I agree that cruises are the best and safest way for single older women to travel! As part of my 6 month trip around the world in 2022, I went alone on a Princess Mediterranean cruise and felt very safe. It's a bit lonely until you make friends, but if you're open to it, it's much easier to meet people on a cruise than other ways of travel. 🚢
I totally agree. I did 2 solo cruises last year and just finished transatlantic on Princess. Soon I take transatlantic west to NYC on Queen Mary. I’m alone for 3 weeks in Europe visiting friends along the way but am struggling handling my luggage and feeling a bit homesick now. I think 4 weeks away from home is my sweet spot. Everyone is different.
I have done many cruises and not once has a cruise line organised any visas. Last cruise took in India and it was a real PIA to enter/exit the country for some reason.
You were instrumental in me cruising since I first saw you on CZcams on January 2023. When I get off the Grand Princess on 7/3/24 I'll have cruised 305 days since 4/3/23. Thank you so much for the inspiration.
Off the subject and I realize you didn't make this video in one take, but you are well spoken. Most people can't speak without a lot of umhs and aahs. I'm sure this skill served you well in your past careers. I'm looking forward to the next phase of your travel adventures. Thanks.
It’s the 1st thing I noticed watching his videos. Well spoken. Just found your videos and playing catch up. Thank you very much for all the great info.
Very well spoken. I love the authenticity. I have been doing CZcams for four months and my speaking and speed has significantly improved from video 1 - video 90! You tube is hard and I give a lot of credit!!❤ Thanks for reminding people that Puerto Rico is NOT a traditional port. That is an authentic old port with awesome stuff to do and learn. 🇵🇷🇵🇷🇵🇷
Re solo travelling, I have done two in the past year. I always eat dinner in the MDR and choose a “shared” table. I’ve met many solos, couples etc. On my last cruise, I met a woman the first night. We were similar in age and interests, and in port we often went together. We would have loose plans onboard and also did our own things. It worked out well. Also, for anyone interested in solo travel, I just came back from a “standby” cruise on HAL. There are no solo supplements and was super reasonable. The key is to book a cruise in shoulder season.
Regarding hearing your neighbors: I know you do a lot of inside stateroom cruising. If people book balconies, you actually do hear a lot more noise when you have the door open or you go outside and using the balcony. It's not unbearable as it's usually just neighbors talking to each other from their balcony but it is something to keep in mind if you book a balcony.
I just finished transatlantic 15 days on Princess and half the washers and dryers were broken so it was a struggle to find one. I ended up washing things by hand and drip drying them. So glad I brought quick dry clothes.
Yes, you need visas when cruising! You could be denied boarding or kicked off a ship. We have to Australia, New Zealand, and Vietnam for an upcoming trip or we can't board. On a recent B2B South American cruise, a family was removed between cruises as they didn't have visas for an upcoming country, I don't know their nationality. Please, please, please read the rules and travel documents folks.
I don't believe you will lose many followers. Your cruise specific fans will watch and wait for your next cruise but those of us "multi personality" 🤭 nomads will always be watching for your next adventure no matter how it gets you there. I, for 1, have been hopping around wearing many faces for about 7 years now. I house sit, bargain basement/hack Airbnb. Converted trailer and SUV camp, cruise, and whatever else tickles my fancy. Wanderlust comes in many forms. Just keep doing you. You inspire and encourage us.
I think you've created the multi-genre, genre for YT. There are common elements in cruising and RVing. It would probably make for an interesting playlist.
just got back from cruise on princess around the South Pacific you need visas for Australia and New Zealand many Americans on-board had to scramble to get them once they realise they needed them. Just my experience. Visas in my mind were very expensive each of them were about $35 American each just for day trips off the ship. I will miss your videos aboard ship enjoyed them all. And I really like your RV experience. Look forward to your next adventure.
Avid cruiser and former travel agent here. Regarding visas, the cruise lines with generally arrange the visas where required on your behalf while you are cruising. There may be a fee for those. In some countries, like Russia, there are special arrangements for cruise passengers. In St Petersburg for example, your excursion booking with an authorized tour company serves as your visa. In cases where the cruise line collects your passport at embarkation or during your cruise, they clear you with the local authorities in mass. In those situations, my passport has been stamped on occasion. Also remember that a visa or electronic travel authorization may be required for your embarkation or debarkation port if that is not in your home country. Be sure to consult your travel agent or the state department prior to your trip for visa or electronic travel authorization requirements.
For laundry, could a person be like backpackers and use a lot of quick dry and merino wool items and clean&dry them inside the cabin? Upside with the merino is it does not pick up odors for days.
Wow, a year already! I'm just surprised that you're not 300 lbs!😁 What's the plan for next year? You did international slow travel, vanlife, cruising... Trains? Motor bike? Pilgrimage Hiking? Biking? Sounds like you are not done with cruising. Honda Element?? See Nate's old videos on youtube 'Element Life.' Seems too small. I've been "planning" vanlife since 2017 but have yet to pull the trigger. Maybe soon? 😂
Thank you, really enjoyed that video with so much useful information. How I wish I had spent more time on holiday, and relaxing than working hours on end! Keep doing what you are doing, and there will be few or no regrets.
Repositioning are my current ah-ha and way to avoid long uncomfortable flts. I'm doing FL to Lisbon then back from Barcelona to FL then FL home to Panamá after the holidays.
My fiancée, who is a Mexican citizen with Mexican passport, was not allowed on our Alaska Cruise since in stops in Canada without a Canadian Visa. It was a nightmare process and very slow.
I got some dental work done in Mexico, Cancun. was pretty good, way cheaper than in the usa. I have been following you for quite a while. We love travel and would love to do the same things you have. Keep it rolling! or sailing
@@30AndAWakeUp yes, I go back in August to get the second part of the implants done, I had a couple implants and 4 root canals with crowns and all. And spent time recovering on the Beach at an all inclusive resort and still saved money! I have a video on it on my Travel channel as well
Kevin, your veneeres look fantastic!!🤗 I am glad that you haven't had any bad experiences throughout a majority of your cruses!! And the laundry facilities sound reasonable, as well! Alright, take care, Kevin-it's always great to see you, everything, and even look forward to when you're on land!!🤗🛳🌅
I sailed with you May 1st-11th, 2023 on Norwegian Getaway. We talked briefly in the Solo Studio Lounge. I've been following you off and on since then. Pretty impressive journey you've been on. Keep up the good work!
Thank you for the update and synopsis of your year cruising. I agree that cruising beats flying for crossing the oceans. Even my young adult children said the overseas flying was exhausting. For vehicle travel I like the minivan, but I like the Highlander and Pilot platforms too. The Jeep Patriot was capable, but really too small even for a verticality challenged woman. Have you considered backpacking, maybe not for a year, but someplace like Iceland, Scotland, Spain or even the High Sierra route in Yosemite... Thailand is definitely on my travel list if for no other reason than to visit the young woman that was our foreign exchange student in 2005 and 2006. Thank you again for taking us on your journey.
@@30AndAWakeUp yes I highly recommend the Caminos. My late husband and I did part of the French route with my Mother when she was 85... It was a bit much for Mom and we had to carry her backpack for her. She did ok with just a day pack... I hope to do a spring Camino on Del Norte.
Thank you for your posting, and so glad you enjoyed the experience. I think it could be misleading to tell people they won’t need visas, though…. it depends a great deal on what Passport you hold, and of course what countries you visit. Russia, China, Uganda definitely need visas; there are others too. Pay attention to the advice of your cruiseline, and double check online with your own country.
Your Mom looks soooo young! If I didn't know better I would think she was my age, and I'm younger than you! Any chance she has tips she would want to share?
You are so much fun! We joined up with cruising, but look forward to what you think about living in SE Asia. We hope to do a mix of cruising somewhere and then staying for 1-3 months. This is the perfect transition for us!!!!! Hang in there with the dental work- tough but worth it in the end.
Kevin-what is the most desirable weather time to visit Thailand ? I live in Florida and want to travel when the heat and humidity are the lowest/kindest😊
Re: Visas, the EU is implementing a travel visa requirement. We've cruised extensively and found that visas are commonly required even if they are obtained on arrival. For US residents please check the US government site for requirements for any country you are planning to visit.
Thanks for taking us along on your travels. I'm hoping to take as many cruises as I can in the next few years of retirement. Your example was most encouraging!
Thanks for a great year of sharing. This Q&A is great. You gave me a template for my retirement adventure. Looking forward to your new medical travel postings.
Would love for you to do a video on the dentistry you received outside the US. Would be interested in how you did your research as to what country to choose to have the work done. How did you choose that particular dentist after you chose the country. If you wouldn’t mind sharing the cost. As you know US prices are insane. I spent a few thousand on one tooth implant. It was either spending that money or looking homeless with a hole in my smile. Can’t wait to hear your plans for your next adventure in life. Maybe it is in this video as I put it on pause to comment. Back to the video. Enjoy your videos.
Absolutely. I’ll definitely do a vid on my dental experience. I used the internet and CZcams to research where I wanted to go. And found a place that had a ton of reviews and a long history. Also, my Dentist was trained in the US, she went to University of Michigan. Im at the Bangkok International Dental Clinic (BIDC)
Yes, I was a Van Life subscriber and totally bummed when you gave up RV traveling. But . . . I stopped sulking and have enjoyed your cruising videos. Thanks for sharing your life as a traveler.
What about a combo year? For example - taking Amtrak around the US broken up with cruising. Or any other combination between various modes of world travel and locations.
An amazing year! that is awesome :-) welcome to Thailand ! the dental in thailand is a great way to go. i had a crown done here as well. affordable and the same work i had in the US. nice !
Thanks for answering our questions and for sharing your year while cruising. Looking forward to your next set of adventures! 🌐 P.S.- Good luck🍀 with the rest of your dental work!🦷
Awesome!!! Video...have you checked out Anttonette video she van life and now stays in Bangkok she was a slight attendant. Maybe a collab on diff forms of travel
So glad I found your channel! Whether you are cruising, flying or van travelling I will keep watching! Good luck on your dental work I cannot wait to see that video.
I had to get visas for New Zealand and Australia for my transpacific cruise, but both were done from their respective mobile apps and super easy. For French Polynesia, the cruise staff collected passports from all passengers, held them for the 4 days, and returned them after we left the FP ports. I should look if it got stamped! :D
Enjoyed the summary of your year of cruising. I was hoping to see some pics/video from your adventures in Alaska. Maybe in a future video? As always a great, information-filled video!
Great information! I love your cruise videos! I wish we could've seen more of your European cruises. I always enjoy all of your videos. I even enjoy the long live streams! Safe travels Kevin!
I’ve heard medical stuff is far cheaper but still good in Asian countries. It will be interesting to see how that goes and the cost. Medical in the US in ridiculously high.
Enjoyed watching your cruising year. I love that Tallinn Estonia is your favorite port! I have loved my vacations there and am looking forward to returning too.
Thanks for that information, I was dreaming about just living on a cruise ship for at least 6 mths to 12. I am a youtuber and was wondering how fast is the upload speed maybe in port and is it fast enough to do live streams? Last time I took a cruise a few years ago the wifi was still slow. Many thanks, will follow for me
You had me at Dental work. My fear of extended travel is mostly driven by having a history of dental issues and luckily now having a really good dentist gives me comfort. 20+ crowns? I don’t understand
I am in the middle of getting two crowns replaced. The old crowns had been there since I was 22. Be careful not to eat hard or sticky foods. i made the mistake of crunching down on a hard object. I shattered the temp crown.
Excellent video! I truly think I'd enjoy living on a cruise ship for a few months. Also, I need to get my husband that phone wallet. I remember that from another video of yours, but forgot to purchase it. Looking forward to your upcoming dental and travel videos!
Last year I took a 79 night cruise which involved a lot of Asian countries. The cruiseline collected our passports and they were stamped a number of times
Aloha Kevin, good luck on the new choppers and the new itinerary. Looking forward to your new adventure. Over three years of following your travels. Thank you for sharing. BTW, heading back to Maui in three weeks.
What do you mean by a "more European" style of customer service? What is different? How does it impact us? How could (should) we adjust to it? Nice Q&A session. Thanks.
It’s just a lower customer service standard that people are used to on US focused cruises. On most cruise lines…they go out of their way to make sure you have everything you need. On MSC, you need to ask if you need something. If that makes sense.
Thanks for the info on the travel clinics...I have been thinking about an extensive cruise and wasn't sure where to even begin if I needed vacccines for malaria etc. or how to even find out. I enjoyed your year of cruising and look forward to your next year of adventure! Travel safe!
I went Talin on my first cruise. We were a knitting group and so it’s an amazing port for us, we were some of the first people off the ship and it was empty. However the walk back to the ship was wall to wall people! There were so many ships in port for such a tiny place.
FYI, I found a pair ( a few different style choices) of high quality micro fibre (quick dry, light, compact, strategic pockets, super comfortable etc) workout sweat pants that look like sport/dress slacks from the brand Lu Lu Lemon. They’re my go to for my travels where close quarters with strangers is likely, planes, trains, buses etc…and the obligatory “pants only dining rooms”.
I think the person asked about if you shared the cabin because in the 70's, cruise lines would match up single cruisers with roommates of the same sex to save money. It was great!
Hi kevin great video just ran across this video I'm glad you enj🎉a year of cruising looking forward to seeing your next adventure hopefully sampling food😅😅😅
Your channel just popped up in my feed. So, New Subscriber 😊👍🏽 I’ve not been n a Cruise yet, still doing research 😉 so Thank you for sharing your experience with us. Two questions: 1. Do you buy Travel Insurance? 2. Why are you having Dental procedures done over Seas instead of the USA? Cost? Better outcome? Just curious 😊 I’m gonna go binge watch more of your videos now 👍🏽 Cheers!
How did the Ruby Princess stack up for such a long itinerary and what did you enjoy the best? What is now your favorite Princess ship? Best of luck and safe travels!
I'm a vanlifer with a Storyteller that stuck with you. I love vanlife's freedom, and solitude. I'd highly recommend an Antarctic "adventure" cruise. I went with Lindblad on the ice reinforced Endeavor. Next time I'd skip the Drake Passage and fly to the ship. Barf. Also a 20 year man. Fly Navy.
Did the casino offers dry up or do you continue to get an abundance of them? You mentioned how you can book 3 per offer that you get but it seems like you were able to just book as many of these as you wanted, with several of them planned in advance to make up the 103 days straight...?
Glad I caught this! Leaving soon on a short van trip. Great recap! Some of those future cruises sound really interesting. Enjoy Thailand and hope the dental work all goes smoothly.
Enjoyed your cruising travels and experiences. Question: What would be the best cruise from the US west coast to SE Asia? Or would you recommend multiple cruises for the long journey?
Thank you so much for your all inspiring and brave video. Could you please comment if you also had any kind of implants done during this one week procedure
@@30AndAWakeUp Thanks Saw that on..very nice. work they did on your teeth..have you been happy and trouble free with it? Also look forward to watching this cruise series
you have to be careful because you look too skinny. Make sure you do some resistant training to build muscle, We want you healthy and strong to keep amazing us with your fantastic stories. God Bless you man!!
Seems crazy that you would leave the ship without your passport. What if you have a medical emergency while in port or if you miss the ship? I never travel without my passport, even when traveling domestically, because you never know when there might be a crisis, war, terror attack, or some kind of emergency.
I agree that cruises are the best and safest way for single older women to travel! As part of my 6 month trip around the world in 2022, I went alone on a Princess Mediterranean cruise and felt very safe. It's a bit lonely until you make friends, but if you're open to it, it's much easier to meet people on a cruise than other ways of travel. 🚢
agree! Thanks for commenting!🙏
I totally agree. I did 2 solo cruises last year and just finished transatlantic on Princess. Soon I take transatlantic west to NYC on Queen Mary. I’m alone for 3 weeks in Europe visiting friends along the way but am struggling handling my luggage and feeling a bit homesick now. I think 4 weeks away from home is my sweet spot. Everyone is different.
Single women in general, not just older
I have done many cruises and not once has a cruise line organised any visas. Last cruise took in India and it was a real PIA to enter/exit the country for some reason.
Just got back from a single cruise, with a special souvenir...a new girlfriend 😀
You were instrumental in me cruising since I first saw you on CZcams on January 2023. When I get off the Grand Princess on 7/3/24 I'll have cruised 305 days since 4/3/23. Thank you so much for the inspiration.
oh wow!!! that is awesome!!!
Off the subject and I realize you didn't make this video in one take, but you are well spoken. Most people can't speak without a lot of umhs and aahs. I'm sure this skill served you well in your past careers. I'm looking forward to the next phase of your travel adventures. Thanks.
I used to have a lot of ummmmms….but I’ve worked on it! Thanks for noticing :)
What an odd thing to say
It’s the 1st thing I noticed watching his videos. Well spoken. Just found your videos and playing catch up. Thank you very much for all the great info.
Very well spoken. I love the authenticity. I have been doing CZcams for four months and my speaking and speed has significantly improved from video 1 - video 90! You tube is hard and I give a lot of credit!!❤
Thanks for reminding people that Puerto Rico is NOT a traditional port. That is an authentic old port with awesome stuff to do and learn. 🇵🇷🇵🇷🇵🇷
Re solo travelling, I have done two in the past year. I always eat dinner in the MDR and choose a “shared” table. I’ve met many solos, couples etc. On my last cruise, I met a woman the first night. We were similar in age and interests, and in port we often went together. We would have loose plans onboard and also did our own things. It worked out well.
Also, for anyone interested in solo travel, I just came back from a “standby” cruise on HAL. There are no solo supplements and was super reasonable. The key is to book a cruise in shoulder season.
Great tips…thanks for sharing.
How do you book “standy” cruises?
Regarding hearing your neighbors: I know you do a lot of inside stateroom cruising. If people book balconies, you actually do hear a lot more noise when you have the door open or you go outside and using the balcony. It's not unbearable as it's usually just neighbors talking to each other from their balcony but it is something to keep in mind if you book a balcony.
That’s good to know. Thanks for sharing the balcony perspective.
I just finished transatlantic 15 days on Princess and half the washers and dryers were broken so it was a struggle to find one. I ended up washing things by hand and drip drying them. So glad I brought quick dry clothes.
Oh no!!! What ship was that?
Caribbean Princess. I think they said it will go into dry dock for refurbishing this fall. It’s an older ship.
@@pamelanurse2024 oh that’s right…i remember now. i was on CP for around a month last year
Yes, you need visas when cruising! You could be denied boarding or kicked off a ship. We have to Australia, New Zealand, and Vietnam for an upcoming trip or we can't board. On a recent B2B South American cruise, a family was removed between cruises as they didn't have visas for an upcoming country, I don't know their nationality. Please, please, please read the rules and travel documents folks.
great info
I don't believe you will lose many followers. Your cruise specific fans will watch and wait for your next cruise but those of us "multi personality" 🤭 nomads will always be watching for your next adventure no matter how it gets you there. I, for 1, have been hopping around wearing many faces for about 7 years now. I house sit, bargain basement/hack Airbnb. Converted trailer and SUV camp, cruise, and whatever else tickles my fancy.
Wanderlust comes in many forms. Just keep doing you. You inspire and encourage us.
I usually do laundry in a port that I'm familiar with Sometimes you can find a laundromat or laundry service.
Makes sense for sure.
So glad I found you. Thinking of doing this the year after I retire. Solo too! So I’ll be bingeing all your videos!
awesome!! 😎
I think you've created the multi-genre, genre for YT. There are common elements in cruising and RVing. It would probably make for an interesting playlist.
haha…we shall see! :)
Looking forward to your dental tourism video. Contemplating getting a crown and visiting a med spa on my next visit to Thailand
so far the experience has been great
just got back from cruise on princess around the South Pacific you need visas for Australia and New Zealand many Americans on-board had to scramble to get them once they realise they needed them. Just my experience. Visas in my mind were very expensive each of them were about $35 American each just for day trips off the ship. I will miss your videos aboard ship enjoyed them all. And I really like your RV experience. Look forward to your next adventure.
Thanks for that feedback!
Why don't Americans realise you need visas in most countries that are not America?
Not visas. They are electronic travel, authorizations the same thing that we were required for them to come to our country.
Yes they are not Visas but you will not get in without one and they do cost money.Visas by another name?
@@graygleed8867 authorizations. lol
Avid cruiser and former travel agent here. Regarding visas, the cruise lines with generally arrange the visas where required on your behalf while you are cruising. There may be a fee for those. In some countries, like Russia, there are special arrangements for cruise passengers. In St Petersburg for example, your excursion booking with an authorized tour company serves as your visa. In cases where the cruise line collects your passport at embarkation or during your cruise, they clear you with the local authorities in mass. In those situations, my passport has been stamped on occasion. Also remember that a visa or electronic travel authorization may be required for your embarkation or debarkation port if that is not in your home country. Be sure to consult your travel agent or the state department prior to your trip for visa or electronic travel authorization requirements.
great info! thank you
For laundry, could a person be like backpackers and use a lot of quick dry and merino wool items and clean&dry them inside the cabin? Upside with the merino is it does not pick up odors for days.
Yeah, absolutely. That’s what I do on cruise lines without self serve laundry. All my shirts are merino wool.
I’m one of the van life audience members who came back. Nice to hear about cruising!
Thanks! :)
Wow, a year already! I'm just surprised that you're not 300 lbs!😁 What's the plan for next year? You did international slow travel, vanlife, cruising... Trains? Motor bike? Pilgrimage Hiking? Biking?
Sounds like you are not done with cruising.
Honda Element?? See Nate's old videos on youtube 'Element Life.' Seems too small. I've been "planning" vanlife since 2017 but have yet to pull the trigger. Maybe soon? 😂
I love Nate’s vids! Yeah, the plan this year is to integrate a bunch of different travel styles and just enjoy life!
Laundry; who knew? Great tip 😊
definitely a necessity if you’re living on them! ☺️
Thank you, really enjoyed that video with so much useful information. How I wish I had spent more time on holiday, and relaxing than working hours on end! Keep doing what you are doing, and there will be few or no regrets.
Thank you! 🙏
Repositioning are my current ah-ha and way to avoid long uncomfortable flts. I'm doing FL to Lisbon then back from Barcelona to FL then FL home to Panamá after the holidays.
They really are great.
My fiancée, who is a Mexican citizen with Mexican passport, was not allowed on our Alaska Cruise since in stops in Canada without a Canadian Visa. It was a nightmare process and very slow.
Oh wow. That’s terrible.
@30AndAWakeUp . Yes, the changed the law in March after final payment date and she never got it in time for the cruise.
I got some dental work done in Mexico, Cancun. was pretty good, way cheaper than in the usa. I have been following you for quite a while. We love travel and would love to do the same things you have. Keep it rolling! or sailing
Thanks! 🙏 Were you happy with the work?
@@30AndAWakeUp yes, I go back in August to get the second part of the implants done, I had a couple implants and 4 root canals with crowns and all. And spent time recovering on the Beach at an all inclusive resort and still saved money! I have a video on it on my Travel channel as well
@@ExploreTravelTV oh cool! I’ll check it out
Kevin, your veneeres look fantastic!!🤗 I am glad that you haven't had any bad experiences throughout a majority of your cruses!! And the laundry facilities sound reasonable, as well! Alright, take care, Kevin-it's always great to see you, everything, and even look forward to when you're on land!!🤗🛳🌅
awww…thanks Maxine!
Thank you for all the info. And for your very fine presentation with no digression. Doug
Thanks Doug! 🙏
Another great video Kevin.
I was hoping the last question was how much does a year of cruise traveling cost???
no one asked but i have monthly cruise cost vids.
I sailed with you May 1st-11th, 2023 on Norwegian Getaway. We talked briefly in the Solo Studio Lounge. I've been following you off and on since then. Pretty impressive journey you've been on. Keep up the good work!
What’s up man! Definitely remember chatting. That was a great ship. Thanks for watching! 🙏
Thank you for the update and synopsis of your year cruising. I agree that cruising beats flying for crossing the oceans. Even my young adult children said the overseas flying was exhausting. For vehicle travel I like the minivan, but I like the Highlander and Pilot platforms too. The Jeep Patriot was capable, but really too small even for a verticality challenged woman. Have you considered backpacking, maybe not for a year, but someplace like Iceland, Scotland, Spain or even the High Sierra route in Yosemite... Thailand is definitely on my travel list if for no other reason than to visit the young woman that was our foreign exchange student in 2005 and 2006. Thank you again for taking us on your journey.
Yeah, definitely want to do some backpacking….am thinking about backpacking the Camino de Santiago.
@@30AndAWakeUp yes I highly recommend the Caminos. My late husband and I did part of the French route with my Mother when she was 85... It was a bit much for Mom and we had to carry her backpack for her. She did ok with just a day pack... I hope to do a spring Camino on Del Norte.
Thank you for your posting, and so glad you enjoyed the experience. I think it could be misleading to tell people they won’t need visas, though…. it depends a great deal on what Passport you hold, and of course what countries you visit. Russia, China, Uganda definitely need visas; there are others too. Pay attention to the advice of your cruiseline, and double check online with your own country.
You’re right..I was just speaking from my experience but people should definitely research if they will need any visas.
Your Mom looks soooo young! If I didn't know better I would think she was my age, and I'm younger than you! Any chance she has tips she would want to share?
She’s 70! I’ll ask her! :)
You are so much fun! We joined up with cruising, but look forward to what you think about living in SE Asia. We hope to do a mix of cruising somewhere and then staying for 1-3 months. This is the perfect transition for us!!!!! Hang in there with the dental work- tough but worth it in the end.
That is an awesome plan…and something I’m going to try as well!
Congrats on completing your year of living on a cruise ship. Looking forward to your next chapter.
Thanks so much! 🙏
Wow how time flies 1 year done already!!!!
Actually over a year…I took a 3 month break…so almost a year and 4 months
Kevin-what is the most desirable weather time to visit Thailand ? I live in Florida and want to travel when the heat and humidity are the lowest/kindest😊
November through April are cooler and dryer. Also, going up north to Chiang Mai is cooler than somewhere down south like Bangkok.
Re: Visas, the EU is implementing a travel visa requirement. We've cruised extensively and found that visas are commonly required even if they are obtained on arrival. For US residents please check the US government site for requirements for any country you are planning to visit.
appreciate the feedback!
I would love to hear about your dental work experience! I need a lot done ( maybe not as much as you) and was looking at Thailand for it. Thanks!!
Will do!! Putting together the vid as I go! Should be out in the next 2 weeks.
Thanks for taking us along on your travels. I'm hoping to take as many cruises as I can in the next few years of retirement. Your example was most encouraging!
Very cool! That will be a fun adventure.
I book on NCL as a solo cruiser. As a female, I have met many fun people to hang out with that I met at the Solo get to get hers in the Solo lounge.
i really enjoyed my time on NCL
Have you thought about a cruise line like Holland America? They specialize in longer cruises.
absolutely…definitely going to take some HAL cruises in the future
Thanks for a great year of sharing. This Q&A is great. You gave me a template for my retirement adventure. Looking forward to your new medical travel postings.
Thanks! 🙏
Would love for you to do a video on the dentistry you received outside the US. Would be interested in how you did your research as to what country to choose to have the work done. How did you choose that particular dentist after you chose the country. If you wouldn’t mind sharing the cost. As you know US prices are insane. I spent a few thousand on one tooth implant. It was either spending that money or looking homeless with a hole in my smile. Can’t wait to hear your plans for your next adventure in life. Maybe it is in this video as I put it on pause to comment. Back to the video. Enjoy your videos.
Absolutely. I’ll definitely do a vid on my dental experience. I used the internet and CZcams to research where I wanted to go. And found a place that had a ton of reviews and a long history. Also, my Dentist was trained in the US, she went to University of Michigan. Im at the Bangkok International Dental Clinic (BIDC)
Yes, I was a Van Life subscriber and totally bummed when you gave up RV traveling. But . . . I stopped sulking and have enjoyed your cruising videos. Thanks for sharing your life as a traveler.
Awww thank you! Im zeroing in on a Honda Element….so definitely going to be some RV traveling in the future!
Your new smile looks fabulous!!!
still have 7 appointments to zero it in! but thanks!
@@30AndAWakeUpWow, 7 more, good luck 🍀👍
Glad to see you back on CZcams. Your teeth are looking good so far! Can’t wait to see them when they’re done! Thanks for answering all the questions!
Thanks for stopping by and watching!
What about a combo year? For example - taking Amtrak around the US broken up with cruising. Or any other combination between various modes of world travel and locations.
Yeah, I am looking at doing something like that for sure. Definitely want to do the train travel thing.
I enjoyed your yearlong adventure and am looking forward to the next one.
Thank you 🙏
As an aside....My favourite port is Singapore. Very clean, very safe, and they mostly speak English.
I love Singapore as well. Never ported there but spent lots of time there outside of cruising.
Aaahhhh, pants. The veteran's nemesis. After a career of heat, rain, mud, etc in pants, long socks, t-shirt, jacket, ruck sack... Pants bad.
I hate pants! haha!
Me too. Havent worn them since 1986 with very few exceptions.
Kilt? 😂
You are right on that cruise wallet. I picked one up based on your video and it is great! Good luck with all the dental work! Crowns are not too fun!
definitely one of my favorite things I’ve run across
An amazing year! that is awesome :-) welcome to Thailand ! the dental in thailand is a great way to go. i had a crown done here as well. affordable and the same work i had in the US. nice !
Thanks bro. Yeah, Im excited about the work. 22 crowns and 6 veneers! Going to be fun next couple weeks! :)
Thanks for answering our questions and for sharing your year while cruising. Looking forward to your next set of adventures! 🌐
P.S.- Good luck🍀 with the rest of your dental work!🦷
Thanks! 🙏
Awesome!!! Video...have you checked out Anttonette video she van life and now stays in Bangkok she was a slight attendant. Maybe a collab on diff forms of travel
I will check her out!
So glad I found your channel! Whether you are cruising, flying or van travelling I will keep watching! Good luck on your dental work I cannot wait to see that video.
awww thank you!
So wonderful seeing you.
Hugs
Neal and Joe from Baltimore and our gang !
❤
Thanks you two!!!!
Great video look forward to bumping into you again someday!
Most definitely!
I had to get visas for New Zealand and Australia for my transpacific cruise, but both were done from their respective mobile apps and super easy. For French Polynesia, the cruise staff collected passports from all passengers, held them for the 4 days, and returned them after we left the FP ports. I should look if it got stamped! :D
Awesome info…thanks for sharing!
Yes, I commented on this also. Visas are required on cruise ships. They are very clear on this.
Have always found that HAL has the best itineraries for long cruises from 30 days on up.
yeah they do have some amazing itineraries
Congrats on completing your year and thanks for sharing!
Thank you 🙏
Enjoyed the summary of your year of cruising. I was hoping to see some pics/video from your adventures in Alaska. Maybe in a future video? As always a great, information-filled video!
Yeah, I’ll do a summary soon!
Great information! I love your cruise videos! I wish we could've seen more of your European cruises. I always enjoy all of your videos. I even enjoy the long live streams! Safe travels Kevin!
Yeah, I suck at doing those travel vlog style vids. I need to get better at that.
thanks for the info my friend..I give you all the credit for my cruise life now.
Anytime!
I’ve heard medical stuff is far cheaper but still good in Asian countries. It will be interesting to see how that goes and the cost. Medical in the US in ridiculously high.
yeah for medical I go to Malaysia…way better care than the US. They found my early stage cancer and US docs missed it.
I m sorry they found this. Are you well now?
Enjoyed watching your cruising year. I love that Tallinn Estonia is your favorite port! I have loved my vacations there and am looking forward to returning too.
I can’t wait to visit there again and explore more!
did I miss the video about Tallinn?
Thanks for that information, I was dreaming about just living on a cruise ship for at least 6 mths to 12. I am a youtuber and was wondering how fast is the upload speed maybe in port and is it fast enough to do live streams? Last time I took a cruise a few years ago the wifi was still slow. Many thanks, will follow for me
they speeds are pretty slow…but if your saving in 1080…you can upload overnight.
@@30AndAWakeUp thank you but it won't be possible to do a live stream most likely?
Have you considered going to Turkey for dental work? Just curious why you are getting it done in Thailand.
Yeah, I did the research and Thailand was just a notch above Turkey. But Turkey has some good clinics as well.
You had me at Dental work. My fear of extended travel is mostly driven by having a history of dental issues and luckily now having a really good dentist gives me comfort. 20+ crowns? I don’t understand
Check out my vid on the work I got done.
Thanks for the update! Safe travels.
Thanks for watching! 🙏
I am in the middle of getting two crowns replaced. The old crowns had been there since I was 22. Be careful not to eat hard or sticky foods.
i made the mistake of crunching down on a hard object. I shattered the temp crown.
thanks for the tip!
@@30AndAWakeUp
I would believe the dentist already told you that. Thanks for the videos.
Love your Videos. As I sit at my 9-5 desk job I dream of different lifestyle and I am able to live vicariously through your videos.
I used to be you!!!
Excellent video! I truly think I'd enjoy living on a cruise ship for a few months. Also, I need to get my husband that phone wallet. I remember that from another video of yours, but forgot to purchase it. Looking forward to your upcoming dental and travel videos!
Thanks! I love that wallet!
Last year I took a 79 night cruise which involved a lot of Asian countries. The cruiseline collected our passports and they were stamped a number of times
Great info. Thanks for sharing.
Aloha Kevin, good luck on the new choppers and the new itinerary. Looking forward to your new adventure. Over three years of following your travels. Thank you for sharing. BTW, heading back to Maui in three weeks.
Thanks for hanging around so long, Rich! I was just in Maui last month…..have a great trip!!!!!
What do you mean by a "more European" style of customer service?
What is different?
How does it impact us?
How could (should) we adjust to it?
Nice Q&A session. Thanks.
There is just a lot less pampering compared to what many US/Canadian customers expect on cruises.
What exactly does "european customer service" translate to? (Re: MSC) We've never sailed with MSC so I'm curious.
It’s just a lower customer service standard that people are used to on US focused cruises. On most cruise lines…they go out of their way to make sure you have everything you need. On MSC, you need to ask if you need something. If that makes sense.
I absolutely love this video
Thank you 🙏
Thanks for the info on the travel clinics...I have been thinking about an extensive cruise and wasn't sure where to even begin if I needed vacccines for malaria etc. or how to even find out. I enjoyed your year of cruising and look forward to your next year of adventure! Travel safe!
Thanks so much Anne Marie! 🙏
I'm so glad to know it's safe to cruise for singles
absolutely
I went Talin on my first cruise. We were a knitting group and so it’s an amazing port for us, we were some of the first people off the ship and it was empty. However the walk back to the ship was wall to wall people! There were so many ships in port for such a tiny place.
It really is such a great city.
FYI, I found a pair ( a few different style choices) of high quality micro fibre (quick dry, light, compact, strategic pockets, super comfortable etc) workout sweat pants that look like sport/dress slacks from the brand Lu Lu Lemon. They’re my go to for my travels where close quarters with strangers is likely, planes, trains, buses etc…and the obligatory “pants only dining rooms”.
Very cool! I actually have a pair of their grey pants! I love them!
I recently did The Spice Trail cruise with Celebrity - had to obtain 3 separate visas
good to know! that sounds like an awesome cruise!
I think the person asked about if you shared the cabin because in the 70's, cruise lines would match up single cruisers with roommates of the same sex to save money. It was great!
Oh…interesting!
Hi kevin great video just ran across this video I'm glad you enj🎉a year of cruising looking forward to seeing your next adventure hopefully sampling food😅😅😅
Thanks 👍
Your channel just popped up in my feed.
So, New Subscriber 😊👍🏽
I’ve not been n a Cruise yet, still doing research 😉 so Thank you for sharing your experience with us.
Two questions:
1. Do you buy Travel Insurance?
2. Why are you having Dental procedures done over Seas instead of the USA? Cost? Better outcome? Just curious 😊
I’m gonna go binge watch more of your videos now 👍🏽
Cheers!
1. I don’t. My credit card Chase Sapphire Reserve has travel insurance on anything purchased with it.
2. Better cost & customer service.
How did the Ruby Princess stack up for such a long itinerary and what did you enjoy the best? What is now your favorite Princess ship? Best of luck and safe travels!
It was a varied itinerary…started in fort lauderdale and ended in alaska. favorite ship…probably Ruby
How are the new Hoka's doing. They are super soft for walking making it easier on my knees, but I do wear out the heal somewhat quickly.
Good morning! Welcome to your home away from home!
Thanks! 🙏
Great summary
Thanks!
I'm a vanlifer with a Storyteller that stuck with you. I love vanlife's freedom, and solitude. I'd highly recommend an Antarctic "adventure" cruise. I went with Lindblad on the ice reinforced Endeavor. Next time I'd skip the Drake Passage and fly to the ship. Barf. Also a 20 year man. Fly Navy.
I bought the wallet a few weeks ago and love it!
me too!
Did the casino offers dry up or do you continue to get an abundance of them? You mentioned how you can book 3 per offer that you get but it seems like you were able to just book as many of these as you wanted, with several of them planned in advance to make up the 103 days straight...?
yeah the offers kept coming and are continuing…im booking a bunch in 2025
Glad I caught this! Leaving soon on a short van trip. Great recap! Some of those future cruises sound really interesting. Enjoy Thailand and hope the dental work all goes smoothly.
Have a safe trip!!!
I just subscribed
thanks 🙏
Enjoyed your cruising travels and experiences. Question: What would be the best cruise from the US west coast to SE Asia? Or would you recommend multiple cruises for the long journey?
probably princess
Thank you so much for your all inspiring and brave video. Could you please comment if you also had any kind of implants done during this one week procedure
I did not get implants but you can check out my recent vid where I documented the whole dental experience.
@@30AndAWakeUp Thanks Saw that on..very nice. work they did on your teeth..have you been happy and trouble free with it? Also look forward to watching this cruise series
How does someone handle prescription medication refills for long term cruising?
just like in normal life…have them sent to a pharmacy near you and pick them up
please live in a Switzerland Mountain Hut for a while
That would be amazing!
That’s a lot of dentistry! Stay healthy and safe!
Thanks! 🙏
Great video ❤
Thanks! 🙏
Could not find link to the phone wallet with medallion holder which brand is it? Thx for info getting ready for my 19 day around Japan cruise
link is in the description of the vid
Great video thanks.
Thanks! 🙏
Thank you for the informative video. Smile is looking great! Looking forward to your new adventures =)
Thanks so much!
you have to be careful because you look too skinny. Make sure you do some resistant training to build muscle, We want you healthy and strong to keep amazing us with your fantastic stories. God Bless you man!!
Yeah, definitely. Im moving into phase two of my fitness journey now, which is lots of time in the gym.
Seems crazy that you would leave the ship without your passport. What if you have a medical emergency while in port or if you miss the ship? I never travel without my passport, even when traveling domestically, because you never know when there might be a crisis, war, terror attack, or some kind of emergency.
I have a picture of my passport on my phone.
Philippines weather is best during January and February
Thanks for the tip!