I cannot stop talking about how much cruising has to offer! On 21 February 2022, Australia re-opened its international borders for travel and after nearly two years of not being able to travel I jumped at the opportunity to fly and cruise overseas. I simply had the ‘travel bug’ and off I went on my first trip.
The 03 March 2022, I stood under the departures sign at Sydney airport and was filled with wanderlust. The airport was extremely quiet, and protocols were strict regarding testing. Masks and travel insurance were essential. Despite the requirements, the process was streamlined and I was on my way to LA with Fiji Airways, accompanied by a few other avid travel business owners.
I travelled from Sydney to Nadi in economy class and was lucky enough to be upgraded for the Nadi to Los Angeles leg to business class. The flight was awesome, A350 aircraft with pod seating. Such a wonderful experience and I highly recommend it to anyone interested in flying business.
On arrival in Los Angeles, we went straight to The Magic Castle Hotel and checked in. After check in, all travel agents went to The Butcher, The Baker, The Cappuccino Maker café on Sunset Boulevard for amazing coffee and delicious clam chowder. Travel tip: It is important to keep a busy schedule on your arrival to the US to avoid possible jet lag. Push through the day and no naps!
After some exploring and people watching on Sunset, we headed to Ross (similar to TK Maxx) for a little shopping and then back to get ready for our evening dinner at Sur Restaurant in West Hollywood. I would suggest that you book into Sur as soon as you book your trip as it’s a popular spot. Now, The Viper Room – it was the first time in two years I sang and danced to live music – such a great night. These fabulous venues are a must if you are travelling as a couple or with friends.
We spent time the next morning enjoying all that the Magic Castle Hotel in West Hollywood had to offer. The hotel was once called the ‘Hollywood Apartments’ designed for long-term living. This means they are spacious, and all suites have full kitchens with cooking amenities, dining areas and spacious bedrooms - some suites can sleep up to six. It is a fabulous hotel for families. There is a heated pool, turn-down service and free amenities on offer like snacks, laundry service, breakfast and the popsicle hotline which is a favourite with kids. The hotel is just a block away from Hollywood Boulevard, The Walk of Fame, The Chinese Theatre and only seven minutes by car to Universal Studios.
We then got an Uber to Long Beach where the Carnival Cruise terminal is located (approx. 40 minutes drive). Excitement was in the air. Carnival’s 50th Birthday and the first cruising experience post-pandemic. All passengers were required to provide a negative PCR test taken 48 hours before boarding and provide proof of vaccination. Knowing that these were the requirements to board the ship, I felt comfortable that everything was being done for the safety of all passengers.
My stateroom was an ocean view cabin. It was very spacious and comfortable fitted with a king bed, coffee table and a lounge with plenty of storage. The best part was to see the towel animals on my bed every day – so fun!
Sailing away from Long Beach on Carnival Radiance was so much fun, I am sure all passengers were on deck and the cruise director had everyone dancing and celebrating as we began the venture. My heart jumped a beat as I looked out from the deck and saw Holland America Line, Princess Cruises and Royal Caribbean ships as well, all about to sail away. Such a surreal sight after so long of not seeing any cruise ships at all. It was fantastic and felt like cruise life as we knew it in Australia, was not far away.
Being just a three-night cruise, we spent most of the time exploring the ship and all its facilities. We tried many restaurants and sought most entertainment on board. There is truly something for everyone to enjoy with a large range of choices.
Day two was all about enjoying the ship, a meet up at sea with Carnival Miracle for a horn blowing competition. I was also exposed to one of the most unique cruise entertainments that I have ever been involved in: ‘The Biggest Tik Tok’ at sea. A great time was had by all.
On day three we awoke anchored in Ensenada, our one and only port visit. We decided to arrange a half day city tour and then wander around enjoying the tourist highlights of Ensenada. We explored taco stalls, tequila shops, market stalls, Mexican candy, street buskers and saw colourful buildings. All of which has a 'Carnival' feel. It was then all aboard for our last night.
The next morning, our time had now come to an end as we awoke to our last breakfast and a very easy and streamlined disembarkation. A quick Uber back to West Hollywood and we spent our time arranging PCR tests and discovering a little bit more of LA before out flight home on Fiji Airways. This trip was probably one I will remember forever. I cannot recommend enough.