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Royal at Sea

Harmony of the Seas, the largest cruise ship in the world

by Royal Holiday October 20, 2019

written by Royal Holiday

The Harmony of the Seas is, officially, the largest cruise ship in the world. The gross registered tonnage is 227 thousand tons; with a capacity of 6,780 guests overall and 2,100 members in the crew.

Her first journey was in May 2016, on a pre-inaugural route departing from Southampton, England.

The Royal Caribbean shipping company has held the certificate of the world’s largest cruise ships for several years, and their ships surpass themselves and set a new record. The Harmony of the Seas took the top place from the Allure of the Seas, a ship that in 2010 displaced the Oasis of the Seas, also belonging to that company.

The Harmony of The Seas is a cruise ship belonging to the Oasis-class that offers a “residential paradise of seven neighborhoods”. She covers several routes, all of them in an atmosphere full of luxury, fun and security. The minimum age to go onboard is 21.

harmony of the seas royal holiday 2

Harmony of the Seas: total fun

There is absolute fun aboard the Harmony of The Seas, as it offers endless and spectacular attractions such as the Ultimate Abyss, a slide that takes you down from the top of the cruise ship in just 12 seconds.

You can also ‘fly’ fast above nine decks, over 25 meters above sea level on the Boardwalk Zipline, or climb a 12-meter high Rock Wall, defying gravity.

Inside the ship, the fun continues with impressive Broadway-style plays, live orchestra in the main theater and casinos available to all passengers.

You can also try the Rubicon challenge with your friends or family, a room full of puzzles where you only have 60 minutes to escape.

And to relax after having so much fun, the cruise ship has a first-class Spa and gym with state-of-the-art technology.

As a Royal Holiday member, you can sail through the Caribbean aboard this impressive cruise ship. The “Eastern Caribbean” route takes you from Port Canaveral in Florida, to Phillipsburg, St. Maarten, San Juan, Puerto Rico and to Coco Cay in the Bahamas.

This fascinating cruise ship is waiting for you, pack your bags and plan your next vacation.

October 20, 2019 0 comments

Discover our newest cruise destinations

by Royal Holiday April 10, 2017

written by Royal Holiday

Royal Holiday has expanded our cruise offerings. Now you can see the glaciers of Alaska, experience the otherworldliness of Antarctica, or discover the fascination of Japan.

With Royal Holiday and our partners, these new and exciting cruising destinations offer unparalleled adventure across all of the planet’s continents and oceans!

Princess Cruises

Alaska

Enjoy the exclusivity of Princess Cruises and set sail for Alaska—one of the cruise lines’ most popular routes.

Enjoy towering glaciers, unimaginable wildlife, and national parks that stretch all the way to the horizon—all from the luxury and comfort of your ship. Onboard activities include cultural events, concerts, Broadway-style shows, exciting nightlife, and mouth-watering cuisine options. Plan for your departure in July, August and September.

Japan

Expand your horizons even further on the sophisticated Diamond Princess cruise to the islands of Japan. Onboard, you’ll enjoy authentic regional cuisine and cultural performances, not to mention exclusive amenities such as the ship’s Izumi Japanese Bath including steam rooms, saunas, and hot tubs with spectacular ocean views. You’ll love the unforgettable luxury. Departures are scheduled for September.

Australis cruises

Antarctica

Conquer the end of the world on an Australis cruise. Sail up to impressive glaciers and take in the incredible landscapes of Patagonian from Punta Arenas in Chile to Ushuaia in Argentina. Every Australis ship is equipped to guarantee a journey of total comfort, with refined luxury that includes exquisite cuisine and onboard entertainment. Tourist expeditions are included, too. Departures are set for October.

Carnival cruises

The Caribbean

Climb on board for a Carnival cruise through the turquoise waters of the Caribbean. Enjoy the onboard luxury of swimming pools, the best cuisine, and special entertainment options for children and teenagers—not to mention live music and shows for adults. There’s a great selection of boats to choose from, including the Carnival Vista, the Glory or Sensation. Plan your departure for June.

Make this your year to sail the world’s seven seas—thanks to the advantages only your Royal Holiday membership offers. Select from the cruise line, route and destination you prefer. Your cruising adventures start in June. Contact your vacation advisor today for full details or visit the Royal Holiday website.

Get on board!

April 10, 2017 0 comments

Royal at Sea

10 Of The Most Popular Aquatic Sports To Do On Vacation

by Royal Holiday November 16, 2016

written by Royal Holiday

Aquatic sports are a great way to spend your time on holiday being active and exercising while you are away from home. What is so great about these activities is that they are extremely fun, very safe in general if done correctly and also extremely exclusive, as they cannot be done anywhere else but out in the open ocean. Warm weather, sunny beaches, and blue waters, are the perfect environment to engage in these amazing sports that can enjoyed by everyone from the youngest members of the family to the most daring and adventurous. Today in Royal Holiday Cruises, we take a break to talk about some of the most fun water sports you can find as you travel with us around the world.

Sailing

Sailing is an activity that requires some experience in order to do alone. It is not difficult to find tours that can take small groups sailing and even teach them a thing or two about how to do the basics. Sailing is all about sing wind propulsion to push a craft through the water but in some situations, it can be done over land or even ice.

Surfing

A very popular sport and probably one of the first ones that come to mind when you think about aquatic activities. Surfing has many different variations depending on the type of board, the size of the waves and the experience of the user. Surfing is a sport that anyone can take up and in most beaches where people practice surfing, you can rent equipment so you don’t have to buy an expensive and cumbersome board in order to get started.

Snorkeling

Snorkeling is one of the best aquatic sports to get started. All you really need is a mask and knowing how to swim. Snorkeling is perfect in order to enjoy the beauties of the ocean and the whole family together can enjoy as a great bonding experience.

Scuba Diving

Image courtesy of John at Flickr.com

Scuba diving is the advanced version of snorkeling. With the use of a self-contained underwater breathing apparatus, you can submerge and enjoy a prolonged stay under the ocean. Scuba is perfect for enjoying the wildlife first-hand and exploring a world that is otherwise unreachable to us. The only drawback to scuba diving is the fact that you do need to be certified to do it, even with a guide. The good news is that some places offer flash courses with just the basics you need to do the equipment and have a guided submersion under the supervision of a qualified guide.

Kite surfing

Kitesurfing if the combination of surfing on a board while holding onto a portable sail that gives you wind propulsion. Experts of kite surfing can do a lot of different tricks and gravity-defying feats under the right wind and water conditions. The sport is also great for those who want to get a good workout and probably fall quite a few times.

Parasailing

This sport has many variations and it can do in many different environments, but when it comes to the aquatic version, it usually requires a boat and a parachute. The person gets strapped into the sail or parachute and attached to the boat by a line. As the boat takes off, you get flown up into the air and follow the trajectory of the boat. One of the best things of parasailing is that you need no experience to enjoy it and the view you get from above is simply beautiful.

Sea Kayaking

Sea kayaking is a beautiful way to sightsee with the whole family. Sea kayaking is great in calm waters as you watch the sunset and enjoy paddling out to different spots. You do not need any special experience and the activity is very safe if done in proper waters. Kayaks can accommodate 2 people or more in it

Standup paddling

Another aquatic sport that is becoming more popular lately and easily available in more places around the world. SUP involves the use of board similar to those used in surfing and a large paddle to row standing up. The sport can be very calm but also extreme if done by a professional who can use waves as ramps to jump up in the air.

Jet Skiing

Jet skiing is a very cool activity to practice but it is not recommended to anyone under the age of 18, as it can be very dangerous. Jet skis can be powerful machines and quite fun to pilot, especially in calmed waters.

Flyboarding

This is one of the newest aquatic sports out there that is making the rounds all over the world. A flyboard is a small board similar to a skateboard that gets strapped to your feet. Under the board, you have a hose that shoots a strong water stream that can shoot you several feet up in the air and allow you to hover and move around freely.

November 16, 2016 0 comments

Destination Tips Royal at Sea

Exploring 3 Of The Most Amazing Arctic Islands In The World

by Royal Holiday October 11, 2016

written by Royal Holiday

Arctic Islands

When we talk about islands it is inevitable to imagine beaches, white sands, blue waters and beautiful landscapes that urge you to go on holiday and soak in the sun; but when we mention arctic islands we are not referring to those tropical paradises, but instead to places with white and cold landscapes, ideal for skiing and observing the wide variety of animals that are not common to other ecosystems due to their specific adaptation to cold weather.

On this specific article, here at Royal Holiday Cruises, we want to talk about some islands that most people are completely unaware of their existence due to their faraway location, however these places are beautiful and wonderful to rest and get away, where you will find very few inhabitants that ensure the safety and wellbeing of the area.

Ellesmere

Ellesmere is considered one of the coldest and largest islands in Canada and the whole world. It belongs to the group of Queen Elizabeth Islands in the Arctic Ocean and is divided by the Arctic mountain range, which makes it the most mountainous island out of the whole group. The wildlife in this place is very rare to find elsewhere, such as the arctic wolf, the muskox, caribou and polar bears. Ellesmere spans for 196,235 Km² and has a population of around 168 inhabitants mostly living in Grise Fiord, the capital.

The waters surrounding Ellesmere remain frozen for most of the year, but during the summer, the river thaws and most of the waters because negotiable on a ship. Paleo-eskimos were the first inhabitants of this wild land; they were highly skilled hunters that lived of walruses. Later the Vikings came followed by the first Europeans in the year 1616 represented by William Baffin. The island was subject to many discoveries and investigation by scientists that found here many species of animals that were considered unusual at the time, like a large camel long extinct as well as many species of plants and vegetables like the Mammoth Tree. In 2004, a fish names Tiktaalik was discovered. This specimen had gills and scales but it also showed extremities that seemed to have been functional like elbows and wrists. Near Ellesmere, you can find a remote place were the most northern people in the world live. The place is called Alert and it’s just a few hours away from the North Pole, only five people live here and they are in charge of running this meteorological and scientific station. Nearby you can also find the Quttinirpaaq National Park and the Ellesmere Island National Park.

Wrangel Island

Located in Russia and considered a natural sanctuary protected by the federal government and the Russian ministry of natural resources. The island sits between the Chukchi Sea and the East Siberian Sea. The tallest point on the island is Sovétskaya Mountain topping at 1093 meters. Many valleys, lakes, rivers and ravines accompany the mountains in this island. Wrangel island is very famous for being the last place in earth mammoths lived. Today you may find the lairs of many polar bears, arctic foxes and muskox as well as walruses and arctic owls.

Bear Island

Image courtesy of International Fund for Animal Welfare… at Flickr.com

The island is located in the western part of the Barents Sea, it was discovered the 10th of June of 1596 by Willem Barentsz and Jacob Van Heemskerk, a couple of Dutch traders that were traveling to China. The island is named Bear Island due to the large amount of polar bears living there. The island is also full of seagulls that use it to lay their eggs and nest their young. The island is very remotely located and only nine people live there, they are all workers of the Herwig Hamna meteorological weather station. This is a land that is completely cold and lonely but it’s also home to someone of the most beautiful landscapes and unmatched vistas in the world, filled with pines and all kinds of trees as far as the eye can see. There are also rivers, creeks and frozen waterfalls that find their way to the foot of the mountains and reflect moss covered rocks on their crystal clear waters. Fishing is the main occupation for those who live around the island and there is plenty of fish to go around. Just 175 km from Bear Island, you can find the Bear Island Natural Reserve, here you can find the tallest peak of the island with a height of 536 m.

These islands are beautiful in their own way, and discovering them is a way to look upon a different type of landscape most people aren’t used to. The amazing magic of the arctic is something that you will never forget if you are ever so lucky and adventurous as to find yourself traveling near these breathtaking places.

October 11, 2016 0 comments

Destination Tips Royal at Sea

Kauai: Paradise Awaits You And Your Loved Ones

by Royal Holiday September 18, 2016

written by Royal Holiday

The island of Kauai

Kauai is known for being the oldest of the Hawaiian Islands geologically and also the fourth largest with a surface of 1,456.4 km2. The island is located about 170 kilometers northwest from Oʻahu and is famous for its mountainous volcanic ranges and for being one of the places with the most precipitation in the whole world. Due to the fluvial activity, erosion is very high in the area east of Mount Waialeale and multiple canyons and waterfalls can also be seen.

The island of Kauai has many different points of interest and local sites for that visiting who want to experience harmony with the landscapes around them and see all the wonderful natural marvels like green valleys, waterfalls, beaches, beautiful sights, crystal clear waters and more.

Places of interest

Menehune Fishpond (Alekoko)

According to the Hawaiian stories, the Menehunes were a legendary tribe of people who inhabited the deep forests and hidden valleys of old Hawaii. The legend says that they created the Alekoko pond one-night using lava stones and then brought forth much fish to place in there and so they stayed to live in the area, as fishing is said to be one of their favorite activities. The fishpond is one of the most important and highly visited sites. The area is perfect for taking pictures and watching some of the most beautiful landscapes and sunsets the island has to offer.

Kaulu Paoa Heiau

During the summer, this beach is visited by many people who come here to engage in snorkeling and scuba diving in its calm and clear waters that offer the perfect temperature for these underwater activities.

Lifeguards who are always aware of anything irregular that may be going on and ensure the safety and proper care of the location watch the beach constantly. The area is not only rich in tourism but also it is a place sacred considered sacred and patrimony of Hawaii. As it is the case with many of the local cultural locations, it has a legend that tells the story of how the body of the local chief Lohiau Kauai, was placed inside a cave near the Oceanside cliffs. The story says the chief was in love with Pele, the goddess of volcanoes and fire, but died and was unable to be with her. Pele’s daughter transported his spirit in the form of a flower and set it on the cliffs where people can see today the representation of said flower in the colors of the rainbows.

Image courtesy of –Raven at Flickr.com

Waimea Canyon State Park

This amazing 16-kilometer long located on the western side of the island is famously known as the Great Canyon of the pacific. The place is a beautiful wonder of geology and a great site to visit while staying at Kauai. There are a few great lookout spots where you can snap the perfect picture or simply enjoy the view of the many colors that put on a show at this gorgeous meeting of the many hues of nature. The climb is not difficult to undertake and is well worth the small effort. Those who have visited list the Waimea Canyon as one of the most beautiful sights they have seen in their entire life, they simply call it “undescribable”, so I guess that means you must hit the road and go see it for yourself.

National Tropical Botanical Garden

Plants are some of Hawaii’s most valuable inhabitants. The noble mission of the National Tropical Botanical Garden in Kauai is that of preserving the tropical plant diversity through programs of research, protection, propagation and education of the public. Kauai itself is known as the “Garden Island” and this amazing botanical garden can quickly show you why. The number of species of plants is unbelievable and the facilities are excellent to welcome all visitors.

In the island of Kauai alone you can find three of the nation’s five National Tropical Botanical Gardens on Kauai: Limahuli Gardens in Haena and McBryde Garden and the Allerton Garden on the South Shore. McBryde Garden, for example, is famous all around the world for holding the largest collection of native Hawaiian flowers in the planet.

The Limahuli Garden and Preserve is located on the north shore of the Island. Behind the garden, you can see the magnificent Makana Mountain and to the front, the beautiful blue waters of the Pacific Ocean.

In the back of the Garden is the Limahuli Preserve where ecologists and restoration biologists work constantly to preserve species native to this habitat. The American Horticultural Society chose the Limahuli Garden as the best natural botanical garden in the United States and sees its practices on water, soil, and rare plant conservation as an example to follow.

For more great islands to experience, visit our blog at Royal Holiday Cruises today.

September 18, 2016 0 comments

Cruise Tips Royal at Sea

The Best Type Of Cruise For Your Perfect Holiday

by Royal Holiday August 23, 2016

written by Royal Holiday

Planning a cruise can be an overwhelming experience filled with so many options that you may feel like your head might explode with excitement and trepidation. There are many choices out there, and the fear of making a bad choice and probably wasting a lot of money and vacation time, is some to be taken seriously.

Cruises come in many different sizes and shapes and go beyond what everyone sees in brochures and Internet ads. The beautiful Caribbean festive boats, the elegant Mediterranean luxury cruises and the adventurous arctic expeditions are just some of the examples of how diverse and fulfilling, a cruise ship vacations can be.

We are sure here at Royal Holiday that you wish you could have them all, and perhaps in time, you will accompany us in many different adventures to all of our different destinations; but if you have to choose one, which one will it be?

To help you making a decision, we are showing you today just a sample of the different type of expeditions that exist in the world of cruising, in an attempt to assist you finding what is best for you and your loved ones and hope we can meet all of your expectations.

Family Cruises

Family Cruises are some of the most popular style of vacations out there. Is great knowing that everyone in your party is having a great time, so shooting for a family cruise is a great safe choice and you are guaranteed to have tons of fun. Children love variety and knowing that the next great adventure is right around the corner. Carnival Cruises offer an excellent choice for entertainment and their Seuss at Sea program may be just what you are looking for to give your kids an experience they will never forget. Remember that only because this is a family cruise it doesn’t mean only the children get to play. There are daycare services for the very little ones in case you want to spend some alone time with your significant other, as well as many casual options for dining, activities for adults and larger cabins so you and your family can be as comfortable as possible.

River Cruises

River cruises are becoming more and more popular lately and they are a fun choice worth looking into if you want to try something different. A continent like Europe provides a great perspective of many interesting cities when you explore them in a river cruise; this is mostly due to the fact that many classic cities were actually born of their proximity to its rivers that were used as trading routes back then. River cruises are smaller and smaller and provide you with a more personal and intimate relationship to your fellow travelers, something that could be great if you are traveling alone or with a group of singles. Even though Europe does have a lot more choices when it comes to river cruises, the United States and China also have some interesting options for those interested in this type of adventure.

Image courtesy of Pat O’Malley at Flickr.com

Expedition Cruises

Expedition Cruises are for those seeking for adventure and exploration of faraway places and to spend as little time as possible inside the actual boat. People are surprised when they hear the exact details of an expedition cruise, because they hear nothing of shows, fancy dinners and extravagant on board entertainment. Expeditions cruises are about getting out there and experiencing nature and being part of activities that involve nature and the outdoors. This type of cruise is clearly not for everyone, so if you want to embark in a truly unforgettable experience, come ready to ride kayaks, Zodiac rafts and to learn about science and many aspects of the natural world. It is not uncommon in this type of cruises to have lecturers and to see presentations about topics of interests in the fields of culture, history, geology, geography, biology, ecology or anthropology of ship’s destinations.

Romantic Cruises

Romantic cruises are one of the most popular categories for those interested in a cruise type of vacation. These are perfect for honeymooners, to celebrate anniversaries or simply for a well-earned holiday next to your significant other. Cruises provide the perfect atmosphere for romance and our cruise lines are ready to exceed all of your expectations for a perfect experience. How would you feel about having a date night, every night? The great dining options offered make it so every single evening is perfect. You can choose different styles of experiences from casual meals to the most lavish and magical evening listening to soft music live while enjoying some of the best cuisine from all around the world. The ocean has a specific appeal for lovers that is difficult to match. Imagine being able to see every sunset without any obstructions and be woken up every morning to go outside and feel the sea breeze. No matter what you do, even if you spend your days just relaxing and resting with your loved one, a romantic cruise is a great experience for bonding and enjoying each other company.

August 23, 2016 0 comments

Destination Tips Royal at Sea

Beautiful Aruba Truly Is, One Happy Island

by Royal Holiday August 19, 2016

written by Royal Holiday

Aruba is located right at the heart of the southern Caribbean approximately 25 kilometers away from Venezuela. The tiny island is about 32 kilometers long by 10 kilometers wide with an approximate area of about 180 km/sq. On the eastern side of this small country you can find Oranjestad, the capital of Aruba and also its most important and populous city. Oranjestad is usually known as “The Beach” because of its beautifully colored streets. The city is a perfect mix between the new and the old, which makes it more beautiful and interesting to all who visit. Along the streets and avenues you can find stores displaying the latest fashions of the best designers and alongside you can find many old buildings that have been restored to their former colonial glory. The homes seem from faraway create a beautiful mosaic of color and contrast.

The main avenue is adorned with a completely restored streetcar that moves passengers along the way and it’s also connected to the main harbor where cruise ships dock and the downtown area. The trolley makes a total of 6 stops in front of museums, monuments and the main shopping areas. Oranjestad has an excellent and busy nightlife with many bars, casinos, restaurants and nightclubs.

Wilhelmina Park is one of the most popular spots for tourists to visit. The name was giving in honor to the Dutch Queen Wilhelmina who was fundamental in the history and development of Oranjestad. As far as cultural establishments, you could also visit the Archeological Museum, which holds a large and interesting collection of pottery and native utensils that were found once in the island.

Celebrations

Bon bini Festival

Every Tuesday at 6:30 PM on the dot, rain or shine, the doors to the Fort Zoutman Historical Museum open to welcome all the visitor coming from everyone in the world to enjoy Aruba’s enthusiastic vibe. The show goes from 7 PM until 8:30 PM and it combines artistic performances, foods, artisan’s markets and music. Many local musicians gather here and sing the night away at the company of dancers playing steel drums. Bon bini means “Welcome” in Papiamento, the local language spoken by the creoles and the afro-descendant population of the Antilles, Curacao, Bonaire and Oruba. Papiamento is a mix of Portuguese, Dutch, Spanish and some African dialects.

Moomba Beach Bar and Restaurant

This place is one of the most famous establishments in Aruba and is located in Palm-Eagle Beach. The place is decorated like a seaside shack filled with happiness and relaxation. There are tables located under small hay kiosks right on the sand. At night, the place is illuminated by torchlight and visitors start to arrive in order to enjoy the wonderful local Caribbean food along with some cocktails like daiquiris, tequila sunrise or the infamous Aruba-riba, a strong concoction mixing plenty of liquors and considered the island’s staple drink. To top it off, the local musicians really liven the party up with their festive beats and the company of the moon and stars reflecting upon the calm sea.

Image courtesy of Kayla Sawyer at Flickr.com

Paarden Baai Beach

This beach is of great historic importance to Oranjestad and is famous for being very beautiful and maintained always very clean. The beautiful blue horse sculptures are there to commemorate the times of the Spanish conquest of Aruba and represent the moment when horses jumped off their boats and swam towards the beach, setting foot in the island of Paarden Baai for the first time ever. Tourists do not frequent this beach as much, and sometimes you can find it completely empty due to the high currents being quite dangerous and access being somewhat restricted in here, however even if you don’t go swimming, the place is a beautiful spot to watch the sunset and just sit for a while. Nearby there are many restaurants and bars as it is located parallel to one of the busiest oceanfront drives in Oranjestad.

Balashi Beer Brewery

Since 1999, Balashi National Brewery has commercialized and produced their own beer. The brew is a Dutch type ale, refreshing and golden, made using Aruba’s potable water. This is very important since this water is known everywhere in the world for being clean and of excellent quality. The name Balashi actually means “water” in Papiamento and this is something of great pride to residents of the island who stand behind their product’s great quality. Tourists are able to visit the plant and learn about the brewing process as well as trying the beer at their outdoor bar. Everything has a cost of only $6 USD. The Balashi Beer Brewery is place you absolutely must visit; you will not regret tasting some of the best beer in the world.

For more destinations, the best islands and the most amazing cruises, check out our blog at Royal Holiday Cruises and think of us when you are planning your next vacation.

August 19, 2016 0 comments

Destination Tips Royal at Sea

3 Of The Most Beautiful Islands To Visit In Colombia

by Royal Holiday August 14, 2016

written by Royal Holiday

Colombia is a country known for its beautiful landscape and great diversity, which definitely makes it one of the most popular South American destinations for travelers all year around. Everyone wants to learn about new cultures and traditions and Colombia is famous for being home to some of the nicest and friendliest people in the world, thus the country has become the perfect getaway to find a perfect vacation. Here in Royal Holiday we always bring you the most beautiful islands to discover and this time is no exception. When we talk about islands in Colombia, we mean business. These are some of the most perfect spots to rest and enjoy the sweet weather, the music, the parties, the local food and drinks and the amazing sandy beaches with the clearest possible water.

Colombia is quite privileged by having coasts in both the Atlantic Ocean and the Pacific. This means any beaches and quite a few islands as well. On the Atlantic heading Northwest for about 740 km away from Cartagena, you will find San Andrés Islands and Islas del Rosario. If you opt for the Pacific, you can find Gorgona Island, Isla Fuerte and Barú amongst others. Islands on the Atlantic are usually the most visited by travelers, but both regions offer great opportunities to be amazed and have the vacation of a lifetime.

San Andrés and Providencia

San Andres Islands gather all splendor of life. Their forests, keys, coral reef ecosystem and wild birds are just some of the things that make up this magical place. It is worth mentioning that this place is quite popular for SCUBA diving, probably one of the best places in Colombia to see some of the most diverse marine life. San Andrés has some of the clearest and cleanest waters present in many shades of blue, something that has given its ocean the nickname “El mar de los siete colores” (The Sea of the Seven Colors). San Andrés traditional dish is made up of fresh whole fish, coconut rice, fried plantains, pork and yucca; a hearty feast considered exquisite by many.

Visiting the island requires to make time in order to explore all of its corners and witness the remnants of its rich history displayed in ancient abandoned boats, natural aquariums and more.

Cabeza de Morgan: This giant rock has the appearance of a human head. These are the ruins of what many believe it was a hiding spot for pirate treasures, more specifically Morgan, the infamous pirate. You may reach the place on foot or by boat.

Museum House of the Island: This small museum shows how the different traditions of the island’s inhabitants have changed through the years. When you enter the place, local dancers will greet you and welcome and entertain the public with their attire and upbeat movements. Inside the museum you will find several collections about the local culture, heritage and important personalities who have lived in the island and some mementos left behind by them. The museum not only offers an insider’s look into the local culture, but also the opportunity to try some of the local cuisine. The hours of operation are from Monday through Saturday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM and Sundays from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

The Aquarium: This place is not your usual aquarium. Coral reef and some of the most beautiful fish of every color you can imagine surround this beautiful key. The aquarium has no enclosures and the fish come and go as they place. The place is located about 40 minutes from the streets of San Andrés and can only be reached by boat. Out of all the attractions in San Andrés, this is probably one of the most popular ones, as people love swimming among the fish and observe the beautiful underwater world filled with life.

Isla Gorgona

Gorgona has one of the most unique and unmatched ecosystems in the whole world. The island holds great wonders in natural history. One of the main things that bring people to see Gorgona, is the amazing views from the beach and the breathtaking jungle that goes uninterrupted from the highest peaks all the way to the beach and meets the ocean. In Gorgona you can find animal species that can only be seen in the most humid of tropical regions as well as unique coral reef formation, seabirds, dolphins and humpback whales. The main spots for visitors on the island are Playa Blanca, Playa Pizarro, La Azufrada, playa Yundigua and The Old Pier.

Barú

Image courtesy of Jessie Rivera at Flickr.com

This is one of the main spots near Cartagena. The place has beautiful white sand, clear waters and mangroves filled with coral reef. Barú is separated from the continent by the Canal del Dique, a 118 km canal connecting Cartagena Bay (at the town of Pasacaballos) to the Magdalena River in the Bolívar Department in northern Colombia. More than forty thousand slaves built the canal during the times of the Spanish rule. The island has some beautiful beaches and amongst them you can find Punta Iguana, Puerto Naito, Playa Blanca, la Playita de Cholón, Playita de los Muertos y Playa Bobo. Local food and drinks are abundant and diverse in the many stands that you can find all around the beach.

August 14, 2016 0 comments

Royal at Sea

An Overview Of The Beautiful Islands Of Thailand

by Royal Holiday August 7, 2016

written by Royal Holiday

Thailand is filled with hundreds of islands complete with white sandy beaches and turquoise waters. These tiny paradises are visited constantly due to all the great activities you can take up and also because of its amazing landscapes, perfect for a long holiday. These small tropical heavens are what make Thailand one of the most important tourist destinations in the world. The diversity of activity going on within the beaches is never-ending, but one of the most popular things to do is to engage in aquatic sports, mostly due to the tall waves and the fast currents available at these places.

Bangkok is Thailand’s most populous city and also the most visited destination for those who want to see the country. Starting from Bangkok there are two main directions you can travel towards to see the islands and beaches. Due south, you can find the islands Ko Samui, Ko Phangan, Koa o, Ko Phi Phi, Phuket, Ko Lanta, The Kabri Province and Railay Beach; and to the east you can find the city of Pattaya and Koh Samet. Make sure you do your research when it comes to the weather and the activities you can find at these different destinations before taking off from Bangkok towards your destination.

Islands to party and find a lively atmosphere

Ko phangan and Koh Phi Phi are some of the best options for those looking for nightlife, beach parties, loud music, firework displays and strong cocktails and drinks. The parties at Koh Phangan are much bigger than those Ko Phi Phi but they both have amazing nightly event to entertain and draw tourists. This has become a tradition on this area so the islands are known for their lively atmosphere and their big celebrations. Ko Chang is also known for Lonely Beach and the great events they hold here, of the them is celebrated on full moon on Haad Rin and is considered one of the most popular beach parties in the world, gathering between 10,000 and 30,000 people in the past few years. Backpackers, campers and all type of travelers frequent the area due to the great places you can find here to pitch a tent and spend the night surrounded by beautiful scenery. Wake up to some of the most amazing mornings with the sun coming up of the waters.

Islands for quiet vacationing and a soothing atmosphere

The best islands for quiet tourism are known for having secluded and lonely beach areas. Ko Phangan can also be included in this category in spite of being host to one of the world biggest full moon party, because with that one exception, the place is very quiet otherwise and filled with caves and secluded areas perfect for relaxation.

If you are looking for a completely isolated island with few tourists and no nightlife, then you have to visit Koh Nang Yuan. This amazing place is actually made up of three islands connected by a beautiful beach.

Another beach known for its peace and quiet that we cannot leave out is Koh Similan and its sister islands. This island is a lot bigger and is part of the national park; it’s famous for its rocky formations specially Sailboat Rock, known for its shape and size.

Ko Kood Island is another great peaceful destination located in the southeast of Thailand. The island is perfect to rest and getaway from everything, mostly due to the fact that it hasn’t been explored nor promoted in excess so it is still considered new territory compared to its neighboring islands.

Image courtesy of Rushen at Flickr.com

Islands known for aquatic sports

Thai islands are famous for their strong water currents, perfect for all kinds of aquatic sports. Amongst the most visited islands by sports enthusiasts you can find Koh Tao, located in the gulf of Thailand, measuring just 7,5 kilometers in length. The island is a favorite amongst lovers of SCUBA diving and snorkeling so the place has been adapted with the right infrastructure to accommodate this activity. Thailand is considered to be one of the best destinations for underwater exploring, for having some of the biggest biodiversity in the planet, millions of marine species, coral reefs and species that cannot be found anywhere else in the world.

Snorkeling in Thailand is perfect. The temperatures are adequate to spend long hours underwater without being fatigued and to see a great variety of fish and marine life. Phuket is another great destination for active explorers who want to take up snorkeling since the price of introductory courses is not high and this is one of the best places for people of all ages to be introduced to this amazing activity.

For more articles about the best islands to visit, the coolest things to do and the most amazing cruises to board check out our blog at Royal Holiday Cruises today.

August 7, 2016 0 comments

Royal at Sea Royal Holiday

Puerto Rico The Best Of The Caribbean Right At Your Doorstep

by Royal Holiday July 31, 2016

written by Royal Holiday

Here at Royal Holiday Cruises, we love giving you the best information about how amazing your next vacation with us could be. There are many remarkable islands all over the world that we know for sure, would make the perfect location for your next holiday. However, what if we told you one of the most beautiful islands in the Caribbean and perhaps the whole world, sits right at our doorstep. Get ready to be amazed and discover Puerto Rico.

Puerto Rico is officially known as the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico (Estado Libre Asociado de Puerto Rico), and is an unincorporated territory of the United States, located in the northeastern Caribbean, east of the Dominican Republic and west of both the U.S. Virgin Islands and the British Virgin Islands.

Puerto Rico is the smallest island of the Greater Antilles, with a territory of approximately 100 miles long by 35 miles wide on the main island and there are also a number of smaller islands such as Mona, Culebra, and Vieques. The island’s population is approximately 3.5 million and its capital is San Juan.

Puerto Rico’s rich history, tropical weather, diverse animal and plant species, celebrated traditional food, and warm people make it a popular destination for travelers from all over the world.

Beaches

Puerto Rico may be a small territory, but it does have more than 270 miles of beautiful coastline. Quantity stops being impressive once you experience the quality of the beaches you can find here and the endless amount of activities for the entire family to enjoy.

Caja de Muertos (Coffin Island): This uninhabited island off the southern coast of Puerto Rico is a protected natural reserve due to the amount of turtles that frequent its beaches. The island has four beaches: Pelicano, Playa Larga, Carrucho, and Coast Guard. Some of the animal and plant species found here, cannot be seen anywhere else in the world.

Flamenco Beach: Located on the island of Culebra, Flamenco beach has been rated as one of the top ten best beaches in the world. The beach extends for a mile around a sheltered, horseshoe-shaped bay and is frequented by those who want to swim, fish and dive in the most perfect turquoise waters and soak up the sun in the beautiful white sand. There are two ways to get to Culebra Island: by airplane or by ferry. Airplanes depart from Luis Muñoz Marin International Airport and arrive at Culebra airport and the ferry can be taken from Fajardo (a small city in the east of the island) and it takes around 50 minutes to arrive to Culebra.

Culture and Food

The culture of Puerto Rico is the result of a number of international and indigenous influences, both past and present that include the Taíno, European, African, American, Latin/Caribbean, Asian, Hawaiian, and more. Local architecture demonstrates a wide array of traditions and styles present over centuries of Spanish rule. Spanish colonial architecture, Ibero-Islamic, art deco, post-modern, and many other architectural forms are visible throughout the island, especially in the city of San Juan.

Puerto Rico’s amazing food, has transcended geographical boundaries and can be found in several countries outside the archipelago. If you’re one of those who believe that a culture is best understood through its food, you’re in for the trip of a lifetime. One of the main ingredients used for many traditional preparations are plantains as they can be found everyone in the island. One of the most popular dishes of Puerto Rican cuisine is the Mofongo. A mound of mashed fried green plantains; the mofongo is often stuffed with seafood, pork, or vegetables. Another popular dish is Lechon, where an entire pig is put through a spit, and roasted over charcoal. This type of preparation is very traditional and usually done to celebrate an occasion with many people attending the feast.

Puerto Rico’s largest annual food festival has rapidly grown to one of the most important gatherings for food fanatics and chefs in the Caribbean. This weekend-long celebration of Puerto Rican cuisine offers food pavilions and great celebrity chef competitions.

Image courtesy of Robert Pittman at Flickr.com

Nightlife

Puerto Rico truly comes alive once the sun comes down. Salsa is the music of Puerto Rico and you can hear it everywhere as you walk the streets and meet the friendly locals who won’t be shy to teach you a few moves. Did you know that 70% of the rum consumed around the world comes from Puerto Rico? But don’t worry, not all of the rum leaves the island so while you visit, you can find some of the most exquisite blends of rum in the entire world. Puerto Rico has four distilleries and a strictly preserved tradition that dates back to the 1600s; they have perfected the craft of making their favorite drink over the centuries.

July 31, 2016 0 comments