Splash!
You’re in the middle of the state. It’s summer. It’s hot. You’re parched. Why not head for the water? Quench your thirst for tropical drinks, ocean breezes and dancing by moonlight on exotic shores. They’re close enough to spend just a few days away, yet worlds apart from home.
Kidding Around on Carnival
Cruise to Mexico from Tampa
Words by Lisa Codianne Fowler
Kidding Around on Carnival
A short drive from Ocala can lead you to an odyssey at sea. Embark from the port of Tampa on Carnival Cruise Line’s ship, Inspiration, for a four-day getaway and a lifetime of memories. Enjoy exotic Cozumel, Mexico … and the ship … your floating hotel – a destination in itself. Carnival is known as “the fun ship”. There’s a reason!
Ship Ahoy!
This Carnival cruise takes you on a marvelous round-trip journey at sea to one of the most popular vacation destinations in the world: Cozumel. En route, you’ll enjoy an incredible array of on-board activities, a variety of dining options, nighttime fun and more – and most all of it is included in your low-cost cruise fare. Here’s what to expect.
Sunny Days
Inspiration is one of the ships in Carnival’s “Fantasy” class and features tons of family fun. There’s a nine-hole mini golf course and Carnival WaterWorks, a Twister Waterslide and Splash Park – delightfully refreshing for children of all ages. There’s also a family-friendly tropical resort-style pool with live music and games, and, if you need some pampering and quiet time, the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat – a relaxing kid-free zone with swimming pool and hot tub. Adults will also appreciate the Spa Carnival, where you can indulge in soothing treatments and massages for your body and soul. You can safely leave your young ones at Camp Carnival, designed for cruisers 2 – 11 while you are being pampered in the spa.
Starry Nights
Evenings deliver culinary delights. Choose from two restaurants, then head for the Paris Lounge for adult conversation, laughter and drinks ‘til dawn. One of the coolest spots on Carnival Inspiration is Circle “C” and it’s just for kids 12-14, with video games, dance parties, late-night movies, Karaoke and more. Teenagers 15-17 can hang out around the clock at Club 02, which features music, video games, food, new friends and a lot of teen-friendly fun.
Fiesta or Siesta?
Once you arrive in Cozumel, you can do everything or nothing at all. Explore the markets or while away the hours on a gorgeous windswept beach. Snorkel quietly to discover an underwater world of creatures in tropical Technicolor. Whichever you choose, there’s one thing you should know… Mexicans are among the friendliest people in the world. You’ll feel a warm welcome whether you are dining at an outdoor café or bargaining for baubles!
Shop ‘til You Drop!
Rich saturated colors…craggy coastlines…emerald-green rainforests – Mexico is a work of art, one you’ll want to pack up and take home. While you can’t sneak off with an Aztec ruin, you can snag up the treasures at street markets, galleries and craft shops on board. Must haves include silver and pewter; colorful pottery; hand-woven rugs, masks and folk art.
Money Matters
Budget-conscious travelers should keep in mind that professional photographs, on-board beverages, Internet access and organized shore excursions will cost extra. Tips are added on to the cruise fare at $10 per person per day.
So, are you ready to party? Go have some fun. Bon Voyage!
If you go:
Departure dates for the remainder of 2011 for the four-day cruise from Tampa to Cozumel: July 7, 21; August 4, 18; September 1, 15, 29; October 13, 27; November 10, 24.
For more information, visit Carnival Cruise Lines at www.carnival.com or the Tampa Port Authority at www.tampacruiseguide.com.
Words by Lisa Codianne Fowler
