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Why I started Shimmer and Shore Travel

Travel has always meant more to me than just vacations.

For me, travel is about connection. It’s about watching your kids experience something for the very first time. It’s about stepping away from the stress of everyday life and making memories that stay with your family forever. It’s about laughter around dinner tables in new places, sunsets on the ocean, beautiful moments you never want to end, and stories you’ll tell for years afterward.

As a mom, I know how quickly life moves. Between schedules, responsibilities, school activities, and the constant busyness of daily life, it can feel almost impossible to slow down and truly enjoy time together.

That love for meaningful travel is what inspired me to create Shimmer and Shore Travel.

I wanted to create a brand that helps families, couples, and travelers feel excited about planning again instead of overwhelmed. A place where clients feel cared for, understood, and supported throughout the entire process.

Planning a vacation should feel joyful, not stressful.

There are so many options online today that trip planning can quickly become exhausting. Endless reviews, confusing pricing, changing travel requirements, and trying to coordinate every detail can take away from the excitement before the trip even begins. I started Shimmer and Shore Travel to help remove that stress and replace it with confidence, guidance, and personalized service.

Whether it’s a family cruise, an all-inclusive getaway, a couples escape, or a bucket-list vacation, my goal is always the same: to help create unforgettable experiences tailored to the people taking them.

The name Shimmer and Shore reflects everything I love most about travel — sparkling ocean views, sunshine, adventure, peaceful escapes, and the excitement of discovering somewhere new. But it also represents something deeper: the memories that shine long after the trip is over.

This business was built from a genuine passion for helping others experience joy through travel. I believe vacations are not luxuries reserved for “someday.” They are opportunities to reconnect, celebrate milestones, rest, explore, and create lasting memories with the people you love most.

I’m so excited to help clients turn their travel dreams into reality and to become part of the memories they’ll treasure forever.

Thank you for being here and supporting this journey. I truly can’t wait to help you plan your next adventure.

-Rachel

Founder of Shimmer and Shore Travel

12 Packing essentials for Cruising with Kids

Packing for a cruise with kids can be daunting. Besides clothes, shoes, and toiletries, here's 12 items you should always have packed before you sail away!

  • Collapsible silicone sand toy bucket

Kids can use these lightweight, flat folding toys at the beach, in the splash park area, and even in the pool. Kids of all ages can find creative ways to play with a bucket.

  • Water shoes

These shoes protect your kids' little toes from rocks, shells, and hot sand.

  • Inflatable beach ball

Kick it. Toss it. Bounce it. Float it. Beach balls are hours of fun for kids of all ages.

  • Reusable water bottle

Fill with your child's favorite fluid to stay hydrated. A leak-proof, straw bottle is always a good choice.

  • Ziploc bags

These little wonders store snacks from the buffet, wet items, small toys, and little treasures.

  • Card games

Small but mighty, cards can keep bigger kids entertained for hours. Cards are especially great for large and multi-generational family groups

  • Custom temporary tattoos

These cool tattoos can be customized with a parent's name, cabin number, and contact info to help crew members find you. You can even add a favorite character or theme for a fun, fashionable safety tattoo your kids will actually want to wear.

  • OTC medications

Never pay wild port prices for medications. Pack a few doses of some basics like fever reducer, antihistamines, and a handful of bandaids.

  • Lanyard

Many cruise ships provide lanyards for ship cards, but your kids will probably enjoy wearing one featuring a favorite character or color much more. If theyre wearing it, they're less likely to lose it!

  • Clothespins

Hang wet items on the shower clothesline, attach hats to backpacks, keep outfits together, secure towels to beach chairs, and more with these handy clips.

  • Comfort Items

A piece of home is so needed for traveling little ones. A favorite stuffie, toy, or doll can make a big difference in transitions.

  • Water coloring book

These dry after use and can be colored again and again. No worries about messy crayons or markers either.

Happy sailing!

-Rachel

8 Cruise Myths That Keep People From Booking Their First Cruise (And Why They're Not True!)

If you've never been on a cruise before, chances are you've heard plenty of opinions about cruising—some accurate and some not so much.

As a travel advisor, I talk with first-time cruisers all the time, and many of them have the same concerns before they book. The funny thing? Most of those worries disappear within the first day onboard.

Let's bust some of the most common cruise myths so you can decide if cruising might be right for you.

Myth #1: "I'll Get Seasick the Entire Time"

This is probably the number one concern I hear.

The reality is that modern cruise ships are incredibly large and equipped with stabilizers designed to reduce motion. On many sailings, you may barely notice you're moving at all.

If you're prone to motion sickness, there are plenty of preventative options available, including patches, wristbands, and over-the-counter medications. Most first-time cruisers are pleasantly surprised by how stable the ship feels.

Myth #2: "Cruises Are Only for Retired People"

Maybe this was true decades ago, but today's cruise industry offers something for nearly everyone.

You'll find families, couples, friend groups, multi-generational travelers, solo travelers, and yes, retirees too.

Many ships feature water parks, surf simulators, ropes courses, laser tag, Broadway-style shows, kids clubs, adults-only retreats, and nightlife. There truly is a cruise line and ship for every travel style.

Myth #3: "I'll Feel Trapped on a Ship"

Many first-time cruisers imagine being stuck on a boat with nowhere to go.

In reality, most ships are floating resorts. You can spend your day lounging by the pool, enjoying live entertainment, trying specialty dining, visiting the spa, participating in activities, or simply relaxing with a book and ocean views.

And every few days, you're waking up somewhere new.

Myth #4: "Cruises Are Too Strict and Over-Scheduled"

One of the biggest surprises for new cruisers is how flexible cruising can be.

Want to sleep in? Go for it.

Want to spend all day at the pool? Absolutely.

Want to pack every hour with activities? You can do that too.

The daily schedule is full of options, but very few things are mandatory. Your vacation can be as relaxed or as busy as you'd like.

Myth #5: "The Food Isn't Good"

Cruise dining has come a long way.

Most ships offer a wide variety of included dining options, from casual favorites to international cuisine. Many also feature specialty restaurants created by celebrity chefs or designed around unique culinary experiences.

Whether you're craving steak, seafood, pizza, tacos, sushi, or dessert, you'll have plenty of choices.

Myth #6: "Cruises Are More Expensive Than Other Vacations"

When you compare what's included, cruises often provide excellent value.

Your accommodations, transportation between destinations, meals, entertainment, youth programs, and many onboard activities are already included in the fare.

While there can be optional extras, many travelers are surprised by how much they receive for the price.

Myth #7: "You Only Get a Few Hours at Each Destination"

While port times vary, most itineraries provide plenty of time to explore.

You can choose organized excursions, beach days, cultural tours, shopping, adventure activities, or simply wander on your own.

And unlike traditional vacations where you're unpacking and repacking between destinations, your hotel room travels with you.

Myth #8: "Cruising Is Complicated"

Actually, cruising can be one of the easiest ways to travel.

You unpack once, visit multiple destinations, and have most of your vacation logistics handled for you.

When you work with a travel advisor, the process becomes even simpler. I help match you with the right cruise line, ship, itinerary, cabin, and budget so you can feel confident before you ever step onboard.

Final Thoughts

The best way to know whether cruising is right for you is to experience it yourself.

Many of my clients start out skeptical and come home wondering why they waited so long to try it.

If you've been cruise-curious but aren't sure where to start, I'd love to help you find the perfect first sailing and answer all your questions along the way.

Happy Sailing!

-Rachel

How to Choose the Perfect Cruise Stateroom (And Why Your Travel Advisor Makes It Easy)

Picking the right cabin can make or break your cruise vacation. From motion sickness to noisy neighbors, there are more factors to consider than most travelers realize, but don't worry. I've got you covered with everything you need to know, and as your travel advisor, I'm here to make the whole process easy.

The Golden Rule: Midship, Lower Deck

The #1 Tip for Comfort

Before diving into the details, there's one overarching principle every seasoned cruiser swears by: book a cabin that is midship (center of the ship) on a lower deck. This single choice reduces motion, minimizes noise exposure, and keeps you close to the heart of the ship's amenities.

Why It Matters

A ship pivots and rolls from its extremities. The closer you are to the center, both front-to-back and top-to-bottom, the less movement you'll feel. It's physics, and it's your best friend when the seas get choppy.

Think of it like sitting in the middle of a seesaw versus perching on one of the ends. The ride is simply smoother when you're in the middle.

Motion Sickness & Stability: Where You Sleep Matters

If you or anyone in your family is prone to seasickness, cabin location is non-negotiable. Here's what you need to know about the ship's geography.

🏆 Best: Low & Center

Lower decks amidships offer the smoothest ride. Less rocking, less rolling, more sleeping.

⚓ Avoid: Forward Cabins

The bow sits near the anchor and thrusters, so expect rumbling and increased pitching motion in rough seas.

⚙️ Caution: Aft Cabins

The very back of the ship can experience engine vibration, especially on older vessels or at high speeds.

🚫 Skip: Top Decks

Upper-deck cabins amplify every swell. Great views, but a rough night's sleep when seas are active.

Keeping It Quiet: Noise is the Silent Cruise Killer

Nothing ruins a vacation faster than being jolted awake at 6 a.m. by pool chairs scraping across the deck above you. Noise is one of the most overlooked factors when booking a stateroom, and one of the easiest to avoid with a little planning.

✅ Do: Surround Yourself with Cabins

The ideal cabin has passenger staterooms on all sides: above, below, port, and starboard. Other sleeping guests are your best soundproofing.

❌ Avoid: Pool Deck Above

Lounger scraping, splashing, and early-morning setup noise make cabins directly below the pool a nightmare for light sleepers.

❌ Avoid: Nightclubs & Buffets

Cabins beneath the nightclub or adjacent to the buffet area can experience thumping bass and kitchen noise well into the early hours.

⚠️ Watch: Elevators & Stairwells

Cabins next to elevator banks see constant foot traffic and hallway noise throughout the day and night.

Getting Around the Ship: Mobility & Convenience

On a mega-ship carrying 5,000+ passengers, your cabin location affects how many steps you log every single day, and that adds up fast over a 7-night sailing.

For Families & Those with Mobility Needs

If you're traveling with young children in a stroller, elderly family members, or anyone with limited mobility, booking near a central bank of elevators is a game-changer. Quick access to dining rooms, shows, and the pool makes the whole trip more relaxed and less exhausting.

The Aft Walk Warning

Aft cabins on large ships can mean a quarter-mile walk just to reach your room from the main atrium. Multiply that by several trips a day and you'll understand why seasoned cruisers think twice. Beautiful wake views come with a trade-off: make sure it's worth it for your family.

Views & Balconies: What You See (and What You Might Not)

Obstructed Views: The Fine Print

Oceanview and balcony cabins are often marketed at a lower price with an "obstructed view" label. That means a lifeboat, structural pillar, or ship equipment may partially or significantly block your scenery. Always read the fine print before booking based on price alone.

Aft-Facing Balconies: A Hidden Gem

Aft-facing balconies are among the most coveted spots on any ship. You get expansive, unobstructed views of the ship's wake, dramatic scenery as you cruise away from ports, and a sense of tranquility that's hard to match. Just be prepared for the longer walk to your room.

The "Guarantee Cabin" Gamble: Know Before You Book

What Is a Guarantee Cabin?

A "guarantee" (or "GTY") booking is the cruise industry's version of a mystery box. You pay for a cabin category — like an interior, oceanview, or balcony — but the cruise line assigns your exact room number closer to sailing. It's almost always the cheapest way to book a specific cabin type.

The catch? You have zero say in the location. You could land a fantastic midship cabin, or find yourself directly above the nightclub with an obstructed lifeboat view. It's a roll of the dice, and for families with specific needs, it's often a gamble not worth taking.

When It Works vs. When It Doesn't

Works well if: You're a flexible solo traveler or couple, you're not prone to motion sickness, and you're purely budget-focused.

Risky if: You're traveling with kids, have mobility concerns, are prone to seasickness, or simply want peace of mind on your vacation.

A travel advisor can often find excellent deals on hand-selected cabins that rival guarantee pricing, without the uncertainty.

This Is Exactly Where Your Travel Advisor Shines

Reading deck plans, cross-referencing noise zones, calculating walk distances, checking for obstructions: it's a lot of homework. Most travelers simply don't have the time, the tools, or the insider knowledge to do it well. That's where I come in.

Deck Plan Expertise

I study ship deck plans so you don't have to. I know which cabins are above the disco and which ones are blissfully quiet.

Tailored to Your Family

Traveling with toddlers? Elderly parents? I match your stateroom to your real-life needs: proximity to elevators, connecting cabins, and more.

No Guarantee Guesswork

I select specific cabins, not guarantee bookings, so you know exactly what you're getting before you ever step onboard.

Save Hours of Research

What takes a traveler days of online digging takes me minutes. I've done this hundreds of times and know the ships inside and out.

Your Perfect Stateroom Checklist

Before finalizing any cruise cabin, run through these key questions. Better yet, share them with your travel advisor and let me handle the rest.

1

Is the cabin midship and on a lower deck?

This is your stability foundation, especially important for motion-sensitive travelers.

2

Are there passenger cabins on all four sides?

Check the deck plan above and below your cabin as well as on both walls to ensure noise buffers.

3

Is the view obstructed?

If booking an oceanview or balcony, confirm whether any lifeboats or structures will block your view.

4

Does the location fit your mobility needs?

Consider elevator proximity, walking distance from the main venues, and stroller or wheelchair accessibility.

Ready to Book the Right Cabin — Stress-Free?

You deserve a cruise where the biggest decision you make onboard is which pool to lounge by, not whether you made the right cabin choice. Let me handle the research, the deck plans, and the details so you can focus on what matters: making memories with the people you love.

📞 Get in Touch

Reach out to me and tell me about your travel style, family size, and any concerns. I'll start matching you to the perfect ship and stateroom.

🛳️ I Do the Research

I'll review deck plans, cross-check noise zones, and shortlist the best available cabins for your sailing, at no extra cost to you.

✅ You Cruise with Confidence

Board your ship knowing exactly where you'll sleep, what to expect, and that every detail has been thoughtfully handled for your family.

Happy Sailing!

-Rachel

the Balcony Question

One of the most common questions first-time cruisers have is: "Do I really need to splurge on a balcony cabin?" And honestly? It's a good question to ask.

Here's what I've learned from talking with cruise travelers: a balcony becomes worth it when you value your private retreat. If you're someone who loves morning coffee while watching the ocean, or you enjoy unwinding on your own space after a full day of activities, that balcony transforms your cruise experience. It's not just a cabin upgrade. It's your personal sanctuary at sea.

That said, if you're the type who's out exploring the ship from sunrise to sunset, an inside cabin saves you money without sacrificing the adventure. Cruise lines pack so much into their ships and trips (multiple restaurants, theaters, pools, fitness classes, and ports of call fill up your day) that you're genuinely not spending much time in your room anyway.

The real magic of cruising? It's the all-inclusive value. Your meals, entertainment, and most activities are already covered, which means you're getting incredible experiences without the stress of planning restaurants or activities at every port. Whether you're a family looking for something everyone will enjoy, a couple seeking quality time, or an adventure seeker ready to explore new destinations, there's a cruise built for you.

So here's my advice: think about how you travel. Are you a cabin person or an explorer? That answer is your guide. Personally, I'm an explorer for most sailings.

Happy Sailing!

-Rachel

CRUISE HACK #1:

Skip The Buffet on embarkation day

Welcome to the first post in my Cruise Hacks series! If you've cruised before, you know embarkation day can feel like organized chaos—long lines, excited crowds, and everyone making a beeline for the buffet. But here's a secret: you have options, and they're often quieter, more relaxing, and just as delicious. Skip the Buffet Madness—Try These Instead:

  1. The Main Dining Room (MDR)

Most cruise lines open their main dining room for a sit-down lunch on embarkation day, and it's one of the best-kept secrets onboard. You'll enjoy table service, a more relaxed atmosphere, and a chance to preview the elevated dining experience you'll have throughout your cruise. No jostling for a table or waiting in line with a tray—just sit back and let the crew take care of you.

2. Specialty Restaurants

Depending on your cruise line, select specialty restaurants may be open on embarkation day—sometimes even complimentary for lunch! Whether it's a steakhouse, Italian trattoria, or Mediterranean bistro, these venues offer an upscale, less-crowded alternative. Check your cruise line's app or ask at guest services when you board.

3. Casual Complimentary Venues

Love a good burger or slice of pizza? Many ships feature casual spots like poolside grills, pizza parlors, delis, or cafés that are open and ready to serve you the moment you step onboard. These are perfect if you want something quick and tasty without the buffet scene.

4. Suite Perks

If you're sailing in a suite, you may have access to an exclusive dining room or lounge with a private embarkation day lunch. It's a quieter, more intimate way to start your vacation—and one of the many perks that make suite life so special.

Stay tuned for the next post in the Cruise Hacks series—more insider tips coming soon!

Happy Sailing!

-Rachel