I am a planner. The teacher in me makes lists, compares options, and goes a little Type A when it comes to vacations. Right now we are looking at a very last minute family cruise. Why you ask? Well, it’s been several years since we have really gone away. Stress and lack of location change is grating on the adults here. We have gone to visit family within the state, but as wonderful as it is to be with them – it’s not a vacation.

The BIG reason I want to really do something special. TechyDad has a BIG birthday coming in August. We need something as a family to do that will not be stressful. While we adore going to Walt Disney World, *gasp* that is not an option this year. 2016 will be our time with Mickey and friends.

We have talked about going to Boston, DC, Montreal, Chicago, and other destinations that have so much to offer. What is stopping us? It’s SO expensive and makes my head spin trying to figure everything out. Where do we stay? Do we need a rental car? How much will lodging, food, and entertainment cost us? How will we get there?  As you add up everything, it’s a lot to do in a short amount of time and is going to cost us a lot in the end.

For years we have watched others go on cruises. They rave about it being the perfect option if you want a low stress vacation. You book and go. Little planning is needed unless you want to pre-book excursions at specific ports that your ship will stop in.

If you have been on a cruise, I would love to know any tips and tricks you have. We will probably be making our final decision this weekend. I’m still a planner and making this decision last minute is hard for me. My mind automatically goes to how much we have to get ready to go and what we will need on the ship. Of course, I also think about the four of us sharing a small cabin and it worries me.