How to hold a cruise ship scavenger hunt – Cruise tip

by Gadling Staff on

If you’re cruising as part of a big group of family and friends, it’s a lot of fun to divide into teams for a scavenger hunt. Items for the hunt can be dares, found objects, and fact-finding missions.

For example, have the groups try to find the ship’s largest suite, or ask each team to shake the captain’s hand. It’s a great way to pass those days at sea — and you can learn a lot about the ship you’re enjoying!

Pro tip: If you require there to be photographic evidence of each completed scavenger hunt item, then everyone goes home with great scrapbook photos.

Meet your mom’s hairdresser’s nephew (or whoever) – Road trip tip

by Gadling Staff on

Maybe it’s your mom’s hairdresser’s nephew, and chances are you’ll have nothing in common. But you never know…

It’s worth grabbing a coffee with an acquaintance (however many times removed), if you don’t know a new city or country. It makes a completely different kind of trip when someone takes you to their favorite cafe or recommends an obscure nearby venue when you mention you like folk music.

Bonus: because you’ll meet someone a friend or family member knows, you’re strengthening your relationships at home!

Make a ‘souvenirs to buy’ list – Packing tip

by Gadling Staff on

A lot of folks make a list of what to bring before they go on a trip.

Personally, I prefer to make a list of what I plan to buy while I’m away. This way, I know how much room to leave in my bag for souvenirs.

Also? A list ensures I won’t forget anyone on my list.

Pretend you’re going on a camping trip – Packing tip

by Gadling Staff on

Regular jetsetters may never consider stepping foot in a camping store, but it can be a treasure trove of inexpensive gadgets for efficient packing.

At a camping store, you can find space-saving items like paper shampoo, collapsible water bottles made from soft plastic bags, and miniature toothbrushes. Also, depending on how long you’ll be gone, you might find a use for items like tiny kitchen utensils, collapsible bowls and cups, an adjustable clothesline — even a table that rolls up like a yoga mat.

Plus, everything in a camping store is designed to be lightweight and easy to haul around, so you’re assured of picking up some easy-to-carry gear.

Pack your own shore lunch – Cruise tip

by Gadling Staff on

When you’re busy having fun in the sun during days ashore, why leave the beach or other destination, just to schlep to a restaurant and fork over a wad of cash for lunch? Instead, have your cruise ship make your lunch. Best of all, it doesn’t cost any extra!

Most cruises offer 24-hour room service. An hour or so before you’re ready to disembark, call in an order for a sandwich, chips, and fruit (or whatever suits your fancy). Just pack it in your beach bag, and head out for a carefree day of fun!