3 Things To Know Before Visiting The USA

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The United States of America has long been a popular destination for holidays. With its diverse culture, array of places to visit, and countless things to do, it’s easy to see why. That doesn’t mean visiting the USA is the easiest thing to do. Outside of the travel arrangements themselves, you’ll need to worry about a few other factors. It’ll be a bit of a culture shock, after all, so you’ll have to know a few things before you go. While some are obvious, a few others wouldn’t be, making them worth looking through.

Visiting The USA: 3 Things To Know

Visiting Route 66 while in the USA

1. You’ll Need Transport

Depending on where you’re visiting in the USA, you could need your own set of wheels when you’re there. Cities like New York have adequate public transport and taxis, but that isn’t the case everywhere else. It could be more difficult to get around than you would’ve thought, even if you’re only staying for a weekend or even going to Disneyland. Make sure you have an international driving license on you for when you get there. While you might not end up needing this, it’s better to have it, just in case you do. Keep the road rules in mind when you’re driving, and you shouldn’t have anything to worry about.

2. You’ll Have Plenty Of Places To Stay

America is one of the largest countries you can visit, which means there’ll be plenty of places to stay. From apartment rentals to St. Pete’s Beach Resorts, it’s worth looking into your options before you book anything. While that could mean digging around a bit, you could find something truly special to book. It’ll be more than worth the time it took you to find it. It might even mean you’ll end up saving yourself a bit of money once you’ve looked around. With how expensive the rest of your holiday can be, it’s worth saving a little whenever you can while visiting the USA.

While visiting the USA, tipping is expected at restaurants.

3. Tips Are Expected

America’s tipping culture is unlike any other country’s, and you’ll have to be aware of this before getting there. You’ll be expected to tip for practically everything, and it’s seen as rude if you don’t. No matter what kind of service you get, leaving a tip is expected.The only difference is how much of a tip you’ll leave. For a poor service, about 10% to 15% is suggested, with this getting higher and higher for great service. Be prepared to spend a decent bit more than you would’ve thought, especially if you’re eating out a lot.

Visiting The USA: Wrapping Up

Visiting the USA is recommended for quite a few reasons. You’ll take in more than a few sights, get a feel for the country’s diverse culture, and get to grips with countless other things. That doesn’t mean you should just hop on a plane and get going.It’s worth knowing about a few things before you get there, as they can have a large impact on your trip. While that means spending a little extra time looking through things, it’ll impact your vacation and be more than worth it.

Top Tips for Traveling with Your Dog

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More people are taking their dogs on vacation with them. Especially since 2020! Families just don’t want to leave their furry best friends behind. As such, they’ve adapted the way that they plan their vacations. If you’re thinking about planning a trip with your furry companion, you’ll be pleased to know there are many ways to make it easy. Are you ready to start traveling with your dog with ease.

1. Make sure you have updated vaccinations before traveling with your dog

This one is first because it’s the most important. Make sure your dog is up to date on all vaccinations and rabies shots. New places means new chances for your dog to be exposed to something that could make them sick. And nothing will put a wrench in your travel plans like having to find emergency services for your pup. Not to mention the stress it will put on your dog for being in a strange place and not feeling well. Talk to your veterinarian before traveling with your dog to ensure that the places you are traveling to don’t require additional shots.

2. Get a dog-friendly app

There’s an app for everything, including traveling with your dog. Whether you’re going on a road trip or flying to a foreign country, there are apps that will allow you to locate dog parks, dog cafes, and pet-friendly places to stay and visit. For example, All Trails is an app that allows you to find the best trails for you and your dog to enjoy your walks.

Pet First Aid is another app that’s useful to download before your trip. In the event of an accident, it allows you to find the nearest vet or emergency pet hospital. There are so many apps you may find useful while on your travels so it will help to do your research before you go.

3. Look up pet friendly hotels

There are more pet friendly places to stay than ever before. Many people assume that if they’re planning a vacation to a certain place they’ll need to leave their dog at home because pets won’t be permitted in hotels or motels. The truth is, wherever you’re going, it’s likely there’s a pet friendly option.

For instance, California is well-known for its luscious beaches and surfing opportunities. If your dog likes jumping on the board with you, don’t leave him at home. There are many options for places to stay, like a motel in Turlock, which has tons of great beaches.

Additionally if you want something nicer, Millennium Hotels has pet-friendly resorts. Popular locations for them include the Biltmore Los Angeles, the Lakefront Anchorage, and the Grand Hotel Palace Rome. You can also get budget-friendly but still nice options with Hilton Hotels and Marriott Bonvoy.

Woman traveling with her dog in a pet carrier backpack

4. Take a pet carrier to travel with your dog

No matter what breed or size of dog you have, they may not want to explore for as long as you. There are many ways you can allow your dog to rest while you still explore your surroundings. Some people like to use dog pushchairs so their dog can lie down and rest.

Other people use pet carriers that look like backpacks. Simply slide your dog into a suit and place the carrier straps over your shoulders. If you have a large dog who is unsuited to pet carriers, you may need to plan your stops so your dog can get the rest they need.

5. Carry all dog essentials

Just like traveling with a child, you won’t be able to leave your hotel without the essentials. The first and foremost being your dog’s leash. Most places will insist that your dog is leashed at all times.

A collapsible dog bowl is ideal when exploring with your furry friend, especially in warm weather. Take a bottle of water with you and offer your dog plenty of fluid throughout the day. If you’re heading to the beach, it can also help to take an umbrella with you to offer your dog some shade should he need it.

If you are doing lots of adventuring or walking, you also may want to invest is dog booties. For hiking on rocky paths, this will help ensure their feet stay protected. Over if you are wandering through street after street, this will protect their pads from the hot pavement.

Dog traveling in the back of a van with a couple

6. Respect that others may not like dogs

A top tip to remember when traveling with your dog is that not all people like dogs. Unfortunately, there are many people who would rather not share the same space with dogs. Be mindful of others, especially young children who can be scared of even the smallest dog.

Keep your dog on a leash when you need to and keep a distance from other people. If others want to approach your dog, make sure your dog behaves well and remove your dog from any interaction that could over excite them or make them respond aggressively.

7. Adjust your insurance when traveling with your dog

If your dog is covered by medical insurance, you may need to inform your insurance provider that you’re traveling. In most cases, it won’t make a difference to your premiums. But your insurer may be able to give you some tips for health and safety while you travel and a list of vets that you could use while you’re away. You may want to take copies of documentation with you in case of an emergency.

You may have to save up your money to ensure you have everything you need for you and your dog. But the major plus side is that traveling with your dog is easier than you think. As long as you’re properly prepared. Now where are you and your pup headed to?

The Royal Up Program: Royal Caribbean's Upgrade Experience

The Royal Up Program: Royal Caribbean’s Upgrade Experience

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Imagine sailing away on a luxurious cruise, savoring the sea breeze and soaking up the sun. But wait, what if there’s a way to enhance your experience even further? Enter the Royal Up Program.

The Royal Up Program, offered by Royal Caribbean, allows you to potentially score an upgrade to a higher stateroom category. Just think of the possibilities. You might find yourself in a spacious suite with breathtaking ocean views. And you can hopefully do that for cheaper than regular price!

Royal Caribbean main pool deck 12 while docked near a city.

How does the Royal Up Program work?

When eligible, you’ll receive an email invitation to participate in the Royal Up Program. Once you receive the invitation, it’s time to channel your inner explorer and embark on an upgrade journey. In the email, it will list possible staterooms that you can bid on. You will select the monetary amount that you are willing to pay for a specific stateroom upgrade. Be aware though! You are bidding on a “per person” amount. But it only applies to the first and second guest on the booking reservation. You will not be charged for third or higher guests if your offer is accepted. Additionally, if you are in a single occupancy booking, you will be charged for double occupancy.

You are also more than welcome to big on multiple rooms to increase your chances of getting upgraded. You will however only be able to bid on one room per category. But don’t worry – you will only pay for one upgrade if accepted.

Royal Caribbean will notify you via email prior to your sailing departure if your bid was accepted. If you win the upgrade, you’ll be charged the bid amount, and voilà, you’re off to a more opulent abode onboard. It’s like stepping into a hidden treasure trove of comfort and luxury. And if you don’t get your bid accepted, you will not be charged for any upgrades and you will keep the stateroom that you originally had.

It’s important to note that the program is subject to availability, so grab your chance while you can. Remember, luck favors the adventurous!

What stateroom categories are up for grabs in the Royal Up program?

Potential Royal Caribbean Royal Up program offers for suites

Well, it can vary depending on the sailing and availability. You might have the opportunity to elevate your experience from a cozy interior room to a spacious balcony stateroom, or even ascend to the heights of a magnificent suite.

Now, you might be wondering, “Are there any restrictions?” The Royal Up Program does have a few. For instance, if you’ve already paid in full or are within a certain time frame before departure, you won’t be eligible to participate. But fear not, other adventures await!

Remember, the Royal Up Program is all about adding that extra touch of grandeur to your cruise experience. It’s an opportunity to seize, a chance to make your journey even more unforgettable. And every time you book a suite on Royal Caribbean, you will automatically earn twice the amount of points on your cruise. Be sure to use those points to tier match to MGM Rewards!

So embrace the thrill of the Royal Up Program! Why wouldn’t you want to cruise to CocoCay in style? Upgrade your adventure, elevate your expectations, and let the waves of luxury sweep you off your feet. Your upgraded stateroom is just a bid away. Bon voyage!

Cruising to Paradise: A Perfect Day at CocoCay – Map 2023

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Nestled in the crystal-clear waters of the Bahamas, lies the perfect getaway for sun-seekers and thrill-seekers alike. A place where you can do dare-devilish waterslides or go work on your tan lines. This tropical paradise, known as Perfect Day at CocoCay, has been reimagined and enhanced for 2023, offering an even more unforgettable experience than before. So let’s dive in to this Perfect Day at CocoCay review!

All about Perfect Day CocoCay

CocoCay is Royal Caribbean’s private island. From exhilarating waterslides to serene lagoons, this island oasis has something for everyone. Known for its Thrill Waterpark, as you can imagine there are many families in attendance. Also this private port can have two ships docked at once. So you shouldn’t be shocked to see another Royal Caribbean cruise there the same day you are!

Liberty of the Seas and Freedom of the Seas docked at Perfect Day at CocoCay

Not to fret though. Even though two ships can undock here, there is still plenty of space. There are lounging chairs aplenty and the small island is big enough that it doesn’t seem like two full cruises are on one plot of land.

How’s the food at CocoCay?

The food is perfect for what you’re craving after a long day of sun and fun. And yes, it’s free! The great thing about cruises is that the food is included with your cruise reservation. Unless of course you go to one of their premium restaurants. And Royal Caribbean has, in my opinion, the BEST quality of food.

Part of the menu included: hamburgers, hot dogs, french fries, a chicken sandwich, cookies, funnel cake, and more! The service is also super quick and easy. I had the chicken sandwich and it was delicious. My husband got a hot dog and we were both a little bummed that it was more on the luke-warm side. Still delicious though.

Perfect Day at CocoCay map 2023
Perfect Day at CocoCay map 2023

Breaking down the CocoCay Map 2023

There are three options for enjoying CocoCay:

  • The “free” part of it, which is essentially just getting off of the ship and wandering around on your own
  • The Thrill Waterpark ticket, which includes exploring on your own and as well as entrance into the waterpark
  • Or upgrading your perfect day by going to a secluded beach at Coco Beach Club or enjoying other paid experiences, cabanas, and daybeds.

Free Access

Access to CocoCay is included with your cruise itinerary. All you have to do is get off of the ship and enjoy your surroundings! Included in this access is Harbor Beach, Oasis Lagoon, and Chill Island. But this does not mean you are allowed to access all the amenities. You may encounter daybeds or gazebos on the water. Unless you reserve these ahead of time, you will not be able to use them. Prices will vary. The lounge chairs however are free to use and they are everywhere!

For anyone traveling with small kids, if your little ones are not quite big enough for the Thrill Waterpark, CocoCay does have some water playgrounds that are a part of the “free access”. They can be found right outside of Thrill Waterpark on numbers 6 and 7 on the CocoCay map 2023 above.

Thrill Waterpark

The Thrill Waterpark is about $130 per person and it is recommended to buy your tickets ahead of time. Personally after experiencing Thrill Waterpark, I think $130 is a little overpriced. This isn’t to say that their slides weren’t awesome because they definitely were. But it just seems steep. Also since the majority of their slides are pretty “thrill” worthy, if you are scared of heights or intense waterslides, Thrill Waterpark won’t be worth it.

Pro tip: Looking for some hype, but don’t want to pay for Thrill Waterpark? Oasis Lagoon is going to be your spot. They have a swim-up bar that has a DJ booth right next to it. As an adult, this was the place to be to get great drinks and enjoy a very energetic atmosphere! Also because it was very loud and also right next to the swim-up bar, there weren’t many kids around.

Coco Beach Club and private cabanas

Coco Beach Club is all about relaxation. If you want to take some time for yourself away from others, this would be the way to go. However during our trip, we actually talked to some people that purchased this beach access and had a gazebo on the water. They said that unless you really don’t want to be bothered or be around people, it isn’t worth it. There is so much to do on this island oasis. I wouldn’t blame them if they had a little FOMO from hearing how much fun other people were having!

Perfect Day at CocoCay. View from Harbor Beach area.
The view from Harbor Beach. Listed #14 on the CocoCay map 2023.

Final Perfect Day at CocoCay Review

Overall, I am impressed with CocoCay. However, I did picture it bigger. The commercials really make it seem like Thrill Waterpark was the majority of the property. But I do like that there is a lot to do. There are also plenty of areas to explore and relax. Whether you’re an adult who loves waterparks or you have a family with kids, it is a great spot! And even if you would rather spend some time in a quieter area, they have that too. Just look at the CocoCay map 2023 and you can see just how much fun is waiting for you on your next adventure!

Lastly, if you vacation with Royal Caribbean frequently and are also a fan of MGM Resorts, be sure to get your Royal Caribbean tier match with MGM Rewards!

Royal Caribbean tier matches to MGM Rewards

Royal Caribbean Tier Matches with MGM Rewards

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Traveling on a budget is an easy feat when you know how to maximize your savings. If you have followed this blog, then you know that I am kind of the myVEGAS expert. Need to save money on your stay in Las Vegas? I got you. Now I have the biggest game changer to the budget travel game – Royal Caribbean tier matches to MGM Rewards!

How Tier Matching Works

When it comes to tier matching, usually businesses work within the same industry. For example, if you love MGM Resorts and gamble there often, you can have your MGM Rewards tier get matched to a similar tier for Caesar’s properties. Or if you frequently cruise with Royal Caribbean, you can get a tier match of equivalent value with Celebrity Cruises.

But if you have looked over the rewards on the myVEGAS apps, you might have seen Royal Caribbean pop up. It’s hard to believe, but it is true! MGM Rewards will match your Royal Caribbean tier with a corresponding MGM tier. Below is a breakdown of what you can expect from your Crown & Anchor status being matched to a corresponding MGM tier.

Royal Caribbean tier match to MGM Rewards
This is the tier match you can expect to receive with MGM Rewards. Picture from Royal Caribbean’s Partnership Benefits.

How to get your MGM Rewards tier match from Royal Caribbean

  1. First have your MGM Rewards and Crown & Anchor Society account numbers handy.
  2. Next you are going to call MGM Resort Services at (866)761-7111 and press 5.
  3. Let them know that you want to tier match your Royal Caribbean account to your MGM Rewards account.
  4. They will need to verify with Royal Caribbean that the information is correct so they will place you on a brief hold as they verify it.
  5. And that’s it! You should see the tier match on your account almost immediately!

By getting your Royal Caribbean tier match to MGM Rewards, you can now take advantage of MGM member benefits like exclusive room rates and other discounts. Learn more about MGM’s tier matching on their website.

This is, however, a one-way tier match. You will not be able to use your MGM status to get a corresponding tier match with Royal Caribbean. For example, even if you are already a MGM Gold member, you will not be able to become a Crown & Anchor Emerald member. The only way to get a higher Crown & Anchor tier status is to simply cruise more!

Click here to read about Perfect Day at CocoCay and get the inside scoop on the CocoCay map for 2023?