MSC Divina Port of Call; Cartagena, Columbia

Forget all the negative things you have heard about this place. Cartagena is interesting and the city is full of hardworking and friendly people. We had a taxi driver named Luis. He was very knowledgeable and showed us all around the city. We went up to the old monastery at the top of the highest hill overlooking the city. The view from there was beautiful. There were people there selling their wares. Any type of souvenir you wanted, they probably had represented there. From tablecloths to leather purses to shot glasses (which I collect) to sliver jewelry. There were many buses and vans along the winding road leading to the monastery. The drivers are very skilled and able to negotiate those huge buses in the smallest of spaces. I was able to get a pair of souvenir shot glasses partly covered in leather. I also got a key chain (another collectible for me) at a location down the hill. We toured a jewelry factory/store where the harvest and sell emeralds. We received a behind-the-scenes look at how they actually cut and polish the stones in the upstairs area before they are made into jewelry and taken downstairs for sale. I also didn't realize North Carolina produced emeralds. They had a display there with the areas around the world that they bought emeralds from. The tour was informative and they even had mock scenes of people mining for the gemstones. There was also a video playing of people in mines working and actually finding the stones. We went to the fort, the old city and a couple of shopping areas. We even went on some walking excursions to see the sites and important landmarks.
All in all, the trip was a really enjoyable experience. We spent about 3-4 hours touring and learning many things about Cartagena. There are over one million people who live there. There was a very noticable police presence everywhere we went. I did not go a couple of blocks without seeing a policeman. Of course, it made me feel very safe to know there was such a strong presence of law enforcement. The sunsets there are breathtaking (so much so I had to insert myself in on of them). I was able to take all of my photos with my camera phone! This Samsung Note 4 is amazing! The photos are clear and the color seems to jump our at you. I even learned there is an all-inclusive resort there across the street from the beach. I will have to look that up when I get back to my office.
One note of caution in Columbia. People there will try to convince you to buy wheat they are selling. They will get into your personal space and saying no does not seem to dissuade them from continuing to try. We even had people come to our van and stand in the doorway to sell us things. To me, it was rude but to them, it is how thy make their living so they ten to be aggressive. So make sure you take some extra manners, patience and empathy when you are touring.
Don't just read about it. See it for yourself. Book your cruise to visit Central America today with McMillian Travel. Your adventure awaits....

MSC Divina: Sea Day #2

So, today we will hit the shops again and see what we can see (and buy). I am excited to see Columbia tomorrow. It will be a new destination for me so I will make sure I take photos and learn as much as I can about the country. So far, this has been a very good vacation for me. I am truly enjoying the ship. The only draw-back is some of the people. Where I am from, people are generally cordial and polite. But some people on this ship are rude and will physically bump or push you aside and look at you like you did them wrong! So, you if you have a quick temper, going on a cruise with 47 nationalities might not be for you (unless you bring bail money...lol). Here, you have to be patient and listen carefully as you may not understand the English with the heavy accents. It is certainly a learning experience. But one that will teach you to embrace (or not) other cultures. I am used to greeting people and being friendly. However, that is not necessarily how others are taught. So, not being spoken to after you speak should not be taken personally (easier said than done). Lesson learned (but I don't have to like the lesson!)
Now I am going to lunch! Pizza is calling my name.
When you are ready for your international cruise experience, call McMillian Travel. We will take care of the details so you can relax and enjoy your vacation.

OK, I'm Not Perfect!

As shocking as it may seem, I will admit I am not perfect. When preparing for a vacation without a checklist, you will usually forget something important. Even seasoned travelers like myself. So, I am telling you something that you might not think about. Make sure, before going out of town or out of the country, that you call your credit/debit card company so they know you are traveling and where you are going. They need to know when you are leaving and what days you will be in what ports. That way, there will not be any problems if you want to use  your card in the various ports. If a foreign transaction comes up on your card while traveling and you have not let them know about your travels, you may have a declined transaction because they think your card is stolen. Also make sure you ask about any fees associated with your transactions, especially for foreign countries. Just FYI.

MSC Divina: Deck 14

Deck 14 seems to always have a buzz. There are people there for breakfast, lunch, dinner and all times in between. Since children 12 and under sail free and 13-17 year olds only pay port charges, there are children of all ages on board. There are always favorite foods in the children area, like hot dogs, french fries, chicken nuggets and more. The menu varied each day. The food, to me, is very good. I can only hope I will walk enough each day to keep the pounds from piling on. On sea days, sleeping in will be my first order to the day. We have three ports in three days, so I will have to save my energy. We will visit Columbia, Panama and Costa Rica. I am excited because I have not been to any of those countries. Well, time to start the evening. Not sure what we will do, but I am sure it will be fun.

MSC Divina: Falmouth, Jamaica

Our first stop of our 10 day cruise was in Falmouth, Jamaica. The shopping was wonderful. There was a store there that had beats by Dr. Dre at an incredible price. We were also able to get great deals on all types of merchandise. We chose not to do any of the excursions. We just visited the stored within walking distance of the ship. The weather was not but since I do not like cold weather, I refused to complain. The people are always friendly and patient. I really enjoyed my time spent there. I cannot wait to come back next year for 6 nights! Pleas join us Aug 1-7, 2015. We will be vacationing at the Grand Palladium Resort and Spa in Montego Bay. The resort is all-inclusive. So, pay for your trip and put away your wallet.
For more info call out office at 704-994-8747 ext. 1 or visit our Travel Deals page on our website www.McMillianTravel.com.