Tucked away in the Solarium, Samba Grill is one of Royal Caribbean’s most overlooked specialty dining venues. We tried it on Allure of the Seas and were surprised by the calm atmosphere, excellent service, and non-stop parade of grilled meats. But was it worth the extra cost? Here’s what we thought—including what’s on the menu, what you’ll pay, and the one dish we’d return for in a heartbeat.
Planning a cruise from Portsmouth but not sure how to get there from London or the airport? In this guide, we break down the fastest, cheapest, and easiest ways to reach Portsmouth Cruise Terminal from London, Heathrow, and Gatwick—including travel times, prices, and our personal tips from experience. Whether you’re arriving by train, coach, or car, we’ve got you covered.
After its huge $100 million makeover, Allure of the Seas feels fresh and revitalized — but what about Royal Caribbean’s new Junior Sky Suite? We sailed in one on a 7-night Med cruise, and in this post (with video and photos), we share exactly what it’s like. From stained curtains and disappointing service to a gorgeous balcony and great storage, here’s the good, the bad, and whether it’s worth the price.
One of the standout new venues aboard Allure of the Seas is The Mason Jar—a Southern-style specialty restaurant serving up bold flavours, big portions, and live country music. We paid for the experience ourselves—here’s our honest review.
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Cruise Planning Essentials.
Looking to pack smarter for your next cruise? Our ultimate packing guide covers everything from essential gadgets to clever extras you might not have thought of—like travel-sized fans for stuffy cabins, waterproof pouches for beach days, and even magnetic hooks to keep things tidy. We’ve spent years refining this list so you can cruise stress-free and enjoy every moment onboard. Let’s get packing!
Cruising in 2025? Don’t set sail without reading our top cruise tips! From when to book and what to pack, to money-saving cruise hacks and onboard advice—here’s everything you need to cruise smarter and stress-free this year.
Packing for a cruise doesn’t have to be stressful! In this step-by-step guide, we share everything you need to know to pack like a pro—whether it’s your first sailing or your hundredth. From luggage and essentials to what you should leave at home, this 2025 cruise packing guide ensures you’re prepared for every adventure that awaits at sea.