Toes in the Sand Travel

05/05/2026

Summer is around the corner! If you have international travel plans, follow this checklist to avoid common travel pitfalls. Find more travel tips at travel.state.gov (click “international travel”)

05/05/2026

Be looking for an email from Carnival!

04/17/2026

Sandals or Not?

Why some people specifically choose Sandals over other all-inclusives:

They usually want:
• Higher-end romance
• More included activities
• Better beach focus
• Stronger service reputation
• A “one trip done right” experience

Reasons some people choose something else:

Sandals may not be ideal if you want:
• Lower price (there are cheaper options)
• A more social, less couples-only atmosphere
• Mexico over Caribbean islands
• A smaller boutique resort
• Hyatt/points loyalty (Secrets can be attractive here)

04/13/2026

The ocean has a way of clearing everything that doesn’t belong… and bringing you back to what does 🌊💙

03/14/2026

Another fabulous group cruise in the books!! Thanks to all who joined in the fun and made it so incredibly memorable!!

03/05/2026

03/04/2026

Here we go Mobile.

Did you know? If you book a cruise online, there is already a commission attached to your cost, even if you do it yourself. So you ARE paying for help whether you use it or not.

Also, If you book it yourself and you run into a problem, there is very little help you can get from a travel professional if they are not on the booking.

Give us a call. Let us be your free resource to help to plan the perfect trip. Kimberley Tanner Canova

Since cruising returned to Mobile in 2016, city leaders have envisioned a time when multiple ships would sail from the city’s cruise terminal.

That goal seemed out of reach during the pandemic, when Carnival Cruise Line halted sailings from Mobile for several years. But Carnival has resumed operations — and now a second cruise line will arrive Friday in Alabama’s Port City.

Read more: https://www.al.com/news/2026/03/mobiles-cruise-dreams-coming-true-with-not-one-but-two-ships-sailing-this-month.html

03/04/2026

🚢 Should You Buy the Carnival Cruise Drink Package? 🍹

One of the most common questions people ask before sailing on Carnival Cruise Line is: “Is the drink package worth it?” The answer depends on your travel style.

🍹 When the drink package makes sense:• You enjoy several cocktails, beers, or frozen drinks each day• You like specialty coffees, energy drinks, soda, or bottled water• You don’t want to worry about your onboard bill adding up• You want the freedom to try different drinks without thinking about price

💰 When you may want to skip it:• You only have a drink or two per day• You don’t drink alcohol• You spend most of your time in port exploring

On Carnival, the Cheers! Beverage Program typically breaks even around 5–6 alcoholic drinks per day depending on what you order. The nice part is it also includes things like specialty coffee, soda, milkshakes, and bottled water.

⚓ My advice: If you’re planning to relax by the pool, enjoy sail-away parties, and sip a few cocktails each day, the package can be a great value. If you’re more of a casual drinker, paying as you go might make more sense.

Either way… the real goal is simple: relax, unplug, and enjoy the cruise.

🌴 If you're planning a cruise and want help deciding what’s best for your trip, I’m always happy to help. Kimberley Tanner Canova

03/02/2026

Carribean Cruise Showdown: Which Cruise Line is Right for YOU? 🚢🌴

Planning a Caribbean cruise but not sure which line fits your style? Let’s break it down 👇

⸻

🎉 Carnival Cruise Line – “Fun Ship” Vibes
✔️ Best for: Budget-friendly getaways & groups
✔️ High-energy atmosphere, parties, comedy shows
✔️ Great value for shorter Caribbean cruises
⚠️ Trade-off: Not as upscale, can be lively (aka louder crowd)

👉 Think: Affordable, fun, social vacation

⸻

🏝️ Royal Caribbean – Big Ships, Big WOW
✔️ Best for: Families & first-time cruisers
✔️ Massive ships with water parks, zip lines & Broadway-style shows
✔️ Private island experiences (CocoCay 👀)
⚠️ Trade-off: Larger ships = more crowds

👉 Think: Resort-at-sea with endless activities

📊 Known for pushing the limits with mega-ships and family-friendly experiences 

⸻

🍹 Norwegian Cruise Line – Freedom & Flexibility
✔️ Best for: Couples & relaxed travelers
✔️ “Freestyle cruising” (no set dining times or dress codes)
✔️ Great entertainment and nightlife
⚠️ Trade-off: Extras can add up quickly

👉 Think: Cruise your way, no schedule

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💎 MSC Cruises – European Flair for Less
✔️ Best for: Value seekers & international vibe
✔️ Often lower prices with newer ships
✔️ Mediterranean-style dining and design
⚠️ Trade-off: Service & food can vary for U.S. travelers

👉 Think: Stylish cruise at a great price

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👨‍👩‍👧 Disney Cruise Line – Premium Family Magic
✔️ Best for: Families with younger kids & Disney fans
✔️ Top-tier entertainment & immersive experiences
✔️ Incredible kids clubs + adult-only areas too
⚠️ Trade-off: Higher price point

👉 Think: Disney World at sea

📊 Known for themed entertainment but fewer ships and higher pricing than competitors 

⸻

🌊 Princess / Celebrity – Relaxed & Refined
✔️ Best for: Couples, foodies & quieter trips
✔️ Elevated dining, better service, fewer crowds
✔️ Less “theme park,” more relaxation
⚠️ Trade-off: Fewer thrill activities

👉 Think: Chill, classy Caribbean escape

⸻

💡 Quick Cheat Sheet:
• Party & budget → Carnival
• Family & activities → Royal Caribbean
• Flexible & laid-back → Norwegian
• Value & modern ships → MSC
• Kids & Disney fans → Disney
• Relaxation & food → Princess/Celebrity

⸻

✨ Pro Tip:
There’s no “best” cruise line… only the best one for your travel style.

That’s where I come in 👇
I match you to the perfect cruise so you don’t waste money on the wrong experience. Message me Kimberley Tanner Canova

⸻

🌴 Ready to sail the Caribbean?
Let’s find YOUR perfect ship ⚓

03/02/2026

🏝️ All-Inclusive Resort vs 🚢 Cruise… Which Vacation is Right for YOU?

Trying to decide between a beach resort or a cruise? Here’s the easiest way to think about it 👇

✨ All-Inclusive Resort = Relaxation✔️ One destination, no rushing✔️ Unlimited food & drinks 🍹✔️ Beach + pool all day✔️ Spacious rooms👉 Perfect for couples, unplugging, and stress-free getaways

🌎 Cruise = Adventure✔️ Visit multiple destinations✔️ Endless entertainment & shows✔️ Activities all day & night✔️ Something for everyone👉 Perfect for families, groups, and travelers who like variety

💡 The BIG question:Do you want to RELAX in one place or EXPLORE multiple places?

That answer usually decides it!

Either way… you really can’t go wrong 😎

📩 Ready to plan your next getaway? Let’s find the perfect fit for YOU!