Cruise Hidden (and Not So Hidden) Gems
/Art Aboard Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas
I've been on plenty of cruises and I must say, the art on Royal Caribbean is unmatched! Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas continues to exceed expectations holding the title of the largest ship on the Royal Caribbean fleet.
Each floor landing in the stairwell has a unique painting, photograph, or sculpture that is eye catching. Some of the art is even interactive.
I want to personally commend their art curator. You truly added to the beauty and essence of the ship! Bravo!
Caribbean Liquors and Tobacco in St. Maarten
I know this one got your attention! St. Maarten is typically known for having good deals and this liquor store is no different. Their prices are unbeatable, and they have a great variety of liquor to choose from. I bought a case of 6 bottles of Pure White Hennessy for $210 ($35 each). On a good day, Pure White Hennessy starts at $55 and can go all the way up to $90 depending on where you are. I recommend that if your cruise is going to St. Maarten, you pack leaving a few pounds available in your suitcase so you can buy bottles to take back with you.
Address: 8 Philipsburg SX, W.G. Buncamper Rd, Sint Maarten
1977
1977 is a riveting, well-designed ice-skating show aboard the Symphony of the Seas. Tempus, the time traveling hero, takes you on an enchanting journey through different cultures. He sets out on a mission to find Her Majesty's crown jewel, and to stop a jewel thief with special powers of his own.
Quest
This is one of those things where both the participants and audience have an equal amount of fun watching and being a part of. It’s personally one of my favorite activities to do while I’m cruising. Quest can be summarized as an adult scavenger hunt. The audience is broken up into several teams each assigned a number. Each team has a team captain. The team captain is responsible for gather whatever item(s) is asked for, bringing it up to the cruise director, displaying their team number and the item in order to gain a point. The team with the most points wins. An example would be the cruise director asking for a male wearing women's lipstick. The team captain would grab a male from their team, put lipstick on him, then bring the gentleman wearing lipstick up to the cruise director with their number in order to get a point. I had the pleasure of being the team captain one cruise and won!
Find the Stowaway Piano Player
This was a fun and new entertainment experience for me. The Stowaway Piano Player is basically a where’s Waldo. You can find him in elevators and on the boardwalk among other places around the ship. If you spot him, take a minute enjoy the show!
Schooner Bar
Schooner Bar is a nautical themed lounge and a nice low-key spot to relax. At certain times, the lounge features a live pianist. It’s definitely a hidden gem.
Solarium
The solarium is an adult only area equipped with a full-service bar, buffet styled Cafe that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner), comfy lounge chairs/beds, tranquil music, perfect views of the ocean, and overall escape for relaxation. You can lounge or take a dip in the jacuzzi, either way, you will enjoy the serenity of the Solarium.
Piano Steps
Now this was an unexpected treat, and one of the interactive art fixtures I was telling you about. The piano steps allow you to create your own music... with your feet! Each step has a sensor that plays a note with every step taken. As you can see, I had an AH-MAZING time playing a Beethoven classic- Für Elise 😂.
Famous street in Old San Juan
Old San Juan is filled with charming pastel colored buildings. You can spot them just about anywhere. However, 281 Calle San Sebastián, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico gives you a breathe taking (and very much) Instagramable view. These street is so perfect with very little foot traffic so you can perfect your shot and you won't have people in your background. Total win if you ask me!
