A Magical Voyage: Our Disney Fantasy Cruise & A Day in Mérida

Our family recently set sail on the Disney Fantasy, embarking on a journey filled with magic, adventure, and unforgettable moments. One of the highlights of our trip was our stop in Progreso, Mexico, where we had the opportunity to explore the vibrant city of Mérida—a place rich in history, culture, and warm hospitality.

Setting Sail on the Disney Fantasy

From the moment we stepped aboard the Disney Fantasy, we were immersed in the signature Disney experience—elegant décor, incredible entertainment, and top-notch service. Whether it was enjoying Broadway-style shows, indulging in world-class dining, or simply relaxing on deck while the ocean stretched endlessly before us, every moment felt like a dream come true.

Exploring Progreso & Mérida

Our port of call in Progreso gave us a chance to experience the Yucatán Peninsula beyond the usual beachside resorts. We opted for a day trip to Mérida, a city known for its stunning colonial architecture, Mayan heritage, and bustling markets.

As we arrived in Mérida’s historic center, we were captivated by the charm of the Plaza Grande—a lively square surrounded by iconic landmarks such as the Catedral de San Ildefonso, one of the oldest cathedrals in the Americas. Walking through the colorful streets, we admired the blend of Spanish and Mayan influences in the architecture and the local culture.

Of course, no visit to Mérida would be complete without sampling some authentic Yucatecan cuisine. We treated ourselves to cochinita pibil (slow-roasted pork) and panuchos (crispy tortillas stuffed with refried beans), accompanied by a refreshing glass of agua de chaya—a local favorite made from chaya leaves.

A Magical End to a Perfect Trip

After an enriching day in Mérida, we returned to the Fantasy, where the magic continued with pirate night festivities, character meet-and-greets, and a final evening under the stars. There’s something truly special about experiencing the best of both worlds—Disney’s signature enchantment and the authentic beauty of a place like Mérida.

As we disembarked at the end of our journey, we carried with us not just souvenirs, but cherished memories of family time, new experiences, and the joy of discovering new places together.

A Magical Weekend: Disneyland, California Adventure & Coldplay at the Rose Bowl

This past weekend, our family embarked on an unforgettable adventure filled with Disney magic and incredible live music. We kicked off the trip with two days at Disneyland and California Adventure, immersing ourselves in the rides, food, and nostalgia, before capping it off with a breathtaking Coldplay concert at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena.

Disneyland & California Adventure: A Family Tradition

No matter how many times we visit, stepping into Disneyland always feels special. There’s something about the sight of Main Street, U.S.A., the scent of churros in the air, and the first glimpse of Sleeping Beauty’s Castle that brings out the kid in all of us.

We wasted no time diving into our favorite rides—Hyperspace Mountain was a family favorite, as always, and we braved the Haunted Mansion Holiday overlay, which was decked out in its full Nightmare Before Christmas glory. Valentina and Daniel led the way through Galaxy’s Edge, where we piloted the Millennium Falcon on Smugglers Run and had a close encounter with Kylo Ren and the First Order.

At California Adventure, the highlight was Avengers Campus, where we watched Spider-Man perform insane aerial stunts and helped Rocket rescue the Guardians on Mission: Breakout! The new San Fransokyo Square was a fun addition, and we made sure to grab a bowl of clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl from Pacific Wharf.

Of course, no Disney trip is complete without the classics—Radiator Springs Racers, and Soarin’ Over California.

Coldplay at the Rose Bowl: The Perfect Finale

After two days of Disney fun, we made our way to Pasadena for what would be an unforgettable night—Coldplay at the Rose Bowl. There’s something magical about seeing a legendary band perform in such an iconic stadium, especially when you’re surrounded by thousands of fans singing along to every song.

From the moment Coldplay took the stage, the energy was electric. The LED wristbands lit up the stadium in waves of colors, synchronized to the music, creating an immersive experience unlike any other. They played all the classics—Viva La Vida, Yellow, Fix You, Clocks—and every song felt like an anthem. One of the standout moments was A Sky Full of Stars, where the entire stadium turned into a sea of twinkling lights.

Chris Martin’s energy was infectious, and his heartfelt connection with the audience made the night feel intimate, even in a stadium of over 80,000 people. It was the perfect way to end an already magical weekend, leaving us with memories we’ll cherish forever.

A Weekend to Remember

Disneyland, California Adventure, and Coldplay—each part of the weekend was incredible in its own way, but together, it was truly unforgettable. Whether it was screaming on roller coasters, watching fireworks over Sleeping Beauty’s Castle, or singing our hearts out at the Rose Bowl, this trip was one for the books.

Here’s to more adventures, more magic, and more live music in the future! 🎢🎆🎸

Exploring the Wonders of Peru: A Journey Through History, Culture, and Natural Beauty

June 24 – Lima: A Glimpse into Peru’s Rich Past and Vibrant Present Our adventure began in Lima, where we enjoyed breakfast at Los Pineiros before embarking on a city tour that showcased the city’s most iconic landmarks. From the ancient Huaca Pucllana ruins to the grandeur of the Plaza Mayor, the Government Palace, and the majestic Cathedral, Lima’s blend of history and modernity was on full display. The highlight of the day was the visit to the renowned Museo Larco, home to an impressive collection of pre-Columbian gold and silver artifacts.

June 25 – Family Time in Lima After a leisurely breakfast at our Airbnb, we spent the day reconnecting with family. It was a heartwarming experience, filled with laughter, storytelling, and delicious homemade Peruvian cuisine.

June 26 – Journey to Cuzco: The Heart of the Incan Empire An early flight took us to Cuzco, where we checked into the Casa Andina Standard Plaza. The afternoon city tour led us through the Plaza de Armas, the Cathedral, and the Convent of Santo Domingo, built atop the sacred Incan site of Koricancha. Venturing beyond the city, we explored the fascinating archaeological sites of Kenko, Puca Pucará, Tambomachay, and the awe-inspiring fortress of Sacsayhuamán.

June 27 – The Sacred Valley: Tracing the Footsteps of the Incas Our day began with a visit to the Pisac Ruins, perched atop a mountain with breathtaking views. We then explored the colorful artisan market in the town of Pisac before heading through the picturesque Sacred Valley to Urubamba for a delightful lunch. The afternoon took us to the fortress of Ollantaytambo, where we marveled at the precision of Incan engineering.

June 28 – Machu Picchu: A Dream Realized Taking the PeruRail Vistadome train, we journeyed to the legendary Machu Picchu. The guided tour introduced us to the architectural wonders of the site, including the Royal Palace, the Temple of the Three Windows, and the Sacred Plaza. The experience was truly surreal, a testament to the ingenuity of the Incan civilization. The return train ride featured a unique fashion show showcasing exquisite baby alpaca garments.

June 29 – From Cuzco to Trujillo: Coastal Culture and Colonial Charm After a scenic flight, we arrived in Trujillo and settled into our Airbnb. The evening was spent enjoying a delicious dinner from El Romano and preparing for the next leg of our journey.

June 30 – Unveiling Trujillo’s Ancient Treasures Our exploration of Trujillo began with a visit to the Huacas de Moche archaeological complex, where we admired the intricate reliefs of the Moche civilization. At Chan Chan, the largest adobe city in the world, we wandered through the impressive Palacio de Nickan. Lunch in Huanchaco was followed by a captivating performance of Marinera Norteña and Paso Horse Show. The day concluded with a memorable dinner at El Cellar de Cler.

July 1 – Immersing in Trujillo’s Colonial Elegance After breakfast, we embarked on a city tour before enjoying lunch at the prestigious Club Central. The afternoon offered free time to soak in the charm of Trujillo, followed by an evening of entertainment at a local theater.

July 2 – A Relaxing Day Before Heading to Cajamarca Sunday was spent unwinding, attending church, and savoring lunch at Ziba. In the evening, we boarded an overnight bus to Cajamarca, ready for the next adventure.

July 3 – Cajamarca: A Journey Through Time Arriving early, we settled into our Airbnb before setting out on a city tour. The historic Plaza de Armas, Atahualpa’s Ransom Room, and the Belén complex provided fascinating insights into the region’s past. The day ended with a breathtaking view from the Santa Apolonia hill.

July 4 – Cumbemayo, Otuzco, and Baños del Inca Our day trip began at the Cumbemayo rock formations, an ancient Pre-Incan aqueduct site. We then explored the Otuzco necropolis before indulging in a relaxing soak at the Baños del Inca hot springs, a rejuvenating end to an adventure-filled day.

July 5 – Back to Lima: A Final Taste of Peruvian Culture Returning to Lima, we lunched at La Cuadra de Salvador before strolling through the artsy Barranco district. In the evening, we marveled at the Magic Water Circuit, a dazzling display of lights and fountains.

July 6 – An Adrenaline-Fueled Finale Our last day in Peru was nothing short of exhilarating. We soared over the Lima coastline with a paragliding experience before visiting the Basílica y Convento de San Francisco, famous for its eerie catacombs. A delicious farewell lunch at Chifa Wa Lok concluded our unforgettable journey.

Reflections on an Unforgettable Adventure From Lima’s colonial grandeur to the mystical ruins of Machu Picchu, from the vibrant markets of the Sacred Valley to the ancient wonders of Trujillo and Cajamarca, this journey was a profound exploration of Peru’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality. Peru left an indelible mark on our hearts, and we cannot wait to return one day to uncover even more of its hidden gems.

Exploring Europe: A Journey Through History, Culture, and Scenic Beauty

Our recent trip through Europe was an unforgettable experience, filled with breathtaking landscapes, historical wonders, and vibrant city life. From the medieval charm of Edinburgh to the canals of Amsterdam, every destination had something unique to offer. Here’s a recap of our journey:

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Edinburgh: A Step Back in Time

We arrived in Edinburgh and settled into our Airbnb before setting off to explore. The Scottish Museum provided an excellent introduction to the city’s rich history, and a stop at the museum café for coffee and snacks was a great way to recharge. The evening ended with a fascinating visit to Mary King’s Close and a peaceful New Town Walk.

The next day, we toured Edinburgh Castle, took in the mind-bending illusions at Camera Obscura, and wandered along the Royal Mile, enjoying snacks and history along the way. The highlight of the day was the Harry Potter Trail, a magical journey through the city’s literary connections.

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Sterling & Oban: Castles and Coastal Beauty

We picked up a rental car and drove to Stirling Castle, where we marveled at its grandeur before heading to the Wallace Monument. The journey through Glencoe was nothing short of breathtaking.

In Oban, we took a day trip to Mull and Iona, experiencing Scotland’s rugged coastal beauty before returning for a relaxing evening at our Airbnb.

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Glasgow: A City of Culture and Innovation

Glasgow greeted us with a hop-on, hop-off bus tour, making stops at the Riverside Museum and other key landmarks. We joined a walking tour, immersing ourselves in the city’s history before settling in for the evening.

The next day, we explored The Tenement House, visited Tennent Brewery, and admired art at the Kelvingrove Art Gallery. A scenic West End Walk rounded off our stay.

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Keswick: The Beauty of the Lake District

From Glasgow, we traveled to Keswick via Penrith, picking up a rental car and exploring Wordsworth’s Grasmere and the Kirkstone Pass. A boat ride at Howtown Pier – Ullswater offered stunning views.

A scenic day followed, featuring a picnic at Keswick Launch, a visit to Honister Slate Mine, and the mystical Castlerigg Stone Circle.

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York: A Medieval Delight

York welcomed us with an introductory walk, leading to the impressive York Minster. The next day, we explored the National Railway Museum, the York Castle Museum, and even tried a self-driving boat along the river!

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Bath: Roman Heritage and Mystical Stones

After arriving by train, we explored Bath Abbey and the Roman Baths before joining the Bizarre Walking Tour, which provided a fun take on the city’s history.

A trip to Stonehenge followed the next day, along with a guided Mayor of Bath Walking Tour, before unwinding at our Airbnb.

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London: The Heart of England

Our London adventure began with visits to Westminster Abbey, Trafalgar Square, and the Churchill War Rooms, followed by a scenic River Cruise.

Over the next few days, we explored the London Eye, British Museum, Tower of London, and St. Paul’s Cathedral. We even enjoyed an ABBA Voyage experience and caught an MJ musical in the West End!

A visit to Greenwich and the Harry Potter Studio Tour were also highlights before heading to the airport for our next destination.

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Aberdeen: A Change of Pace

We took a flight to Aberdeen, where we explored charming villages and attended a spectacular performance of the Wizard of Oz musical.

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Madrid & Toledo: Spanish Flair

In Madrid, we immersed ourselves in Spanish culture with a mesmerizing Flamenco show. A day trip to Toledo provided a glimpse into Spain’s medieval past.

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Montpellier & Amsterdam: The Grand Finale

In Montpellier, we enjoyed the vibrant French atmosphere before making our way to Amsterdam, where we explored its picturesque canals and paid a meaningful visit to the Anne Frank House.

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Reflections on an Incredible Journey

Each destination on our trip left us with unforgettable memories. From the rugged landscapes of Scotland to the bustling streets of London and the cultural richness of Spain, this journey was truly one for the books. Until the next adventure!

Exploring the Pacific Northwest: A Trip Through Portland and Seattle

Tanya and I recently took an incredible trip through Portland and Seattle, immersing ourselves in the natural beauty, vibrant culture, and amazing food of the Pacific Northwest. From breathtaking waterfalls to scenic coastal drives and iconic city sights, every moment was unforgettable.

Portland: A Perfect Start

We arrived in Portland and checked into our hotel, eager to explore the city’s renowned food scene. Our first stop was Screen Door – Pearl, where we indulged in some of the best Southern comfort food on the West Coast—crispy fried chicken and fluffy biscuits that set the bar high for the rest of the trip.

Next, we took a scenic drive to Canon Beach, stopping along the way to admire the waterfalls and lush greenery that make Oregon so magical. The coastal views were breathtaking, and we couldn’t resist walking along the shore to take in the famous Haystack Rock. Lunch in Astoria was a treat, offering fresh seafood and small-town charm before we continued to Cape Disappointment Lighthouse, a rugged and historic spot with incredible views of the Pacific Ocean.

As evening approached, we made our way to Seattle, settling into our Airbnb and grabbing dinner before gearing up for more adventures.

Seattle: City Sights and Hidden Gems

We kicked off our Seattle adventure at Pike Place Market, where the energy was infectious—fishmongers tossing fresh seafood, flower stalls bursting with color, and the scent of freshly baked pastries in the air. A classic Seattle breakfast fueled us for the day before we wandered along the waterfront, soaking in the sights and stopping at Wings Over Washington, a breathtaking virtual flight over the state’s diverse landscapes.

A highlight of the day was the Argosy Cruises Harbor Tour, where we glided through the Puget Sound, learning about Seattle’s history and admiring its skyline from the water. After a leisurely lunch, we dove underground for Bill Speidel’s Underground Tour, uncovering the hidden history of Seattle’s original city streets beneath Pioneer Square.

In the evening, we took a well-earned break at our Airbnb before heading out to The Mountaineering Club, a rooftop bar offering stunning panoramic views. The night was capped off with a mesmerizing performance by Benise, where the fiery rhythms of Spanish guitar created the perfect ambiance. A late-night stop at Shawarma King satisfied our cravings before calling it a night.

Seattle’s Must-See Attractions

On our final day, we started with a delicious breakfast before heading to the Seattle Aquarium, where we got up close with otters, seals, and a dazzling array of marine life. The beauty of Chihuly Garden and Glass was simply mesmerizing—brilliant glass sculptures set against the backdrop of the city’s skyline.

After lunch, we visited two Seattle icons: the Space Needle, offering 360-degree views of the city and beyond, and the Museum of Pop Culture, a paradise for music, film, and sci-fi lovers. A quick coffee stop fueled us for the last stretch of our trip before heading back to our Airbnb to relax.

For our final meal, we dined at Salty’s, a waterfront seafood restaurant with breathtaking views of the Seattle skyline. The fresh, perfectly prepared seafood was the ideal way to wrap up an amazing journey.

Final Thoughts

This trip through Portland and Seattle was an incredible mix of nature, history, music, and food, and we couldn’t have asked for a better experience. Whether it was the coastal beauty of Oregon or the urban charm of Seattle, every stop along the way offered something unique and unforgettable. We can’t wait to return—maybe next time in the summer for even more outdoor adventures!

Exploring Dubai: A Trip Filled with Adventure, Culture, and Luxury

Dubai is a city that never fails to amaze, and this trip was packed with a perfect mix of thrilling experiences, cultural discoveries, and pure relaxation. From towering skyscrapers to desert adventures, here’s a look at our unforgettable time in Dubai.

Day 1: Iconic Landmarks and Water Adventures

We started the day with a delicious breakfast before heading straight to one of Dubai’s most famous landmarks—the Burj Khalifa. The view from the top was absolutely breathtaking, giving us a panoramic glimpse of the city’s futuristic skyline and vast desert beyond.

Next, we visited the Aquarium, an underwater wonderland filled with exotic marine life, from sharks to stingrays. After a quick lunch, we explored the Arte Museum, a mesmerizing experience showcasing digital art in a way that felt immersive and futuristic.

In the afternoon, it was time for some adrenaline-pumping fun—jet skiing along Dubai’s stunning coastline. The clear blue waters and the backdrop of the city’s skyline made for an unforgettable ride.

As the sun set, we enjoyed the magical Burj Khalifa Fountain Show and Burj Lake Ride, where dazzling lights and synchronized water jets danced to the music. To end the day, we had a delightful dinner at Carluccio’s, indulging in some delicious Italian cuisine.

Day 2: Markets, Malls, and the Desert

Our second day in Dubai was all about discovering the city’s rich culture and natural beauty. We started at the bustling Spice and Gold Souks, where the air was filled with the scent of exotic spices, and shop windows glittered with intricate gold jewelry.

After a hearty lunch at Mall of the Emirates, we were off for an epic desert adventure. Riding through the dunes was exhilarating, and as the sun set over the golden sands, we soaked in the beauty of the vast desert landscape. The evening included a traditional Bedouin-style camp with delicious food, entertainment, and a chance to experience the magic of Arabian nights.

Day 3: Atlantis and Global Village

The morning began with another great breakfast before heading to Atlantis, The Palm—a resort that truly feels like a world of its own. We explored the Atlantis Aquarium, home to thousands of marine creatures, before spending the afternoon at Global Village, a cultural and shopping extravaganza featuring pavilions from all over the world. The mix of food, entertainment, and unique souvenirs made it an experience like no other.

Day 4: High-Speed Thrills at Warner Brothers and Ferrari World

For our final day, we rented a car and set off for a road trip to Warner Bros. and Ferrari World in Abu Dhabi. Ferrari World was the ultimate thrill-seeker’s paradise, with the world’s fastest roller coaster giving us a serious adrenaline rush. The Warner Bros. theme park, on the other hand, was a fun-filled experience featuring beloved characters, exciting rides, and immersive attractions.

Final Thoughts

Dubai exceeded all expectations—it was a perfect blend of luxury, adventure, culture, and entertainment. Whether it was soaring above the city, exploring its rich heritage, or chasing thrills on land and water, every moment was unforgettable. Already looking forward to the next visit!