sharondashariee

20 Frequent Asked Carnival Cruise Questions You’re Probably Already Wondering About

And yes, I’ve got answers. Let’s get you cruise-ready, without the overwhelm.

Planning your first (or fifteenth) Carnival Cruise? Whether you’re traveling with your partner, your kids, or your crew, there are always questions that pop up before you set sail. And if you’re anything like me, you want real answers from someone who’s been there, not a maze of fine print (but I include links with all that too).

So I rounded up 20 of the most frequently asked cruise questions, from what to pack to how not to lose your Sail & Sign card. Let’s break it all the way down.

Before You Sail: Planning & Prep

1. Do I need a passport to go on a Carnival Cruise?

If your cruise is closed-loop (starts and ends in the same U.S. port), a birth certificate + photo ID works. But a passport is the safest option in case of emergencies.
→ Carnival’s official ID requirements

2. Are cruise fares refundable if I can’t go?

It depends on how early you cancel. The closer you get to your sail date, the less you’ll get back.
→ Carnival’s cancellation policy
Pro tip: Consider adding Carnival Vacation Protection for coverage and peace of mind.

3. Is there a minimum age to cruise?

Yes—6 months old for most cruises, 12 months for longer or exotic ones. And anyone under 21 must sail with someone 25 or older in the same room.
→ Carnival’s minor guest policy

4. Can I bring my water bottle or canteen?

Yep! Bring your reusable bottle and refill it at water stations onboard. Insulated bottles are clutch for port days.

5. Can I bring snacks or drinks onboard?

You can bring sealed snacks and one 12-pack of non-alcoholic drinks (cans or cartons) per person. No glass bottles, no liquor (unless it’s the one bottle of wine per adult).
→ Carnival beverage policy

Cabins, Cards & Spending

6. How many people can sleep in a stateroom cabin?

Most cabins fit 2–4 people, and some family rooms or suites fit up to 5. For bigger groups, connecting rooms are your best friend.

7. What can I use so I don’t lose my Sail & Sign card?

Get a lanyard with a pouch. It keeps your card handy for everything. Room access, purchases, boarding, and getting on and off the ship at ports of call.

8. Do kids have access to money on the ship?

Yes, through their Sail & Sign card. It works like a debit card onboard.

9. Can I put a spending limit on my child’s Sail & Sign card?

Absolutely! You can cap or block spending for kids and teens right in your Carnival Account or at Guest Services.

10. Are gratuities (tips) included?

They’re automatically added—about $16–$18 per person/day depending on your cabin. You can prepay or adjust onboard.
→ Gratuities explained

Life Onboard: Food, Fun & Feeling Good

11. What’s included in the cruise fare?

Your room, all meals (excluding specialty dining), drinks (water, tea, lemondade and juice during breakfast), pools, shows, and onboard activities. You’ll pay extra for Wi-Fi, excursions, soda, alcohol drinks, and spa services.

12. Is Wi-Fi available on board?

Yes, but it’s not free! Carnival has 3 plans: Social, Value, and Premium.
→ Carnival Wi-Fi packages

13. Is there bottled water on the ship? How much does it cost?

Yes.. You can pre-order a case to your room or while on the ship through room service.

14. Do people get sick on cruises?

Sometimes. Sea sickness or colds are the most common.
Tips to avoid it:
– Book a mid-ship, lower deck room
– Bring Dramamine, Sea-Bands, or ginger chews
– Drink plenty of water, avoid heavy meals prior to sailing, and get fresh air while on board
→ Carnival’s health guidelines

15. What should I wear on the cruise?

Daytime: swimsuits, casual wear.
Evening: cruise casual with a couple “Cruise Elegant” nights (think cocktail dresses or slacks & button-ups).
→ Carnival dress code

In Port & On Excursions

16. Are shore excursions worth it?

Yes, if you want more than beach time or walking along the piers. Carnival offers excursions for every vibe. Relaxing, adventurous, foodie approved. You can also wait and book an excursion on your own. Just don’t miss that ship. No, but seriously, don’t miss the ship.

17. Is cruising good for families or couples?

Both. There’s something for everyone: waterparks and kids’ clubs for families, adults-only spaces and spas for couples. You set the tone and the vibe you want to have while sailing.

Packing & Practical Tips

18. What should I NOT pack for a cruise?

Leave these at home:
– Irons or steamers
– Candles/incense
– Drones
– Surge protectors
– Alcohol (unless it’s your one wine bottle)
→ Carnival prohibited items

19. How do I stay in touch with my family and friends that are on the ship?

Use the Carnival Hub app to chat for just $5 per person (no Wi-Fi plan needed).
Some families also bring mini walkie-talkies. Great for kids or those who don’t use phones much. Just know the signal works best on open decks.

20. Is cruising worth it?

Absolutely. You unpack once, wake up somewhere new every day, and everything you need is right there on the ship. Whether you want relaxation, nonstop fun, or a little of both, you’re covered.

Final Cruise Tips from Me to You:

– Download the Carnival Hub App before you board
– Bring a power strip (non-surge) for extra outlets
– Take a photo of your passport and ID just in case
– Don’t forget meds, sunscreen, and comfy shoes
– Pack the patience, good vibes, have a blast

Want more cruise tips, destination guides, or family travel ideas?
💌 Subscribe to my blog or follow me on Instagram @SharondaShariee for the real, real.

Let me know what else you’re curious about—if you’re wondering, someone else probably is too. I got you!

Restaurant Review, Things-to-Do, Wine, Wine Tasting

Copper & Sage – The Restaurant Meal That Defined 2024 and Will Keep Me Coming Back in 2025

January 27, 2025September 8, 2026 sharondashariee

I am about to share the best dining tip you will ever get. Order as many dishes as your budget allows. Share them with your party. Trust me, you will want to savor as much as possible from Copper & Sage’s incredible menu. Here is what my friends and I ordered during our visit:

Shareables:

Bourbon Deviled Eggs – $9
Fried Green Tomatoes – $12

Main Dishes:

Walleye Fish & Chips – $27
2 Wagyu Short Ribs with Parmesan Risotto – $39 each

Dessert:

Beignets – Complimentary

Side:

Mac & Cheese – $10

Cocktails:

Holy Water – $13
Riesling – $9
Strawberry Hill – $14

There were three of us in our party, and this was more than enough food for everyone to enjoy.

The Dish That Defined 2024

Hands down, the showstopper was the Wagyu Short Rib with Parmesan Risotto. This dish typically comes with grits. We noticed risotto paired with another dish on the menu. We asked if we could make the switch. Our request was graciously granted, and it was the best decision we could have made. The tender, flavorful short rib combined with the creamy, cheesy risotto melted in our mouths. It was so good we ordered two plates of it!

But before I get carried away with the main courses, let us talk about the appetizers.

Star-Worthy Appetizers

Fried Green Tomatoes

To date, I have only had one other fried green tomato dish that wowed me as much as this one. That was in Atlanta. Copper & Sage has officially joined that list. Their perfectly fried green tomatoes are topped with a sprinkle of chevre cheese. A balsamic reduction ties everything together beautifully. Every bite had us saying, “Ohhh, okay! Yum. This is amazing.”

Bourbon Deviled Eggs

I love it when restaurants elevate classic dishes, and Copper & Sage’s Bourbon Deviled Eggs did not disappoint. Instead of the usual candied bacon topping, they added bacon jam—and wow. If the phrase “bacon jam” gives you pause, do not hesitate. It is a game-changer.

A Second Main Dish Worth Mentioning

The Walleye Fish & Chips was another standout. Some might find the fish a bit crispier than expected. However, this is exactly how fried fish should be. It should be crispy, crunchy, and seasoned to perfection. This dish could easily hold its own as a satisfying lunch option.

I almost failed to mention the side of Mac & Cheese. I would not order the mac & cheese again. It was not giving what mac & cheese was supposed to give. Copper & Sage, if you read this: more cheese and cream, and this might make my recommendations list.

A Sweet Finale (Almost)

Normally, we do not have room for dessert. However, we were celebrating my friend’s birthday. Copper & Sage generously provided complimentary beignets for the table. They had great potential, but a few weren’t fully cooked in the center. My tip? Ask for the beignets to be cooked well-done. I will be giving them another shot on my next visit.

Drinks to Celebrate

As part of the birthday festivities, we indulged in some delicious cocktails. Copper & Sage has an extensive house menu and a full bar to accommodate any request. The Holy Water and Strawberry Hill cocktails were refreshing. They were perfectly balanced. The Riesling was a light and crisp addition to the meal.

Why I Will Be Back in 2025

As soon as I got home, I told my husband that Copper & Sage was the Restaurant Meal That Defined 2024. I am already planning a return trip. This might even be our Valentine’s Day outing next month.

If you are in the area, do not miss out on this gem.

Location Visited:
Copper & Sage Goodyear
1975 N Globe Dr, Goodyear, AZ 85338
https://copperandsageaz.com/
#copperandsageaz

Living, Things-to-Do

Bobo’s Restaurant: The Best Breakfast in Tucson: Why Bobo’s Is Worth the Wait

December 14, 2024March 27, 2026 sharondashariee

The Best Breakfast in Tucson: Why Bobo’s Is Worth the Wait

Tucson, Arizona is not just a place we drive to for concerts or a quick getaway, it’s also home to one of the best breakfast spots we’ve ever experienced, Bobo’s Restaurant. During one of our trips, I searched for “the best breakfast in Tucson,” and Yelp led us straight to this charming gem. With nearly a five-star rating, we knew we had to check it out. Spoiler alert: it did not disappoint.

The Drive to Tucson

Getting from Phoenix to Tucson is an easy 95-mile drive, taking about an hour and a half. Whether you are headed there for a specific event or just passing through, you will definitely want to make time for a stop at Bobo’s.

First Impressions

We first visited Bobo’s on a Sunday morning around 11:30 AM. It is a very small, yellow brick building sitting off a main road, that otherwise I would have driven passed. When we arrived, about 10–15 people were already waiting outside. Pro tip: if you are not a fan of waiting, plan your visit strategically. The wait for a table can take about an hour during peak times, but we have also visited later in the day, about 40 minutes before closing, and got seated immediately.

What’s On the Menu

Let’s talk about the food, because it’s why you go to Bobo’s, and it’s what makes the wait 100% worth it. Over a few visits, we have tried several dishes:

Apple Upside-Down Pancake: My husband says this is a breakfast masterpiece that’s equal parts sweet and filling.

Buttermilk Pancake: Fluffy perfection every single time. Cutting your pancakes like this makes them taste even better.

Chicken Fried Steak with Eggs & Fried Potatoes: Comfort food at its finest, with rich gravy. I usually put it on the side, because you cannot trust everyone’s gravy. I eventually put it on my food, since it passed the taste test. The potatoes I can have live without.

French Toast with Eggs & Bacon: The French toast is done how we used to make cinnamon toast in the oven as kids.

The consistency of the food is outstanding. It is clear why Bobo’s has earned its loyal following and stellar Yelp ratings.

Cost & Value

If you do not know by now, I am always about value, and for the quality and portion sizes, Bobo’s offers unbeatable value. Whether you are craving something hearty or sweet, you will leave both satisfied and full without breaking the bank.

Better Than Mom’s Cooking?

Bobo’s tagline is “Just like mom’s cookin’,” but honestly, they might need to tweak it to “Better than your mom’s cookin,’ at least for breakfast. Sorry, Mom!” It is that good.

Plan Your Visit

Location: Bobo’s Restaurant, 2938 E. Grant Rd. Tucson, AZ 85716

Pro Tip: If you want to skip the wait, aim for non-peak hours (like just before closing or early morning).

Whether you are heading to Tucson for a concert, a day trip, or even just passing through, Bobo’s Restaurant is a must-visit for breakfast lovers. Trust me, it is worth every mile and every minute of the wait.

Your Favorites & Recommendations

What is your go-to breakfast spot when you are on the road? Share your favorites in the comments. I am always looking for my next great meal!

Living, Self-Care, Things-to-Do, Travel, Tutorials, Wine, Wine Tasting

Think Wine Tasting, but with Coffee: My Experience at Press Coffee Roaster’s Interactive 101 Class

December 14, 2024March 27, 2026 sharondashariee

Think Wine Tasting, but with Coffee: My Experience at Press Coffee Roaster’s Interactive 101 Class

When I signed up for Press Coffee’s 101 class, I wasn’t entirely convinced that I’d walk out a coffee aficionado. But as it turns out, I left with some serious coffee knowledge. Everything from where coffee originates, to how it’s processed, to what it takes to get it from the farm to your cup.

I stumbled upon this class thanks to Eventbrite’s “events you might like” feature (they know me so well), and seeing Press Coffee’s name didn’t hurt. Press Coffee is always listed as one of the valley’s premier coffee roasters. After all, they have 12 locations around Arizona and even supply coffee to multiple retail spots across the valley.

The Scene at Press Coffee

We arrived to find Press buzzing with coffee drinkers in the front, some sipping and socializing, others laser-focused on laptops. In the back, there’s a spacious second level for more seating, but we stayed downstairs, where three enormous coffee bean roasters sat in all their luxuriousness, along with our cozy 12-person classroom setup. It was perfect for both tasting and learning.

Our host welcomed us with a steamy cup of Gesha coffee. This rare, high-end coffee ($50 per cup, just FYI!) has a unique profile that’s more tea-like than coffee-like, and he wasn’t kidding. It was a delicate, almost floral flavor, unlike anything I’d tasted in coffee form.

The Class Kicks Off

From there, we dove into the rich world of coffee. We learned about origins, flavors, and roasting techniques. A cool part of the tasting was letting each blend cool down a bit and then trying it again. Who knew a little time could bring out so many different notes?

My Favorite Coffee Roast

My favorite roast was Brazil Mogiano for its boldness, but it was also subtle. I like a medium roast. Right up the middle. My husband? He was into them all!

Behind-the-Scenes of Coffee Bean Roasting

We wrapped up with a behind-the-scenes look at the roasters and even learned about the farm Press Coffee owns, which supplies their unique beans. If you love coffee, want a fun outing with friends, or cool date idea, I can’t recommend this class enough. And yes, you even get a code for a free bag of coffee with a subscription (no pressure to keep it, but why wouldn’t you?!).

Press Coffee 101 Details, Sign-Up, and Cost

This class sells out fast, so once you’re set, book it quickly! https://www.eventbrite.com/o/press-coffee-roasters-12780717118
Cost: $25 per person
Location Visited: Press Coffee-The Roastery, 10443 N. 32nd Street, Phoenix, AZ 85028

So, who’s ready to sip like a pro?

Breast Cancer, Breast Cancer Awareness, Invasive Ductal Carcinoma, Self-Care, TNBC, Triple Negative Breast Cancer, Uncategorized

Finding Solace: Breast Cancer Comforts & Necessities

September 23, 2024September 23, 2024 sharondashariee

As I journeyed through breast cancer, I found moments of solace in various practices and resources that helped navigate the challenges I faced. I began to collect these treasures, soothing tools, and accommodations to share with others who might be facing similar struggles.

Below is a list of items that offered me comfort and strength, not just during my treatment, but even now.

This journey is ever evolving, and I will continue to update this list with new discoveries. My hope is these suggestions offer support to anyone navigating their own path.

Feel free to share this list with anyone who might find it helpful, and I invite you to contribute your own suggestions in the comments, reminding each other that we are never alone in this journey.

Keep reaching for what soothes your soul!