It’s August, but I’m already thinking about December and planning one of the coolest holiday cruises…EVER! I’ve dreamed up a brand new way of travel and I hope you’ll be a part of this Caribbean escape filled with sunshine, turquoise waters, and meaningful connection.
Over the past couple of years, many of you have told me:
“I want to travel, but not by myself.”
“I don’t want to be stuck on a rigid group tour.”
“JL, I want to travel with you.”
“I’m scared to travel alone and have no idea how to do it.”
“I love the idea of solo travel, but I’d also love to meet others along the way.”
I’ve heard you loud and clear. So I’ve created something new—something designed especially for travelers like us.
Introducing: Solo+Together by JL on a Journey
In December, we’re traveling aboard the MSC Grandiosa to the Caribbean December 6-13, 2025. This new travel style blends independence and community. You’ll have the freedom to explore at your own pace, then come back together for sunset cocktails, fun excursions, or dinner with newfound friends. Think of it as the best of both worlds: travel solo… but never feel alone (unless you want to be).
This is for the laid-back traveler—whether you’re a solo adventurer or a couple—who enjoys connection, good conversation, and shared experiences, but without the pressure of having to be at a certain place at a certain time.
The Truth About Solo Travel
Solo travel is empowering—but it’s not always easy.
Have you ever:
- Wanted to travel but couldn’t find a friend who was available or interested?
- Felt awkward walking into a restaurant or bar alone while on vacation?
- Skipped out on an excursion or experience because you didn’t feel comfortable going solo?
- Longed to share the beauty of a sunset or the joy of discovering a new place with someone?
You’re not alone. When I was first divorced, I struggled with all of the above, therefore spent a lot of time at home alone.
So many travelers crave freedom—but also belonging. We want to explore independently at times, but also want to feel loosely tethered to a familiar group to return to for meals, conversation, and shared experiences. That’s why Solo+Together was born. It gives you the space to recharge in solitude or wander solo—and the comfort of knowing that connection is always within reach.
The Truth About Married Couples Travel
Let’s be honest: traveling with your spouse after 20+ years of marriage isn’t always the romantic escape the brochures promise. Somewhere between arguing over which suitcase is overweight and disagreeing on whether to relax or “see everything,” many couples find themselves wondering… why did we think this would be fun again? You love each other—of course—but that doesn’t mean you want to spend seven uninterrupted days trying to agree on dinner plans with the same person you’ve been negotiating thermostat settings with for two decades.
The truth? Even the happiest couples need a break from each other on vacation. That’s where a casual group travel experience like Solo+Together is magic. You still get quality time with your partner, but now there’s fresh conversation at the dinner table, other people to laugh with during excursions, and zero pressure to entertain each other 24/7. It’s not about escaping your spouse—well…although sometimes it actually is if you’ve been married for over half your life! 🙂 It’s about enhancing the trip so you both come home with more stories, more smiles, and maybe never having uttered these words, “We’re on vacation–quit complaining!”
Our MSC Grandiosa Itinerary: Sun, Sand, and Soulful Connection
We’ll depart from Port Canaveral, Florida on December 6, 2025, returning on December 13—just in time to feel refreshed for the holidays.
We’re setting sail aboard the stunning MSC Grandiosa, a modern and elegant ship that’s as much a destination as the tropical ports we’ll explore.
Here’s what’s in store:
#1 Stop on Cruise Itinerary:
Nassau, Bahamas – Famous for white-sand beaches, colorful architecture, and vibrant local culture. Enjoy interacting with dolphins at Blue Lagoon Island, visit the Pirate Museum, swim with the pigs or buy a day pass at Atlantis.
If you love marine life, I suggest visiting Blue Lagoon Island because I was lucky enough to experience this excursion earlier this year after the nice folks at the Islands of the Bahamas Tourism Ministry introduced me to the marketing team at Blue Lagoon Island..
You take a high-speed catamaran from the cruise port pier over to Blue Lagoon Island where you can choose from experiences like:
- Dolphin Swim
- Sea Lion Encounter
- Dolphin Encounter
- Royal Dolphin Swim
- Beach Day
- Stingray Encounter
- Shark Encounter & Snorkel
- VIP Beach Day
I did the Royal Dolphin Swim and VIP Beach Day — I highly recommend it! The dolphin activities were unforgettable: think star turns, dolphin kisses, and even a boogie board foot-push that “zoomed” me through the water. Definitely check out the Blue Lagoon Island packages on Viator. When you visit this website, simply supply your dates and “Blue Lagoon” and you can easily get your tickets. I’m always impressed with Viator and have had a 100% success rate around the world as I’ve purchased concert tickets in Vienna, a city tour of Barcelona, Spain and spa experience in Budapest.
#2 Stop on Cruise Itinerary:
Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve – This is MSC’s exclusive private island and marine sanctuary. Crystal-clear waters, eco-conscious design, and plenty of space allow you to relax, swim or snorkel. I like to book a private cabana through the MSC portal and have a “home base” for the day. The cabana accommodates six people and comes with bottled water and floating mats.
#3 Stop on Cruise Itinerary:
Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic – MSC Cruises uses the Taino Bay Cruise Port as its dedicated port of call. Taino Bay is located on the north shore of the Dominican Republic in the city of Puerto Plata. The walk from the ship to the port isn’t too far, but if you don’t want to walk, you can take a tuk-tuk (motorized rickshaw) to shuttle you back and forth. (You’ll need to tip the driver). Puerto Plata is a lively mix of history, charm, and natural beauty.
One of the most photographed spots in Puerto Plata is Umbrella Street—a cheerful pedestrian walkway lined with colorful umbrellas suspended overhead. This whimsical canopy creates a kaleidoscope of color that not only provides shade but also adds a playful charm to the historic district. As you stroll beneath the floating umbrellas, you’ll find quaint cafés, local art shops, and inviting benches, making it the perfect place to pause, snap photos, and soak in the laid-back Caribbean vibe. It’s a must-see for anyone looking to capture the spirit and creativity of Puerto Plata.
From street level, you must experience one of Puerto Plata’s most beautiful sites by riding the Teleférico, a cable car that ascends 2,600 feet to the summit of Mount Isabel de Torres. From the top, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the city and the sparkling Atlantic Ocean below. At the summit, explore a lush botanical garden, browse local art in the gallery, enjoy a bite at the cafeteria, and shop for souvenirs at charming gift shops—all surrounded by stunning natural beauty.
For adventure seekers, you must visit the 27 Waterfalls of Damajagua, nestled in the lush hills outside Puerto Plata. This series of cascading falls and emerald pools invites visitors to hike, slide, jump, and swim through a jungle paradise carved by rushing water over centuries. Whether you tackle all 27 falls or choose a shorter route, the experience blends adrenaline with breathtaking scenery. Guided tours ensure safety and local insight, making this a must-do excursion for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike. Again, Viator can help you find the perfect tickets for your tour of the waterfalls.
🛳️ JL’s Cruise Like a Pro Tip: Do Not Miss the Ship!
When booking an excursion, always double-check that your tour is cruise-approved or guaranteed to get you back with time to spare. The ship will sail without you, and trust me—sprinting down the dock in flip flops is not the kind of adventure you want. Stick with reputable operators or book directly through MSC Grandiosa if you’re unsure.
What to Know About MSC Cruises
If you haven’t cruised with MSC before, you’re not alone—many Americans are just now discovering this European cruise line, and it’s a gem. MSC Cruises is the world’s third-largest cruise brand and Europe’s number one, known for its stunning ships, stylish design, and focus on hospitality. Think of it as a blend of Italian elegance, modern innovation, and international flair—with a touch of luxury that doesn’t break the bank.
What sets MSC apart is its sophisticated atmosphere and attention to detail. The ships feel more like upscale floating resorts than traditional cruise liners, with sleek interiors, crystal staircases, open promenades, and gourmet dining options ranging from Mediterranean fare to sushi and steakhouse experiences. Entertainment is world-class, featuring Cirque du Soleil-style performances, live music, and immersive shows. While MSC ships attract an international crowd, English is the primary language spoken onboard for announcements and service, so you’ll feel completely comfortable. And because MSC is expanding rapidly in the U.S. market—especially with departures from Port Canaveral—it’s a great time to experience the brand before it becomes a household name.
Life On Board the MSC Grandiosa
When we’re not off exploring a tropical port, the ship will be our floating resort. The MSC Grandiosa is packed with:
- Gourmet dining and cozy cafes
- Sparkling pools and Jacuzzis
- Award-winning entertainment and shows
- A luxurious thermal spa and wellness center—I absolutely love the snow room!
- A glass-roofed indoor promenade—perfect for people-watching or journaling over a cappuccino
There’s no rigid schedule. No mandatory group activities. Just an open invitation to connect and make new friends.
We’ll have casual meetups like cocktail hours, group dinners, or a shared excursion for anyone who wants to join in. I’m going to plan some icebreaker games with prizes so we can make it fun. Speaking of prizes, if you’ve never cruised before, there are a few essentials that you can purchase that will make your cruise experience more enjoyable.
What to Wear on an MSC Cruise: Relaxed by Day, Elegant by Night
MSC Cruises keeps it stylish but easygoing. During the day, casual attire is perfectly fine—think sundresses, shorts, and comfy tees. Just remember to leave the swimwear for the pool deck—it’s not allowed in the main dining areas. In the evening, especially on Gala Nights, the dress code steps up a notch. You’ll see guests in cocktail dresses, dress shirts, and even a few tuxedos or gowns, but there’s plenty of flexibility. On non-Gala nights, smart-casual is the sweet spot. Skip the flip-flops and gym shorts, and you’ll fit right in. Want to dress to impress? Go for it. Prefer a low-key look? That works too. However, I have one caveat to note. Since MSC is a European-based cruise line, I did witness the maître d’ on the MSC Seashore turn away a man from the dining room one evening during my 2023 cruise. He was too casual and looked like he had just walked inside from the pool.
If you can afford it, I wholeheartedly recommend having a butler just once in your life. That’s what you get if you upgrade to The Yacht Club. I did this a couple years ago and it was pure HEAVEN. Carlos, my butler, was exceptional and it was like sailing with my own personal concierge. Here’s what I received with this VIP service and all of you who know me well enough understand why I wanted to bring Carlos home with me! 🙂For Pete’s sake, he unpacked my luggage!!
Perks of Having a Butler in the MSC Yacht Club
- Priority Embarkation & Disembarkation
Your butler will whisk you through the check-in process and escort you personally to your suite—no lines, no stress. - Luggage Handling
They’ll handle your luggage with care, unpack it if you wish, and even press your clothes for a formal night. - Personalized Service
From morning coffee delivery to drawing a bubble bath or arranging a special dinner, your butler makes your cruise feel like a five-star hotel stay. - Private Shore Excursion Assistance
Want to skip the crowds? Your butler can arrange and coordinate private tours and ensure everything fits around the ship’s schedule. - Priority Reservations
Need a prime table at a specialty restaurant or seats at a sold-out show? Your butler can handle those hard-to-get reservations. - In-Suite Dining & Room Setup
Want a romantic dinner in your suite or a pre-dinner canapé setup? Your butler will make it happen, beautifully. - Discreet, Attentive Service
Your butler is trained to anticipate your needs without hovering—always nearby, never intrusive.
The Details of Our Cruise: Affordable Luxury
I’ve secured a group rate to make this getaway as accessible as possible:
- Balcony cabins start at just $1,589 for two people—that’s only $113 per person, per day for an all-in Caribbean experience
- Solo balcony cabins: $1,313 ($187 per person, per day)
Drink packages start at $19/day; dining upgrades are available, too.
Ready to join the fun?
Click here to learn more and reserve your spot.
Spots are limited, and I’d love to travel with a small group of like-minded souls who want sunshine, relaxation, and meaningful connection.
Why This Trip Is Different
I’m not a tour guide. I’m a travel blogger inviting other travelers along for the ride—people who want an intentional, elevated travel experience without the hassle of organizing it themselves.
This isn’t a cruise full of strangers. It’s a getaway designed to create community, spontaneity, and joy. You can show up as you are—no partner needed, no pressure to “perform.” Just you, a passport, and an open heart.
So if you’ve been thinking:
“I need a break.”
“I’d love to meet new people without the awkward small talk.”
“I want a pre-Christmas trip to start this magical time of year.”
Then maybe it’s time to say yes to something new.
Let’s cruise the Caribbean together—and come home with sun-kissed skin, unforgettable memories, and a few new friends you didn’t know you needed.
Hope to see you on board!
