Why I LOVE Cruising: An Elegant Escape at Sea
- Karen Calderon-Schweitzer

- 1 day ago
- 2 min read

After 37 cruises (and many more to come), I can honestly say that life at sea is my favorite way to travel. For my husband and me, cruising has become more than a vacation—it’s our elegant ritual, our way of seeing the world with style, ease, and just the right touch of indulgence.
Unpack Once, Explore the World
One of the most effortless luxuries of cruising is how simple it makes travel. I love stepping aboard, unpacking once, and knowing that from then on, the world will come to us. Each morning offers a new view—a sparkling Mediterranean port, a Caribbean horizon, a quiet stretch of sea—without the chaos of airports or the need to repack every few days.
Balcony Views and Boutique Comfort
While we don’t book suites, a balcony stateroom is always a must. There’s nothing like sipping morning coffee while watching the sun rise over the ocean, or winding down the evening with a glass of wine and the soft sound of waves. For us, it’s the perfect balance: comfort, style, and connection to the sea.

Dining as an Experience
If there’s one indulgence we never skip, it’s specialty dining. Whether it’s a beautifully plated tasting menu, a curated wine pairing, or simply the joy of an intimate dinner, these meals are part of what makes cruising feel so chic. We may start the day casually, but every evening we dress for dinner—it’s a ritual we both love and a reminder that travel is worth savoring.
Adventures, Our Way
While ships offer organized excursions, we often explore on our own. It’s usually better priced, but more importantly, it feels more authentic. Wandering a new city hand-in-hand, discovering hidden cafés or local boutiques, and experiencing a destination at our own pace—that’s the kind of adventure that keeps us coming back.

Small Ship Sophistication
We’ve sailed mostly with Crystal and Celebrity Cruises, both known for their smaller, more refined ships. For us, that means a calmer, more personalized atmosphere—not the overwhelming crowds, but a sense of space and sophistication. And with loyalty clubs, perks like priority check-in make the entire experience seamless from the moment we arrive.
A Lifestyle of Chic Simplicity
After so many cruises, I’ve learned that elegance doesn’t come from overpacking. Instead, it’s about curating the right outfits—easy daytime pieces and chic evening looks—so each night feels fresh without the burden of too much luggage. It’s travel made simple, stylish, and stress-free.
At the heart of it all, though, is the ocean itself. Every cruise reminds me why I fell in love with this way of traveling: the endless horizons, the golden sunsets, the gentle rhythm of the waves.
Cruising is more than a trip—it’s an elegant lifestyle, a chic way to explore the world, and for us, the best
way to travel!




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