There’s something magical about college football season — the crisp fall air, the buzz of excitement, the sea of school colors, and the traditions that have been passed down for generations. For me, it’s not just a game. It’s an experience, a celebration, and a reason to pack up and hit the road.
Why I Love College Football
College football is more than touchdowns and field goals. It’s about community, history, and tradition. Every school has its story, from fight songs that get stuck in your head to mascots that make you cheer a little louder.
For me, college football is a mix of nostalgia and excitement. Walking onto a campus full of fans, students, and alumni who bleed their school colors is something you can’t replicate anywhere else. The energy is contagious — you can feel it in the air, in the cheers, in the pre-game rituals.
Tailgating: The Ultimate Pre-Game Experience
Tailgating is a tradition all its own. Before the first whistle, fans gather in parking lots, on lawns, and near stadiums to eat, drink, play games, and share stories. Whether it’s grilling the perfect burger, tossing a football, or swapping travel tales with fellow fans, tailgating is where memories are made.
The smells, the laughter, the camaraderie — it’s the perfect kickoff to an unforgettable day. And let’s be honest, some of the best meals I’ve had on the road have been right out of a tailgate setup.
Campus Traditions: What Makes Each School Unique
Every college has traditions that make its football culture unforgettable:
The march of the band onto the field Cheers and chants that echo through the stands Unique pre-game rituals that you just have to witness to believe
These traditions give each school its identity. They’re what make returning to campus year after year feel like stepping into a living storybook.
And Of Course… The Ohio State Buckeyes!
As an Ohioan, there’s nothing quite like visiting the Horseshoe and cheering on The Ohio State Buckeyes. From the roar of the crowd to the pageantry of the marching band, every game is an adventure. The Buckeye pride is everywhere — the fans, the campus, even the food on game day.
There’s something special about experiencing a Buckeye game firsthand: the energy, the pageantry, and the pure love for the team. Whether it’s a thrilling win or a hard-fought game, walking away from the stadium feels like you’ve been part of something bigger than yourself.
Why College Football Adventures Are the Best Travel
College football trips combine everything I love about travel:
Exploring campuses full of history and charm Tailgating and meeting fellow fans Cheering on teams with energy that’s impossible to replicate anywhere else
It’s an adventure that feeds your love of travel and your love of football all at once. Each campus has its personality, each game brings a new memory, and each trip reminds me why I fell in love with the sport in the first place.
Until next time, I’m Brian — and remember to Take the Trip!
(And don’t forget to pack your jersey, your appetite, and your loudest cheer for the Buckeyes!)
When I think back on my travels, the sights are unforgettable — but let us be honest, the food often steals the show. There is something magical about sitting down in a new state, digging into a plate of their signature dish, and realizing that sometimes, the flavor alone was worth the trip.
And here is the thing: before I became a full-time traveler, I was a chef. Food was my first passport — the way I explored cultures, traditions, and family tables long before I ever hit the road with a suitcase. That chef’s curiosity has never left me. These days, when I travel, I am not just chasing landscapes and landmarks — I am chasing flavors, the kind that tells a story about the people who make them.
From seafood on the coast to slow-smoked BBQ in the South, every state in America has that one dish that stands out as its culinary crown jewel. So, whether you are planning a cross-country road trip, or just daydreaming about your next bite, here’s my list of one dish worth traveling for in every U.S. state.
Southern Comforts 🍑🍤🍗
Alabama – Fried Green Tomatoes
Golden, crispy, and tangy — a bite of Alabama’s culinary heart. As a chef, I will tell you the secret is keeping the breading light, so the tomato flavor shines.
Arkansas – Fried Catfish
Served with hushpuppies and coleslaw, it is comfort food at its best. Fresh oil and cornmeal breading make all the difference.
Georgia – Peach Cobbler
Juicy peaches tucked under a flaky crust — as sweet as Southern hospitality. Bonus chef tip: add a scoop of vanilla ice cream while it is still warm.
Kentucky – Hot Brown
Born in Louisville, this open-faced sandwich layers turkey, bacon, and cheesy Mornay sauce. It’s indulgent, messy, and pure Southern tradition.
Louisiana – Gumbo
Seafood, sausage, and a deep, dark roux. As a chef, I can tell you: patience makes the roux, and the roux makes the gumbo.
Mississippi – Fried Chicken
Crispy, seasoned just right, and juicy inside. The secret? Season the flour, not just the chicken.
North Carolina – Pulled Pork BBQ
Smoky pork with tangy vinegar sauce — East vs. West style is a debate worth tasting.
South Carolina – Shrimp and Grits
Creamy grits with buttery shrimp. Tip: order it at a Lowcountry spot by the water — you will never forget it.
Tennessee – Nashville Hot Chicken
Crispy, fiery, and unforgettable. Be warned: the heat is not just on the surface — it lingers.
Coastal Classics 🌊🦀🍋
Alaska – King Crab Legs
Fresh from icy waters, dipped in butter. The trick is simple: do not over steam them — let the natural sweetness do the work.
California – Fish Tacos
Baja-style with cabbage, cream, and salsa. The lime squeeze is non-negotiable.
Delaware – Scrapple
Pan-fried pork and cornmeal. It may not sound fancy, but a crispy sear transforms it.
Florida – Key Lime Pie
Tart, creamy, refreshing. Real Key limes make all the difference — bottled juice will not cut it.
Hawaii – Poke
Marinated tuna cubes with soy, sesame, and seaweed. Simple, fresh, and addictive.
Maine – Lobster Roll
Buttered or mayo-based, it is lobster heaven in a bun. My chef’s advice: order it warm with butter for peak flavor.
Maryland – Crab Cakes
Lump crab, minimal filler. Pro tip: if you see too much breading, it is not the real deal.
Massachusetts – Clam Chowder
Thick, creamy, brimming with clams. Do not forget the oyster crackers.
New Jersey – Pork Roll (Taylor Ham)
Breakfast sandwiches would not be the same without it. Ask for it crispy on the edges.
New York – Bagels with Lox
Chewy bagels, silky salmon, cream cheese, and capers. New York pride on a plate.
Rhode Island – Clam Cakes
Crispy on the outside, fluffy inside. Pair them with chowder for the full experience.
Washington – Salmon
Fresh Pacific salmon grilled or smoked. The chef in me says: cedar-plank grilling is the way to go.
Midwest Marvels 🌽🥧🥪
Illinois – Deep Dish Pizza
Cheesy, saucy, pie-like perfection. My advice: let it rest before slicing — molten cheese is lava hot.
Indiana – Breaded Pork Tenderloin Sandwich
The pork is bigger than the bun, and that’s part of the fun. Pounded thin, fried golden.
Iowa – Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich
Messy, beefy, simple. Think sloppy joe without the sauce.
Michigan – Coney Dog
Chili, mustard, onions — Detroit-style hot dogs have their own cult following.
Minnesota – Juicy Lucy
Cheese-stuffed burger. Warning: wait before biting or you will regret the lava-cheese burn.
Missouri – Toasted Ravioli
Crispy, breaded ravioli born in St. Louis. Marinara dipping sauce is mandatory.
Nebraska – Runza
A bread pocket stuffed with beef, cabbage, and onions. Road trip comfort food.
North Dakota – Knoephla Soup
Creamy dumpling soup, perfect for winter. Rich, hearty, and filling.
Ohio – Buckeye Candies
Chocolate-dipped peanut butter balls shaped like the state nut. Sweet, simple, and perfect for game day.
South Dakota – Chislic
Marinated cubes of fried meat, often served with a cold beer. Rustic and delicious.
Wisconsin – Cheese Curds
Fresh, squeaky, or fried. If they do not squeak, they are not fresh.
Kansas – Burnt Ends
Smoky, caramelized brisket tips from Kansas City BBQ. A pitmaster’s treasure.
Western Wonders 🏔️🥩🌮
Arizona – Chimichangas
A deep-fried burrito loaded with flavor. Tucson proudly claims the invention.
Colorado – Rocky Mountain Oysters
They’re not seafood, but they are a true Colorado rite of passage.
Idaho – Finger Steaks
Fried strips of beef. Simple, hearty, and a local favorite.
Montana – Bison Burger
Lean, rich, and best enjoyed with a mountain backdrop.
Nevada – Shrimp Cocktail (Vegas Style)
Casino-classic — over-the-top portions with plenty of cocktail sauce.
Oregon – Marionberry Pie
Sweet-tart Oregon berries baked into perfection. Local berries make all the difference.
Utah – Fry Sauce
Ketchup and mayo may sound simple, but Utah perfected it. Try it with fries — you will be hooked.
Vermont – Maple Creemee
Maple-flavored soft serve that’s sweet, light, and addictive.
Virginia – Ham Biscuits
Salty country ham stuffed into buttery biscuits. A small bite that packs big flavor.
West Virginia – Pepperoni Rolls
Portable and hearty, once a coal miner’s lunch. Still just as good on the go today.
Wyoming – Elk Steak
Lean, rich, gamey in the best way. Best cooked medium-rare to preserve flavor.
The Big Finish
That is 50 dishes, 50 states, and 50 excuses to pack your bags. Food is more than just fuel when you travel — it is culture, history, and tradition, all served on a plate. And speaking as a former chef, I can promise you: sometimes the best way to know a place is not through a museum or a monument, but through a meal.
So, whether you are slurping chowder in Boston, biting into hot chicken in Nashville, or savoring a lobster roll in Maine, remember: the trip is not complete until you’ve eaten what the locals swear by.
Until next time, I’m Brian — former chef, now traveler — and remember to Take the Trip!
(And maybe pack stretchy pants… trust me, you will thank me later.)
One of the best parts about road-tripping across America isn’t just the destinations — it’s the weird, wacky, and wonderful things you find along the way. Sure, you could stick to the big landmarks and postcard-perfect views… but where’s the fun in that? Sometimes, it’s the giant ball of yarn or the world’s biggest rocking chair that ends up being the highlight of your trip.
Travel is all about surprise — and trust me, the roadside has plenty of it. So buckle up, because we’re diving into America’s strangest roadside attractions — the quirky stops that make the journey just as memorable as the destination.
1. The World’s Largest Ball of Twine – Cawker City, Kansas
Yes, it’s literally a massive ball of string. Locals started it in the 1950s, and visitors can even add their own twine. It’s weird, it’s record-breaking, and it’s very, very round.
2. Carhenge – Alliance, Nebraska
Think Stonehenge, but instead of ancient stones, it’s vintage cars stacked in formation. It’s artistic, absurd, and oddly photogenic.
3. Cadillac Ranch – Amarillo, Texas
Ten Cadillacs half-buried nose-first in the desert. Visitors are encouraged to bring spray paint and add their mark — it’s interactive art meets roadside graffiti.
4. The Fremont Troll – Seattle, Washington
Underneath a bridge in Seattle lives a giant cement troll clutching a Volkswagen Beetle. It’s part creepy, part charming, and definitely selfie-worthy.
5. Lucy the Elephant – Margate City, New Jersey
Standing six stories tall, Lucy is a giant elephant-shaped building from the 1800s. You can actually climb inside her and head up to the howdah (that’s the seat on top). Talk about jumbo-sized roadside fun.
6. Salvation Mountain – Niland, California
A technicolor mountain made of adobe, straw, and paint, covered in murals and messages of love. It’s bright, bizarre, and one of the most photographed spots in the desert.
7. The Big Duck – Flanders, New York
It’s exactly what it sounds like: a giant duck building, originally a poultry store. It’s quacky, it’s kitschy, and it’s a Long Island icon.
8. Foamhenge – Centreville, Virginia
Because why settle for Stonehenge or Carhenge when you can have… foam? Yep, it’s a full-sized replica of the famous site, crafted entirely out of styrofoam.
9. The Mystery Spot – Santa Cruz, California
A “gravitational anomaly” where balls roll uphill and people appear to stand at impossible angles. Science may explain it, but it’s more fun to just scratch your head and enjoy the illusion.
10. Bishop Castle – Rye, Colorado
One man spent decades hand-building this giant, quirky stone castle in the middle of nowhere. It’s part fairytale, part Frankenstein’s workshop, complete with dragon sculptures.
Why Stop for the Strange?
Because travel isn’t just about the places everyone expects you to go. It’s about the surprises that make you laugh, scratch your head, and tell stories later. Sure, you might not need to see a giant duck in your lifetime — but wouldn’t life be more fun if you did?
These roadside oddities are proof that America is full of creativity, eccentricity, and just plain weirdness. And honestly, that’s what makes the journey unforgettable.
So next time you’re cruising down the highway and see a sign for the “world’s biggest something,” don’t just speed past it. Pull over, snap a photo, and add it to your road trip memories. Because anyone can say they’ve seen the Statue of Liberty… but how many people can brag about climbing inside a six-story elephant or spray-painting a Cadillac in the Texas desert?
Until next time, I’m Brian — and remember to Take the Trip!
(And here’s my rule of thumb: if it looks strange enough to make you laugh, it’s worth stopping for.)
We all have that one trip that sticks with us — the one that makes us laugh, gasp, and fall in love with the world all over again. Maybe it was a spontaneous weekend getaway, a family vacation, or a long-planned adventure halfway across the globe. Whatever it was, it is a story worth telling.
For me, some of my favorite trips have been the ones where the unexpected moments stole the show — like stumbling upon a quirky roadside attraction, catching a sunset that took my breath away, or discovering a little local diner that served the perfect meal. Those are the moments that make travel unforgettable.
But now, it is your turn.
Where did you go? What made that trip so special? Was it the people you met, the food you tried, or the breathtaking sights? I want to hear it all.
Please share your adventures in the comments — I cannot wait to read about your trips, relive the excitement through your stories, and maybe even get inspired for my next adventure.
Travel is about more than just the destinations; it is about the memories we make along the way. So go ahead — tell me about the trip that made you smile, laugh, or just feel alive.
Until next time, I am Brian — and remember to Take the Trip!
(And do not hold back… I am ready for all the stories!
When I first started Take the Trip, I did not set out to become a “blogger.” I was not chasing views, clicks, or likes. What I really wanted was a way to share my love of travel — the hidden gems, the roadside surprises, the meals worth remembering, and the stories that make a trip more than just a trip.
It began with a simple idea: life is too short to keep putting things off. Too often, we all say, “Someday I will go there. Someday I will try that.” But “someday” is not on the calendar. So, I wanted to encourage people (myself included) to stop waiting and just… take the trip.
What’s Changed Along the Way
When I started writing, I thought it would just be a collection of travel notes — a sort of journal. But something shifted. The blog became more than a record of where I have been — it turned into a way to connect with others who share the same excitement for exploring.
I have learned that the little details — like a late-night breakfast at Waffle House or stumbling across a quirky roadside attraction — are what people relate to most. Big landmarks are great, but it is often the small, unexpected moments that stick with us. That realization has changed the way I write, and honestly, the way I travel too.
What I am Looking Forward To
Travel is about momentum, and I have got some exciting trips ahead:
The Tunnel of Trees near Mackinac Island – A road trip that is all about winding roads, fall colors, and that cozy Midwest charm. Sometimes, the journey really is the destination. An Alaska Cruise – This one’s been on my list for a long time. Glaciers, whales, rugged coastlines — it is going to be a completely different kind of adventure. And Who Knows Where Else? – That is the best part. I do not always know where the next trip will take me — and I like it that way. The freedom to say “yes” to new opportunities is half the fun.
Why I Keep Going
I did not start Take the Trip just to document my travels. I started it because I believe travel changes you — it pushes you outside your comfort zone, gives you stories to tell, and reminds you how big and beautiful the world really is.
And every time I share a blog or a video, my hope is that it inspires someone else to stop waiting for “someday” and make their own journey happen — whether it is a weekend getaway under $100 or a once-in-a-lifetime cruise to Alaska.
Until next time, I am Brian — and remember to Take the Trip!
(Because the best stories are the ones you have not written yet.)
Who says you need a first-class ticket and a five-star hotel to enjoy travel? The truth is, you do not have to spend a fortune to explore new places and make lasting memories. Sometimes, the best trips are the ones that cost the least — all it takes is a little creativity, planning, and willingness to think outside the box.
So, if you are itching to get away but your wallet is whispering “not today,” do not worry. Here is how you can plan weekend getaways under $100 and still travel big on a small budget.
1. Pick Nearby Destinations
You do not have to fly across the country to feel like you have escaped your everyday routine. Look within a two-hour drive of home — that way, you will save on gas and time. Small towns, state parks, and even quirky roadside attractions (yes, like that world’s largest ball of twine) can make for a surprisingly fun weekend.
Pro tip: Search for “hidden gems near me” or “day trips from [your city]” and you will uncover more options than you expect.
2. Take Advantage of Free (or Nearly Free) Fun
Museums with free admission days, festivals, farmers markets, hiking trails, city walking tours — you would be surprised how many activities cost little to nothing. Some cities even have free concerts or outdoor movies during the summer months.
Pro tip: Check the local tourism website for free events before you go — locals know how to stretch a dollar!
3. Rethink Lodging
Forget fancy hotels — you are not moving in; you are just sleeping. Options like hostels, campgrounds, or budget motels can keep costs down. If you are more adventurous, try car camping or even renting a cabin in a state park (often under $50 a night).
Pro tip: Apps like Hotel Tonight sometimes have last-minute deals that can snag you a bed without busting your budget.
4. Pack Your Own Snacks
Travel expenses add up fast when you’re buying every meal out. Pack a cooler with sandwiches, fruit, and drinks. Splurge on one fun local meal, but let your snacks carry you the rest of the way.
Pro tip: Grocery store delis often have grab-and-go local favorites for cheap — better than fast food and easier on the budget.
5. Travel with Friends
When you split gas, lodging, and even food, your dollar goes twice as far. Plus, road trips are always more fun with a little company and shared laughs.
Pro tip: Rotate who drives, who brings snacks, and who is in charge of the playlist — that way, everyone pitches in.
Example Weekend Trips for Under $100
Nature Escape: $20 gas + $30 campground fee + $30 groceries + $20 hiking permits/treats = $100 Small Town Adventure: $25 gas + $50 budget motel + $25 meals = $100 City on the Cheap: $30 gas + $40 last-minute hostel + $30 street food/free events = $100
Travel Big, Spend Small
Travel is not about how much money you spend — it is about how many memories you make. With a little planning and creativity, you can see more, do more, and spend less. A weekend away for under $100 is not just possible — it might end up being your favorite trip of all.
Until next time, I am Brian — and remember to Take the Trip!
(And hey, if you save enough on this weekend getaway, maybe you can put the extra toward the next one.)
One of the best rules I have learned while traveling is this: when in doubt, order the local special. Sure, it might look strange on the menu, or you might have to ask the waiter to repeat it three times, but that’s part of the adventure. And trust me — it usually pays off.
Here is why saying “yes” to the local favorite is one of the smartest things you can do on a trip.
1. You Discover Hidden Gems
I once visited a small seaside town where I could not even begin to pronounce half the menu. I pointed to a dish the waiter recommended — some kind of fish stew with herbs I had never heard of. Fast forward 10 minutes: the most flavorful, comforting, and downright unforgettable meal of my life was sitting in front of me. I would never have found it if I had played it safe.
2. It is a Shortcut to Authenticity
Tourist traps often serve the same “safe” dishes no matter where you go. Ordering the local special is your shortcut to authenticity. You will taste what the locals are proud of, not what the guidebooks say you should try. Bonus: you can feel like a culinary insider, even if your pronunciation is way off.
3. It Makes Ordering Fun
Pointing, guessing, mispronouncing is all part of the experience. One time in Italy, I tried ordering a pasta dish I could not say correctly. The waiter laughed, corrected me, and suddenly we were swapping stories about food, family, and travel. Sometimes the magic is in the interaction, not just the food.
4. You Might Surprise Yourself
I have been hesitant before — maybe the dish looked strange, maybe it sounded exotic, maybe I was scared of “spicy” turning into “flaming disaster.” But 9 times out of 10, I have been blown away. Your taste buds might discover a new favorite that you cannot even spell, let alone pronounce.
5. It is a Story Worth Telling
Whether it is mispronouncing “Ratatouille” in Paris or bravely ordering something unidentifiable in Thailand, these meals become stories. They are the moments you laugh about, Instagram about, and remember years later — not the safe salads you ate at chain restaurants.
Final Thoughts
Travel is about exploration — and food is one of the most delicious ways to explore. Do not be afraid to take a chance, point at a dish, or mumble through a menu. You might discover flavors you never imagined, meet locals who make the experience unforgettable, and come home with a story that’s way better than “I had a burger for lunch.” not that there is anything wrong with a Burger.
Until next time, I am Brian — and remember to Take the Trip!
(And do not worry if you butcher the pronunciation — your stomach does not judge.)
Travel is supposed to be all sunsets, selfies, and stress-free memories… until you add other people into the mix. Do not get me wrong traveling with your partner, your best buddies, or a whole squad can be amazing. But each comes with its own unique set of perks, pitfalls, and let’s-call-it-what-it-is drama.
Let us break it down.
Traveling as a Couple
Pros:
Built-in adventure buddy. Someone is always there to split the dessert or snap your picture without rolling their eyes. Romantic moments. Sunrise coffee on the balcony, strolling through cobblestone streets—instant rom-com vibes. Easier decision-making. Two people, one dinner choice. At least, in theory.
Cons:
Arguments over small stuff. Nothing tests love like deciding whether to spend $100 on an excursion or save it for cocktails. Zero alone time. Unless you count locking yourself in the bathroom for five minutes of peace. Different travel styles. One of you wants to sleep in; the other booked a 7 a.m. walking tour. Uh oh.
Drama Potential: Low to Medium. Unless someone gets hangry—then all bets are off.
Traveling with Friends
Pros:
Shared memories. Inside jokes from that one night out will live forever. Split costs. Airbnb and Uber rides feel way cheaper when divided by four. Built-in nightlife crew. No need to dance alone—unless that is your thing.
Cons:
Different budgets. One friend wants five-star dining, another wants $2 tacos. Cue tension. Too many opinions. “Where should we eat?” can become a 45-minute debate. Vacation habits collide. Early birds vs. night owls, beach loungers vs. museum hoppers—it is a battle.
Drama Potential: Medium to High. Friendships can survive a lot, but lost luggage and bad Wi-Fi test even the strongest bonds.
Traveling with a Group
Pros:
Built-in party. Every dinner feels like an event. Safety in numbers. Someone always knows where the nearest bathroom is. Diverse vibes. Want to shop? Hike? Nap? With a big group, you will always find at least one person who is on your wavelength.
Cons:
Logistics nightmare. Try getting ten people to agree on a dinner time, it is like herding caffeinated cats. Clique drama. Sub-groups form, and suddenly it feels like middle school again. Slow pace. Everything takes longer—boarding buses, ordering food, even leaving the hotel lobby.
Drama Potential: High. At least one person will get mad, one person will disappear, and one person will swear they are “never traveling with a group again.”
Final Thought
Whether you are holding hands, road-tripping with friends, or rolling deep with a group of 12, the truth is: travel will always have its highs and lows. The key? Know your people, manage expectations, and laugh off the little stuff. At the end of the day, the memories (and stories about the drama) will be worth it.
Until next time, I am Brian — and remember to Take the Trip!
(And maybe pack some extra patience if you are traveling with a group… you will need it.)
When you book a cruise, you are not just signing up for ocean views, pool decks, and questionable karaoke nights—you are also signing up for a week (or more) of all-you-can-eat everything. Cruise lines love to brag about their dining options, and yes, some of them live up to the hype. But let us be real: not every plate that comes your way is a winner.
So, here’s the truth about cruise food, what shines, what sinks, and why that slice of midnight pizza somehow tastes like the best thing you have ever eaten.
The Hits
1. Specialty Dining
Steakhouses, sushi bars, and chef’s table experiences are where cruises flex their culinary muscles. These spots usually cost extra, but they are worth it if you want a break from the buffet line and a chance to taste something that feels like a “night out.”
2. Breakfast on the Balcony
Room service coffee and croissants while the sun rises over the ocean. That is cruise magic. It is not about the food being Michelin-starred—it is about the moment.
3. The Fresh Fruit & Seafood
Caribbean cruise? Expect pineapple and mango that actually taste like sunshine. Alaskan cruise? Bring on the salmon. When cruise lines tap into local ports, the flavors shine.
The Misses
1. Buffet Roulette
Some days the buffet hits you with juicy carved roast beef and made-to-order pasta. Other days? Mystery meat, lukewarm mashed potatoes, and mac ’n’ cheese that could double as spackle.
2. Desserts That Look Better Than They Taste
sweet food on a cruise ship restaurant
Cruise dessert trays are like Instagram filters: they look stunning, but sometimes that gorgeous mousse has less flavor than the napkin it is sitting on.
3. “International” Night
Bless their hearts for trying, but cruise versions of Mexican, Indian, or Asian dishes can sometimes taste like they were created by someone who once skimmed a cookbook in the gift shop.
The Legend of Midnight Pizza
Here is the thing: no matter how full you are, no matter how many courses you’ve had at dinner, at some point you will find yourself wandering the ship at 11:47 PM. You will smell it before you see it—fresh, cheesy, greasy slices of pizza waiting under heat lamps.
And somehow, at sea, this pizza becomes the best thing you have ever eaten. Is it the ocean air? The late-night vibes? Or the fact that you did not have to cook it? Who cares—it is the one cruise food that rarely disappoints.
Final Thought
Cruise food is a lot like cruising itself: sometimes it is five-star, sometimes it is a little rough around the edges—but it is always part of the adventure. Go in with realistic expectations, splurge where it counts, and never underestimate the power of a hot slice after midnight.
Until next time, I am Brian — and remember to Take the Trip!
(And maybe pack some stretchy pants… the midnight pizza does not mess around.)
So, you bought the drink package. Whether it was part of a promo or a “treat your’ self” moment, you’re now the proud owner of what feels like an all-access pass to booze, mocktails, sodas, smoothies, and fancy coffee that costs more than your first car payment back home.
But now comes the real challenge: getting your money’s worth—without becoming a cautionary tale on the Lido Deck. Here is how to sip smarter, stay upright, and cruise like a drink package VIP.
1. Do the Math (Before You Hit the Bar)
First, figure out what your drink package actually covers. Most include:
Alcoholic drinks up to a certain price (usually $10–$15 each) Fountain sodas Specialty coffee and teas Bottled water and sparkling water Smoothies or mocktails (depending on the package)
Let us say your package costs $65/day. You would need to drink about 5–7 beverages a day to break even. Pro tip: Start early (but not too early unless mimosa math is part of your vacation goals).
2. Use It All Day, Not Just at Night
Most cruisers make the mistake of treating the drink package like a happy hour pass. Big mistake. Start the day with a latte at the café, grab a fresh juice or smoothie after the gym (even if you just walked past it), sip a soda by the pool, then roll into the frozen drinks and cocktails as the sun sets.
Remember: It is not just about rum punches—this is an all-day beverage buffet.
3. Stay Hydrated Like a Champ
Yes, water counts. Bottled water is usually included and perfect for shore excursions or rehydrating after too many poolside piña coladas. Ask for one (or two!) with every alcoholic drink. Your liver will thank you. Your tomorrow self will thank you. And you will avoid waking up feeling like a sunburnt raisin in the Caribbean.
4. Explore the Menu Like It is a Treasure Map
Try the weird cocktail you would not normally pay $14 for. Order the espresso martini with confidence. Sample the smoky bourbon, the trendy hard seltzer, or that mocktail with five fruit garnishes and a sprig of something you cannot pronounce.
Cruise bars often have unique menus, and your drink package gives you permission to live a little. Or a lot. Just skip the flaming ones unless you trust your balance.
5. Know the Limits (and the Fine Print)
Most drink packages come with a daily drink limit—usually around 15 alcoholic drinks. That sounds like a lot until you are deep in a karaoke battle with a margarita in each hand. Pace yourself. Also, sharing your package = big no-no. If your bartender catches you trying to order for someone else, you might lose your privileges faster than you can say “Mai Tai.”
6. Find the Hidden Bars
Do not just stick to the pool bars—explore! Most cruise ships have hidden gems: wine bars, tequila tastings, champagne lounges, and coffee spots tucked away like secret hideouts. And yes, your drink package often covers those too. The bar at the steakhouse? Covered. The cocktail bar with the lavender foam martini? Still covered.
Make it a game: How many bars can you try in one day? (Responsibly, of course.)
7. Use the App or Cruise Compass
Keep an eye on the daily drink specials, mixology demos, and free tastings. Some ships even offer bonus perks like martini classes or whiskey flights—these may not always be fully covered by the drink package, but they are usually discounted or worth a splurge if you are curious. 8. Do not Forget Room Service & Private Island Perks
Some drink packages extend to room service beverages or even private islands owned by the cruise line. That is right, you might be able to enjoy your unlimited frozen mojitos while staring at the ocean from a hammock on a beach that smells like sunscreen and dreams.
Final Sip of Wisdom
The drink package is not just a financial decision, it is a lifestyle. One that says: “Yes, I will have an iced caramel macchiato after my Bloody Mary, thank you very much.” Just remember to enjoy responsibly, hydrate often, and tip your bartenders—they work hard so you can party harder.
Cheers to sipping your way through the high seas like the cruise pro you were always meant to be.
Take the Trip, your Next Adventure is waiting.
Have a favorite cruise cocktail or a drink package hack? Share it below! Bonus points if it involves a coconut, an umbrella, or both.
