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We are the Ultimate Guide to Meaningful and Healthy Travel with Hands-On Travel Advice!

Friday, August 1, 2025

Norwegian Escape Haven Aft-Facing Penthouse Suite Review: Huge Balcony, Full Tour & Caribbean Cruise Tips


Thinking about booking a Haven suite on the Norwegian Escape? In this post, we're diving deep into a full review of the Norwegian Escape Haven Aft-Facing Penthouse Suite 12306—complete with video tour, pricing comparison, tips for travelers with medical needs, and our favorite cruise essentials to bring aboard.



What Makes the Haven Aft-Facing Penthouse on Norwegian Escape Special?

Suite 12306 aboard the Norwegian Escape isn’t just any stateroom. This aft-facing Haven penthouse suite offers about 420 square feet of living space with a separate bedroom, living room, and two bathrooms—plus an incredibly spacious private balcony.

Though located outside the main Haven complex, you’ll enjoy full access to Haven amenities like the private restaurant, lounge, courtyard pool, sun deck, and concierge service. Tucked at the back of the ship, it offers peace, privacy, and panoramic views.

Norwegian Escape Haven Suite Room Tour Highlights

Living Area

  • Separate sitting area with a dining table for in-suite Haven restaurant dining.

  • Comfortable sofa (converts to a double bed) and reading chair.

  • Flat-screen TV (a bit dated).

  • Sliding door to the incredible aft-facing balcony.


Second Bathroom

Full guest bath with walk-in shower, L'Occitane toiletries, and upgraded linens.

Bar Area

  • Espresso machine, tea setup, mini-fridge.

  • Butler service replenishes snacks and beverages.

🔌 We recommend bringing a universal adapter with USB-C and a USB charging block since outlet placement is limited.

Bedroom

  • Privacy door, king/twin bed configuration, upgraded linens.

  • Outlets at the base of each nightstand—CPAP users may need an extension cord (request in advance).

  • Suction cup magnifying mirror and built-in vanity mirror with European + US outlets.

🧳 Great under-bed clearance for luggage and plenty of closet space. We love compression packing cubes for easy access and space-saving.

 

Master Bathroom

  • Dual sinks, soaking tub, separate shower with body jets.

  • No door—just a curtain for privacy. A small night light works well for late-night visibility.




The Balcony: A Game-Changer

This suite’s wraparound aft balcony was hands-down our favorite feature:

  • Unobstructed wake views, shielded from wind.

  • Two chaise lounges, a full dining table with seating for four.

  • Separate access from bedroom and living room.

☂️ For rainy ports or hot sun, we bring our Knirps compact umbrella—small, durable, and perfect for shore excursions.

🎥 Be sure to watch our full Haven Aft-Facing Penthouse Suite Tour and check the description for product links, accessibility resources, and more travel tips!


 

Haven Exclusive Perks That Made the Difference

  • Keycard-only access to The Haven—serene even on sea days.

  • Private Haven restaurant: no lines, made-to-order meals.

  • Haven bar & lounge: relaxed atmosphere, no waiting.

  • Private sun deck & pool: no fighting for deck chairs.

  • Priority boarding/disembarkation: essential for stress-free travel.

  • Reserved seating at shows: arrive late and still get prime views.

  • Butler & concierge service: dinner reservations, port escorts, and more.



Cruise Essentials We Bring Every Time

Traveling with Medical Devices or Accessibility Needs

Haven Suite Cost Comparison (7-Day Caribbean, May 2026)

Cabin Type    Price/Person (Est.)% Difference vs. Club Balcony
Club Balcony        $1,670                            --
Haven Courtyard Pent.        $3,719    +123%
Haven Aft Pent. (12306)        $4,349    +160%

While the Haven Aft-Facing Penthouse commands a higher price, the massive balcony, private retreat feel, and access to Haven perks made it well worth the splurge for us.  Note: Prices can change at any time. 



Final Thoughts: Was The Haven Worth It?

Absolutely. For a cruise with over 4,200 passengers, having access to exclusive spaces—and especially that balcony—made our trip feel calm, private, and luxurious.



Tell Us Your Experience

Have you stayed in The Haven on Norwegian Cruise Line? Was it worth it for you? Tell us in the comments below. Your feedback helps fellow cruisers decide if The Haven is the right choice for their next sailing.


 

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Friday, July 18, 2025

The Best Travel Umbrella for Cruises and Beyond: Lightweight, Compact & Reliable

When it comes to cruise and travel gear, few things are more underrated than a good umbrella. Sure, many cruise lines provide them—but they’re usually bulky, hard to carry, and require a full hand to hold. Plus, once wet, they’re tough to stash without soaking everything in your bag.


That’s why I always pack my favorite: the Knirps Ultra Light Slim Manual Open Rain Umbrella. It’s hands down the best travel umbrella I’ve found, especially for cruisers, city walkers, and day-trippers who need protection without added bulk.


Cologne, Germany


Why I Love the Knirps Ultra Light Travel Umbrella

This ultra-compact umbrella is designed for on-the-go travelers like us. It weighs only 4 ounces and folds down to just 8 inches long—small enough to tuck into the side pocket of my Travelon Classic Messenger Bag or a small backpack. The included slip-on cover is a lifesaver when the umbrella is soaked, keeping the rest of your belongings nice and dry.

Despite its featherweight size, the Knirps umbrella holds its own in windy weather. It's not immune to strong gusts—it may invert briefly—but I’ve always been able to pop it right back into shape in seconds.

Here are the key features that make this umbrella a travel essential:

  • Compact and Lightweight: Closed length of 8 inches, and weighs just 4 ounces.

  • Decent Canopy Coverage: The 35-inch canopy keeps you covered without making the umbrella awkward to carry.

  • Wind Tunnel Tested: With six reinforced ribs, it has been tested to withstand wind speeds of up to 62 mph (100 km/h).

  • Manual Open and Close: No fussy buttons—just smooth manual operation whenever you need it.

  • Includes Carrying Case: Keeps the rest of your gear dry when the umbrella is wet.

It’s no wonder Knirps, which literally means “little guy” in German, has been a favorite brand since 1928. This little guy packs a punch! We also love that it comes in a variety of patterns beyond basic black—perfect for standing out in a crowd and making it easier for your travel companions to spot you quickly!

➡️ Check it out on Amazon



OUR LATEST VIDEO



What to Wear with It: My Favorite Raincoats for Travel

Staying dry doesn’t stop with your umbrella. These are the two raincoats we never leave home without when packing for cruises or active vacations:

Bonus Tip: Waterproof More Than Just Yourself

You can also protect your gear with Kiwi Camp Spray. This water-repellent spray works wonders on shoes, bags, jackets, and even backpacks. I use it before every cruise or rainy-season trip.

Final Thoughts

Packing light and smart for a cruise or international trip means choosing gear that works hard without taking up space. The Knirps Ultra Light Slim Umbrella is my go-to for reliable rain coverage that won’t weigh you down—perfect whether you’re exploring a European port or dashing between terminals in a rainy airport.

And remember: staying dry doesn’t have to mean sacrificing space, comfort, or style. Happy (and dry!) travels.

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Is an AmaWaterways River Cruise Good for Solo Travelers? Honest Review + Top Tips



Thinking about taking a solo river cruise? Wondering if AmaWaterways is a good fit for solo travelers? In this post, we share a full review based on firsthand experience—from booking to disembarkation—and offer practical solo travel tips to make your cruise smoother, safer, and more enjoyable.
Whether you’re an experienced traveler or planning your first river cruise alone, here’s what to expect from sailing solo with AmaWaterways.




Why Choose a Solo River Cruise?

River cruising is becoming increasingly popular with solo travelers—and for good reason. Smaller ships, organized excursions, and a welcoming atmosphere make river cruises an appealing option for those exploring on their own.

Unlike large ocean cruise lines that cater to solo cruisers with studio cabins or solo lounges, river cruises like AmaWaterways offer a more intimate environment. Onboard, you’re more likely to bump into familiar faces again and again, whether on excursions, in the lounge, or at dinner.



Why I Chose AmaWaterways for My Recent Solo River Cruise

I was inspired to cruise solo when my usual travel partner was invited to lecture about our trip to Africa. Rather than attend the conference, I saw an opportunity to try something I’d always wanted to do: a solo river cruise on AmaWaterways.

AmaWaterways had a promotion that made it affordable, and I was curious to compare it to my past cruise experiences. While finding solo travel deals on river cruises can be tricky, I eventually located one using their online booking tool—more on that below.

Is River Cruising Alone Safe?

Safety is one of the top reasons solo travelers turn to river cruising, and AmaWaterways delivers here. Your ship acts like a floating hotel, and access is limited to passengers and crew. Excursions are organized and small in size, often with people you’ve already met onboard. That quick familiarity builds comfort and community.

During my solo trip, I never felt isolated or unsafe—even when exploring independently during our pre-cruise stay in Zurich. AmaWaterways staff and local guides helped me feel informed and supported the entire way.

Zurich, Switzerland

Kunsthaus Zürich


Booking Tips: How to Find Solo Cruise Deals on AmaWaterways



Finding solo travel promotions on AmaWaterways can take some digging, but it’s worth the effort. Here’s what worked for me:

  • Use AmaWaterways’ "Reserve Now" function to adjust passenger count to one and preview real-time pricing.

  • Check their Special Offers page, but be prepared to click around—some deals require requesting a quote.

  • Be flexible with dates and destinations. Trial and error helped me spot the best solo fare.

Alternatively, a trusted travel advisor can help track down solo-friendly pricing more efficiently.




Why the Pre-Cruise Extension Made All the Difference

If you’re cruising solo, I strongly recommend booking a pre-cruise extension. In my case, the Zurich extension introduced me to fellow travelers before we ever stepped on the ship.

Our group of 11 quickly bonded over shared meals and tours. These weren’t just temporary acquaintances—they became familiar faces I saw again and again throughout the cruise. That early connection made the entire trip more relaxed and enjoyable.

Lucerne, Switzerland

See my full video review here! 



Consistent Cruise Manager Support = Solo Travel Gold

AmaWaterways offers a unique feature that’s especially helpful for solo travelers: your cruise manager stays with you from the pre-cruise extension all the way through disembarkation.

This continuity provided a huge sense of security. From helping with restaurant recommendations to offering local safety tips, my cruise manager made navigating each day much easier—especially when I was on my own.



How AmaWaterways Helps Solo Travelers Feel Included

From the moment I boarded, I felt welcomed. On the first night, AmaWaterways hosted a dedicated solo traveler meetup with one of the ship’s officers. It was a great way to break the ice.



Dining was equally inclusive. I didn’t mind eating alone, but I was almost always invited to join others or guided to tables with friendly fellow cruisers. Open seating and welcoming guests made me feel comfortable every time I sat down.

Excursions, Scenic Sailing, and Onboard Connections

AmaWaterways offers excursions at different activity levels, which helps create small groups of like-minded travelers. Over time, you begin seeing the same faces, which naturally builds camaraderie.

Social moments like Sip & Sail before dinner, afternoon tea, and time on deck during scenic sailing were also perfect opportunities to meet other passengers.



One evening, I wasn’t feeling well. The crew delivered a full dinner from the restaurant menu to my cabin—along with a glass of my favorite wine. Fellow passengers even offered to share medication or pick up supplies at the next port. That kind of community is what sets solo river cruising apart.

What Could Be Better for Solo Travelers?

While my experience was overwhelmingly positive, there are areas AmaWaterways could improve for solo cruisers:

  • Evening entertainment was hit or miss and not well attended.

  • A second solo meetup mid-cruise could help maintain social momentum.

  • Solo fares are hard to find and not clearly labeled on the website.

  • Post-cruise transfers weren’t seamless—at the airport, the guide left without waiting for slower passengers.

Still, these were relatively minor in the context of an otherwise fantastic trip.

Top Tips for Solo River Cruisers

To wrap up, here are a few of my top solo travel tips for river cruises:

  1. Book a pre-cruise extension to meet people early and ease into the trip.

  2. Search for solo-friendly promotions—don’t be afraid to experiment with dates and destinations.

  3. Attend solo traveler meetups and be open to joining others at meals or in the lounge.

  4. Choose the right personal bag—I love my Travelon classic messenger bag for safety and organization.

  5. Pack light—you’ll often handle your own luggage during transfers.

  6. Bring a selfie stick or compact tripod to take photos without relying on others. Personally I use a DJI Osmo 6. Remember even when you hold your own phone you can use the timer function on your phone’s camera. 

  7. Have a backup plan—know how to get to the port or airport if needed.

  8. Stay connected—cell service can be a lifeline for maps, safety, and communication.

    Cologne, Germany with my Travelon Classic Messenger Day Bag


Final Thoughts: Is AmaWaterways Good for Solo Travelers?

Absolutely. AmaWaterways is a strong choice for solo river cruisers, especially if you value safety, community, and personal attention. With a bit of planning and curiosity, river cruising alone can be one of the most rewarding ways to travel.

If you’ve taken a solo river cruise—or are thinking about it—share your thoughts in the comments below. And check the links for products I mentioned like the Travelon bag or tripod setup I always bring along.

All proceeds from our blog and YouTube channel go to charity, so your support truly makes a difference.

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Friday, July 11, 2025

Norwegian Escape Balcony vs Haven Courtyard Penthouse: Is the Upgrade Worth It?

If you're planning a cruise on the Norwegian Escape and wondering whether to stick with a standard balcony cabin or splurge on a Haven Courtyard Penthouse Suite, you're not alone. In this post, we're comparing the two most talked-about stateroom categories on NCL's Norwegian Escape to help you decide which is right for you.






Watch the full video comparison here




Norwegian Escape Overview
The Norwegian Escape is a large Breakaway Plus-class ship that can carry over 4,200 passengers. With that many people onboard, the stateroom you choose can dramatically impact your cruise experience.





Balcony Stateroom on Norwegian Escape

The standard balcony stateroom is the most common cabin on the ship. It typically offers around 207 square feet of space with an approximately 38-square-foot balcony. You'll find a queen-size bed (convertible to two twins), a sofa that can double as a bed for a third passenger, a desk with mirror, a small refrigerator, a blow dryer, and a wall-mounted flat-screen TV.







Storage space is decent but tight for more than two people. The closet includes shelving, a safe (not large enough for a laptop), and a hanging area. The bathroom has one sink and a glass-enclosed shower. Toiletries are NCL's house brand.

The balcony includes two upright chairs and a small table and is accessed by a sliding glass door. Some layouts have the bed closer to the balcony while others have the sofa near the balcony—ask your travel agent or NCL to confirm your preference.

The Club Balcony Suite is a step up from the standard balcony, offering a larger balcony space and a bathroom with a slightly bigger shower and sink area—making it a good middle-ground option.


Club Balcony larger shower

Club Balcony larger sink

Affiliate Tip: We highly recommend magnetic hooks to add hanging space in any cruise cabin and a suction cup magnifying mirror for makeup or shaving. These are must-haves for us!

Haven Courtyard Penthouse Suite on Norwegian Escape

Located in a private-access area on the ship, the Haven Courtyard Penthouse Suite offers about 324 square feet of living space and a larger balcony (approximately 58 square feet). The suite includes premium bedding, a fixed magnifying mirror in the vanity, and a seating area with two chairs and a small dining table. Near the entry, there's a Nespresso machine, a refrigerator, and additional bar storage.

You’ll pass through a large dressing closet on your way to the bathroom, which includes split and full-length hanging areas, shelving, a full-length mirror, and a safe. The bathroom features a wide dual sink vanity, a glass-enclosed toilet, and a combined tub/shower. Toiletries are L’Occitane, and guests receive robes and slippers.




The balcony is upgraded as well, with neutral rattan chairs, thick cushions, and a small occasional table. The view is accessed by a sliding glass door next to the sofa chair (which folds out into a single bed).



The Perks of the Haven

What really elevates the Haven experience are the perks that come with it. Some of the most valuable include:

  • Private Haven Lounge, Restaurant, and Sundeck

  • Priority embarkation and disembarkation (especially helpful on port days)

  • Escorted seating for evening shows—either early or right before curtain

  • Dedicated concierge and butler service

  • Private elevators and quiet relaxation areas

The ship can feel very crowded, especially during summer sailings. Having a quiet retreat with exceptional service made our cruise feel far more relaxing.

We also want to highlight that the crew throughout the ship, and especially in the Haven, made our trip extra special.









Price Comparison

On a 7-day cruise in June 2026 (Note: prices are subject to change at any time):

  • Balcony cabins start at $1,589 per person

  • Club Balcony Suites start at $1,789 per person

  • Haven Courtyard Penthouse Suites start at $3,619 per person



That means the balcony and club balcony are 50–60% less expensive than the Haven suite. The price difference is significant—but so are the added comforts and perks.

Affiliate Tip: To make any stateroom more functional, we also recommend compression packing cubes and Bonine seasickness medication.

Our Verdict

So, is the Haven upgrade worth it? For us—yes. On a busy summer sailing with over 4,200 passengers, the peace, privacy, and personalized service made a major difference. If it's in your budget, a Haven Courtyard Penthouse Suite is well worth the splurge.

Let us know in the comments what your experience has been with Norwegian Cruise Line cabins, and be sure to check out the video above for a full walk-through.

#NorwegianEscape #HavenSuite #BalconyCabin #NCL #CruiseReview #CruiseTips #CruiseCabinTour #NorwegianCruiseLine #LuxuryCruising #TravelWithPurpose



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