Your compass for every adventure

Every week I will share new tips and travel tips will you, from booking ferries with pets to exploring breathtaking destinations. Our blog is here to inform, inspire, and help you navigate the world with confidence.

Traveling with furry friends

This week, we're diving into the delightful (and sometimes tricky) world of pet travel.

Things we learned:

Book Early, like a year early if you have your dates and want a pet cabin.

Crossings are often only once a week in the winter!

Not all route/ships have pet cabins, there is the option for a kennel but my two would be scared being just 12 months old when we go.  We wanted Santander but had to do Bilbao instead.

Dogs have to be mussled while on deck or in public areas.

I had no idea of how far in advance you have to book if you want a pet friendly cabin.  We are taking our two labradoodles to Portugal next March and struggled to get a cabin from Portsmouth to Bilbao in the whole of March 27! It's only April 26!

It was also a lot more expensive than I thought it would be so booking far out gives us time to save up.

We booked through the Brittany Ferries website and it was super easy. Pick your date, crossing and cabin, there is an option for food vouchers but we will sort ourselves out depending on how we feel.  Hubby isn't great crossings so motion sickness patches will be used.https://amzn.to/4sWsV8H 

we got a confirmation email very quickly with the booking reference on and a link to tickets.

We now have to plan driving to Portugal!

Unlocking new destinations

This week we talk about Seville, you can read an blog on the top tourist things to do but what I want to share is the tips other people don't share.

1. The circular bus C4 is a cheaper option that the hop on hop off bus.

2. Have drinks under the tree for lovely shade at 29L a 5 minute walk from Plaza de Espana.

3. Stay across the river for cheaper prices, bigger accommodation and gorgeous restaurants.

4. Tours - university tour is free or €5 runs on Thurs at 6pm or Fri at 1pm, the building is an old tobacco factory and there is a plaster cast museum. 'Walk a hike with me' walking tour is self guided and fun.

5. Mercado de Tirana is like a food court with amazing Spanish cuisine, olives, cured meats and the wine.....lush!

Enjoy your trip x 

Dressed to impress (or not) on Formal nights?

We have been on Carnival, Royal Caribbean and P&O cruises and over the years the formality has changed.

I love to dress up but on most cruise lines, formal night is a nice dress and a jacket/tie for men, tuxedos and sequins are few and far between, if any.

I would say that the world cruise was an exception with formal nights being an event, a special night for your to put on your best, more like the good old formal nights.  With so many sea days, you have plenty of time to get ready and use the hairdresser/barber on board.

Remember Ladies, No Heels, Wedges, you are on the ocean and if it is rocking or even bobbing then you want to be steady on your feet and still ready for dancing.

What to wear? What to pack? Our blog demystifies the art of travel preparation. We offer practical packing ideas, essential gear recommendations, and fashion tips for every climate and occasion. Get ready to travel smarter, lighter, and more stylishly, making your journeys easier and more enjoyable.