I just couldn't wait until October to be back on the high seas. I have booked the Harmony of The Seas for the week right after the fourth of July Holiday. I know better than to cruise in July and have never done it before. Shoot me now! I expect the ship to be loaded with families and kids on summer vacation. Most will be well behaved, but with passengers numbering over 5,000 there will be more than a few brats.
Regardless, someone is looking out for me. Even though I booked a guaranteed inside cabin, I was upgraded to a larger oceanview balcony. Two firsts for me. A meaningful free upgrade, and on my 74th cruise, the first time I will be sailing in a balcony cabin.
Our first port of call will be Cococay, Royal's private island that they have turned into a very popular carnival attraction with waterslides, ziplines, and other sources of revenue. More of that later after we have visited.
Many bottles of wine, a spacious cabin, and 24/7 access to the Concierge Lounge to escape the bratty kids, and it is going to be a lovely week. It should even be cooler than it is in Florida.