Tag: bucket list adventures

  • Sailing into a New Adventure: My First Cruise Experience

    In 2014, I decided to shake things up for my birthday and try something different—my very first cruise! Royal Caribbean to the Bahamas, with two of my friends by my side. It was an unforgettable trip, full of sun, sea, and so much fun!

    The Bahamas were absolutely stunning—the water was crystal clear, and even though the heat was intense, the relaxation was on another level. We explored museums, shopped around, and of course, picked up souvenirs for the family. The currency was different, so that added a little extra adventure to our shopping spree!

    One of the best parts? Reuniting with a friend I hadn’t seen since 9th grade. It was amazing catching up, vibing together, and sharing the experience. The cruise ship itself was like a floating party! There was always something happening—great food, dancing, and plenty of opportunities to meet new people. We hit a few different stops along the way, but the simple joy of being out on the ocean, soaking up the sun, was unforgettable.

    And let’s talk about Jet Skiing! My first time, and wow—what a thrill! It was equal parts fun and terrifying, especially when hitting those waves. I held on for dear life, and by the end of it, I was sore but laughing. Totally worth it!

    We ported from Miami, so we had some time to explore the city and relax on the beach. Miami has a vibe all its own, and I can’t wait to go back and spend more time there. This trip made me promise myself that from then on, every birthday would be spent traveling somewhere new. Whether it’s a different state or a whole new country, the world is too big to stay in one place!

    What about you? Tell me about your first cruise! Which cruise line did you sail with, and where did you go?

    Follow me for more travel adventures at @Cece.atlbucketlist and @cece.atl!

  • Birthday Getaway to Panama: Exploring History, Culture, and Adventure

    Hello, fellow adventurers!
    As many of you know, I’m on an exciting quest to explore all 50 states, with a sprinkle of international travel, and I couldn’t wait to share my Panama adventure with you!

    My brother and I have birthdays super close to each other, so we decided to celebrate with a birthday getaway to Panama. It was a whirlwind trip from Thursday to Monday, and trust me—it was everything we needed and more!

    Day 1: The Arrival
    The flight from Atlanta to Panama was smooth and filled with excitement! We stayed at the Waldorf Astoria, and let me tell you, this place was luxurious. Fun fact: The Waldorf Astoria brand dates back to 1893, named after the Waldorf and Astoria hotels in New York, both pioneers of luxury hospitality. The Panama location didn’t disappoint—it had a gym, bar, pool, and spa, so there were plenty of ways to relax and rejuvenate.

    First Stop: Food!
    After settling in, we were ready to explore and eat! We hit up a local seafood joint where I ordered shrimp tacos—though I should’ve gone with the fish (hindsight is 20/20). The tacos weren’t the best, but the people and vibe made up for it.

    Exploring Casco Viejo
    Next, we ventured into Casco Viejo, Panama’s historic district. Casco Viejo was founded in 1673, after the original Panama City was destroyed by pirate Henry Morgan. Walking its narrow streets feels like stepping back in time, with colonial buildings, charming plazas, and beautiful churches. This district is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it’s rich with the essence of old Panama, blending history and modern life beautifully.

    The Plaza de la Catedral
    We strolled through Plaza de la Catedral, home to the stunning Catedral Metropolitana, which dates back to the 1700s. The cathedral’s baroque facade and the grand bell towers make it a must-see landmark. This plaza has been the heart of the city’s social and religious life for centuries, a gathering place for the community, surrounded by charming restaurants and vibrant history. The Cathedral itself stands as a symbol of Panama’s resilience, having been rebuilt multiple times over the centuries due to fires and invasions.  We grabbed some sherbet ice cream at Mint Cream (so refreshing in the heat), then strolled around, taking in the beauty of the church at Plaza de la Catedral.  

    A Snapshot of Panama’s Meaning
    Ever wondered what “Panama” means? The name “Panama” is believed to come from an indigenous word meaning “abundance of fish,” and after visiting, I can totally see why—it’s a paradise for seafood lovers and explorers alike. Panama is also known for its rich history as a vital crossroads of trade due to the Panama Canal, connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.

    Iconic Panama Sign & Nightlife
    Of course, no trip to Panama would be complete without a photo at the iconic Panama sign. It sits in the vibrant Cinta Costera, offering panoramic views of the city skyline and waterfront. People were out skating, biking, and enjoying the fresh air—it felt like the heart of the city was alive.

    After a long day of walking and taking in the sights, we wrapped it up with wings while checking out the nightlife. Panama City doesn’t slow down, and neither did we.

    But this is just day one! Stay tuned for Day 2, where the adventures get even better!