There’s nothing quite like the feeling of boarding a magnificent cruise ship, knowing that the next week will be filled with sun-soaked days, endless laughter, and unforgettable experiences. My recent 10-day adventure to California and the Mexican Riviera aboard the NCL Bliss was exactly that—a perfect blend of relaxation, exploration, and indulgence.

Day 1-2: Exploring LA Before Setting Sail

Before embarking on our week-long cruise, we kicked things off with a mini-California escape. Downtown Los Angeles was the perfect place to channel our inner tourist. Strolling past iconic landmarks and soaking in the city’s vibrant energy set the tone for the days ahead.

On Day 2, we ventured to the LA Farmer’s Market, a foodie’s paradise with fresh produce, gourmet bites, and sweet treats. From there, it was off to Newport Beach for a scenic ride on Duffy Boats—a quintessential SoCal experience. Cruising along the calm waters, we savored the sun-drenched afternoon, excited for the adventure that awaited us at sea.

Days 3-5: Sea Days Aboard the Bliss

Once we set sail, the NCL Bliss quickly became our floating paradise. The ship itself was stunning—modern and elegant with expansive decks, luxurious lounges, and dazzling entertainment venues. The sea days were far from idle. We filled them with adventures: playing cards and sharing stories, attending a whiskey class (because how could we resist one with beakers?), and basking in the sunshine with refreshing cocktails in hand.

The dining options were divine. From gourmet meals to casual bites, every dish was a flavorful delight. Whether savoring steakhouse specialties or sampling global flavors at the Food Republic, each meal was an experience in itself. And, of course, no day was complete without raising a glass—cheers to sea days filled with laughter and a whole lot of fun!

Day 6: Puerto Vallarta – Tacos, Malecon, and Glow

Our first port stop was Puerto Vallarta, and it did not disappoint. Under the golden sun, we dove into the local culture with a taco food tour in the Romantic Zone. The authentic flavors were incredible—fresh tortillas, savory fillings, and just the right amount of spice.

Wandering along the Malecon, the lively boardwalk offered a perfect blend of street performers, sculptures, and stunning ocean views. For reality TV fans, it felt like walking through a scene from The Amazing Race Season 36, which added an extra layer of excitement to the day.

Back on board, the fun continued with the Glow Party—dancing, music, and a sea of neon lights made for an electric night we wouldn’t soon forget.

Day 7: Mazatlán – A Scenic Van Adventure

Next up was Mazatlán, where we joined forces with some lovely ladies from Kentucky for a spontaneous van adventure. Huge thanks to Samantha for organizing and Marcia for bringing us all together—it was the perfect way to explore this charming city.

From historic neighborhoods to stunning coastal views, we saw it all, creating memories (and taking plenty of photos) along the way. It was a fantastic reminder of how travel brings people together in the most unexpected and wonderful ways.

Day 8: Cabo – Rooftop Luxury at Corazón Hotel

Cabo San Lucas was a highlight of the trip, made even more spectacular by our VIP experience at the Corazón Hotel. With exclusive access to the rooftop pool, we enjoyed panoramic views of the glistening ocean, sipping cocktails and feasting on delicious bites. The sun, the setting, and the company made it one of my absolute favorite days of the journey.

Back on the ship, we were treated to the Broadway-caliber performance of Jersey Boys—a show that brought the house down with its talent and nostalgia-inducing hits.

Days 9-10: Relaxing at Sea and Manhattan Beach Farewell

The final sea days were all about slowing down and savoring the moment. We embraced the leisurely pace with bingo games, a wine and cheese class, and even a few laps on the go-kart track. Of course, cards were a staple activity, bringing out our competitive and playful sides.

Dinner at Food Republic was a fitting finale—a celebration of global flavors shared with fantastic company.

On Day 10, we disembarked but weren’t quite ready to say goodbye. We squeezed in a few more California moments with an afternoon at Manhattan Beach before catching our flight home. With sand between our toes and salty air in our hair, we bid farewell to the West Coast, already dreaming of our next adventure.

Until Next Time

This 10-day escape was everything a vacation should be—full of adventure, relaxation, and meaningful connections. From the luxurious comforts of the NCL Bliss to the charming ports and unforgettable memories made with new friends, it was a journey to remember.

I’m already counting down the days until the next adventure.