Category Archives: Travel

Travel stories and destination guides by Tammy Rose, featuring aviation travel, city explorations, and real-world experiences from around the world.

Europe, Italy, Travel, Travel Tips

Italy Rome and Sardinia Itinerary: Hotels, Excursions & Travel Tips

Leave a comment
Rome and Sardinia Italy travel blog thumbnail featuring Investigative Reporter Tammy Rose in scuba gear, the Colosseum, and turquoise Mediterranean water.
Rome + Sardinia: Italy Travel Adventure with Investigative Reporter Tammy Rose.

My Italy Adventure: Rome, Sardinia, Hotels, Excursions and Travel Essentials

Italy has been on my travel list for a long time, and this September I’m finally making the trip.

My itinerary takes me from Rome to Sardinia and back to Rome, with historic sights, beautiful beaches, boat excursions and plenty of walking along the way.

I’m sharing where I’m staying, the excursions I’m planning and some of the travel gear I’m packing in case you’re planning your own Italy adventure.

My Italy Itinerary

I arrive in Rome on September 3 and will spend several days exploring the city before heading to Sardinia.

My itinerary includes:

Rome: September 3–6
Sardinia: September 6–10
Return to Rome: September 10
Final night near Rome Fiumicino Airport before flying home

Planning a Vacation? Kathy Chrappa Can Help

I’ve worked with Kathy Chrappa at Dream Vacations, and she has more than 25 years of experience helping travelers find vacations that fit their budget and travel style. Whether you’re planning Europe, a cruise, or a tropical getaway, having someone help with the details can save time and reduce stress.

You can find Kathy on Facebook by searching for Kathy Chrappa Dream Vacations.

Where I’m Staying in Rome

Guest room at Town House Fontana di Trevi in Rome, Italy, featuring a double bed and bright modern interior.
Town House Fontana di Trevi, my Rome hotel near the Trevi Fountain.

Town House Rome Trevi Fountain

For my first stop, I’m staying at Town House Rome Trevi Fountain.

The location was a major reason I chose it. I wanted to stay close to central Rome so I could walk to restaurants, shops and major attractions without spending too much time dealing with transportation.

Staying near the Trevi Fountain also puts me in one of the most recognizable areas of Rome.

Check rates and availability for Town House Rome Trevi Fountain:

Exploring Rome

Rome is packed with history, architecture, food and famous landmarks.

I expect to do a lot of walking, so comfortable shoes will be one of the most important things in my suitcase.

My Rome Excursions

I already have several must-see Rome experiences planned for this trip.

Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

I’m taking a hop-on hop-off bus tour to get a good overview of Rome and see more of the city without having to walk every mile. It will also give me the flexibility to stop at different landmarks along the way.

Vatican City

A visit to Vatican City is also on my itinerary. I’m excited to see the Vatican Museums, St. Peter’s Basilica and some of the incredible history and artwork found throughout the area.

Colosseum

No trip to Rome would feel complete without seeing the Colosseum. I’ll be visiting one of Rome’s most famous landmarks and learning more about its history while exploring the surrounding ancient ruins.

Comfortable Walking Shoes

Rome’s cobblestone streets make comfortable shoes especially important.

Amazon travel pick:

view on amazon


COMFORTABLE WALKING SHOES

Lightweight Travel Backpack

view on amazon

I also plan to bring a lightweight backpack for sightseeing days.

It will give me enough room for water, my phone, a portable charger and a few essentials without carrying a large bag around the city.

Amazon travel pick:


LIGHTWEIGHT BACKPACK

Traveling From Rome to Sardinia

After several days exploring Rome, I’m heading to Sardinia for a completely different part of the trip.

This portion will be all about beaches, the Mediterranean and time on the water.

Where I’m Staying in Sardinia

Beach at Hotel Stefania Boutique Hotel in Sardinia, Italy, with white sand, blue umbrellas and turquoise Mediterranean water.
The beach at Hotel Stefania Boutique Hotel in Sardinia, where I’ll be staying near Olbia.

Hotel Stefania Boutique Hotel by the Beach & Ristorante

For my Sardinia stay, I chose Hotel Stefania Boutique Hotel by the Beach & Ristorante in the Olbia area.

I wanted to stay somewhere close to the beach while still having access to the excursions I’m planning.

That makes this hotel a good base for exploring the northeastern side of Sardinia.

Check rates and availability for Hotel Stefania Boutique Hotel by the Beach & Ristorante:

My Sardinia Excursions

One of the biggest reasons I chose Sardinia is the water.

I’m especially excited about exploring the La Maddalena Archipelago, an area known for islands, beaches, coves and incredibly clear Mediterranean water.

La Maddalena Boat Excursion

A boat trip around La Maddalena is one of the excursions I’m looking forward to most.

The excursion should give me a chance to see parts of the islands that are much easier to experience from the water.

What I’m Packing for Sardinia

Beach and boat days require a completely different set of essentials than sightseeing in Rome.

Water Shoes

view on amazon

Water shoes should come in handy for rocky beaches, swimming stops and getting on and off boats.

Amazon travel pick:

WATER SHOES

Snorkel Gear

view on amazon

With Sardinia’s clear water, I definitely want snorkeling gear available.

Bringing my own also means I won’t have to rely on rental equipment.

Amazon travel pick:


SNORKEL GEAR

Waterproof Phone Pouch

view on amazon

A waterproof phone pouch is another small item that could save me a major headache around boats and beaches.

Amazon travel pick:

WATERPROOF PHONE POUCH

Returning to Rome

I return to Rome on September 10.

Instead of heading all the way back into central Rome, I plan to stay near Rome Fiumicino Airport for my final night.

That should make departure day much easier and eliminate the stress of traveling across Rome before my flight home.

My Rome Airport Hotel

Check rates and availability:

My Italy Travel Essentials

I’m trying to keep my packing practical.

I want items that work for sightseeing in Rome, walking around Sardinia and spending time on boats and beaches.

Some of my Italy travel essentials include:

Comfortable walking shoes
Lightweight backpack
Water shoes
Snorkel gear
Waterproof phone pouch
Small dry bag
Portable charger
European travel adapter
Sunglasses
Refillable water bottle

Follow My Italy Trip

I’ll be sharing more from Rome and Sardinia as I travel.

I plan to show you the hotels, excursions, beaches, food and places I visit along the way.

I’ll also share what I loved, what I would do differently and whether the hotels and excursions were worth the money.

If you’re planning your own Italy trip, I hope my experience helps make your planning a little easier.

Affiliate Disclosure

This article contains affiliate links. I may earn a commission if you make a qualifying purchase or booking through one of these links, at no additional cost to you.

Europe, Italy, Travel, Travel Tips

Travel Planning Tips That Saved Me Money on My Italy Trip

Leave a comment
Travel planning tips that saved me money on my Italy trip, including Google Flights, Booking.com, RFID wallet, MagSafe charger, and Rome attractions.

Planning a trip can feel overwhelming. I recently planned my dream trip to Italy, and I found a few tools that made everything much easier. They also helped me save money and stay organized.

If you’re planning your next vacation, here are a few travel tips that worked well for me.

1. Use Google Flights to Find the Best Airfare

Google Flights search results comparing airfare from Houston to Rome with price tracking and multiple airline options.
I used Google Flights to compare airfare and track prices before booking my Italy trip. It helped me find the best fare before purchasing my tickets.

Before booking any flight, I always start with Google Flights.

It compares prices from multiple airlines and travel websites in one place. One of my favorite features is the price tracking tool. You can turn on alerts and Google will email you if the fare goes up or drops before you book.

This helped me keep an eye on flights until I found the best price for my trip to Rome.

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you book through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend services I personally use or believe provide value.

2. Stay Organized with Hotels.com

One of the biggest surprises while planning my trip was how easy it was to keep my hotel reservations organized with Hotels.com. I could compare prices, read verified guest reviews, and book accommodations that fit both my itinerary and budget.

If you’re planning a trip to Italy, you can browse hotel options here:

Find Hotels in Rome

For my time in Sardinia, I’ll also be using to compare accommodations before I arrive:

Browse Hotels in Sardinia

Instead of juggling confirmations from several companies, I could keep my hotel plans in one place while still booking attractions, airport transfers, and other travel experiences separately.

Having everything organized makes traveling much less stressful.

Planning a Vacation? Kathy Chrappa Can Help

If planning an international trip feels overwhelming, consider using a travel advisor.

I’ve worked with Kathy Chrappa at Dream Vacations, and she has more than 25 years of experience helping travelers find vacations that fit their budget and travel style. Whether you’re planning Europe, a cruise, or a tropical getaway, having someone help with the details can save time and reduce stress.

You can find Kathy on Facebook by searching for Kathy Chrappa Dream Vacations.

3. Protect Your Credit Cards with an RFID Wallet

view on amazon
RFID-blocking wallet with AirTag holder designed to help protect credit cards and cash while traveling.
An RFID-blocking wallet can help protect your credit cards from electronic scanning and keeps your travel essentials organized in one place.

Crowded tourist areas can attract electronic pickpockets.

An RFID-blocking wallet or purse helps protect your credit cards and passport from unauthorized RFID scanning. It’s a small investment that can provide extra peace of mind while traveling.

4. Bring a MagSafe Portable Charger

view on amazon
MagSafe portable charger attached to an iPhone, providing convenient wireless charging while traveling.
A MagSafe portable charger kept my iPhone powered throughout the day for maps, boarding passes, photos, and navigation without searching for an outlet.

Your phone quickly becomes your camera, GPS, boarding pass, hotel key, and attraction ticket.

A MagSafe portable charger lets you recharge while walking around without carrying extra cables. It has become one of the travel items I never leave home without.

5. Book Popular Attractions Before You Leave

Many of Italy’s most popular attractions sell out weeks in advance.

For my trip, I booked:

Colosseum Arena Floor Experience

Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel

La Maddalena Archipelago Boat Tour

Rome Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

Booking early gave me more choices for dates and times, and it helped me build my itinerary before arriving in Italy.

Final Thoughts

A little planning goes a long way. Using Google Flights to track airfare, Hotels.com to organize reservations, and a few simple travel accessories can make your trip much smoother.

I’m excited to share photos, videos, and travel tips from Italy, so be sure to check back for updates.

For more travel stories and adventures, explore my other travel articles here.

Exploring Athens, Mykonos & Santorini, Greece!

Australian Cruise Adventure!

⸻

Amazon Affiliate Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. If you buy through my affiliate links, I may earn a small commission at no cost to you.

Travel

Why Travel Insurance Is a Must — Three Travel Mishaps That Taught Me the Hard Way

Leave a comment
Permit fish swimming near Cozumel

Travel is one of the greatest joys in life, but accidents can happen when you least expect them.

That’s why travel insurance for medical emergencies abroad is one of the most important things you can have before leaving home.

Over the years I’ve had three travel mishaps that could have turned into financial disasters if I hadn’t had the right coverage. They taught me a lesson every traveler should understand:

Travel insurance isn’t just about lost luggage or canceled flights — it can save you thousands if you get hurt.

Here are three real experiences that changed the way I travel.

Scooter Crash in Turks and Caicos

Our first lesson happened in Turks and Caicos.

My husband and I rented a scooter to explore the island. It seemed like the perfect way to see the beaches and enjoy the tropical breeze.

Then we crashed.

My husband was wearing sandals, and when the scooter went down he ripped open the side of his foot on the pavement. It was a pretty nasty injury.

Luckily, I had been wearing water shoes, which protected my feet. I walked away with bumps and bruises, but it could have been much worse.

Medical care on islands can be expensive, and this was the moment we realized how quickly a fun vacation could turn into a medical situation.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases

Coral Cut While Snorkeling in Honduras

The second incident happened while snorkeling in Honduras.

I scraped my lower right leg on coral. At first it didn’t seem like a big deal. We cleaned it and continued enjoying the trip.

But after returning home, something didn’t feel right.

My doctor diagnosed a serious bacterial infection, often called “flesh-eating bacteria.” Thankfully it was caught early and treated with antibiotics.

The medical bill added up quickly, but my travel insurance helped cover the costs.

That coral scrape could have turned into something far worse if it hadn’t been caught early.

After scraping my leg on coral while snorkeling in Honduras, I now always travel with reef-safe water shoes to protect my feet and legs when swimming near reefs.

Cenote Accident in Cozumel

The third incident happened in Cozumel, Mexico.

We were visiting a beautiful cenote and decided to jump into the water. On the jump I inhaled a huge gulp of water and quickly became very sick.

Not long after, I ended up in the emergency room.

The bill?

$9,000.

Thankfully insurance covered most of it. Because I didn’t purchase a dedicated travel insurance plan for that trip, my portion of the bill was still $500 out of pocket.

It was a powerful reminder that accidents can happen anywhere — even during something as simple as a swim.

Now, I always keep a small waterproof first aid kit in my travel bag in case something happens on a boat or while snorkeling

Why Travel Insurance Matters

First-time diver exploring colorful underwater marine life at Chankanaab Beach, Cozumel

I also keep my travel insurance paperwork and medical information in a travel document organizer so it’s easy to access in an emergency. Many travelers assume nothing will happen to them on vacation.

But injuries and medical emergencies can happen while:

• snorkeling
• riding scooters
• hiking
• swimming
• exploring unfamiliar places

And when they happen outside your home country, costs can escalate quickly.

Travel insurance designed for medical emergencies abroad can cover:

• emergency room visits
• ambulance transport
• hospital stays
• medications
• emergency evacuation if needed

Without coverage, travelers can face thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars in bills.

Before traveling internationally, it’s always smart to review the latest travel health recommendations from the CDC.

Just like flying, travel conditions can change quickly. I’ve seen firsthand how unpredictable situations can become, similar to when the sky turns dangerous during flight as I shared in this story about travel emergencies and aviation challenges.

Travel

Cozumel Snorkeling Tour Review: 3 Reef Stops, Starfish & Marine Park with Chac Choc Tours

Leave a comment
Snokerlers diving underwater to observe tropical fish on a coral reef

If you’re visiting Cozumel, one of the best excursions you can take is a 3-stop snorkeling tour with Chac Choc Tours. At about $90 per person, this tour included reefs, starfish, food, drinks, and a stop inside the famous Parque Nacional Arrecifes de Cozumel.

This was easily one of the highlights of our trip.

📍 Meeting at Adventure Planet

A variety of boats at Cozumel Adventure Planet

The tour begins at Adventure Planet, where you check in and board the double-decker snorkel/dive boat. The crew was friendly and professional, and the boat had plenty of shade.

👉 I always bring my own [Snorkel Mask Set – see the one I use here] so I know it fits perfectly and doesn’t leak.

Trust me, bringing your own makes a huge difference.

🌊 Snorkeling Stop 1–3: Fish Everywhere & Starfish

The first three stops were incredible.

We saw:

  • Tons of tropical fish
  • Clear turquoise water
  • Beautiful coral reefs
  • Multiple starfish on the ocean floor

The visibility in Cozumel is unreal.

👉 I filmed everything using my [GoPro – see my exact camera here]and the footage came out amazing.

If you snorkel in Cozumel, a GoPro is a must.

🥪 Sandwiches and Drinks on Board

People snorkeling in Cozumel, Mexico

After the third stop, the crew served:

  • Sandwiches
  • Drinks
  • Time to relax

👉 I kept all my gear dry in my [Waterproof Dry Bag – see it here]. These are essential on boat tours.

Phones WILL get wet without one.

🌐 Tour Company Info

Chac Choc Tours
www.chacchoctours.com

Man standing on a double-decker dive boat viewing the sunset in Cozumel, Mexico

This is the exact boat we took, and I highly recommend them.

Don’t miss my Cozumel scuba diving experience at Chankanaab

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases

Life Stories on Film, Travel

Diving Into Paradise: Our Unforgettable Scuba Experience in Cozumel

Leave a comment
First-time diver underwater with scuba gear at Chankanaab Beach Cozumel
Exploring the colorful underwater world of Cozumel on my first scuba dive at Chankanaab Beach.

If you’ve ever dreamed of diving into crystal-clear waters surrounded by vibrant marine life, Cozumel is the place to make it happen. Thanks to our travel agent, Kathy Chrappa Dream Vacations, we discovered an excursion that truly knocked it out of the park: scuba diving at Chankanaab Beach Adventure Park for under $80! Whether it’s your very first dive or you’ve been exploring the depths for years, this experience is absolutely not to be missed.

I captured this entire dive using my GoPro underwater camera, and it was worth every penny for the footage.

First-Time Divers Welcome

First-time diver getting scuba gear fitted by instructor at Chankanaab Beach Cozumel
Getting ready for the dive! Our instructor made sure everything fit perfectly before heading into the water.

I had never dived before, but our instructor was amazing—patient, supportive, and right there with me the whole time. From the moment we got our gear on to our descent into the turquoise waters, I felt safe and encouraged. My pictures and video show the excitement leading up to the dive and the calm, careful instruction that made everything seamless.

Underwater Wonders

We always bring our own snorkeling masks and goggles when we travel. Having gear we trust makes a huge difference in comfort and visibility.

Once underwater, it was like entering another world. We swam alongside schools of colorful fish, curious barracudas, starfish clinging to coral, and even spotted a few stingrays gliding gracefully across the sandy bottom. Every photo and video I captured showcases the incredible variety and beauty of Cozumel’s underwater life—it was like snorkeling through a living aquarium!

More Than Just Diving

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases

After the dive, we had the chance to relax and explore Chankanaab’s beach area. There was plenty to do: enjoy the sun, grab a bite, or watch the entertaining sea lion show.

Pro Tips for First-Time Divers

    •    Book Through a Trusted Travel Agent: Kathy Chrappa Dream Vacations made the whole process easy. Call (832) 703-2432 to learn more.

See what happened when my cenote jump went wrong

   

Life Stories on Film, Travel

How Jumping 20 Feet Into a Cenote Sent Me to the ER: What Tourists Need to Know

Leave a comment

It looked like something straight out of a dream.

Crystal-clear blue water. Limestone walls. Sunlight pouring through the opening above. The kind of place that makes you forget everything else and just jump.

So I did.

And five days later, I was in the emergency room.

Tammy Rose standing in front of cenote in Cozumel, Mexico moments before 20 foot jump travel excursion
Moments before jumping 20 feet into a cenote in Cozumel, Mexico.

The Excursion That Looked Too Good to Pass Up

Before traveling to Cozumel, I booked an excursion that included a 20-foot jump into a cenote. The photos looked incredible — travelers suspended mid-air over glowing blue water, smiling like they were in a travel magazine.

I had never done a jump like that before, but it felt like a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

There was no real warning. No talk about risks. Just climb up, step forward, and jump.

So I went for it.

I’m so glad I was wearing my GoPro during the cenote jump because it captured the entire moment-even though I had no idea at the time it would later send me to the ER. Watching it back now is unbelievable.

Before you jump, watch this: my real cenote experience and why I got sick.

The Jump

The second I hit the water, everything changed.

Instead of a smooth landing, I swallowed a large amount of water.

It went down my throat, into my nose — everywhere.

I came up coughing, but everyone around me was laughing, smiling, and swimming like nothing happened.

I brushed it off.

I wish I hadn’t. Click video below to see the jump.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases

The Symptoms Didn’t Hit Right Away

At first, I felt mostly fine.

But over the next few days, things started to change.

It started with nausea.

Then fatigue.

Then I just felt… off.

Each day, it got worse.

I couldn’t understand how jumping into beautiful, clear water could make me feel this sick.

woman jumping 20 feet into cenote in Mexico adventure excursion
I‘m so glad I was wearing my GoPro during the cenote jump because it captured the entire moment-even though I had no idea at the time it would later send me to the ER. Watching it back now is unbelievable.

Five Days Later, I Ended Up in the ER

By day five, I was throwing up blood.

My husband rushed me to the hospital.

Tests showed I had picked up bacteria.

I was given medication and treatment, and thankfully, I’m now recovering.

But it was scary.

Because it all started with something that looked completely harmless.

hotel bed with blood and vomit after Tammy Rose became sick from cenote water in Cozumel Mexico
This is when I knew something was seriously wrong-five days after swallowing cenote water, I ended up in the ER.

What Many Tourists Don’t Realize About Cenotes

Cenotes are natural sinkholes.

They are not chlorinated pools.

They contain natural water — and sometimes bacteria and parasites.

Even when they look clean, they can still make you sick if you inhale or swallow the water.

Most people are fine.

But not everyone.

And I wasn’t.

According to travel health experts, natural bodies of water can contain bacteria that may cause illness if swallowed. Click here to learn more from the CDC.

Couple standing in front of a cenote

Before the jump, I left my belongings in my waterproof beach bag I brought to the cenote and kept my camera in my travel backpack I used in Mexico so everything stayed organized and protected.

My Advice to Anyone Thinking About Jumping Into a Cenote

I’m not saying don’t do it.

Just be smart.

Be careful.

Protect yourself.

And listen to your body if something feels wrong afterward.

Because what started as a 20-foot jump into paradise…

Sent me to the ER.

This wasn’t the only adventure we experienced on this trip — you can read about my full Cozumel excursion here.

Travel

From an Electrical Fire to a Jellyfish Sting: Our Australian Cruise Adventure

Leave a comment
Feeding a kangaroo at an animal preserve in Cairns, Australia during our cruise stop.

Travel has a way of testing you before it rewards you. Our Princess cruise through Australia was no exception. What began with an unexpected electrical fire quickly tested our patience and plans. However, that rough start turned into an unforgettable journey filled with stunning island views, wildlife encounters, cultural experiences — and even a surprise jellyfish sting.

Stop One: Whitsunday Islands, Queensland

Whitsunday Islands Australia white sand beach and turquoise water
A stunning view from the Whitsunday Islands, Queensland.

Our first stop was the breathtaking Whitsunday Islands. The scenery here feels lifted from a postcard. Turquoise water meets powder‑white beaches, and the natural patterns of sand and sea stretch as far as the eye can see. Just looking out over this vast beauty reminded us how lucky we were to be here.  

Lookout Mountain Whitsunday Islands scenic overlook
Lookout Mountain in the Whitsunday Islands offers breathtaking panoramic views.

Lookout Mountain – Whitsundays

From Lookout Mountain, we took in sweeping vistas of the islands. It was one of those moments where you simply pause and appreciate how enormous and beautiful the world really is.

Stop Two: Cairns – Wildlife & Indigenous Culture

Koala at animal sanctuary in Cairns Australia
Visiting an animal preserve in Cairns and experiencing Aboriginal culture.

Meanwhile, Cairns offered a completely different experience from the islands. Here, we visited an animal preserve where we were able to see koalas up close along with other native Australian wildlife.

This stop also included an Aboriginal cultural show, featuring traditional music, dance, and storytelling. Watching the performance was both moving and educational, offering a deeper understanding of Australia’s Indigenous heritage and connection to the land.

Stop Three: The Great Barrier Reef

Great Barrier Reef snorkeling coral underwater Australia
Snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef, one of the world’s natural wonders.

No Australian cruise would be complete without experiencing the Great Barrier Reef. Snorkeling among the coral and marine life was one of the most unforgettable moments of the entire trip.

Even with an unexpected jellyfish sting along the way, the beauty of the reef made every second worth it. Floating above vibrant coral formations was unforgettable. The clear blue water made the experience even more surreal.

Explore More Travel Adventures

If you loved this Australian cruise journey, don’t miss our other amazing trips! For more sun, sand, and unforgettable experiences, click here to read our Turks and Caicos adventure: Turks and Caicos Travel Story

Travel

From Snorkeling Mishaps to Island Adventures: Cruising Honduras, Belize & Cozumel

Leave a comment

Cruising through Central America should be relaxing, but our trip quickly turned eventful during a snorkeling excursion. Between strong currents, unexpected waves, and a few clumsy moments, what started as a leisurely adventure became a story worth telling.

We explored the reefs in Honduras, Belize, and Cozumel, following safety guidelines from the Belize Tourism Board.

First Stop: Honduras

Tammy & Paul snorkeling in Honduras right Rose his her leg on some coral
Tammy & Paul on boat in Honduras
Tammy Rose riding a horse through the jungles of Honduras

Our day in Honduras began with calm waters and bright skies. I had my snorkeling gear ready, excited to explore the reefs.

However, the water quickly reminded me that even calm-looking currents can be tricky. I accidentally hit a coral outcrop with my leg, and my GoPro was totaled in the process. It was painful, but I didn’t realize how serious it could get.

When I got home, I discovered the cut had become infected with flesh-eating bacteria. I was lucky to see a doctor quickly — early treatment made all the difference. This experience taught me how a simple injury while snorkeling can turn into a dangerous situation if not treated promptly.

With guidance from our tour leaders, we navigated carefully through the rest of the reef. Despite the mishap, I still enjoyed the vibrant coral and tropical fish. It became one of those stories you’ll never forget — and one I hope others can learn from.

Next Stop: Belize

Belize offered a completely different underwater landscape. The currents were gentler, making it easier to explore

The reefs were alive with colorful fish, and coral formations stretched as far as the eye could see. At one point, a small stumble led to a bit of laughter, turning a minor mishap into a memorable moment.

Exploring Belize reminded me how each snorkeling spot has its own character. Even small challenges can add to the adventure, making the experience more vivid and unforgettable.

Overwater huts and turquoise water in Belize during Honduras Belize Cozumel cruise
Belize water huts/dock

Final Stop: Cozumel

Cozumel’s waters were pristine and inviting. With more confidence from previous stops, I navigated the reef smoothly. Turtles glided by, rays floated beneath us, and the vibrant coral stretched in every direction.

Cozumel's waters are pristine and inviting

🎥 Watch the video below to experience the adventure as it unfolded — snorkeling, sailing, and all the moments in between.

Princess Regal Cruise to Honduras, Belize & Mexico!

Even a few small bumps and minor stumbles couldn’t dampen the excitement. Every stop offered unique sights, reminding me why multi-port cruises are so rewarding — each location has its own charm, challenges, and beauty.

Explore More Travel Adventures

If you enjoyed this snorkeling story, don’t miss more unforgettable journeys. Click here to see our trip to Greece!

Travel

From beauty to chaos in Turks & Caicos!

Leave a comment

Video produced, written, and edited by Tammy Rose.

What started as a picture-perfect getaway quickly turned into chaos. From breathtaking beach views to a near drowning and a scooter crash, this Turks and Caicos travel story captures how fast paradise can change. Click the video above to see what really happened during our island adventure.

When a Dream Vacation in Turks and Caicos Goes Wrong

From gorgeous views to a near drowning and a scooter crash, Tammy and Paul set out on another adventure in Turks and Caicos. Click the link above to watch their story unfold.

For more travel stories, click here!

Travel

Changing our stars in Cozumel, Mexico!

Leave a comment

Video produced, written, and edited by Tammy Rose.

Paul & Tammy take to the skies once again, this time heading south of the border. Click on video above to see their journey.

Cozumel Mexico resort and coastline featured in a Cozumel travel video

A Change of Scenery in Cozumel

After weeks of busy schedules and time in the air, Cozumel offered a much-needed change of pace. Warm ocean breezes, crystal-clear water, and island sunsets quickly replaced the familiar routines back home. This trip wasn’t just about the destination — it was about slowing down and enjoying the moment.

Cozumel is known for its laid-back atmosphere and stunning coastline, and it didn’t disappoint. From relaxing by the water to exploring the resort and nearby beaches, every view felt like a reminder of how different life can look when you step away, even briefly.

Traveling South of the Border

Flying south of the border always brings a sense of adventure. There’s something special about watching the landscape change beneath you as you head toward an island destination. This Cozumel travel video captures that journey, from the excitement of departure to the calm that comes with arrival.

Trips like this highlight why travel stories matter — they’re about the experiences between the start and the finish. Whether it’s the flight itself, the scenery, or the unexpected moments along the way, every journey adds another chapter.

Capturing the Journey on Video

Documenting this trip on video allowed us to preserve the moments that photos alone can’t fully capture. From the movement of the water to the sounds of the island, this Cozumel travel video tells the story in real time.