A Blissful Adventure: NCL Cruise
(85 Reviews)
100% Recommended
Dawn Thompson
Bremerton, WA
New Zealand South Island Travel Advisor
“Certain things in life simply have to be experienced” -Paula Coelho!
I'm delighted to share my story with you, especially if you're ready to embark on an enchanting journey through the captivating landscapes of New Zealand. My travel sp...
“Certain things in life simply have to be experienced” -Paula Coelho!
I'm delighted to share my story with you, especially if you're ready to embark on an enchanting journey through the captivating landscapes of New Zealand. My travel spans three decades and has been a whirlwind of adventure and exploration, and I'm here to help you make the most of your travels.
I'm Dawn and my unwavering passion for travel and exploration has guided me along an extraordinary path in the realm of travel planning. For more than 30 years, I've been devoted to creating indelible memories for travelers who seek to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and distinctive culture of New Zealand.
Allow me to provide you with some concrete figures that underscore my commitment: I've meticulously orchestrated over 600 trips to New Zealand and Australia, each as unique as the travelers I've had the privilege to serve.
What distinguishes me from others is my commitment to staying at the forefront of the constantly evolving tourism scene in the captivating islands of New Zealand. A prime example of this commitment is my biannual trips to New Zealand, ensuring that I remain well-versed in the dynamic tourism landscape of these remarkable islands. Additionally, I'm proud to hold the 100% Pure New Zealand Certification, a distinction I've diligently renewed every year since 2007. This certification isn't just a decorative piece on my office wall; it symbolizes my deep connection with New Zealand and underscores my unwavering dedication to preserving its unspoiled beauty. Beyond being a mere business certification, it encapsulates my fundamental values and forms an integral part of every curated journey I create.
I share a profound, personal connection with New Zealand. It is not just a dot on a map; it is ingrained in my soul. The breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cultures, and warm-hearted people have left an indelible imprint on my being.
New Zealand, my true love. Its dramatic fjords, snow-capped peaks, and lush meadows are nothing short of awe-inspiring. New Zealand is a realm of contrast - a place where you can journey from glaciers to beaches in a single day. And speaking of contrast, did you know that New Zealand boasts more sheep than people? A delightful fact, and it speaks volumes about the vast, untarnished landscapes you'll encounter on your travels.
Now, let's turn our focus back to you. If you’re a seasoned traveler, you possess a treasure trove of life experiences, and you understand the value of truly unique adventures and I'm here to ensure that your journey to New Zealand is nothing less than extraordinary.
However, it's not exclusively seasoned travelers that I cater to. First-time visitors to these splendid lands hold a special place in my heart. I can vividly recall my inaugural visit to New Zealand, as if it were yesterday - the exhilaration of unearthing the unknown, the thrill of immersing oneself in new cultures, and the sheer wonderment at the beauty of nature. It's a sensation I wish for every first-time traveler to experience.
My mission is to transform your travel dreams into a vivid reality. Armed with my wealth of experience and expertise, I will ensure that every facet of your journey is meticulously planned, from the moment you disembark from the plane to the final farewell. I want you to savor every moment, relish every experience, and return home with a heart brimming with cherished memories.
Together, let's embark on a journey where every day is an adventure, and every landscape takes your breath away. From the rugged beauty of New Zealand's South Island to the diverse cities of the North, I will craft a travel experience that is uniquely yours.
So, whether you're in the prime of your life, yearning for new horizons, or a first-time traveler eager to explore, I'm here to transform your dream trip into a tangible reality. Let's create a journey as unique as you are, and I'm eagerly anticipating the honor of being your trusted guide on this extraordinary adventure.
Can Be Reached At
1-360-509-7676
Norwegian Mexican Riviera Cruise
There’s nothing quite like the feeling of boarding a magnificent cruise ship, knowing that the next week will be filled with sun-soaked days, endless laughter, and unforgettable experiences. My recent 10-day adventure to California and the Mexican Riviera aboard the NCL Bliss was exactly that—a perfect blend of relaxation, exploration, and indulgence.
Day 1-2: Exploring LA Before Setting SailBefore embarking on our week-long cruise, we kicked things off with a mini-California escape. Downtown Los Angeles was the perfect place to channel our inner tourist. Strolling past iconic landmarks and soaking in the city’s vibrant energy set the tone for the days ahead.On Day 2, we ventured to the LA Farmer’s Market, a foodie’s paradise with fresh produce, gourmet bites, and sweet treats. From there, it was off to Newport Beach for a scenic ride on Duffy Boats—a quintessential SoCal experience. Cruising along the calm waters, we savored the sun-drenched afternoon, excited for the adventure that awaited us at sea.
Days 3-5: Sea Days Aboard the BlissOnce we set sail, the NCL Bliss quickly became our floating paradise. The ship itself was stunning—modern and elegant with expansive decks, luxurious lounges, and dazzling entertainment venues. The sea days were far from idle. We filled them with adventures: playing cards and sharing stories, attending a whiskey class (because how could we resist one with beakers?), and basking in the sunshine with refreshing cocktails in hand.The dining options were divine. From gourmet meals to casual bites, every dish was a flavorful delight. Whether savoring steakhouse specialties or sampling global flavors at the Food Republic, each meal was an experience in itself. And, of course, no day was complete without raising a glass—cheers to sea days filled with laughter and a whole lot of fun!
Day 6: Puerto Vallarta – Tacos, Malecon, and GlowOur first port stop was Puerto Vallarta, and it did not disappoint. Under the golden sun, we dove into the local culture with a taco food tour in the Romantic Zone. The authentic flavors were incredible—fresh tortillas, savory fillings, and just the right amount of spice.Wandering along the Malecon, the lively boardwalk offered a perfect blend of street performers, sculptures, and stunning ocean views. For reality TV fans, it felt like walking through a scene from The Amazing Race Season 36, which added an extra layer of excitement to the day.Back on board, the fun continued with the Glow Party—dancing, music, and a sea of neon lights made for an electric night we wouldn’t soon forget.
Day 7: Mazatlán – A Scenic Van AdventureNext up was Mazatlán, where we joined forces with some lovely ladies from Kentucky for a spontaneous van adventure. Huge thanks to Samantha for organizing and Marcia for bringing us all together—it was the perfect way to explore this charming city.From historic neighborhoods to stunning coastal views, we saw it all, creating memories (and taking plenty of photos) along the way. It was a fantastic reminder of how travel brings people together in the most unexpected and wonderful ways.
Day 8: Cabo – Rooftop Luxury at Corazón HotelCabo San Lucas was a highlight of the trip, made even more spectacular by our VIP experience at the Corazón Hotel. With exclusive access to the rooftop pool, we enjoyed panoramic views of the glistening ocean, sipping cocktails and feasting on delicious bites. The sun, the setting, and the company made it one of my absolute favorite days of the journey.Back on the ship, we were treated to the Broadway-caliber performance of Jersey Boys—a show that brought the house down with its talent and nostalgia-inducing hits.
Days 9-10: Relaxing at Sea and Manhattan Beach FarewellThe final sea days were all about slowing down and savoring the moment. We embraced the leisurely pace with bingo games, a wine and cheese class, and even a few laps on the go-kart track. Of course, cards were a staple activity, bringing out our competitive and playful sides.Dinner at Food Republic was a fitting finale—a celebration of global flavors shared with fantastic company.On Day 10, we disembarked but weren’t quite ready to say goodbye. We squeezed in a few more California moments with an afternoon at Manhattan Beach before catching our flight home. With sand between our toes and salty air in our hair, we bid farewell to the West Coast, already dreaming of our next adventure.
Until Next TimeThis 10-day escape was everything a vacation should be—full of adventure, relaxation, and meaningful connections. From the luxurious comforts of the NCL Bliss to the charming ports and unforgettable memories made with new friends, it was a journey to remember.I’m already counting down the days until the next adventure.