As I board The Carnival Pride, Leaving from port Baltimore headed to the Bahamas. I get a feeling of happiness with a burst of nervousness.
(TIP: make sure to check the rules of the ship as they typically let each individual bring a 750ml bottle of wine, if you have 2 people bring 2 and so on, it will save you quite a bit of money as you wont have to buy drinks at the bars for a day or two. Of course if you are not a drinker then it would all be fine regardless.)
As I step I am engulfed by this grand lobby that despite all of the chaos behind me (people boarding) has a feeling of tranquility to it, as the soft jazz music plays, It just takes me back to simpler days and I am automatically enamored with the atmosphere.
After I head over to my cabin, although it is fairly small, it has a cozy feel to it that I instantly feel in love with, there is nothing like being away from home but feeling right at home.
( TIP: buy a pack of water before boarding the ship, that way it is readily available as you get on. They do have two big water bottles in the cabin, but they cost $3.70 while a pack of 24 cost around the same price.)
As I stroll around I find the main pool that also has a giant screen, in which they later played movies on. Nothing like laying back relaxing in the pool with a pina colada and watching a great film.
If this pool is filled with little ones and you prefer a much quieter place fear not, because serenity pool (located at the back of the ship) is an adult only area.
There are also some slides (beware the green slide is scary but safe) and a mini-golf, basketball/soccer courts, and a gym. ( But lets face it there is no losing weight on a cruise which has free food available 24/4 oh and ice cream )
There are also some activities around the ship such as; karaoke, stand up comedies, lip singing and other shows.
There is also an arcade room, that took me forever to find. (mainly because I was focused on everything else)
Almost forgot to mention, yes there is a casino! but beware you may lose a good chunk of money in here, if you ask me Id say go to the arcade and try to win the Apple products bundle. But nonetheless both are extremely fun.
(TIP: This is a very important one as it can save you from having a bad day, bring motion sickness pills, even if you don't think you'll ever be motion sick, just bring a few they don't weight anything and are simple to store. )
My first cruise has been a major success, I would recommend it to anyone and everyone, If you have questions leave a comment below, Bon voyage till next time.
Disclaimer: Some of the pictures used were not mine.
