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MSC Entertainment Lived up to my Expectations
When it comes to cruising, entertainment is one of those elements that can quietly make—or break—the overall experience. On my recent sailin
Brad Kaplan
4 days ago3 min read


MSC Seascape Cruise Review: Galveston Sailing (Jan 25–Feb 1)
Cruising on MSC Seascape out of Galveston offered a mix of strong value, solid food, great entertainment, and a few things travelers should
Brad Kaplan
5 days ago4 min read


A Practical Look at the Stateroom: Comfort, Function, and Expectations
When booking a cruise, one of the most common questions travelers ask is about the stateroom. How big is it? Is it comfortable? Will I feel
Brad Kaplan
6 days ago3 min read


Plenty to Do, No Matter the Weather
One of the biggest questions travelers ask before a cruise is simple: What is there to do on board? On this sailing aboard the MSC Seascape,
Brad Kaplan
6 days ago3 min read


Understanding the Different Experience Levels on MSC Cruises
A Closer Look at MSC Seascape from Galveston
It took me a while to truly understand the value behind the different “experience levels” offe
Brad Kaplan
Jan 283 min read


When Did Specialty Dining Become a Thing on Cruise Ships?
If you have cruised more than once—or even just browsed a ship deck plan—you’ve probably noticed how much emphasis cruise lines place on spe
Brad Kaplan
Jan 273 min read


Cruise Gratuities: Required, Optional, or Just Confusing
Few topics spark more debate on a cruise than gratuities. Almost every traveler asks the same questions at some point: Are gratuities requir
Brad Kaplan
Jan 273 min read


Food—The core of many cruises
Food is the core for many on a cruise how does MSC stack up?
Brad Kaplan
Jan 272 min read


MSC Cruise: First Impressions
I recently sailed on an MSC cruise out of Galveston, and I want to share an honest, easy-to-understand review of my experience so far. My go
Brad Kaplan
Jan 253 min read


Cruise Review: A Detailed Look at Ship Design, Dining, Tech & More
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
Brad Kaplan
Nov 20, 20254 min read


Exceptional Service at Sea: How the Crew Made This Cruise Unforgettable
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
Brad Kaplan
Nov 20, 20253 min read


Entertainment at Sea: Why Princess Cruises Keeps the Fun Going Day and Night
On board entertainment
Brad Kaplan
Nov 20, 20252 min read


Dining on a Princess Cruise: From Buffets to Fine Dining (and Everything in Between)
Let’s be honest: one of the biggest questions people have before booking a cruise isn’t about the ports of call, the size of the stateroom, or whether Wi-Fi will actually work in the middle of the ocean. Nope. The real question is: How’s the food? Good news: Princess Cruises delivers big in the dining department. Whether you’re a steak-and-potatoes type, a sushi lover, or the kind of person who considers dessert a mandatory food group, there’s something waiting for you onboar
Brad Kaplan
Nov 19, 20254 min read


🍽 Dinner with the Giants: EMRJ Lego Man Takes on Fine Dining
Dressing for Dinner—Miniature-Style It was formal night aboard the Princess cruise ship, and while most guests were straightening bow ties and adjusting gowns, EMRJ Lego Man was dealing with a far more pressing problem: keeping his sticker tuxedo from peeling off in the Caribbean humidity. Thankfully, he managed to “secure” a formal outfit before the trip. His traveling companion (me), however, was not so lucky—we were far from a matching pair. Still, he remained determined.
Brad Kaplan
Nov 19, 20253 min read


🧳 Meet EMRJ Travel’s Newest (and Smallest) Team Member: Lego Man on the Move!
EMRJ Travel Lego man will be exploring all types of amazing places over the next 12 months 🌍 Say Hello to Lego Man — The World’s...
Brad Kaplan
Oct 10, 20252 min read


Sailing into Nostalgia: The Love Boat Reunion Cruise
Cruising always has a way of creating memories — the sunrises at sea, the laughter over dinner, the friendships formed with fellow travelers. But every now and then, a voyage comes along that stands out as truly special. This particular cruise had a unique twist — it was a Love Boat Reunion sailing! Fans of the beloved television series, which first aired in the late 1970s, know exactly why this theme struck such a chord. The Love Boat wasn’t just a show about life at sea; i
Brad Kaplan
Oct 8, 20253 min read


Smooth Sailing: How Princess Cruises’ MedallionNet Technology Enhances Your Vacation
When most people think of a cruise vacation, they picture relaxation — not necessarily technology. But Princess Cruises has found a way to use cutting-edge innovation to make your trip more relaxing and more personalized than ever before. One of the best features of sailing with Princess is their MedallionNet service — a tech-forward system designed to make every part of your vacation smoother, smarter, and more connected. The medallion is the size of an Apple airtag and wo
Brad Kaplan
Oct 8, 20253 min read


Setting Sail on a Princess Cruises Adventure
There’s nothing quite like the thrill of stepping aboard a cruise ship, ready to leave the ordinary behind and embrace days filled with exploration, relaxation, and adventure. As the sun rises over the horizon, there’s a sense of endless possibility — and the promise of unforgettable moments just waiting to be experienced. The Regal Princess was docked early and ready to accept passenger. BUT I was lucky enough to tour this ship. This week, I am sailing on a beautiful Princes
Brad Kaplan
Oct 7, 20252 min read


Finding Comfort at Sea: My Princess Cruises Interior Cabin Experience
After a busy day exploring the ship or venturing out on a shore excursion, your cabin becomes your personal retreat — a place to recharge, unwind, and reflect on the day’s adventures. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, the right cabin can make all the difference in how you experience your cruise. During my recent voyage with Princess Cruises, I stayed in an interior cabin, and I have to say, it exceeded my expectations. The type of cabin you choose re
Brad Kaplan
Oct 7, 20253 min read


Embracing Authenticity: How to Travel Beyond the Instagram Filter
In today's digital age, travel has transformed into a spectacle often captured through the lens of social media. The trend of "Instagram...
Brad Kaplan
Sep 14, 20255 min read
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