We are the Ultimate Guide to Meaningful and Healthy Travel with Hands-On Travel Advice!
Affiliate Disclosure: This is a professional review blog which gets compensated for the products recommended and reviewed by the companies who produce them and our affiliates. All of the products are tested thoroughly and high grades are received only by the best ones. We are independent bloggers and the recommendations and reviews are based on our own opinions. As Amazon Associates we earn from qualifying purchases.
Before you put down serious money on an AmaWaterways river cruise—because let’s be honest, river cruises are expensive—it’s essential to understand what the staterooms are really like. AmaWaterways cabins are not comparable to ocean cruise cabins. There are fewer categories, less overall space, and several important differences that can impact your comfort depending on how you travel.
We’ve sailed AmaWaterways multiple times and have stayed in every cabin category, from the lowest deck to the suite. In this post, we’re breaking down what actually matters, what’s worth paying extra for, and which cabin we’d choose if we were booking AmaWaterways again.
Hey, it’s Luxury Travel Docs. We’re not travel agents, we don’t receive free cruises, and price matters to us. We share honest, real-world cruise experiences because the opinions of ordinary travelers matter—and all profits from our social media are donated to charity.
Why Your AmaWaterways Cabin Choice Matters More Than You Think
AmaWaterways ships are small—typically around 70–80 cabins total—and itineraries are packed with daily excursions. While many travelers assume they won’t spend much time in their room, the reality is that space, layout, light, and noise can significantly affect how comfortable your cruise feels.
Before booking, here are the key factors you should consider.
1. Budget Reality
The price difference between cabin categories on AmaWaterways can be dramatic. On our most recent 7-night Enchanting Rhine sailing, brochure prices started around $2,799 per person for a fixed window cabin and climbed to nearly $6,800 per person for a suite.
That’s more than double the cost—so understanding what you’re paying for is critical.
Best Cruise Travel Wrap for Elegant Evenings, Chilly Decks & Air-Conditioned Ships
Looking for the best cruise travel wrap? After countless cruises, river ships, and ocean voyages, we’ve learned that one item consistently earns its place in our suitcase: a soft, versatile wrap that instantly elevates an outfit while keeping us warm in air-conditioned venues and breezy evenings on deck.
This PULI button wrap has become a cruise travel staple for us — and honestly, we’re surprised we didn’t discover it sooner.
If you cruise often, you already know this truth: ships are cold. Dining rooms, theaters, lounges, and even indoor corridors are heavily air-conditioned — especially on ocean cruises and European river cruises.
A good cruise wrap solves several problems at once:
Keeps you warm during cool evenings and windy deck time
We travel with this wrap on virtually every cruise — ocean, river, and expedition. What makes it stand out is its buttoned design, which allows you to wear it multiple ways:
As a classic wrap over your shoulders
Buttoned into a poncho-style layer
Draped asymmetrically for a more polished evening look
The buttons are subtle and practical, allowing the wrap to stay in place without constant adjusting — a major plus during formal nights, cocktail hours, or while walking outdoor decks.
The first thing you’ll notice is how soft and cozy this knit feels. Honestly, it feels like a wrap that should cost far more than it does.
The knit drapes beautifully, doesn’t itch, and doesn’t feel stiff or bulky — which makes it ideal for:
Elegant cruise dinners
Shows and performances onboard
Cool mornings during port days
Flights and airport lounges
We were genuinely surprised by the quality for the price point.
Color Options: Black, Navy & Summer Neutrals
We currently own this wrap in black and navy, both of which work seamlessly with cruise wardrobes. Initially, we weren’t sure we’d love the lighter-colored buttons on the darker wraps — but in person, they’re barely noticeable and blend in beautifully.
For summer cruising, Mediterranean itineraries, or warm-weather river cruises, we’re already eyeing one of the lighter color options to pair with white pants, dresses, and resort wear.
This versatility makes it an excellent choice if you’re trying to pack light for a cruise.
Other PULI Wrap Styles Worth Looking At
PULI offers several versions of this wrap, which makes it easy to choose a style that fits your personal travel needs.
Original Loop Closure Wrap
This was the original PULI wrap we first spotted in a shop and immediately fell in love with:
👉 PULI Loop Closure Wrap
Poncho Style (No Buttons)
If you prefer a simpler silhouette without buttons:
👉 PULI Poncho Wrap
Crossbody Shawl
A more modern, hands-free option that works well for walking tours and travel days:
👉 PULI Crossbody Shawl
Elegant Bridal-Style Wrap
Perfect for formal nights, vow renewals, or elegant cruise evenings:
👉 PULI Elegant Wrap
Why This Wrap Belongs in Every Cruise Packing List
If you cruise often, this is one of those rare pieces that earns its keep trip after trip. It checks every box:
Elegant without being fussy
Warm but lightweight
Versatile for day and night
Easy to pack and wrinkle-resistant
Whether you’re sailing with Viking, Princess, MSC, AmaWaterways, or another cruise line, this wrap adapts effortlessly to every itinerary.
Final Thoughts: A Cruise Travel Staple We Truly Love
This PULI button wrap has become one of those rare items we reach for again and again — on cruises, flights, and even at home.
If you’re looking for the best wrap for cruise travel, air-conditioned ships, and elegant evenings, this one is an easy recommendation.
Sometimes the most practical travel pieces are the ones that quietly elevate every experience.
If you’re constantly juggling roller bags, backpacks, and packing cubes, you know the struggle: finding a carry-on that actually works for both flights and cruises. The Tolaccea Travel Backpack is one of the few that hits the sweet spot—40L capacity, airline-approved dimensions, and smart compartments that make packing feel less like a puzzle and more like a plan.
Let’s start with the basics. The Tolaccea backpack measures 52 x 32 x 23.5 cm, which fits within most U.S. airline carry-on limits—including American Airlines. It’s lightweight at 1.65 kg, and the expandable design gives you up to 40L of packing space. That’s enough for a weekend getaway or even a full cruise wardrobe if you pack strategically.
If you’re like us and travel with a roller check-in bag plus a backpack, this one’s a winner. While it’s too large to fit under the seat, it fits in overhead bins, and doubles as your port-day go bag. We love the trolley sleeve and compared to most backpacks, if you aren’t wearing it, you can slide it over your roller bag’s handle easily.
Fits easily in overhead
Doesn’t fit under first class seat
We love the trolley sleeve!
Easy packing
🧳 Real Features for Real Travelers
This isn’t just a pretty bag—it’s built for people who actually travel. Here’s what stands out:
Dual Access Design: Top-loading for quick grabs, or unzip it like a suitcase for full access
Laptop Compartment: Padded and secure, fits up to 15.6" laptops
Packing Cubes: Three included cubes help compress clothes and organize gear
Toiletry Bags: Leak-proof compartments prevent spills from ruining your packed items
Dedicated Pockets: For glasses, snacks, tech, shoes, and even food/beverage items
Water-Resistant Fabric: Durable and eco-friendly, with tear resistance built in
Thick Padding: Keeps your back and shoulders pain-free, even when fully loaded
🧼 Let’s Talk Toiletries (Because Spills Happen)
One of the most underrated features? The spill-proof toiletry bags. If you’ve ever opened your bag to find shampoo all over your clothes, you’ll appreciate this. The compartments are designed to isolate liquids, so even if something leaks, it won’t ruin everything else.
🧠 Packing Strategy: How We Use It
Here’s how we typically pack it for a cruise:
Packing Cube 1: Clothes (rolled for space-saving)
Packing Cube 2: Shoes and accessories
Packing Cube 3: Tech gear and chargers
Toiletry Bag: Liquids, skincare, meds
Top Pocket and Side Pockets: Snacks, sunglasses, phone, passport
Laptop Compartment: Laptop + travel docs
Laptop Sleeve
It’s modular, intuitive, and surprisingly roomy. And because it opens like a suitcase, you’re not digging through layers to find your socks.
✅ Final Thoughts: Is the Tolaccea Backpack Worth It?
If you’re a backpack person—or even if you’re not but want a smarter way to travel—this bag delivers. It’s airline-compliant, cruise-friendly, and a great price right now. The materials feel premium, the compartments make sense, and the packing cubes are a great bonus if you like to use them!
Whether you’re flying to Europe, cruising the Caribbean, or just heading out for a weekend, the Tolaccea Travel Backpack is ready to go.
When you’re packing for a cruise, keeping jewelry organized—and untangled—is one of the biggest challenges. Whether you’re bringing a few statement earrings for formal night or your favorite dainty necklaces for port days, small items can easily get lost or damaged in your suitcase. One of the smartest travel hacks going viral right now is using a pill organizer as a jewelry case, and not just any pill organizer—this compact, double-locking pill box with larger compartments is perfect for travelers who want a lightweight, secure, and budget-friendly storage option.
If you love practical cruise packing tips, this is one you’ll use for every trip. Here’s the pill organizer we use and recommend (affiliate link, we may earn a small commission at no cost to you, and we donate all proceeds to charity): 👉 Travel Pill Organizer With Large Compartments
Why a Pill Organizer Works Better Than a Traditional Jewelry Case
1. Perfect Portable Size for Cruise Packing
This pill organizer measures 4.33 × 3.54 × 1.18 inches, which means it fits almost anywhere—your embarkation-day tote, carry-on, backpack, or even a coat pocket. On cruises where cabin space is limited, small is everything.
Yet even with its compact size, it offers structured protection that soft pouches don’t.
2. Larger Compartments for Chunkier Jewelry
Most pill boxes only fit tiny items—but this case features 8 compartments (6 small, 2 large).
That means you can easily fit:
Small stud earrings
Dangly earrings
Rings
Thin necklaces (coiled individually to avoid tangles)
Bracelets
Even chunkier pieces in the two larger compartments
This is the biggest reason this specific organizer works better than most jewelry cases on Amazon.
3. Secure Double-Lock System Protects Your Valuables
Cruise cabins move. Luggage shifts. Things get bumped around…
A jewelry case that accidentally pops open is a disaster.
This pill organizer solves that with a double-lock system:
An inner lid that stays shut even if you drop it
A tight outer lock that prevents accidental opening during travel
Plus, the silicone sealing ring keeps the contents snug and prevents anything from sliding between compartments.
4. Durable, Travel-Ready Materials
Made from food-grade PP with grain fiber, this organizer is lightweight yet surprisingly strong. It holds up well to being tossed in a suitcase or day bag—important if you’re moving through airports, shuttles, or tenders on a cruise.
The removable silicone ring and easy-clean interior also mean you can keep it hygienic and fresh for every trip.
5. Organizes More Than Jewelry
While jewelry is the superstar use during travel, it’s also handy for:
Spare earring backs
Hair ties
Safety pins
SIM cards
Memory cards for your camera
Vitamins or supplements for long international flights
You’ll get way more use out of it than a typical jewelry case.
How to Pack Your Jewelry in a Pill Organizer for Cruises
To prevent tangles, use this system:
Stud earrings: one pair per small compartment
Dangly earrings: lay one per compartment or pair in a large slot
Bracelets: coil gently into the large chambers
Necklaces:
Fasten the clasp
Wrap gently around two fingers
Place in an empty compartment alone
This keeps each piece separate—no knots, no scratches.
Why This Hack Works So Well for Cruise Travelers
Cruise packing is all about maximizing space—and minimizing stress.
A pill organizer:
Takes up almost zero cabin space
Protects jewelry during flights, transfers, and embarkation day
Keeps everything visible and sorted
Works for formal nights, themed evenings, and port-day outfits
Costs far less than most jewelry cases
And because the compartments close individually, you never open all your jewelry at once (great for keeping things from spilling in a tiny cruise cabin).
If you try only one cruise packing hack this year—this should be it.
Conclusion: The Best Budget-Friendly Jewelry Storage Hack for Travel
If you’re tired of tangled necklaces, missing earrings, or bulky jewelry cases, switching to a compact pill organizer is a game changer—especially this model with two larger compartments and a secure double-locking design. It’s one of our favorite cruise packing hacks because it’s lightweight, affordable, organized, and practically indestructible.
“Courage is not the absence of fear but the triumph over it.” – Nelson Mandela
Mandela’s words are the perfect introduction to a museum built to honor Americans who chose valor in the face of overwhelming fear. This quote captures exactly what the National Medal of Honor Museum brings to life — a profound look at the courage, conviction, and humanity behind every medal recipient’s story.
Visiting the National Medal of Honor Museum in Arlington, Texas, is far more than a history lesson. It’s an immersive, emotional journey that blends storytelling, architecture, and symbolism in a way that stays with you long after you leave. Even before you step inside, the design of the building sends a message: the massive steel structure appears to float above the landscape, supported by five smooth concrete columns and two monumental curved steel staircases. This elevated form represents courage rising above fear, while the open void beneath symbolizes the gap between ordinary life and the extraordinary acts required in moments of extreme danger. The engineering precision — so exact it often goes unnoticed — mirrors the quiet strength and discipline of the service members it honors.
Inside, the museum’s intentional use of light, shadow, and open space guides visitors through stories that are both intimate and awe-inspiring. Exhibits flow seamlessly from immersive theaters to deeply personal artifacts, creating a rhythm that encourages reflection. Many visitors describe the experience as humbling, emotional, and even spiritual — and we felt exactly the same. It’s the rare kind of museum that slows you down, asks you to listen, and leaves you with a renewed sense of gratitude.
With Chris Cassidy, President and CEO of the National Medal of Honor Museum
How the National Medal of Honor Museum Was Built: A Vision of Courage Turned Into Architecture
The creation of the National Medal of Honor Museum was not just a construction project — it was a mission. From the earliest planning stages, architects and engineers set out to build something bold enough to honor extraordinary Americans, yet refined enough to inspire quiet reflection. The result is a structure that looks simple at first glance, but its story reveals the opposite.
The design began with a powerful idea: the museum should elevate the stories of its heroes, literally and symbolically. That vision led to the daring concept of a floating steel volume suspended above an open plaza. But making a building appear to hover is anything but simple. It required years of planning, custom engineering, and the kind of precision normally reserved for stadiums and monumental bridges. Massive steel trusses — some among the largest ever used in a cultural building — were fabricated, transported, and lifted into place with extreme accuracy, including five monumental columns representing the branches of the U.S. military. Every piece had to align exactly to achieve the clean, effortless look visitors see today.
Even the process of assembling the structure reflected the values of the museum itself. Workers described the project as requiring teamwork, discipline, and trust, because each phase depended on the previous one being executed perfectly. Weather delays, weight challenges, and balancing the structure during construction all required innovative solutions. The final achievement is a building that appears serene but stands on some of the most complex engineering in a modern museum.
This sense of purpose extends throughout the design: the elevated museum symbolizes courage rising above adversity, while the openness below represents transparency, sacrifice, and the space between fear and action. Seeing the result in person makes it clear — this museum wasn't just built; it was crafted with meaning.
When it comes to cruise packing and finding the best checked luggage for cruises, the Duravo Expandable Check-In Large Luggage has quickly become a favorite suitcase for travelers who want premium quality without the steep price tag. On our recent trip, we had the opportunity to test this bag in real-world travel situations, including a two-week cruise, and it exceeded expectations in many areas.
We received this luggage from Duravo to review, and while it’s a complimentary evaluation, our opinions remain 100% honest. For travelers who want durable, airline-compliant, and feature-rich luggage, this bag deserves a close look.
Exterior Features of the Duravo Expandable Check-In Large Luggage
The Duravo checked luggage is built with Duravo’s Flexshell™ composite, a lightweight yet super-durable material made in Germany. The exterior dimensions (29” x 20.5” x 12”) comply with most domestic and international airline checked luggage restrictions, making it a worry-free choice for cruises and other flights.
Some standout exterior features include:
Premium Hinomoto 360° ball-bearing wheels for quiet and smooth rolling.
Aircraft-grade aluminum quick-release trolley handle for easy maneuvering through terminals and cruise ship docks.
TSA-approved lock integrated lock
Expandable zipper that adds 2” (5cm) of extra packing space if needed.
The combination of durability, smooth mobility, and thoughtful design makes the Duravo expandable checked bag a practical option for cruise travelers who want premium travel luggage.
Best Viking River Cruise Cabin: Full Guide to Stateroom Types, Costs, and How to Choose the Right One
Choosing the best Viking River Cruise cabin is one of the most important decisions you’ll make before your trip. Viking longships are small, with about 95 staterooms and five cabin types: Standard, French Balcony, Veranda, Veranda Suite, and the Explorer Suite. Unlike ocean cruises, where endless categories and upgrades can feel overwhelming, Viking’s options are simpler, but each choice affects comfort, convenience, noise levels, views, and price more than most first-time river cruisers expect. This guide breaks down the key factors, gives a clear look at each cabin type, compares space and amenities, and ends with our personal recommendation based on years of sailing with Viking.
Key Factors When Choosing a Viking River Cruise Cabin
Selecting a stateroom on a Viking longship is not the same as picking a cabin on a large ocean ship. The ships are compact, the itineraries are busy, and the difference between cabin types can shape your experience more than you might think.
Deck Access and Mobility
The elevator serves the middle and upper decks only. The Swan Deck (where Standard cabins are located) is stairs-only, which matters for travelers with mobility limitations.
Light, Fresh Air, and Views
French Balcony and Veranda cabins feel brighter because you can open a sliding door. Standard cabins have a fixed waterline window, which can feel darker to some travelers.
Locks, Docking, and Rafting
River cruises often pass through dozens of locks, especially itineraries like the Grand European Tour. Lower-deck cabins experience more noise and closer contact with lock walls. In port, ships may raft together, blocking views for any balcony cabin.
Space and Storage
Cabin sizes range from 150 square feet in a Standard stateroom to 445 square feet in the Explorer Suite. Standard cabins actually have strong storage because of the shelf under the window. French Balcony cabins lose this feature.
Season and Climate
Warm-weather cruises make balconies more appealing. On cooler itineraries—spring, fall, and Christmas Markets—most guests spend less time outdoors, which can make lower categories a better value.
Check out our full length video on YouTube by clicking below!
Viking Longship Cabin Types Explained
We’ve stayed in every stateroom type on Viking longships, and while the décor and overall layout stay consistent, space, light, and amenities vary.
Standard Stateroom (150 sq ft | No Balcony)
These are located on the Swan Deck with a waterline window. They offer great storage, including the extra shelf under the window, and the same bathroom layout as most non-suite cabins. Downsides include more noise in locks, darker lighting, and stair-only access to the deck.
French Balcony (135 sq ft | French Balcony Door)
Located on the middle and upper decks, these cabins feel brighter thanks to the sliding glass door and fresh air. You lose the window shelf and a bit of square footage. These cabins are quieter than the Standard cabins but do not offer outdoor seating.
Veranda Stateroom (205 sq ft | True Veranda)
A popular choice because of the extra space and outdoor seating. These cabins provide more natural light, more usable square footage, and are conveniently located on higher decks. Great for warm-weather itineraries.
Veranda Suite (275 sq ft | Veranda + French Balcony)
Only seven suites exist on each longship. You get two separate rooms, two balconies, and a significantly larger bathroom. Amenities include daily replenished wine, beer, and soft drinks, plus complimentary laundry. The wardrobe is smaller than expected, but the added space is a big benefit for travelers who like to spread out.
Explorer Suite (445 sq ft | Wraparound Veranda)
There are only two Explorer Suites on each ship, located aft on the upper deck. These feel like apartments, with a living room, large bedroom, and a spacious bathroom featuring smart privacy glass, a big shower, and generous storage. Amenities include:
Welcome champagne
Daily stocked mini-bar
Premium in-room coffee machine
Complimentary in-room breakfast service
Complimentary laundry
Silver Spirits beverage package
Private arrival and departure transfers
Viking Air Plus for US/Canada travelers
These offer the highest level of comfort on board.
Cabin Cost Comparison (Grand European Tour)
Prices vary, but this real-world comparison shows how cabin types differ.
Standard Stateroom: $5,299 pp – Baseline cost
French Balcony: $7,499 pp – About 1.4× Standard
Veranda Stateroom: $8,499 pp – About 1.6× Standard
Veranda Suite: $13,499 pp – About 2.6× Standard
Explorer Suite: $17,299 pp – About 3.3× Standard
Suites offer excellent perks, but the price jump is significant.
Our Recommendation: The Best All-Around Viking River Cruise Cabin
For most travelers, the Veranda Stateroom is the best balance of size, comfort, light, fresh air, and price. You get outdoor space when weather allows and enough room to feel comfortable without overspending.
Personally, we spend most of our time in the common areas or off the ship, so the Standard Stateroom works very well for cooler itineraries when the veranda won’t be used.
We only choose a French Balcony when traveling solo, as the space feels tight for two.
Suites are excellent for extra space and upgraded bathrooms, but we suggest saving those for celebrations or milestone trips.
✅ Conclusion
Viking River Cruise cabins may look similar at first glance, but differences in deck location, noise, light, space, and amenities can make one category a better fit than another. By understanding the five cabin types and how they compare in layout, price, and comfort, you can choose the stateroom that matches your travel style and budget. Whether you prefer stretching your cruise dollars with a Standard cabin or splurging on the privacy of a Veranda or Suite, the right choice makes your Viking river cruise even more enjoyable.
Ever wondered what truly makes a cruise ship crew member’s day? Behind the polished uniforms and tireless smiles lies a demanding lifestyle of long contracts, modest pay, and shared cabins. We polled our followers and researched crew forums to uncover what crew members really appreciate receiving from guests. From heartfelt gestures to practical gifts, here’s what ranks highest—and why it matters more than you think.
Cruising solo is one of the most rewarding ways to travel — yet for many first-timers, it can also feel intimidating. From worrying about dining alone to paying dreaded single supplements, the idea of boarding a ship without a travel companion raises plenty of valid questions. The good news? You’re far from alone — and today’s cruise industry is more solo-friendly than ever.
Whether you’re dreaming of an ocean voyage, a river journey through Europe, or a polar expedition, this guide reveals the top 10 fears of cruising solo and real-world tips from travelers who’ve conquered them.
👉 Watch our full-length video here to see the complete countdown and get additional solo travel advice from our community. Every view supports our mission — all proceeds from our YouTube channel are donated to charity, so your engagement truly makes a difference.
What to Pack and Wear on a Northern Lights Cruise (Viking, Hurtigruten & Other Lines)
Packing for a Northern Lights cruise takes more than just warm layers — you’ll need the right clothing for outdoor aurora viewing, Arctic shore excursions, and cozy comfort onboard. Whether you’re sailing Viking’s In Search of the Northern Lights or another winter itinerary through Norway or Iceland, here’s what we recommend bringing (plus a printable checklist at the end).
