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A Simple Guide for First-Time Cruisers

Your first cruise is certainly an adventure, but it can also be overwhelming. From choosing the ideal ship to dressing the part, first-time cruisers often have dozens of questions. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to cruise like a pro from day one.

Why Cruising Is A Great Type Of Vacation 

Sun Princess


Cruises provide the ideal combination of ease, excitement, and relaxation. Here are some reasons why cruising is great.
  • All-in-one vacation: With cruising, you have all your accommodation, dining, and entertainment on one ship. It can be a great all-inclusive type of holiday. 
  • Visit several ports: On a cruise, you can see multiple destinations and visit them without committing to a longer holiday. If you like the destination, you can always go back!
  • Something for everyone: Cruising has something for everyone. From sunbathing and snorkelling to fine dining and family activities, cruises have something for every interest.
  • An affordable vacation. Cruising can be very affordable when you consider that most cruises have food, some drinks and entertainment all included. 

1. Choosing The Right Cruise Line

Not all cruise lines are created equal. Some appeal to families, others to adventure travellers or luxury cruisers. Here's the quick summary:

  • Royal Caribbean: Good for families and first-timers who want activity and entertainment.
  • Carnival: Cost-effective, party-cruiser, good for younger or budget-strapped travellers.
  • Norwegian: Known for "freestyle cruising" with independent dining choices at mealtime and an easy-going atmosphere.
  • Disney Cruise Line: Best for young children and families.
  • Celebrity and Holland America: Better for couples or older travellers who desire relaxation and enrichment.
  • P & O Cruises: UK based and good value for money. Great for families. 

Pro Tip: Read reviews on blog sites such as Fly Drive Explore and YouTube vlogs like Fly Drive Explore. You can then really get a sense of the atmosphere for each cruise line. 

I've written a more comprehensive essential tips for first time cruises, so check it out.

2. Shortest And Most Popular Itineraries For First-Time Cruisers

Make it short and sweet with popular routes so you can wet your feet (pun intended):

  • Caribbean Cruises: Nice weather, beautiful beaches, and plenty of excursions.
  • Bahamas Cruises: Great weekend getaways, with most departing from Florida.
  • Mediterranean Cruises: For a European taste with amazing cultural port stops.
  • Alaska Cruises: Nature lovers will love stunning scenery and wildlife viewing.
  • European Cruises: Great for culture lovers.

3. What To Pack On Your First Cruise

Packing for a cruise is different from a land vacation. The following are essentials first-time cruisers shouldn't leave home without:

  • Passport and documents 
  • Cruise lanyard (to carry your keycard)
  • Motion sickness remedies (Anti-sickness wristbands, Kwells or Dramamine)
  • Formal evening wear (check your cruise line's dress code)
  • Swimwear and beach cover-ups
  • Refillable water bottle
  • Power strip (not surge-protected)
  • Light backpack for shore days

Tip Bonus: Don't pack your swimsuit in the back of your suitcase — you might need to wear it on Day 1 before your luggage is in your room.

4. What To Expect Onboard

pool on ship


New cruisers, cruise ships can be like floating cities. Here is a brief overview of what to expect:

  • Muster Drill: Mandatory pre-sail safety briefing.
  • Daily Schedule: Print or app copy of activities onboard.
  • Dining Options: Main dining room (free), speciality restaurants (fee), and buffets.
  • Gratuities: Added automatically to your onboard account or may be included in some cruise lines.
  • Wi-Fi: Not typically free 

5. Shore Excursions: Do It Yourself vs. Booking With The Cruise Line

  • Ship-Booked Excursions: Convenient and safer, especially for first-timers.
  • DIY: More fun and sometimes cheaper, but more organisation is required.
  • Cruise Smart: Get back onboard at least an hour before sail-away. The ship won't wait for you.

6. Common Mistakes First Time Cruisers Need To Avoid

  • Not arriving a day early: Always arrive the night before to avoid delays.
  • Forget about travel insurance. Always get specific cruise cover, especially if cruising internationally. It can cost a lot to evacuate you in a medical emergency if you are in the middle of the ocean,
  • Not budgeting for extras: Drinks, tours, tips, and internet use can quickly mount up.
  • Not reading the documentation and examining the website of the cruise line. It's important to do this so you know what's included and what's not in your cruise fare.

Final Tips for First Time Cruisers

Your first cruise is all about unwinding and exploring, not stressing over the details. By thinking ahead a bit, asking the right questions, and having realistic expectations, you'll set sail with confidence and return with memories to last a lifetime.

Ready to book your first cruise? Let me know which one you book.
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Indoor / Outdoor Beanbag Review From Great Bean Bags

* This is a review of an indoor/outdoor beanbag by Great Bean Bags and is gifted.

When you think of home decor, unless you have children, a bean bag as an accessory perhaps hasn't crossed your mind.  However, I think perhaps it should. When Great Bean Bags contacted me to review one of their bean bags, I thought it sounded like a great idea for my grown-up son's bedroom.  Read on to find out what we thought. 


beanbag

Who Are Great Bean Bags?

Great Bean Bags is a textile manufacturer whom are based in Nottingham, UK, and they have been producing bean bags since 1992. What makes Great Bean Bags special is that they focus on the best of British production and quality, making bean bags that are strong, well-made and fit for purpose.  They have a wide client base and have delivered bean bags to companies such as Channel 4, Fat Face and O2. 

outdoor bean bag

There are several bean bags on their site, in a range of designs, sizes and colours, from kids bean bags to even pet bean bags, but I chose an indoor / outdoor bean bag to review.

Advantages Of An Indoor / Outdoor Bean Bag

beanbag_purple


Of course, the main advantage of an indoor / outdoor beanbag is its versatility. Imagine having people around in this beautiful sunny weather. Then you can take the bean bag from your home and use it for extra seating in the garden. 

The indoor/ outdoor bean bag I chose was really well made. The stitching is secure, and it feels like it is made of a quality material. It's comfortable to sit on and is showerproof, and the material is UV resistant. The bean bag appears easy to look after, just wipe down with a damp sponge, and if caught in heavy rain, just leave to dry. 

My son loved the comfortable design that moulds to your body and enjoyed using it when he had friends over to play games. It's not very heavy easy so can be moved around the house or garden when you need extra seating. 

beanbag-3


If you are not sure about choosing a material and colour, you can order free samples, which I feel is a great idea. With a no-fuss money-back guarantee (subject to terms, you really haven't got anything to lose!

The indoor outdoor seat bean bag costs from £79.99, which I feel is a reasonable value for a quality and versatile item like this. It is also available in a range of colours from black and navy to pink and purple.  We really liked the bean bag and would definitely order from the company again.

Let me know, would you order a bean bag as seating?
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Best Times to Visit Abu Dhabi for Perfect Weather

Planning the perfect getaway often depends on choosing the right time to travel, and Abu Dhabi is no exception. With its year-round sunshine, beautiful beaches, and stunning architecture, Abu Dhabi promises a memorable experience. However, certain times of year offer particularly pleasant weather, making your trip even more enjoyable. 


Abu Dhabi

If you're considering Abu Dhabi holidays, here's everything you need to know about the best times to visit for perfect weather.

November to March – The Ideal Season

The period between November and March is widely considered the best time to visit Abu Dhabi. During these months, the weather is wonderfully mild, with daytime temperatures ranging from 24°C to 30°C and cooler evenings perfect for outdoor activities.

This is the peak tourist season, and for good reason — it’s the ideal time to explore the city's attractions, from the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque to the Corniche waterfront, without battling extreme heat. Outdoor dining, desert safaris, and beach days are especially popular during this time.

Top Tip: Book your Abu Dhabi holidays well in advance if you plan to visit between December and February, as this is the busiest time with numerous events and festivals.

April and October – Shoulder Seasons

If you prefer fewer crowds but still want relatively comfortable weather, April and October are excellent months to visit. Temperatures are warmer, typically ranging between 30°C and 36°C, but the humidity levels are manageable, making outdoor activities still quite pleasant.

This is a great time for those looking to explore Abu Dhabi’s cultural attractions, like the Louvre Abu Dhabi or Qasr Al Hosn, without the high-season rush. Accommodation and flight prices are also often slightly lower, making it easier to find excellent value for your Abu Dhabi holidays.

May to September – Summer Heat

The summer months in Abu Dhabi (May to September) are extremely hot, with temperatures often soaring above 40°C. Humidity levels also rise significantly, making outdoor activities challenging during the day.

However, if you're not bothered by the heat and are mainly planning indoor activities, this could be an opportunity to experience Abu Dhabi at a fraction of the cost. Luxury hotels often offer deep discounts, and the city’s world-class shopping malls, museums, and entertainment venues are all air-conditioned.

Pro Tip: If you visit during summer, plan indoor attractions during the daytime and venture outdoors only in the early morning or late evening.

Special Events and Festivals

Timing your trip with one of Abu Dhabi’s major events can add an extra layer of excitement to your holiday. 

    Highlights include:

  • Abu Dhabi Grand Prix (November): Held at Yas Marina Circuit, it's a must for Formula 1 fans.
  • Abu Dhabi Film Festival (typically in October or November): Celebrating global and regional cinema.
  • UAE National Day (2nd December): Experience the country's patriotic spirit with parades, fireworks, and festivities.

These events take place during the cooler months, making them perfect additions to your Abu Dhabi holiday itinerary.

Final Thoughts

For the perfect blend of ideal weather, exciting activities, and cultural experiences, the best time to plan your Abu Dhabi adventure is between November and March. However, the shoulder months of April and October can also offer wonderful experiences with fewer crowds and better deals.

Whichever time you choose, Abu Dhabi’s unique mix of tradition, luxury, and adventure promises an unforgettable holiday. Start planning your Abu Dhabi holidays today and get ready to explore one of the Middle East’s most exciting destinations!

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Jewellery with Meaning: How Wearing Symbols of Strength Supports Emotional Wellbeing



In a world where self-care and emotional wellbeing are increasingly prioritised, jewellery has emerged as more than just a decorative accessory. Today, meaningful jewellery—especially pieces adorned with symbols of strength—serves as a powerful tool for personal empowerment, emotional support, and mental resilience. This article explores the profound connection between symbolic jewellery and emotional wellbeing, the psychological benefits of wearing such pieces, and practical ways to incorporate these talismans into your daily life.

The Power of Symbolic Jewellery


Jewellery as More Than Adornment

For centuries, jewellery has played a role beyond mere aesthetics. In ancient civilizations, kings, queens, and warriors wore amulets and talismans believed to grant protection, courage, and wisdom. Today, these traditions continue, with modern wearers choosing pieces that reflect their inner journeys and personal strengths.

Symbols that Speak to the Soul

Symbols like the Tree of Life, the lotus flower, lion, sword, and even personalised engravings carry deep meanings. These motifs are not only beautiful but also serve as daily reminders of resilience, transformation, and courage.

Wearing such jewellery can be a quiet affirmation of one's ability to overcome adversity and embrace growth.

How Jewellery Supports Emotional Wellbeing


Boosting Confidence and Self-Esteem

Wearing jewellery that holds personal meaning can elevate self-confidence and self-worth. A pendant inscribed with an empowering word or a gemstone ring associated with courage can serve as a tangible reminder of one’s inner strength, especially during challenging times.

Providing Emotional Comfort and Support

Meaningful jewellery often becomes a source of comfort. A necklace gifted by a loved one or a bracelet marking a significant achievement can evoke positive memories and provide reassurance during moments of anxiety or sadness.

Such pieces act as emotional anchors, grounding the wearer in times of uncertainty.

Encouraging Mindfulness and Intention

Mindful wearing of jewellery—taking a moment to focus on its texture, weight, and symbolism—can be a form of meditation. This practice helps shift attention away from stressors and fosters a sense of presence and calm.

Fostering Connection and Belonging

Jewellery can also create a sense of community. Shared symbols, such as a group of friends wearing matching bracelets engraved with words like “strength” or “courage,” can foster unity and mutual support.

Popular Symbols of Strength in Jewellery


The following table summarises some of the most popular symbols of strength found in jewellery, along with their meanings and emotional benefits:

Symbol

Meaning

Emotional Benefit

Tree of Life

Growth, resilience, interconnectedness

Encourages hope and stability

Lotus Flower

Transformation, rebirth, purity

Inspires perseverance and renewal

Lion

Courage, leadership, power

Boosts confidence and assertiveness

Sword

Protection, justice, inner strength

Promotes clarity and determination

Anchor

Stability, hope, guidance

Grounds and reassures

Eagle

Vision, strength, courage

Inspires ambition and bravery

Mjölnir (Thor’s Hammer)

Divine protection, power

Shields against negativity

Coordinates/Engraving

Personal milestones, achievements

Reminds of personal triumphs

Birthstone

Personal identity, luck, and protection

Enhances self-connection

Inspirational Words

Affirmation, motivation

Encourages positive thinking



The Psychological Impact of Wearing Meaningful Jewellery


Expression of Identity and Values

Jewellery is a powerful medium for self-expression. Choosing pieces that reflect one’s values, aspirations, or personal story can reinforce a sense of identity and authenticity. This self-affirmation is particularly valuable during periods of self-doubt or emotional upheaval.

Emotional Healing and Resilience



For those navigating grief, loss, or major life transitions, symbolic jewellery can serve as a gentle reminder of their capacity to heal and persevere. Gemstones like onyx (for strength), rose quartz (for love and healing), and citrine (for joy and optimism) are often chosen for their reputed emotional properties.

Celebrating Milestones and Achievements

Jewellery marking significant life events—such as recovery from illness, reaching a personal goal, or overcoming adversity—becomes a wearable testament to resilience and growth. Each glance at such a piece can reignite feelings of pride and accomplishment.

Practical Ways to Incorporate Jewellery with Meaning


Daily Wear for Continuous Support

Choose a piece that resonates deeply—whether a ring, necklace, or bracelet—and make it part of your daily attire. The act of wearing it can become a comforting ritual, especially during stressful periods.

Personalised and Engraved Jewellery

Customising jewellery with names, dates, coordinates, or affirmations adds a unique layer of meaning. These pieces serve as intimate reminders of personal journeys, relationships, or aspirations.

Gift Giving as Emotional Support

Giving meaningful jewellery to a loved one can be a profound gesture of support. Whether celebrating a milestone or offering encouragement during tough times, such gifts become cherished symbols of connection and care.

Mindful Selection of Gemstones


Select gemstones that align with your emotional needs. For example:

Amethyst: Calming, reduces stress
Onyx: Strength, emotional stability
Citrine: Positivity, joy
Smokey Quartz: Grounding, protection

Creating Community through Shared Symbols

Wearing matching or complementary pieces with friends or family can foster a sense of solidarity and shared purpose, especially in support groups or during collective challenges

Case Studies and Real-Life Examples

Coordinates Jewellery: Engraving the latitude and longitude of a place where you overcame a significant challenge, such as a hospital, a marathon finish line, or a support group, can serve as a powerful daily reminder of your resilience and journey.

Manifestation Jewellery: Pieces engraved with words like “Breathe,” “Courage,” or “Strength” are used by many as tools for mindfulness and emotional regulation, especially during anxiety or panic attacks.

Historical Empowerment: Suffragette jewellery and Balinese spiritual adornments have long been worn as symbols of empowerment, transformation, and feminine strength, illustrating the enduring power of meaningful jewellery.

Conclusion


Jewellery with meaning is far more than a fleeting trend or a simple accessory—it is a deeply personal and transformative tool for supporting emotional wellbeing. Whether through ancient symbols, gemstones, personalised engravings, or shared talismans, these pieces serve as daily reminders of our inner strength, resilience, and capacity for growth.

By mindfully selecting and wearing jewellery that resonates with your personal journey, you can harness its power to boost confidence, provide comfort, and foster a deeper connection to yourself and others. In moments of doubt or difficulty, a simple glance at a cherished piece can remind you of your courage, your achievements, and the unwavering support that surrounds you. In this way, jewellery with meaning becomes not just an ornament, but a source of enduring strength and emotional wellbeing.

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Redefining Luxury Through Handcrafted Shoes

In today’s world, luxury has evolved beyond mere status symbols; it now represents a celebration of authenticity and substance. As more individuals turn away from flashy logos and the uniformity of mass-produced fashion, a subtle yet powerful revolution is taking place in wardrobes around the globe.

At the forefront of this change is a deep appreciation for craftsmanship, especially in footwear. Handcrafted shoes are experiencing a remarkable resurgence, revitalising our understanding of style, quality, and lasting value. Each meticulously crafted pair tells a story, showcasing the artistry and skill of the artisan.

This shift is fundamentally changing how we perceive elegance and luxury in our everyday lives, as highlighted in this article.

Craftsmanship Over Mass Production

handmade shoes

Unlike shoes produced on high-speed assembly lines, handcrafted footwear reflects patience, precision, and pride. Each pair takes time – sometimes hours, even days – to complete. Skilled artisans carefully cut, stitch, and finish every detail, ensuring both comfort and durability. This hands-on process results in shoes that aren’t just stylish – they’re built to last and improve with wear.

Materials Matter

Handcrafted shoes are known for their premium materials. Think full-grain leather, natural rubber soles, cork insoles, and hand-burnished finishes. These choices aren’t just about looks – they’re about longevity. Over time, these materials mould to the wearer’s foot, creating a custom fit and delivering a level of comfort that machine-made shoes often can't match.

Where Craft Meets Contemporary Design

Timeless doesn’t have to mean old-fashioned. Many modern brands are blending classic construction with updated styles to meet the needs of today’s consumer.

One standout example is how Burrows & Hare showcases Paraboot footwear. This French-made brand is known for its rugged elegance, offering shoes that transition effortlessly from urban environments to outdoor settings. With roots in traditional craftsmanship and an eye for modern design, Paraboot is a perfect example of how the past and present can come together beautifully.

A Sustainable Style Statement

Sustainability is no longer just a buzzword – it’s a requirement for many shoppers. Handcrafted shoes are a smart response to fast fashion’s environmental impact. Their durability means they don’t need frequent replacing, reducing waste.

Additionally, many artisanal shoemakers use ethical practices and responsibly sourced materials, making them a more conscious choice for environmentally aware consumers.

A Personal Investment

Shoes

Wearing handcrafted shoes is about more than aesthetics. It’s about investing in yourself and your style. These shoes carry a story of where they were made, who made them, and the tradition they represent. Whether you’re dressing for a formal event or a casual outing, a quality pair of shoes quietly sets you apart.

Conclusion

In a world filled with fleeting trends and rapid production, handcrafted shoes stand out as a symbol of enduring luxury. Each pair reflects a deep artistry, with every stitch telling its own story while the soft texture of premium leather invites your touch.

Picture the moment you slip into a pair that has been carefully crafted; it gently conforms to the shape of your feet, combining comfort with elegance. Every pair is a testament to the dedication of skilled artisans who have poured their heart into creating a truly exceptional product. When craftsmanship meets timeless style, the result transcends mere footwear – it's a wearable legacy, rich with character and history, ready to accompany you on life’s journey.
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Evil Eye Bracelets: What’s Their Meaning and Origin?

The Evil Eye is something you’ve seen just about everywhere. You might have seen it online, in the form of a tattoo, in a magazine, or even on jewellery. At first, you didn’t think much of it. But the more you saw it, the more you began to realise that it might not just be a coincidence after all and that there might be some symbolism behind it.

Our guide will help you learn everything you need to know about the Evil Eye. This includes what it is, what it means, the purpose of the Evil Eye in bracelet form, its origins and cultural significance, any modern interpretations it might have, and finally, common misconceptions about it.

What is the Evil Eye?

evil eye bracelet


The Evil Eye is a symbol represented as a large eyeball, usually with the colours dark blue, white, and black. However, there are other variations of the Evil Eye, including different colour schemes.

The Meaning of the Evil Eye

There’s a superstitious belief that when someone with bad intentions looks directly into the Evil Eye, it curses or brings karma to them. For that reason, it’s commonly used as a good luck charm or as a means of protecting oneself from negative influences or bad energy.

Colour variations of the Evil Eye can connote different meanings:

● Turquoise or Light Blue: Overall protection, expands your horizons, enhances your understanding of things

● Green: Improves success, health, and relaxation

● Yellow: Boosts health, eliminates anxiety and depression, and improves memory

● Orange: Enhances happiness, boosts motivation, improves creativity

● Brown: Improves your connection with nature, protects from the elements

● Purple: Provides balance, removes roadblocks in life

● Black: Protection over your prosperity, preparation for the unknown

● White: Fresh beginnings, mental clarity

● Grey: Fends off sadness, improves adaptability to new situations, counterbalances the effects of other colours

● Red: Safeguards your courage, boosts confidence, eliminates fears

● Pink: Protects friendships, neutralises chaos

The Origins of the Evil Eye

Experts believe the Evil Eye first emerged in ancient Mesopotamia over 7,000 years ago, in 5000 B.C. Evidence of its long history lies in Sumerian texts referring to the “eye ad-gir” as well as the findings of ancient eye-like charms.

The concept of the Evil Eye rapidly spread to adjacent regions, impacting various cultures.

The Evil Eye Across Different Cultures

For thousands of years, the Evil Eye has been present in many cultures.

In Turkey, an amulet of the blue Nazar Boncuk is believed to protect successful people from jealous energy. It can cause envious people to suffer from situations like financial loss, illness, or eye problems.

The Jewish people believe the Ayin Ha’ra represents the evil intentions of others and that an evil glare can inflict harm upon another. In their culture, there are ways to fend off the curse of the Evil Eye, such as spitting, reciting certain phrases, or using a Hamsa Hand Evil Eye amulet.

The Evil Eye is known as the Mati in Greek culture. They believe blue-eyed people are capable of casting bad energy through a glare, which can trigger symptoms like disorientation, bad headaches, or misfortune.

In Islamic countries, an intentional or unintentional jealous look, called al-ayn, can lead to a dry milk supply in nursing mothers, pregnancy-related issues, menstruation disorders, or sexual problems. The bad effects can be eliminated through certain prayers or protective phrases.

Italians also believe in the Evil Eye or Il Malocchio. Due to their belief in the Evil Eye, Italians are careful who they tell their successes or good news to, for fear that they will be cursed out of jealousy.

In Latin America and Spain, the Oculus Malus or Mal de Ojo has similar connotations. They are firm believers that the vulnerable and young, such as infants, are at the highest risk of being cursed by the Evil Eye. Rituals to rid of Evil Eye curses range from tying a red ribbon around the affected person or thing, using garlic cloves, or placing raw egg on the body.

These are just some of the many cultures and countries that believe in the Evil Eye. They each hold similar beliefs, yet refer to the Evil Eye by different names and have different rituals when warding off the Evil Eye curses.

Modern Purpose of the Evil Eye

Even in modern times, the Evil Eye is used as a symbol of protection. Some people today still use it as part of their culture or religion. Others, however, use the Evil Eye as a fashion statement or a decorative item, viewing it as a modern fad.

Regardless of the purpose, the Evil Eye is a common symbol found on clothing, home decor, items like blankets or phone cases, and jewelry today.

Purpose and Uses of Evil Eye Bracelets

Evil Eye bracelets can be worn with the intent of helping the wearer:

● Reflect negative energy from people, animals, or things

● Feel a sense of protection

● Grow or expand in life

● Feel closer to their culture or religion

● Improve their mental health

● Get through difficult situations and overcome hurdles

For others, wearing an Evil Eye bracelet may simply be a form of decoration.

Common Misconceptions About the Evil Eye

One of the biggest misconceptions is that the Evil Eye is a one-time fix - that you just wear it once and always achieve the benefits of it. In reality, it’s something that must be worn ongoingly to remain protected.

Another misconception about the Evil Eye is a universally accepted symbol. While it has, and continues to be, a prominent part of many cultures, it isn’t present in every single one.

Lastly, many believe that the Evil Eye only curses the person at fault. The truth of the matter is, it can also impact the people or things that person is tied to: their family, close friends, and even their belongings.

Conclusion

The Evil Eye is a popular and common symbol in multiple cultures. Even in modern times, the Evil Eye plays a big role. But before getting an Evil Eye bracelet, it helps to learn about what it means and the background behind it to ensure it’s a symbol relevant to you and your life.
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