As you may have noticed we (my guy and I) were cruising through the Caribbean last week aboard the Celebrity Reflection. As nice as it always is to be back in your own bed, I must admit I got quite used to the peaceful sound of the ocean outside our window and the ship gently rocking me to sleep each night. Maybe I’ve been sleep deprived, but I slept like a baby. Also, I’m missing those evening sunsets and the incredible crew–they sure spoiled us. It’s so nice to have your bed turned down and to come back to special notes on your door inviting you to dinner with the Captain (who was so nice by the way and also gave us a tour of the bridge).
We took off from Miami last Saturday and made our way to Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. This was my second cruise (although my first was over 10 years ago so I didn’t really remember much) and my guy’s first. We honestly weren’t quite sure “cruising” was for us but we quickly realized what’s not to love? You’re basically on a luxurious moving hotel with all of the amenities and entertainment you could want yet with the added bonus of the most incredible view of the sea. It really was incredible to think about how far the ocean goes (and how deep–which is also a bit frightening).
My guy and I also realized that we haven’t been on a super relaxing vacation together since we were dating in college (10+ years ago). Most of our trips together over the past couple of years have all been road trips or National Parks–which we happen to love–but this really was such a nice change for us.
Our days were filled with excursions off the boat–snorkeling, kayaking, rhino boating (a motor boat), and swimming around the islands–while our evenings were spent catching the sunsets (cocktail in hand) and attempting to eat at each of the Reflection’s many restaurants. As for our favorite dining spot–it was a toss up between the Lawn Club Grill (located on the top of the ship with open air seating and grilled fair–the flat bread was super yummy), the Tuscan Grille (hello I’m Italian and could eat pasta everyday), or Blu (a flavorful and clean menu).
Lounging at one of our favorite spots: the Sunset Bar at the back (aft) of the boat. This is where we sat back to watch the pink, orange, and purple sunsets each night.
Headed to our late afternoon / early evening spot (the Sunset Bar) in The Lady & the Sailor muscle tank from SYLLABUS and Kindred maxi. I’ve waited a couple of months to wear this maxi and was excited to finally have the chance. It was fun to dress the “cruise-y” part this past week. Oh and by the way we made sure to use our new favorite made up word “cruise-y” as much as possible throughout the trip. We’re total nerds by the way.
Another daily favorite? Café Bacio (our true indulgence spot of the week). This was the best coffee on the ship and my guy had a way of talking me into passing by as often as he could. That guy sure has a sweet tooth! Extra pastries (even after we had eaten breakfast just a hour or so earlier), afternoon chocolate chip cookies for him and a caramel brownie for me, along with gelato sundaes for dessert were all enjoyed.
And on the days we were at sea I managed to sneak in some spa time while my guy lounged in Michael’s Club sipping our new bartender friend, Miki’s, latest concoctions.
My spa time was definitely one of the highlights of the trip for me and I wish every week included a massage or two like this past one did. Celebrity is partnered with Canyon Ranch SpaClub, one of the world’s leading spa brands, so I knew it was not to be passed up. There’s something so rejuvenating about being out on the ocean–and getting to relax in the ship’s zen like Persian Garden (pictured above) with that incredible view.
That “cruise-y” style that I mentioned (I spent multiple days in this Melissa Odabash cover up–I now want it in black too!)… and the necklaces are from a Chico designer, Billy Sky (available at SYLLABUS).
Take me back to that view… stay tuned for more photos from our trip!
* Thank you to Celebrity Cruises for partnering on this post. And as always, thank you for supporting all CITNB collaborations!
