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Why Every Traveler Needs a Phone Tether: Secure, Stylish, and Surprisingly Essential
From cruise terminals to city tours, your smartphone is the ultimate travel companion—it’s your map, translator, camera, boarding pass, and lifeline. But it’s also one of the most vulnerable items you carry. Whether you’re navigating crowded tourist attractions or grabbing lunch at a casual café, losing track of your phone can turn a dream trip into a logistical nightmare.
That’s why anti-theft phone tethers have become one of our most trusted travel accessories. They offer a simple, stylish solution to keeping your phone secure without sacrificing convenience.
One of our go-to options is a retractable phone tether that clips to a bag strap or belt loop with a carabiner. The retractable cord provides enough length to snap a photo or answer a call, then pulls your phone right back when you’re done—no fumbling, no dropping. This style is perfect for excursions, especially when you’re climbing steps, snapping panoramic views, or navigating unfamiliar streets where pickpockets could be lurking.
Another favorite is an adjustable phone lanyard that transitions seamlessly from neckwear to a wristlet. It’s both functional and fashionable, available in a range of colors to suit your personal style. We love how it doesn’t block the charging port and allows for totally hands-free use. Whether you’re filming on deck or capturing a quick moment on a historic tour, this lanyard helps you stay focused on the experience—not your grip.
And let’s be honest: travel distractions are real. We’ve seen it happen—one friend of ours in Barcelona set their phone down during lunch at a bar and walked away without realizing it was gone. A tether helps prevent that by keeping your device physically connected to you. It’s an easy layer of protection that can mean the difference between a hiccup and a full-blown travel hassle.
From a safety standpoint, these tethers also reduce the chance of dropping your phone in high-risk spots—think ship balconies, busy sidewalks, or over the side of a tour boat. They act like insurance for your tech and your memories.
Conclusion: When you're curating unforgettable luxury travel experiences, the last thing you want is the stress of a lost or stolen phone. A simple phone tether can protect your device from theft, damage, or misplacement—and give you more freedom to explore with confidence. Whether you prefer the rugged versatility of a retractable clip or the stylish charm of a wristlet lanyard, there’s a perfect option for every traveler. And with so many color choices, you don’t have to sacrifice style for security.
These little tools punch way above their weight in peace of mind—proof that smart travel doesn’t always have to be complicated.
Thinking about booking a luxury cruise suite and torn between Norwegian Cruise Line’s Haven and the Suites on Princess Cruises? We just sailed in both—just six weeks apart—aboard the Norwegian Escape and the Regal Princess, and we’re sharing our firsthand comparison of five essential differences that could make or break your next premium cruise experience.
From private pools to butler service, we’ll show you what stood out and which cruise line might be the better fit for your preferences. Look for our full video review at the end of this post, and if you're preparing for a suite-level sailing, we’ll also share a few must-have cruise essentials that made our experience even more enjoyable (affiliate links included below!).
1. Personalized Service: Concierge vs. Butler Attention
Both Princess and NCL offer suite-level concierge services, but the Haven takes it a step further with a 24/7 butler. On our Norwegian Escape cruise, we had a full team assisting us, including a butler who handled everything from booking waterfront dinners at Cagney’s to stocking our suite with our favorite snacks. The private elevator and priority disembarkation made every aspect of the cruise feel seamless.
Princess Cruises' Regal Princess offered a quieter, more traditional experience through the Concierge Lounge, where we had a helpful point of contact for shore excursions and dining reservations—but no dedicated butler.
Winner: Slight Edge to Norwegian Haven for visible, all-day service.
🧳 Affiliate Tip:
Travel must-have: A magnetic hook set is a game-changer in cruise cabins with metal walls. We used them on each cruise for hats, and wet clothing. Shop our favorite cruise cabin hooks →
2. Entertainment Access: Reserved Seats vs. Private Performances
Entertainment for suite guests differs dramatically between the two lines. On Princess, we were treated to exclusive, invitation-only performances in the Concierge Lounge—intimate evenings with live music, cocktails, and direct interaction with performers. It was a standout highlight that felt personal and luxurious.
Peter Grant and Inna Tolstova
NCL's approach was different but impressive: early VIP seating for major productions, with a dedicated Haven section in the main theater. If you're more into Broadway-style shows and center seats, Norwegian delivers.
Choir of Man
Winner: Princess, for more memorable and exclusive entertainment access.
3. Dining: Consistency vs. Variety
Dining is often what defines a luxury cruise—and both cruise lines impressed us. The Haven restaurant on Norwegian Escape offered all-day à la carte dining with consistently high-quality meals. The service team knew our names, and the poolside menu added a relaxed, upscale touch.
The Haven Dining
Princess offered more variety, with rotating menus and an elevated experience in the Reserve Dining Room, but the space wasn’t exclusive to full-suite guests.
Reserve Collection Dining
Winner: Norwegian Haven for consistency and exclusivity, though Crown Grill on Princess still wins for best specialty steakhouse.
4. Beverages & Lounge Access: Free Happy Hour or Buy the Package?
Princess took the lead in this category with complimentary nightly cocktails, a self-serve beverage bar in the Concierge Lounge, and even a mini-bar setup included with suite bookings.
Norwegian Haven offered limited perks unless you purchased a drink package. A welcome bottle of bubbly and a basic coffee station were nice, but didn’t compare to Princess’s daily inclusions.
Winner: Princess Cruises, hands down, for complimentary drinks and lounge access.
5. Pool & Sun Deck Access: Private Retreat vs. Paid Sanctuary
This category is where Norwegian Haven blows Princess out of the water. The Haven enclave includes a private pool, hot tubs, sun deck, lounge areas, and even an indoor pool for all-weather relaxation—on a ship with over 4,000 passengers!
The Haven Courtyard
On Regal Princess, suite guests don’t get automatic access to a private pool. Instead, you can book time at The Sanctuary for a fee (usually $20–$40 per day), and there’s no dedicated pool for suite passengers.
The Sanctuary
Winner: Norwegian Haven, by a wide margin—especially on warm-weather itineraries.
Final Thoughts: Which Cruise Suite Is Right for You?
While Princess Suites offer strong value—about 25% less expensive than the Haven on our sailings—the Haven edges out in overall luxury, especially when it comes to private spaces, butler service, and dining exclusivity.
However, Princess may still be your perfect fit if you're drawn to intimate entertainment, free cocktails, and more flexible dining options.
⚠️ Important Booking Tip:
Not all ships offer the same amenities! Be sure to double-check whether your chosen cruise ship has:
A Concierge Lounge (available only on Princess Royal Class ships)
A full Haven enclave (available on select Norwegian ships like Escape, Encore, and Bliss)
🧴 Cruise Essentials We Recommend:
Here are some of our favorite items to pack for your suite-level cruise:
Have you stayed in the Haven or Princess Suites? What did you love—or not love? Drop your experience in the comments, and let’s compare notes! And don’t forget: we donate 100% of the proceeds from our YouTube channel to charity, so your likes, shares, and subscriptions make a difference.
Taking a cruise is a wonderful way to explore new destinations while enjoying the luxurious amenities of a modern ship. However, the unpredictability of the ocean can sometimes lead to seasickness, a common concern for many travelers. Fortunately, today's cruise ships are equipped with advanced stabilizers to minimize motion, and there are various remedies available to help you stay comfortable and enjoy your voyage.
***Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog post is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before using any medications, supplements, or remedies for seasickness, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or are taking other medications. If you experience severe or persistent symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.***
The ocean's waves and currents can be unpredictable, making it difficult to determine when seasickness might strike. Factors such as weather conditions, the ship's route, and even the time of day can affect the ocean's motion. While modern cruise ships are designed with advanced technology to reduce the sensation of movement, it's still possible to experience some degree of seasickness, especially in rough seas.
Newer cruise ships are equipped with sophisticated stabilizer systems that significantly reduce the rolling and pitching motion of the vessel. These stabilizers work by counteracting the motion of the sea, helping to provide a smoother ride for passengers. While these systems are highly effective, some people may still be sensitive to even minor movements, making it important to be prepared with additional remedies.
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Treatments for Seasickness
There are various treatments available to help combat seasickness, ranging from natural remedies to over-the-counter and prescription medications. Here are some options to consider:
Natural Remedies:
Ginger: Known for its anti-nausea properties, ginger can be consumed in various forms, such as ginger capsules, ginger tea, ginger ale, or ginger candies.
Green Apples: Green apples are another natural remedy believed to help with seasickness. Eating slices of green apple can help settle the stomach and reduce nausea.
Acupressure Bands: These wristbands apply pressure to specific points on the wrist, which can help reduce nausea. Electronic anti-nausea wristbands help many passengers as well.
Peppermint: Peppermint tea or essential oil can help soothe an upset stomach.
Over-the-Counter Medications:
Dramamine (Dimenhydrinate): Available in various forms, including chewable tablets and patches, this medication helps prevent nausea and dizziness.
Bonine (Meclizine): A popular choice for preventing and treating seasickness, Bonine is available in both regular and max strength. This is our personal favorite, so we will talk about it more below.
Prescription Medications:
Scopolamine Patches: These patches are placed behind the ear and provide continuous relief from motion sickness for up to three days.
Promethazine: An anti-nausea medication that can be taken orally or as a suppository for severe cases.
Bonine (Meclizine)
Bonine is a well-known over-the-counter medication specifically formulated to prevent and treat seasickness. It is available in two strengths:
Regular Strength Bonine:
Dosage: The typical dosage for regular strength Bonine (meclizine 25 mg) is one or two tablets taken once daily, starting one hour before travel. Each tablet contains 25 mg of meclizine.
Effectiveness: Regular strength Bonine provides effective relief from nausea, vomiting, and dizziness associated with motion sickness.
Availability: It can be found in most pharmacies and is available without a prescription.
Max Strength Bonine:
Dosage:Max strength Bonine typically contains 50 mg of meclizine per tablet. The recommended dosage is one tablet taken once daily, starting one hour before travel.
Effectiveness: Max strength Bonine offers a higher dose of meclizine, providing extended relief for those who are particularly sensitive to motion.
Availability: Like regular strength, it is available over the counter.
Best Cabin Locations on a Cruise Ship
Choosing the right cabin location on a cruise ship can significantly impact your experience with seasickness. Here are some tips for selecting the best cabin locations to minimize motion:
Midship Cabins: Cabins located in the middle of the ship, both vertically and horizontally, experience less motion compared to those at the front (bow) or back (stern). This is because the center of the ship is more stable. We have always noticed motion at the front of the ship is worse than at the rear.
Lower Decks: Cabins on lower decks tend to experience less movement than those on higher decks. The lower you are on the ship, the less you will feel the rocking motion of the waves.
Inside Cabins: Inside cabins, which do not have windows or balconies, may offer a more stable environment since they are situated more centrally within the ship.
This explorer suite on Viking Ocean Cruises, for example, is a lovely and large suite but the location isn't the best for those who are prone to seasickness. Check out our tour of this suite in the video below.
Side Effects of Seasickness Medications
While seasickness medications can be highly effective, they may also cause side effects in some individuals. It's important to be aware of these potential side effects and consult with a healthcare provider if you have any concerns.
Common Side Effects:
Drowsiness: Many motion sickness medications, including Bonine and Dramamine, can cause drowsiness. It's important to avoid activities that require alertness, such as driving, until you know how the medication affects you.
Dry Mouth: Some medications may cause a dry mouth. Staying hydrated and using sugar-free candies or gum can help alleviate this symptom.
Blurred Vision: This can occur with certain medications, such as scopolamine patches.
Constipation: Some individuals may experience constipation when taking motion sickness medications.
Dizziness: Dizziness in rough seas can make it difficult to walk safely, increasing the risk of falls and injuries on board.
Serious Side Effects:
Allergic Reactions: Though rare, some people may experience allergic reactions to motion sickness medications. Symptoms can include rash, itching, swelling, and difficulty breathing. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience these symptoms.
Confusion or Hallucinations: In rare cases, high doses or prolonged use of certain medications can cause confusion or hallucinations, especially in older adults.
Conclusion
Seasickness doesn't have to ruin your cruise experience. By understanding the unpredictability of the ocean, utilizing modern stabilizers on cruise ships, and being prepared with the right treatments, you can enjoy a comfortable and enjoyable journey. Whether you opt for natural remedies like green apples and ginger, over-the-counter solutions like Bonine, or prescription medications, there's a solution to help you stay steady on your feet and make the most of your time at sea.
AmaWaterways vs Viking River Cruises, Rhine River cruise review, European river cruise comparison—type any of those phrases into Google or YouTube and you’ll see thousands of search results but surprisingly few first-hand head-to-head reviews. That’s what inspired this long-form guide.
Just a few months apart, we sailed the Basel-to-Amsterdam Rhine itinerary with both cruise lines—AmaLucia on AmaWaterways and Viking Sigyn on Viking. After sharing snippets on our YouTube channel, followers flooded us with one request:
“Please give us a detailed comparison—tell us who wins in each category and why.”
So that’s exactly what this post delivers.
We’ll cover ten key categories—demographics, excursions, food, wine & drinks, cabins, ship design, entertainment, dining-room style, price & value, and final-payment policy—then reveal which line was our overall winner. We paid our own way, accepted no compensation from either company, and donate all channel revenue to charity, so what you read here is 100 % candid.
1. Who’s on Board: Younger Energy vs. Adults-Only Calm
AmaWaterways draws a slightly younger, more active crowd—typically mid-50s to early-60s. Children 4+ are allowed, but you rarely see them except on holiday sailings. Couples, multigenerational families, and friend groups create a lively, sociable atmosphere.
Viking River Cruises is strictly 18+ and averages late-60s to early-70s. It’s quiet, calm, and highly structured—perfect for travelers who prefer a kid-free environment.
Why it matters: Your shipmates shape everything from dining-room conversation to how fast a walking tour moves. We enjoy meeting active travelers who want to hike, bike, and swap gear tips, so AmaWaterways wins this round for us.
2. Excursions: Flexibility vs. Depth
AmaWaterways
All excursions are included.
Most ports offer three walking-tour pace groups (gentle, regular, active) plus an active option (hiking or cycling).
No paid add-ons, so what you see at booking is what you get.
Viking
One included tour per port—usually a walking tour at a single pace.
Optional excursions (often $99–$149 pp) add activities like e-biking or specialty tastings.
Strong emphasis on Jewish-heritage content—sobering, important, and deeply appreciated.
Who wins for us?AmaWaterways. The ability to choose pace and activity level—without paying extra—fits our “move more, spend wisely” philosophy. But travelers craving specialized cultural tours may prefer Viking’s à-la-carte model.
3. Food: Variety & Presentation vs. Signature Events
AmaWaterways impressed us daily: more lunch choices, fresh breads, afternoon tapas, regional cheeses, and a Chef’s Table tasting menu (included once per cruise). Presentation felt Michelin-adjacent—thoughtful plating and stylish tableware.
Viking scored points for hearty soups, excellent bread, and a German theme night that turned dinner into a festival. Overall variety, however, leaned traditional.
Winner: AmaWaterways for daily variety and consistent presentation.
Related gear: We always pack silicone wine-glass covers to protect our pours on deck—handy on both lines.
Check out our full video review at Youtube by clicking below!
4. Wine & Drinks: Quality vs. Happy-Hour Value
Viking surprised us with superior included wines and an extensive premium list (many German private-label selections). Local schnapps tastings appeared on multiple nights.
AmaWaterways offers the beloved Sip ’n Sail cocktail hour (complimentary bar drinks before dinner) but both the included and premium wine lists felt underwhelming on our sailing.
Winner:Viking, especially for wine lovers who plan to order premium bottles.
5. Cabins: Bright Practicality vs. Scandinavian Minimalism
Feature
AmaWaterways
Viking
Décor
Warm, bright, cozy (table lamps, accent colors)
Sleek, Scandinavian, neutral
Bathroom
Larger, cabinets, rain & handheld shower
Smaller except suites
Storage
Under-bed drawers; tiny night-stand drawers
Full-size drawers; magnetic walls (great for hooks)
We rarely book suites, so Ama’s standard and French balcony cabins fit us better—brighter décor, roomier baths, twin-balcony wow-factor. AmaWaterways wins.
AmaWaterways Larger French Balcony
6. Ship Design: Wellness Space vs. Cabin Count
AmaWaterways (79 cabins, 158 pax) dedicates square footage to a fitness center, spa room, salon, Chef’s Table, and a small pool with swim-up bar plus forward cushioned lounges.
Viking (95 cabins, 190 pax) sacrifices those amenities to add cabins and two Explorer Suites. The Aquavit Terrace is a standout al-fresco venue but there’s no gym or pool.
Our active lifestyle makes those extra wellness spaces priceless. AmaWaterways wins.
7. Entertainment: Social Trivia vs. Evening Shows
Viking hosts trivia and interactive games every few nights—lounges stayed packed even after busy tour days. AmaWaterways leans on piano sets and guest performers; attendance dwindled after dinner.
Winner:Viking for energizing passenger engagement.
8. Dining-Room Style: Communal vs. Flexible Seating
We love Viking’s airy main restaurant and communal tables—they spark conversation. The Aquavit Terrace lets us dine al fresco in good weather.
Ama’s dining room feels cozier and offers tables for two through ten—ideal for couples who value privacy.
For our style—meet everyone, share stories—Viking wins.
9. Price & Value: Practically a Draw
We priced a July 2025 Rhine cruise with similar balcony cabins:
Add—or subtract—promos like free air (Viking) or $1,000 off + free land (Ama) + more included excursions (Ama), and totals converge. Given near-parity, we call it a tie.
10. Final Payment Policy: 90 Days vs. Up to 18 Months
AmaWaterways: 90 days before departure—industry standard, traveler-friendly. Viking: Due dates depend on promotions and can be 12–18 months out. Viking does not publish a single policy in its passenger contract, which complicates planning.
For flexibility and cash-flow sanity, AmaWaterways wins hands-down.
Choosing between AmaWaterways and Viking River Cruises isn’t about right vs. wrong—it’s about aligning yourpriorities with each line’s strengths. Use this head-to-head guide, watch our comparison video, and weigh what matters most: active excursions or wine pairings, spa time or suite luxury, flexible payments or early-bird discounts.
Whichever you pick, remember to make meaningful and healthy travel happen—and if our reviews help, consider booking through our affiliate links or leaving a comment below. We read every one.
If you’re planning a luxury European river cruise and wondering whether upgrading to a larger French Balcony stateroom on AmaWaterways is worth the cost, we’ve got you covered. In this in-depth review of Stateroom 327 (Category CA) aboard theAmaLucia, we’ll walk you through everything from room layout and storage to the bathroom setup, onboard amenities, and helpful cruise tips.
Whether you’re comparing AmaWaterways vs Viking River Cruises, or just narrowing down the best AmaWaterways cabin categories, this is the post for you.
📽️ Watch Our Full YouTube Video Review of the French Balcony Stateroom (CA) on the AmaLucia
Remember: all proceeds from our channel are donated to charity. Please help us help others by giving us a thumbs up, commenting, or subscribing. Your support truly makes a difference.
First Impressions: A Boutique Sailing on the AmaLucia
Our February sailing was extra special—we were the first to head up the Rhine River in 2025 on the AmaLucia, a sleek and modern ship built in 2021. While the ship can accommodate 156 passengers, only 96 guests joined us on this itinerary, making for a cozy, boutique atmosphere. The attentive service from the 56 crew members was exceptional throughout.
Our focus for this post? A detailed review of the Category CA French Balcony stateroom, including hits, misses, and whether it’s a good value compared to other options.
Size & Layout: Does French Balcony Cabin Size Matter?
This Category CA stateroom measures 170 square feet, which includes only interior living space—there’s no walk-out balcony, just a French balcony with a sliding glass door and railing. But don’t let the absence of a walk-out deter you. The setup feels spacious, efficient, and perfectly suited for scenic river cruising.
Upon entering, the bathroom is to the right, and cabinetry to the left. The bed sits directly in front of the French balcony, allowing for stunning views the moment you wake up.
Underbed storage with 13” clearance (perfect for rolling luggage)
Rolling drawer under bed—can be repurposed from linen storage
The in-room safe fits passports, wallets, and even a 13” laptop (with careful positioning).
🧳 Cruiser’s Tip: We always nest a rolling duffle and backpack together to save space under the bed.
QuietVox Tips & Our Bluetooth Hack
You’ll use QuietVox audio boxes daily on AmaWaterways excursions.
🎧 Our Tip: Use an AirFly Duoto share audio with two sets of Bluetooth headphones from a single QuietVox box. One person can carry it in a pocket—no lanyards necessary!
Bathroom Walkthrough: Design & Amenities
We were pleasantly surprised by the bathroom’s layout, quality, and storage space. While the shower lacked dedicated lighting, everything else was thoughtfully designed.
Bathroom features:
Single sink with shelf, magnifying mirror, and vanity lighting
Heated floors (switch in the cabinet!)
Large corner shower with glass doors
Adjustable shower system: handheld, rain, and fixed options
ADA Cosmetics “Pure Herbs” products: shampoo, conditioner, body wash
🌿 Note: The scent is a strong herbal blend of rosemary, melissa, and thyme—some may find it too floral.
Other key points:
Two hooks inside door
Ample under-sink storage
Retractable clothesline in shower
Small footrest for shaving or toiletries
No grab bars near toilet (request if needed)
Shower stool available upon request
🔍 We always pack a suction cup magnifying mirror for use outside the bathroom—especially useful when two people need to get ready.
Coffee, Tea & TV: Amenities You’ll Use Daily
There’s no in-room coffee machine, but:
24/7 coffee and tea stations are available in two spots:
Cello Deck (main lounge)
Violin Deck (Chef’s Table—our favorite for peaceful wake views)
Daytime Coffee in The Chef’s Table
The TV is larger than those in some other staterooms. You’ll find:
Cruise information and itinerary
Account balance and ship messages
Live ship cam, international news, U.S. channels
On-demand movies and music
Laundry & Packing Hacks for River Cruises
AmaLucia doesn’t offer self-serve laundry, but:
Laundry service is available for a fee
Fast turnaround and excellent quality
Request an updated copy of the laundry price list if needed
🧼 Packing Tip: We always bring dry detergent sheets for washing small items in the sink. Hang them from the retractable line or recessed ceiling areas.
✨ Bonus Hack: Downy Wrinkle Releaser sprayis a game-changer. Spray, tug, let dry, and you’re good to go—especially useful for cotton shirts. Attach a pants hanger to stretch out fabric while drying.
Hair Appliances & Cruise Policies
AmaWaterways does not allow passengers to bring personal hair straighteners or curling irons. But don’t worry—compatible options are available at the front desk.
🧖♀️ Ask for one as soon as you board to secure it for your entire cruise.
French Balcony vs. Other AmaWaterways Cabins and Viking River Cruises
Now, let’s compare this Category CA French Balcony cabin with:
Smaller French Balcony (Category CB): Slightly tighter, may lack some storage
Twin Balcony Stateroom: Includes both French and full balconies; more expensive
Viking River Cruises French Balcony: Smaller in size (~135 sq ft vs. 170 on Ama), fewer outlets and drawer space
AmaWaterways’ Twin Balcony Stateroom
So, was the Category CA French Balcony stateroom worth it for us?
Our Verdict:
✅ Spacious enough for two ✅ Great outlet and tech layout ✅ Excellent storage ❌ Temperature control needed attention (quickly resolved) ❌ No mirror at the desk
If you value natural light, a view from bed, and can do without a full step-out balcony, the CA stateroom is a fantastic choice.
Final Thoughts: Is the AmaWaterways French Balcony Cabin Right for You?
Choosing the right stateroom for your luxury river cruise in Europe depends on your needs and priorities. For us, the Category CA French Balcony stateroom on AmaLucia offered a perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and value.
If you're someone who enjoys the views, wants a well-laid-out space, and doesn’t mind the lack of a step-out balcony, this cabin hits a sweet spot—especially compared to Viking River Cruises French balconies or pricier balcony suites.
📽️ Don’t forget to check out our YouTube video for a full room tour, tips in action, and our candid hits and misses.
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