Planning a vacation for a family of six, spanning ages from the 40s to the early 20s, with a 13-year-old thrown into the mix seemed like a puzzle at first. But this is what I love - making dream vacations happen, one step at a time.

About 9 months back, we decided to organize a getaway that would cater to everyone's tastes and fit within our planned budget. After a family poll was conducted, we decided on a cruise that would include most meals sorted, entertainment galore, and the cherry on top? Exploring new destinations without constantly worrying about transportation logistics. It was a no-brainer!

Scouring through options for our late May 2024 window, we landed on a Northern European cruise deal exclusive to my agency (and my clients!) that ticked all our boxes. Three rooms, reasonable rates, and the promise of adventure in lesser-known cities that turned out to be absolutely delightful. Sign us up! This allowed us to stretch our budget without compromising on comfort. Win-win!

Now, let's talk airfare which can stop any good vacation plan in it’s tracks. We snagged a deal through the cruise line, which not only saved us money but also bought us some peace of mind. Holding onto those flight tickets allowed us to keep an eagle eye on price drops, and boy, did it pay off! We ended up saving over $200 per person—a victory dance was definitely in order. But perhaps the best part? Flexibility. By booking air through the cruise line, we had until February to make our final payments. That's right—no need to commit until we were absolutely certain that this dream vacation was happening. We were ready to count down the days.

After touching down in London, we hit the ground running, fueled by adrenaline and a hint of jet lag. Thanks to some pre-planning wizardry, private transportation whisked us away to our first hotel in Westminster, where we dropped our bags and dove headfirst into the bustling streets. With three rooms on standby, ensuring plenty of space for some much-needed rest. But who needs sleep when you've got landmarks like Big Ben, Parliament, and the London Eye calling your name? We crisscrossed the city, ticking off one landmark after another, all while fueling up on classic Fish and Chips.

After a rejuvenating night's sleep, we were off again, this time bound for Southampton to embark on the Royal Caribbean Anthem of the Seas. A day of ship exploration awaited us, complete with indulgent dining and breathtaking views. And let's not forget the adrenaline rush of activities like the NorthStar and iFly as we cruised through the English Channel.

First up on our port-hopping adventure? La Rochelle, France—a charming town steeped in history and brimming with irresistible shops and eateries. Picture-perfect moments under 1300s-era towers? Check!

Next stop: Bilbao, Spain. Cue the awe as we marveled at the architectural marvel that is the Guggenheim Museum, indulged in tapas and sangria, and wandered the ancient streets of the Old Quarter. History truly came alive in this enchanting city.

Then came La Coruna, where the Tower of Hercules awaited—a beacon of history and breathtaking views of the Galician coastline. And what better way to explore than with a Segway tour? A hit with the whole crew, especially the 13-year-old!

But wait—plot twist! Strike-induced changes redirected us from Paris to Vigo, Spain. While it was a bummer to miss out on the City of Lights, Vigo had its own charms to offer. From sandy beaches to ancient castles and forts, we made the most of our unexpected detour, soaking in every moment of exploration and adventure.

As the sun rose on our final day at sea, a bittersweet feeling settled over us. But hey, what better way to bid adieu to the high seas than with a leisurely day onboard, soaking in the last of the (rather chilly) ocean breeze and indulging in one more sumptuous dinner together?

Once back on solid ground, our trusty driver was waiting to whisk us away to our Kensington abode for the night. And what a charming spot it was—a King Suite plus a cozy 3 bed room with a courtyard view of St Stephen's Church, steeped in history dating back to 1866. Eager to make the most of our remaining time, we hit the ground running, embarking on a whirlwind tour of Kensington Gardens, Notting Hill, and the iconic Portobello Market. From there, it was off to King's Cross and a stroll across the Tower Bridge—a fitting finale to our London adventures. But no trip to London would be complete without a pilgrimage to the shopper's paradise that is Harrods. With bags in hand and memories aplenty, we capped off our day with a casual feast at Nando's—a newfound favorite—and a sweet treat of ice cream as we meandered back to our hotel.

As we settled in for one last night of rest, the echoes of laughter and shared experiences filled the air. Tomorrow, it would be back to reality, but for now, we reveled in the magic of the journey—the bonds forged, the sights seen, and the memories made.