cities, from serene rivers to bustling ports, my itinerary is packed with unforgettable

Disney parks offer magical experiences that create lifelong memories. Yet, navigating the vast world of Disney can feel overwhelming. That’s where Jessica comes in. With 17 years of experience as an elementary teacher, Jessica brings unmatched attention to detail and a deep understanding of how to create engaging, fun, and smooth experiences for families and visitors of all ages. As EMRJ’s Disney expert, she is ready to help you explore Disney in ways you never imagined. Why

European river cruises are calm, scenic, and culture driven. If you are planning one, here are the ten key things to know, laid out clearly and visually. 1. River levels can change your plans High or low water can keep ships from passing under bridges or through tight stretches. When that happens, cruise lines switch to hotels and buses to keep the itinerary moving. It is not common, but it is part of river cruising. 2. Most ships are the same size Rivers set strict height an

Planning a cruise or an escorted trip? One of the critical choices you need to make is how to handle your airfare. Many cruise lines and travel agencies offer flight booking services, which might sound appealing. However, choosing this route has both pros and cons. In this post, we will look closely at the benefits of booking airfare through the same provider you use for your cruise, while also examining the potential drawbacks related to control, loyalty points, and costs. T

(A smooth-sailing guide for new cruisers) Stepping onto a cruise ship for the first time is exhilarating—ocean views, unlimited food, new destinations every day. But the cruising world has its quirks, and knowing them ahead of time can make the difference between a stressful trip and a perfect vacation. Here are the 10 things every first-time cruiser must know  before boarding. The cruise industry's goal is continued growth. This is one reason they continue to increase the si

Loyalty used to mean something. Whether you were a frequent flyer, a daily Starbucks customer, or a regular cruiser, brands rewarded commitment with perks that felt meaningful. But over the past few years, a troubling trend has emerged: companies are modifying their loyalty programs mid-stream, often making it harder for customers to earn or maintain the benefits they once relied upon. When the companies keep balancing the scales in their favor it almost feels like they are c

Cruising has always been about relaxation, exploration, and escape—but every now and then, a sailing offers something deeper: connection. This week’s Love Boat Reunion Cruise aboard the Regal Princess was a perfect example of how an affinity cruise can turn a standard vacation into something truly extraordinary. The principal cast members who are still living participated in this week's reunion cruise. Affinity cruises—sailings built around a shared interest, hobby, fandom, o

Every cruise offers its own blend of design strengths, service highlights, and unexpected quirks—and this Princess sailing was no different. Using my EMRJ Travel evaluation rubric, I took a deep dive into the This rubric was utilized to rate his cruise. I wanted to utilize both anecdotal and numerical rating to create an honest review. ship’s layout, cabin features, culinary offerings, entertainment, and onboard technology. Here’s a thorough and honest look at what stood ou

When people think of cruising, they often picture the glittering ocean views, the endless buffets, and the relaxing days spent by the pool. But on my recent sailing, what truly set the experience apart wasn’t the ship’s décor or the itinerary — it was the exceptional customer service that defined every moment on board. From the moment I stepped onto the ship, I could sense that this wasn’t just another voyage. The crew exuded a genuine warmth and enthusiasm that made every gu