Carnival Imagination

Seven college students given the opportunity to spend spring break on a cruise ship. That is how I spent my spring break vacation. This was my first time on a cruise ship and I was nervous about motion sickness and would I really have a good time. I knew one other person in the group and I had class with two of the ladies, but I didn’t really know anyone.

Day 1-Long Beach

I had to wake up bright and early, Sunday morning to catch a flight to LAX. I really didn’t sleep the night before as I was anxious and spent the night with my friend. Love Field was packed but we ultimately made it through security. We made it to LAX and then to the boat.

We got checked in on the boat and went directly upstairs to the lunch buffet. So many food options and this was only the beginning of delicious meals for the next four days.  With this being day one we spent the day exploring the boat and seeing all it had to offer. I was tired I caught a plane, a 45 minute ride to the port, and now im sailing across the ocean. I went to sleep early.

Day 2- Catalina Island

I slept great my first night on the boat to my surprise no motion sickness. I woke up in Catalina Island and it was absolutely beautiful. We ate breakfast and I had some delicious french toast. We spent the entire day off the boat exploring Catalina and all it had to offer. The mom and pop shops, the beach everything was just stunning.

We came back to the boat took a quick nap and got ready for the captains dinner. Had another amazing meal and entertainment during dinner. We quickly changed and was ready for boat nightlife. We went to karaoke and was the life of the party. Then we went to a comedy show and it was hilarious. We kept making references to the jokes the remainder of the trip.

Day 3- Ensenada, Mexico

When we arrived to Ensenada we did not have the same view as we did upon arriving to Catalina, it was still nice though. We explored the Mexico streets, I ate street tacos, bought dream catchers, and enjoyed the scenery. I also got hit on but I left that in Mexico.

As the boat was departing the dock I took that time to write and reflect. I looked out the window and just thought how blessed and grateful for the opportunity to travel and create these lasting memories and experiences. Mexico was a real eye opener on how blessed and fortunate I am.

Day 4- Sea Day

The last and final day on the boat. I was use to the rocking back and forth and looking out at the water was so calming. Definitely sad to have to leave it all behind. Woke up to Sea Day Brunch, had amazing froot loops french toast. The group and I took time to lay pool side and go to the sauna.

Our professor Dr. Edwards scheduled an exclusive tour and interview of the boat. We got to meet everyone in command and had a behind the scenes tour of the boat. It was nice to see all the work put in to make everyone’s vacation one to remember.  After the tour we went and had high tea.

We enjoyed our last dinner on the boat and it was bittersweet. We enjoyed another night of karaoke and part two of Doug Williams comedy show.  We went to the club and danced the night away to end our trip.

It was an overall amazing trip and vacation. Not having cell phone service and no access to social media, I enjoyed the detox. It was a great time to reflect and think about my goals, dreams, and future. I got to enjoy the things and people around me. This definitely won’t be my last cruise.