{"id":8574,"date":"2025-06-11T10:11:30","date_gmt":"2025-06-11T14:11:30","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/?p=8574"},"modified":"2025-06-11T11:59:38","modified_gmt":"2025-06-11T15:59:38","slug":"world-cruise-post-cruise-in-summary-thoughts-and-lessons","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/?p=8574","title":{"rendered":"World Cruise &#8211; Post Cruise &#8211; In Summary&#8230;.(thoughts and lessons)"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t<div data-elementor-type=\"wp-post\" data-elementor-id=\"8574\" class=\"elementor elementor-8574\" data-elementor-post-type=\"post\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-28f5fe4c e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"28f5fe4c\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-3500cd7c elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"3500cd7c\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><strong>We Had a Fabulous Cruise Around the World!<\/strong><\/p><p>We just returned from an unforgettable world cruise with Viking, and I wanted to share some thoughts for anyone considering a journey like this. Whether you&#8217;re dreaming of a future voyage or already planning one, here are some lessons learned and insights to help guide your adventure.<\/p><ol><li><strong> Cabin Size Isn\u2019t Everything<\/strong><\/li><\/ol><p>We had a Penthouse Veranda, and it was plenty roomy for a world cruise\u2014even with our tendency to overpack. Some staterooms might feel tight, but the ship itself is spacious, with plenty of areas to spread out and relax. You\u2019re not confined to your cabin, and that makes a big difference. The ship is comfortable with quiet elegance and provides ample private spaces to read, relax and watch the ocean. Even with the ship at full capacity (+930 guests) it never felt crowded and often felt like we had the entire ship to ourselves.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p><ol start=\"2\"><li><strong> Demographics: Expect Wisdom, Not Youth<\/strong><\/li><\/ol><p>Most guests are in their 70s or 80s. At just over 60, we felt like the \u201cyoungsters\u201d onboard. We were able to find people of our age and younger. Everyone had incredible life stories and travel experiences. You will enjoy the conversations and hearing about where people live. Just be prepared for a slower group pace when traveling on a cruise offered excursion with fellow Viking guests.<\/p><ol start=\"3\"><li><strong> It\u2019s a Marathon, Not a Sprint<\/strong><\/li><\/ol><p>It takes a few days to adjust to the rhythm of a world cruise. There\u2019s no need to rush. You\u2019ll quickly realize there\u2019s enough time to do (almost) everything you want, so embrace the pace and let the relaxation set in. The cruise staff is very friendly, excellent and so wonderful, you will get spoiled.\u00a0<\/p><ol start=\"4\"><li><strong> You Will Find Your Tribe<\/strong><\/li><\/ol><p>Whether you\u2019re into music, art, walking, early-morning yoga, trivia, puzzles, or just a pre-dinner cocktails\u2014your people are out there. Give it a few days and show up to group events, even if you&#8217;re not socially outgoing around strangers. Join trivia or other social activities, and don\u2019t be afraid to sit down with someone new. Most folks are as eager to connect as you are. It also can be noted that in the restaurant, the dinning tables are close enough that the proximity provides opportunities to meet new people and have conversations.\u00a0<\/p><ol start=\"5\"><li><strong> Sea Days Become Gold<\/strong><\/li><\/ol><p>At first, you might feel like you should be doing something every day. However, soon enough sea days become your favorites.\u00a0 After long days of walking tours and excursions, you\u2019ll appreciate the day or two at sea. On sea days we really enjoyed the enrichment lectures on culture\/history, art classes, playing board and meeting others for a friendly card game. The lectures we may have missed were caught up with replays on our cabin&#8217;s TV.\u00a0<\/p><ol start=\"6\"><li><strong> Medical Checkups Prior To Long Cruises Like This<\/strong><\/li><\/ol><p>Before your trip, schedule a full check-up with your doctor and dentist.\u00a0 Bring a copy of your medical history and talk through any &#8220;what if&#8221; scenarios. A world cruise is not the time to discover an undiagnosed condition. Obtain waiver on prescriptions 2-3 weeks in advance of the cruise to have enough medications for the entire trip plus maybe a few days extra for any travel delays.\u00a0 Finally, although expensive, get travel insurance and understand your coverage.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p><ol start=\"7\"><li><strong> You Can\u2019t Do It All\u2014and That\u2019s OK<\/strong><\/li><\/ol><p>You&#8217;ll arrive with a list of 100 things you want to do, but realistically, you\u2019ll have the time and energy for maybe a quarter of them. Stay flexible, focus on what brings you joy, and be open to trying a few new things just for fun.\u00a0 Prior to the Viking cruise, the shore excursions open up and often the favorites are sold out fast &#8211; but Don\u2019t fret &#8211; often spots open up during the cruise and you can check with shore excursions to get on the wait list once on board. Spa service reservations are often tough to get on sea days, but are possible.\u00a0 Spa appointments are readily available for when in port and around all aboard time (nothing better to wind down from a busy port excursion than a massage).<\/p><ol start=\"8\"><li><strong> Concern of Gaining Weight? It\u2019s Manageable<\/strong><\/li><\/ol><p>At first, the food and buffets are irresistible. But over time, you\u2019ll naturally moderate. Many couples said they adjusted to just two meals a day\u2014usually an early lunch and dinner\u2014with morning coffee just to \u201creach cruising altitude.\u201d Walking the stairs helps too!\u00a0 Eating in Chef&#8217;s table where the food portions are small and delicious keeping you on track. Walking on the deck, morning yoga, stretching and water exercise classes coupled with a complete gym allow you to keep fit.\u00a0 Most cruisers find they gain little or no weight during a world cruise.<\/p><ol start=\"9\"><li><strong> Taking Photos &#8211; Your iPhone is Enough<\/strong><\/li><\/ol><p>Leave the bulky camera gear at home. Today\u2019s smartphones take incredible photos and videos. Just make sure to have an external hard drive or a solid iCloud plan, because ship internet is too slow for big backups. Take a photography class or watch some tutorials\u2014it\u2019s worth it.<\/p><ol start=\"10\"><li><strong> Overpacking Happens\u2014Don\u2019t Sweat It<\/strong><\/li><\/ol><p>Even seasoned travelers overpack.\u00a0 Two weeks in, no one cares what you\u2019re wearing (and you\u2019ll wear the same outfits more than once). You\u2019ll collect t-shirts and other casual wear along the way. You don\u2019t need a sport coat or suit unless you really enjoy dressing up. Nice slacks\/shirts\/simple dress for women is great and no need to bring fancy jewelry. There is self service laundry on most floors and the ship provided laundry service is affordable and quick. The ship even has an expert tailor should you need something fixed or adjusted.\u00a0 As the cruise get closer to disembarkation, we recommend donating clothes to staff. You quickly learn that you can live with less &#8220;stuff&#8221;.\u00a0<\/p><ol start=\"11\"><li><strong> Pack a Mini Pharmacy<\/strong><\/li><\/ol><p>Beyond basic toiletries, do bring your own medications and a small kit of essentials: Band-Aids, bug spray, Pepto, sea sickness patches, skin creams, sunscreen, a Z-pack\/antibiotics (for tummy issues &#8211; ask your doctor), Pain relief, Benadryl, allergy medicine and anything else you typically use. Eye drops are recommended since the ocean breezes dry out the eyes and other areas may be simply drier than your used to. Having these on hand can be a lifesaver since they may not be available in other parts of the world.<\/p><ol start=\"12\"><li><strong> Excursions: Viking vs. Independent<\/strong><\/li><\/ol><p>Viking\u2019s excursions are convenient and include some exclusive experiences\u2014but they can be crowded and pricey. For a more personalized, faster paces (and budget-friendly) experience, check out third-party providers like Viator, Getyourguide and tours by locals. Just be mindful of return times\u2014though in our experience, it was rarely a problem.<\/p><ol start=\"13\"><li><strong> Currency<\/strong><\/li><\/ol><p>Most locations take credit cards for purchases. While plentiful, ATM fees are steep. Major cities with good transit options (Sydney&#8217;s ferries, London underground, etc..) allow you tap-on\/tap-off using your credit cards the electronic chip embedded.\u00a0 While locals may prefer tips in local currency, the American dollar is widely accepted in well developed tourist areas. If your destination, has not developed tourism sufficiently (i.e.. remote parts of Africa), think of having some cash on hand purchasing currency before the trip and take advantage of favorable exchange rates .\u00a0\u00a0<\/p><p>A world cruise is an extraordinary adventure, and Viking does a fantastic job delivering a luxurious, enriching experience. You\u2019ll see incredible places, meet fascinating people, and learn more about yourself than you ever expected. Keep a journal, (even write a blog), take as many digital pictures are you can, collect memorabilia and keep family up to date on your adventure.\u00a0 Just take it slow, pack wisely, and savor every moment.<\/p><p>Happy cruising!<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-a51c5f5 e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"a51c5f5\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-0dbaff8 elementor-arrows-position-outside elementor-pagination-position-outside elementor-widget elementor-widget-image-carousel\" data-id=\"0dbaff8\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-settings=\"{&quot;slides_to_show&quot;:&quot;2&quot;,&quot;image_spacing_custom&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:24,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;navigation&quot;:&quot;both&quot;,&quot;autoplay&quot;:&quot;yes&quot;,&quot;pause_on_hover&quot;:&quot;yes&quot;,&quot;pause_on_interaction&quot;:&quot;yes&quot;,&quot;autoplay_speed&quot;:5000,&quot;infinite&quot;:&quot;yes&quot;,&quot;speed&quot;:500,&quot;image_spacing_custom_tablet_extra&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;image_spacing_custom_tablet&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;image_spacing_custom_mobile_extra&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;image_spacing_custom_mobile&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]}}\" data-widget_type=\"image-carousel.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-image-carousel-wrapper swiper\" role=\"region\" aria-roledescription=\"carousel\" aria-label=\"Image Carousel\" dir=\"ltr\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-image-carousel swiper-wrapper\" aria-live=\"off\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"swiper-slide\" role=\"group\" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"1 of 33\"><figure class=\"swiper-slide-inner\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"swiper-slide-image\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Screenshot-2024-12-10-094542.webp?fit=768%2C471&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"This is a graphic of Our planned route - - the full length of the Viking World cruise is from Fort Lauderdale to New York City, but we will disembarking at London and spending some time there before flying home.\" \/><figcaption class=\"elementor-image-carousel-caption\">This is a graphic of Our planned route - - the full length of the Viking World cruise is from Fort Lauderdale to New York City, but we will disembarking at London and spending some time there before flying home.<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"swiper-slide\" role=\"group\" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"2 of 33\"><figure class=\"swiper-slide-inner\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"swiper-slide-image\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/img_0998.jpg?fit=768%2C1024&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"Our cabin a penthouse veranda - very roomy and lots of storage\" \/><figcaption class=\"elementor-image-carousel-caption\">Our cabin a penthouse veranda - very roomy and lots of storage<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"swiper-slide\" role=\"group\" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"3 of 33\"><figure class=\"swiper-slide-inner\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"swiper-slide-image\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/img_1024.jpg?fit=768%2C1024&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"On the dock at Cozumel we get a good photo of our ship, the Viking Sky\" \/><figcaption class=\"elementor-image-carousel-caption\">On the dock at Cozumel we get a good photo of our ship, the Viking Sky<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"swiper-slide\" role=\"group\" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"4 of 33\"><figure class=\"swiper-slide-inner\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"swiper-slide-image\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/img_1323-1.jpg?fit=768%2C1367&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"Look who\u2019s driving the ship!\" \/><figcaption class=\"elementor-image-carousel-caption\">Look who\u2019s driving the ship! <\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"swiper-slide\" role=\"group\" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"5 of 33\"><figure class=\"swiper-slide-inner\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"swiper-slide-image\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/img_1056.jpg?fit=768%2C576&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"Sea days - great time for a cooking class and meet some nice people\" \/><figcaption class=\"elementor-image-carousel-caption\">Sea days - great time for a cooking class and meet some nice people<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"swiper-slide\" role=\"group\" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"6 of 33\"><figure class=\"swiper-slide-inner\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"swiper-slide-image\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/img_1371-1.jpg?fit=768%2C1364&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"New Years Day buffet\" \/><figcaption class=\"elementor-image-carousel-caption\">New Years Day buffet<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"swiper-slide\" role=\"group\" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"7 of 33\"><figure class=\"swiper-slide-inner\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"swiper-slide-image\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/img_1793.jpg?fit=768%2C576&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"Beaches in Kauai is beautiful\" \/><figcaption class=\"elementor-image-carousel-caption\">Beaches in Kauai is beautiful<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"swiper-slide\" role=\"group\" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"8 of 33\"><figure class=\"swiper-slide-inner\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"swiper-slide-image\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/img_2373.jpg?fit=768%2C576&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"Wonderful dinner with new friends\" \/><figcaption class=\"elementor-image-carousel-caption\">Wonderful dinner with new friends<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"swiper-slide\" role=\"group\" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"9 of 33\"><figure class=\"swiper-slide-inner\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"swiper-slide-image\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/img_1904.jpg?fit=768%2C1024&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"noontime trivia on sea days was a must do\" \/><figcaption class=\"elementor-image-carousel-caption\">noontime trivia on sea days was a must do<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"swiper-slide\" role=\"group\" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"10 of 33\"><figure class=\"swiper-slide-inner\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"swiper-slide-image\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/img_2533.jpg?fit=768%2C1024&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"Excursions!\" \/><figcaption class=\"elementor-image-carousel-caption\">Excursions!<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"swiper-slide\" role=\"group\" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"11 of 33\"><figure class=\"swiper-slide-inner\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"swiper-slide-image\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/img_5459.jpg?fit=768%2C627&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"Sea day dinner with friends at chefs table\" \/><figcaption class=\"elementor-image-carousel-caption\">Sea day dinner with friends at chefs table<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"swiper-slide\" role=\"group\" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"12 of 33\"><figure class=\"swiper-slide-inner\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"swiper-slide-image\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/img_3356.jpg?fit=768%2C1024&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"Cruising the Arsfura sea\" \/><figcaption class=\"elementor-image-carousel-caption\">Cruising the Arsfura sea<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"swiper-slide\" role=\"group\" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"13 of 33\"><figure class=\"swiper-slide-inner\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"swiper-slide-image\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/img_3566.jpg?fit=768%2C1024&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"Getting ready for the Indonesian dinner and dance\" \/><figcaption class=\"elementor-image-carousel-caption\">Getting ready for the Indonesian dinner and dance<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"swiper-slide\" role=\"group\" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"14 of 33\"><figure class=\"swiper-slide-inner\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"swiper-slide-image\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/img_4987.jpg?fit=768%2C581&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"Pre-diner glass of wine with some fabulous people!\" \/><figcaption class=\"elementor-image-carousel-caption\">Pre-diner glass of wine with some fabulous people!<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"swiper-slide\" role=\"group\" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"15 of 33\"><figure class=\"swiper-slide-inner\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"swiper-slide-image\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/img_5416.jpg?fit=768%2C1024&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"Maria, \nGina and Chuck at poolside diner! Delicious!\" \/><figcaption class=\"elementor-image-carousel-caption\">Maria, \nGina and Chuck at poolside diner! Delicious! <\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"swiper-slide\" role=\"group\" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"16 of 33\"><figure class=\"swiper-slide-inner\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"swiper-slide-image\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/img_3892.jpg?fit=768%2C576&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"Our group of guests for the 4x4 ride\" \/><figcaption class=\"elementor-image-carousel-caption\">Our group of guests for the 4x4 ride<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"swiper-slide\" role=\"group\" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"17 of 33\"><figure class=\"swiper-slide-inner\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"swiper-slide-image\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/img_4465.jpg?fit=768%2C576&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"Noontime triva team!\" \/><figcaption class=\"elementor-image-carousel-caption\">Noontime triva team!<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"swiper-slide\" role=\"group\" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"18 of 33\"><figure class=\"swiper-slide-inner\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"swiper-slide-image\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/img_6078-1.jpg?fit=768%2C1024&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"Harry the piano - a real talent - actually did name that tune for one trivia day - he is amazing on the piano!\" \/><figcaption class=\"elementor-image-carousel-caption\">Harry the piano - a real talent - actually did name that tune for one trivia day - he is amazing on the piano!<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"swiper-slide\" role=\"group\" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"19 of 33\"><figure class=\"swiper-slide-inner\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"swiper-slide-image\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/img_5209.jpg?fit=768%2C1024&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"Trolley ride with Karen and Chuck\" \/><figcaption class=\"elementor-image-carousel-caption\">Trolley ride with Karen and Chuck<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"swiper-slide\" role=\"group\" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"20 of 33\"><figure class=\"swiper-slide-inner\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"swiper-slide-image\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/img_8039.jpg?fit=768%2C576&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"One last sunset to chase, over London\" \/><figcaption class=\"elementor-image-carousel-caption\">One last sunset to chase, over London<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"swiper-slide\" role=\"group\" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"21 of 33\"><figure class=\"swiper-slide-inner\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"swiper-slide-image\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/img_2196.jpg?fit=768%2C1024&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"Another beautiful waterfall in Tahiti\" \/><figcaption class=\"elementor-image-carousel-caption\">Another beautiful waterfall in Tahiti<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"swiper-slide\" role=\"group\" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"22 of 33\"><figure class=\"swiper-slide-inner\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"swiper-slide-image\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/img_2521.jpg?fit=768%2C576&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"NZ sunsts\" \/><figcaption class=\"elementor-image-carousel-caption\">NZ sunsts<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"swiper-slide\" role=\"group\" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"23 of 33\"><figure class=\"swiper-slide-inner\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"swiper-slide-image\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/img_2825.jpg?fit=768%2C1024&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"Sunrise over Sydney Harbor Bridge\" \/><figcaption class=\"elementor-image-carousel-caption\">Sunrise over Sydney Harbor Bridge<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"swiper-slide\" role=\"group\" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"24 of 33\"><figure class=\"swiper-slide-inner\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"swiper-slide-image\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/img_2874.jpg?fit=768%2C1024&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"Gina, Ian and Linda - Amazing hosts!\" \/><figcaption class=\"elementor-image-carousel-caption\">Gina, Ian and Linda - Amazing hosts!<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"swiper-slide\" role=\"group\" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"25 of 33\"><figure class=\"swiper-slide-inner\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"swiper-slide-image\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Image-5.jpeg?fit=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"Weather dependent view!!\" \/><figcaption class=\"elementor-image-carousel-caption\">Weather dependent view!! <\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"swiper-slide\" role=\"group\" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"26 of 33\"><figure class=\"swiper-slide-inner\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"swiper-slide-image\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/img_1837.jpg?fit=768%2C1024&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"Sunset on as we leave Hawaii\" \/><figcaption class=\"elementor-image-carousel-caption\">Sunset on as we leave Hawaii<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"swiper-slide\" role=\"group\" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"27 of 33\"><figure class=\"swiper-slide-inner\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"swiper-slide-image\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/img_0653-1.jpg?fit=768%2C548&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"Celebrating Valentine\u2019s Day on the ship with  chocolate!\" \/><figcaption class=\"elementor-image-carousel-caption\">Celebrating Valentine\u2019s Day on the ship with  chocolate!<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"swiper-slide\" role=\"group\" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"28 of 33\"><figure class=\"swiper-slide-inner\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"swiper-slide-image\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/img_4068.jpg?fit=768%2C1024&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"The upper deck is curved and an architectural marvel\" \/><figcaption class=\"elementor-image-carousel-caption\">The upper deck is curved and an architectural marvel <\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"swiper-slide\" role=\"group\" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"29 of 33\"><figure class=\"swiper-slide-inner\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"swiper-slide-image\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/img_4243.jpg?fit=768%2C576&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"Penang&#039;s Ramadan sunset from ship docked at port\" \/><figcaption class=\"elementor-image-carousel-caption\">Penang's Ramadan sunset from ship docked at port<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"swiper-slide\" role=\"group\" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"30 of 33\"><figure class=\"swiper-slide-inner\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"swiper-slide-image\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/img_2852-1.jpg?fit=720%2C960&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"Sunset cloudscape\" \/><figcaption class=\"elementor-image-carousel-caption\">Sunset cloudscape <\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"swiper-slide\" role=\"group\" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"31 of 33\"><figure class=\"swiper-slide-inner\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"swiper-slide-image\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/elephant-up-close.jpeg?fit=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"she was beautiful\" \/><figcaption class=\"elementor-image-carousel-caption\">she was beautiful<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"swiper-slide\" role=\"group\" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"32 of 33\"><figure class=\"swiper-slide-inner\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"swiper-slide-image\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/img_5607.jpg?fit=768%2C1024&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"Sunset from signal hill\" \/><figcaption class=\"elementor-image-carousel-caption\">Sunset from signal hill<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"swiper-slide\" role=\"group\" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"33 of 33\"><figure class=\"swiper-slide-inner\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"swiper-slide-image\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/img_9033.jpg?fit=768%2C1024&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"Our collection of magnets to remember our trip\" \/><figcaption class=\"elementor-image-carousel-caption\">Our collection of magnets to remember our trip<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-swiper-button elementor-swiper-button-prev\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<i aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"eicon-chevron-left\"><\/i>\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-swiper-button elementor-swiper-button-next\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<i aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"eicon-chevron-right\"><\/i>\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"swiper-pagination\"><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>We Had a Fabulous Cruise Around the World! We just returned from an unforgettable world cruise with Viking, and I wanted to share some thoughts for anyone considering a journey like this. Whether you&#8217;re dreaming of a future voyage or already planning one, here are some lessons learned and insights to help guide your adventure. [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":230351823,"featured_media":8238,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"advanced_seo_description":"","jetpack_seo_html_title":"","jetpack_seo_noindex":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_feature_clip_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_publicize_message":"{title}\n\n{excerpt}\n\n{url}","jetpack_publicize_feature_enabled":true,"jetpack_social_post_already_shared":true,"jetpack_social_options":{"image_generator_settings":{"template":"highway","default_image_id":0,"font":"","enabled":false},"version":2},"_wpas_customize_per_network":false,"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false},"categories":[200,50518550],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-8574","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-travel","category-world-cruise-24-25"],"jetpack_publicize_connections":[],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/img_8070.jpg?fit=1500%2C2000&ssl=1","jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"jetpack_shortlink":"https:\/\/wp.me\/peuwlC-2ei","jetpack-related-posts":[{"id":2193,"url":"https:\/\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/?p=2193","url_meta":{"origin":8574,"position":0},"title":"Our Choice : Viking Ocean Cruises","author":"Jim and Gina Sumislaski","date":"July 13, 2023","format":false,"excerpt":"We have always enjoyed a good cruise - after a horrific 1 day Seascape our first \"real\" cruise was with NCL back in the late 80's on the legendary \"SS Norway\" (originally the 'SS France') a grand ocean liner and we took it on a 7-day Caribbean cruise.\u00a0 While our\u2026","rel":"","context":"In &quot;Norway-Scotland&quot;","block_context":{"text":"Norway-Scotland","link":"https:\/\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/?cat=50518552"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/BERGEN-01-e1727282787344.jpg?fit=1200%2C646&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/BERGEN-01-e1727282787344.jpg?fit=1200%2C646&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/BERGEN-01-e1727282787344.jpg?fit=1200%2C646&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/BERGEN-01-e1727282787344.jpg?fit=1200%2C646&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/BERGEN-01-e1727282787344.jpg?fit=1200%2C646&ssl=1&resize=1050%2C600 3x"},"classes":[]},{"id":4131,"url":"https:\/\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/?p=4131","url_meta":{"origin":8574,"position":1},"title":"Viking World Cruise: 29 Countries in 138 Days","author":"Jim and Gina Sumislaski","date":"July 5, 2024","format":false,"excerpt":"This is the first post about the upcoming World Cruise. Viking Ocean style of cruising, the itinerary includes 29 countries in 138 days, with a favorable sea-to-port ratio and departure from nearby Fort Lauderdale, among other attractions.","rel":"","context":"In &quot;Travel&quot;","block_context":{"text":"Travel","link":"https:\/\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/?cat=200"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/cruisewithanimals-2.png?fit=1080%2C1080&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/cruisewithanimals-2.png?fit=1080%2C1080&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/cruisewithanimals-2.png?fit=1080%2C1080&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/cruisewithanimals-2.png?fit=1080%2C1080&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/cruisewithanimals-2.png?fit=1080%2C1080&ssl=1&resize=1050%2C600 3x"},"classes":[]},{"id":5288,"url":"https:\/\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/?p=5288","url_meta":{"origin":8574,"position":2},"title":"100 days until Viking&#8217;s World Cruise","author":"Jim and Gina Sumislaski","date":"September 25, 2024","format":false,"excerpt":"100 days to go until we board the Viking Sky in Fort Lauderdale and embark on a 138-day journey to London, England.\u00a0 \u00a0It\u2019s been a busy time for us as we prepare for this adventure. \u00a0Here are some of the major steps we\u2019ve taken so far:Trip Preparation: Finances are finalized,\u2026","rel":"","context":"In &quot;Travel&quot;","block_context":{"text":"Travel","link":"https:\/\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/?cat=200"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/IMG_0706-4.jpg?fit=900%2C1200&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/IMG_0706-4.jpg?fit=900%2C1200&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/IMG_0706-4.jpg?fit=900%2C1200&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/IMG_0706-4.jpg?fit=900%2C1200&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x"},"classes":[]},{"id":5182,"url":"https:\/\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/?p=5182","url_meta":{"origin":8574,"position":3},"title":"What we are looking forward to&#8230;","author":"Jim and Gina Sumislaski","date":"September 30, 2024","format":false,"excerpt":"OMG it's starting to get real! More preparations for our 6 month Worl Cruise.","rel":"","context":"In &quot;Travel&quot;","block_context":{"text":"Travel","link":"https:\/\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/?cat=200"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/pexels-photo-20443012.jpeg?fit=800%2C1200&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/pexels-photo-20443012.jpeg?fit=800%2C1200&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/pexels-photo-20443012.jpeg?fit=800%2C1200&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/pexels-photo-20443012.jpeg?fit=800%2C1200&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x"},"classes":[]},{"id":5758,"url":"https:\/\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/?p=5758","url_meta":{"origin":8574,"position":4},"title":"World Cruise &#8211; A Great first 7 days","author":"Jim and Gina Sumislaski","date":"December 27, 2024","format":false,"excerpt":"Thanks for joining us on our Viking Sky World Cruise! OUR FIRST 7 DAYS Well, after many months of planning and hoping, it took only 45 minutes from leaving our home to be aboard the magnificent Viking Sky cruise ship. Check-in was quick and while our bags took some time\u2026","rel":"","context":"In &quot;Travel&quot;","block_context":{"text":"Travel","link":"https:\/\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/?cat=200"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/img_1164-1.jpg?fit=900%2C1200&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/img_1164-1.jpg?fit=900%2C1200&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/img_1164-1.jpg?fit=900%2C1200&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/img_1164-1.jpg?fit=900%2C1200&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x"},"classes":[]},{"id":7756,"url":"https:\/\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/?p=7756","url_meta":{"origin":8574,"position":5},"title":"World Cruise &#8211; 6 days at sea&#8230;.","author":"Jim and Gina Sumislaski","date":"April 17, 2025","format":false,"excerpt":"\ufffcSea Days Aboard Viking: What Do You Do With 6 Days at Sea?Leaving Luanda, Angola, we were preparing for six full days at sea. That might prompt some readers to ask: What do you even do on sea days? Especially six consecutive days with no land in sight?Well, the short\u2026","rel":"","context":"In &quot;Travel&quot;","block_context":{"text":"Travel","link":"https:\/\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/?cat=200"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/img_6075.jpg?fit=900%2C1200&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/img_6075.jpg?fit=900%2C1200&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/img_6075.jpg?fit=900%2C1200&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/img_6075.jpg?fit=900%2C1200&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x"},"classes":[]}],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8574","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/230351823"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=8574"}],"version-history":[{"count":74,"href":"https:\/\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8574\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":8671,"href":"https:\/\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8574\/revisions\/8671"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/8238"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=8574"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=8574"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chasing-sunsets.blog\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=8574"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}