Barbie's Dreamhouse to become real-life home in new HGTV series

Table Of Content

• The designers also wanted the room to feel distinctly like Barbie's office.
• The designers transformed the house's exterior in episode three.
• Step Into the World of Barbiecore: Make Your Own Bold Pink Mirror
• The canvas for the office was small.
• Designers tackled the entryway, living room, dining room, kitchen, and den in episode one.
• Oversized windows made the dining room feel bigger, though it was shut off from the kitchen.

Ashley Graham hosts an epic renovation competition, as eight teams of HGTV stars create the first-ever real-life Barbie Dreamhouse. Only one team's space will be chosen as the winner, and a lucky Barbie fan will win a stay in the Barbie-fied Dreamhouse. Perhaps you signed up for two hours of Barbie at your local movie theater. But for the residents of Michael Crest Drive, a sudden and unexpected outpost emerged this year—one that lingered far longer than the movie’s running time. To hear those on Barbie’s block tell it, the experience of living next to the real-life Barbie house featured on HGTV’s Barbie Dreamhouse Challenge wasn’t exactly a dream.

The designers also wanted the room to feel distinctly like Barbie's office.

They built a canopy bed (every Barbie lover's fantasy!) that features a detailed headboard with a heart at its center. But what makes the dreamy addition extra special is that when anyone says the phrase "Bed, I'm tired," the furniture lights up and shares a sweet wish for a good night's slumber. The pre-programmed message was recorded by Knight for a soothing end to every evening. Between the Barbiecore trend that's all over TikTok and our very own Dollhouse Beautiful, America's favorite doll is spreading her influence all over the interior design world.

The designers transformed the house's exterior in episode three.

The first episode of the four-part series aired on July 16, and the subsequent three episodes will air the next three Sundays at 8 p.m. Valencia estimates that nine to 12 different shades of pink went into the design, which includes a stunning Barbie-pink spiral water slide in the Y2K-themed backyard. If you win the 2024 HGTV Dream Home on Anastasia Island, Florida, near St. Augustine, you can sell the home. Several past winners of HGTV's popular sweepstakes have done just that.

Step Into the World of Barbiecore: Make Your Own Bold Pink Mirror

You can catch up on episodes of "Barbie Dreamhouse Challenge" on MAX. Barbie-mania is everywhere these days thanks to Greta Gerwig's "Barbie" film. Stars were wearing Barbie-inspired looks on red carpets, brands like Beis and Gap are promoting Barbie collaborations, and HGTV got in on the fun. Fashion experts previously told USA TODAY the comeback of Barbie's bright pink aesthetic has been a way for people to embrace cheer, lightheartedness and confidence.

HGTV's Tiffany Brooks on the secret to a real Barbie Dreamhouse - New York Post

HGTV's Tiffany Brooks on the secret to a real Barbie Dreamhouse.

Posted: Fri, 14 Jul 2023 07:00:00 GMT [source]

The teams will overhaul areas of the home with an era-specific style, such as an early 1960s atomic age kitchen, a ‘70s disco vibe for Ken’s Den and a main bedroom decked out in ‘80s glam. True to their word, about two months after the Barbie Dreamhouse was completed, crews returned to Michael Crest Drive to get rid of all that pink. Painters swept through the house with buckets of black and white, neutralizing the pink mailbox, the pink patio, the pink staircase.

The canvas for the office was small.

HGTV home design and renovation experts and a Food Network chef will participate. A teaser trailer released April 12 says the series features "the largest HGTV team ever assembled." The Barbie Dreamhouse will no longer be just a toy — HGTV is making it into a real-life home. We're sure the neighbors were throughly intrigued by the filming and renovation process, but not too disturbed as the entire project was completed in just four weeks. The house used for the show, Barbie Dreamhouse Challenge, is located in Santa Clarita in Southern California.

Christina Hall and James Bender Design Real Barbie Dream Closet - House Beautiful

Christina Hall and James Bender Design Real Barbie Dream Closet.

Posted: Mon, 07 Aug 2023 07:00:00 GMT [source]

Designers tackled the entryway, living room, dining room, kitchen, and den in episode one.

This picturesque suburb of Los Angeles is one of the most expensive places to live in the country, so of course it has stunning views and everything you could possibly need. The house is situated in a neighborhood of Santa Clarita called Canyon Country in Northwestern Los Angeles County. "I mean, how often do you get to put a handle on a house?" Bynum says. In the front living room, four large windows of multicolored plexiglass feature Barbie silhouettes.

Oversized windows made the dining room feel bigger, though it was shut off from the kitchen.

Unlike the other competitors, the designers in episode four didn't have to stick to one decade for their projects, so they could encompass Barbie's past, present, and future in their designs. Michel Smith Boyd and Anthony Elle of "Luxe for Less" and "Rock the Block" worked on Barbie's office, while Christina Hall and James Bender of "Christina on the Coast" transformed Barbie's walk-in closet in the series finale. In episode one, Egypt Sherrod and Mike Jackson of "Married to Real Estate" faced off against Jasmine Roth from "Help! I Wrecked My House" and Antonia Lofaso, who has appeared on multiple Food Network series. Buzz about the film has fueled a resurgence of Barbie mania in pop culture, with celebrities rocking neon-pink Barbiecore fashion on red carpets. Thomas and Bynum agree the most fun part of filming was seeing each HGTV star let their creativity run wild. “When you walk in, it’s going to be sensory overload," Veronica Valencia, host of HGTV’s “Revealed,” warns as we approach the front door.

But the designers upgraded the appliances, and they used deep-pink tiles in the shower to make it perfect for Barbie.

Ashley Graham channels the infamous Mattel doll to host the competition and unveil the glamorous pad at the end of the competition. Dedicated Barbie fans will even have the chance to win a unique stay in the one-of-a-kind home. Aside from its optimal location, HGTV reps said they chose this home out of the hundreds of other potential homes for a few reasons. The features that led them to choose this house include its two-story layout, the existing backyard pool, views of the surrounding area and a space that could easily be converted into Ken's Den. A couch in the back family room looks exactly like a life-sized replica of the cardboard toy couch from the original Barbie Dreamhouse in 1962.

For the residents of a quiet street in Southern California, the experience was more than just an onslaught of pink. To make this show even better, one Barbie megafan will receive the chance to stay at the completed home. While the channel hasn't disclosed how fans can apply for the once-in-a-lifetime sleepover, we'll report back as soon as they do. The film also sparked a new fashion and interior design movement called Barbiecore which celebrates all things hot pink and plastic. Later in the clip, Graham’s jaw drops as she enters the finished backyard designed for “Barbie’s pool party” with celebrity judge Martin. Viewers get a glimpse of the hot pink concrete surrounding the crystal clear pool and fuchsia slide.

So it's only fitting that HGTV would hop on the trend by announcing its new show, Barbie Dreamhouse Challenge. In honor of the impending release of Barbie, Greta Gerwig's highly anticipated movie that's hitting theaters this summer, the home improvement channel is serving up its own take on the iconic Dream House. In an all-new competition series called Barbie Dreamhouse Challenge, eight teams of HGTV experts will transform a Southern California mansion into a life-size pink oasis fit for Barbie and her pals.

SANTA CLARITA, Calif. − On a sunny afternoon in mid-April, the Canyon Country neighborhood appears to be just like any other sleepy, well-to-do Southern California suburb.

The door acts as a shelving unit for storing dinnerware, cookbooks, decor, and other kitchen essentials. “I’d rather not get into things about behind the scenes, any challenges or things like that,” he says. The Santa Clarita home wasn’t the only Barbie house to emerge amid this summer’s Barbie fervor. Another surfaced in Malibu alongside an Airbnb giveaway pegged to Barbie’s release, itself a redux of a slightly less vibrant 2019 offering at the same property. That house, though, is hidden by foliage and a long driveway from Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu’s less developed western end. Deep into the summer of Barbie, you could be forgiven for feeling a little overwhelmed.

Bargain Block stars Keith Bynum and Evan Thomas gave the home's front exterior a 1990s-inspired makeover. While the house boasts fun elements including a toy handle on the roof and a phone-shaped doorbell, the main toyetic element comes from Chilean flamingos that were transformed into water features. Placed along the entrance's walkway, the water-spewing flamingos create a magical experience as guests enter the home. Before construction began, Mission Control, which handled the production’s day-to-day operations, invited neighbors to a town hall at Radomski’s former home. About 30 turned up, Helquist says, asking whether they would be paid (no) and whether the construction crews would be sure to point their wheels into the curb as a precaution against the road’s slope (yes). One neighbor asked whether he could have the gutted house’s kitchen cabinetry.

How HGTVs Barbie Dreamhouse Challenge Became a Neighborhood Nightmare

Table Of Content

• Inside HGTV’s ‘Barbie Dreamhouse Challenge’: Get a Look at the ‘Unreal’ Space
• Where is the HGTV Barbie Dreamhouse?
• Set Designs
• A Look at the Barbie Dreamhouse Over the Years
• The kitchen had big windows, but its overhead lighting was lackluster.
• HGTV Superstars Team Up For the Most Epic Life-Size Barbie Dreamhouse Renovation
• The designers also had more room to play with the layout since the closet was the size of a room.

Winning an HGTV Dream Home is like winning the lottery − the odds are slim, and only a handful of people have won in the history of the sweepstakes contest. Below is information about the HGTV Dream Home on Anastasia Island and what to expect if you get the keys to this TV-genic Florida oasis. Discovery, Food Network will be integrating Barbie-inspired elements into shows including “Beachside Brawl,” and HGTV Magazine will run a multi-page editorial profile on “Barbie Dreamhouse Challenge” and Gerwig’s “Barbie” film.

Inside HGTV’s ‘Barbie Dreamhouse Challenge’: Get a Look at the ‘Unreal’ Space

Out front, private security hired by the production company observed the home renovations 24 hours a day from a parked SUV in the name of preventing onlookers—or plain old dog walkers—from snapping photos. “By aligning two admired brands – HGTV and Mattel’s Barbie – and mobilizing the power of the best-in-class portfolio of Warner Bros. Discovery, ‘Barbie Dreamhouse Challenge’ will deliver a unique, visually stunning payoff for millions of fans who want to see their favorite HGTV stars bring a treasured childhood icon to life,” Loren Ruch, head of content at HGTV, said. "I cannot wait to see Barbie's signature style get the life-sized treatment in an actual home," Graham says in a press release.

Where is the HGTV Barbie Dreamhouse?

Inside the jaw-dropping HGTV Barbie Dreamhouse - HOLA! USA

Inside the jaw-dropping HGTV Barbie Dreamhouse.

Posted: Thu, 20 Jul 2023 07:00:00 GMT [source]

There’s the movie Barbie, the box office Goliath that has passed $1 billion in global earnings, introduced inescapable memes and earworms, and heralded a rosé wave of brand collaborations. “Barbie Dreamhouse Challenge” is produced by Mission Control and Mattel Television. Barbie’s legacy has been making waves in more ways than one, first with the highly-anticipated Warner Brothers film starring Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling, alongside Issa Rae, Simu Liu, Will Ferrell, Kate McKinnon, Dua Lipa and more.

Set Designs

The design duo placed a track similar to those used for toy trains on top of the built-in clothing displays. With the press of a button, hats on pedestals emerge from behind their glass cases and out into the open where they're reachable by ladder. Once a hat is selected, the button can be pressed again so that the hats are safely stowed away. Christina Hall and James Bender tackled Barbie's dream closet.

It’s not only playful, but it's a space-saving solution that makes meal prep easier. "I sincerely want that feature in my life," designer and judge Jonathan Adler said of the creative storage during the premiere episode. Anyone who has ever dreamed of living in Barbie's iconic digs will find a lot to love about this new program. In the four-episode series, eight teams of HGTV and Food Network stars will join forces to transform a home in Southern California into a real-life Barbie Dreamhouse. With special appearances from Rock the Block's Ty Pennington, Mike Jackson from Married to Real Estate, and HGTV royalty like Christina Hall, it's safe to say Barbie's Dreamhouse is going to surpass our childhood dreams. While the channel is remaining tight-lipped about the final project, it promises each episode will be packed with nostalgia.

The kitchen had big windows, but its overhead lighting was lackluster.

"She holds such a special place in my heart, especially since Mattel created a one-of-a-kind doll of me back in 2016. It feels like such a full circle moment now that I have a hand in the creation of her real-life Dreamhouse." And yes, those "toyetic" features showed off in the series actually do work. At the press of a button, a secret compartment rises out of the island countertop in the kitchen, containing a blender with pink bananas. Another secret compartment has a toaster already loaded with bread. Not only did designers have to work around the house's existing structure; they had to work in front of nosy neighbors. Evan Thomas, who designed the roof and front yard with his "Bargain Block" co-host Keith Bynum, recalls seeing people walk by the house every day of filming, with "What's going on?" looks on their faces.

HGTV Superstars Team Up For the Most Epic Life-Size Barbie Dreamhouse Renovation

That staircase in the foyer, the one all but designed to make new arrivals think of prom photos and holiday decorations, had been fluorescent pink with a neon-yellow banister. In the front yard, where realtors escort clients down a path lined with flowers, there had been a trio of supersized pink flamingos, a fuchsia fountain, and a matching front door. Upon the house’s roof perched a 900-pound pink handle crowned with a looping B.

The winning space of the whole competition series was the Y2K party backyard designed by 100 Day Dream Home stars Brian and Mika Kleinschmidt. Naturally, their backyard—shown in the third episode of the series—featured a hot pink spiral pool slide. The slide is actually connected to Ken's lifeguard tower, which also has a spiral staircase. Competing against each other, each design team had one week to complete their area of the house, which had to include a "toyetic" feature − a component that could be found in a toy dollhouse, like a mini-elevator. Each team also competed on behalf of a Barbie superfan, and at the end of the series, the winning team's fan won a four-day, three-night stay inside the house. The competition was judged by design and renovation experts and celebrity guests.

What You Can Expect—and What We're Loving—from HGTV's New 'Barbie Dreamhouse Challenge' Series - Better Homes & Gardens

What You Can Expect—and What We're Loving—from HGTV's New 'Barbie Dreamhouse Challenge' Series.

Posted: Fri, 14 Jul 2023 07:00:00 GMT [source]

In the second episode of the series, longtime HGTV stars Ty Pennington and Alison Victoria create the first-ever den for Ken in a Barbie dreamhouse. With a 1970s theme to guide them, they built a spinning changing room that doubles as a dramatic entrance onto a light-up, dimensional dance floor. The wooden, tube-shaped changing room even has a disco ball hanging inside of it to amp up the party atmosphere.

Eight teams of designers from several shows on the home improvement and real estate cable network remodeled the house into a property that's a livable homage to different iterations of the Mattel toy franchise through the decades. The kitchen, for instance, is based on Barbie designs from the 1960s, while the front living room draws inspiration from Barbie aesthetics of the '90s. For a Barbie bedroom suite with 1980s flair, Farmhouse Fixer stars Jonathan Knight and Kristina Crestin went all out.

One Michael Crest resident heard that a fellow neighbor would respond to the ongoing disruptions by regularly blasting music from a back patio in an attempt to interrupt taping. Benjamin Helquist says his initial response to the news that the project was coming was “annoyance”; he and his wife, both lawyers, moved to Michael Crest with their young children in 2021 in large part for the street’s calm environment. Curious, and unfamiliar with this particular corner of the law, he looked up what sort of recourse he and his neighbors might have, only to learn that legally there’s not much that can be done in California. In 1997, hopes in Santa Clarita’s Sand Canyon neighborhood were high. On Michael Crest Drive, 14 houses were being laid out in a new subdivision, and soon-to-be homeowners gathered to watch as their homes were built from the ground up. The show will culminate with one lucky Barbie fan winning the chance to stay in the home.

The series finale of "Barbie Dreamhouse Challenge," hosted by Ashley Graham, premiered on HGTV on Sunday. It features HGTV stars — and one Food Network star — competing against each other to transform a Southern California home into a real-life version of the Barbie Dreamhouse. One lucky Barbie superfan will even get the chance the stay in the Barbie Dreamhouse, which will depend on which design duo wins the competition.

For the playful, innovative space, the Christina on the Coast stars took inspiration from Cher's iconic closet in Clueless. Instead of a rotating closet, they created an ATM for accessories (shoes, bags, and sunglasses) and beverages. As the work went on, multiple residents interviewed for this story described how tempers could flare. A towering crane trundled down the hill, then left, then came back.

Walking through the house with Valencia, I'm immediately struck by the attention to detail as she explains the intention behind every design element. The colors are overwhelming but purposeful, with a spiral staircase in the living room painted the same shades of bright pink and green as the accents on Margot Robbie's and Ryan Gosling's roller-skating outfits from the "Barbie" movie. A palm tree by the stairs bears black-and-white stripes on its trunk, a nod to the zebra-striped swimsuit of the first Barbie released in 1959. Across the street, Mission Control did indeed rent a house that it used as office space.

The Ultimate Guide to Packing for a Cruise

Table Of Content

• The Clothing and Accessories Everyone Should Pack for a Cruise
• Are Drones Allowed on Cruises?
• Cruise packing tips from someone who’s been on more than 50 cruises
• Things to Consider When Making Your Cruise Packing List
• Carry-on luggage

Many river cruise lines have long provided filtered water in each cabin, along with a keepsake reusable water bottle to refill around the ship and to bring with you in port. When traveling from home to your next cruise, it’s best to have your own reusable water bottle on hand. After all, staying hydrated is key to surviving long travel days and jet lag. I recently ditched my heels for comfortable black sneakers I pair with skirts, slacks and dresses.

The Clothing and Accessories Everyone Should Pack for a Cruise

If you’re on an Alaskan cruise, bring a lightweight water repellant backpack for port days in Juneau, Ketchikan and other Alaska ports. A smart cruise packing hack that many travelers use these days is a placing a GPS luggage tracking device in all checked luggage. Packing for a cruise vacation requires planning to ensure you have everything you need for activities, events, and weather conditions.

Reviewers Reveal Their Top Picks for Cruise Packing - BuzzFeed

Reviewers Reveal Their Top Picks for Cruise Packing.

Posted: Sat, 26 Aug 2023 07:00:00 GMT [source]

Are Drones Allowed on Cruises?

You can also bring along an outlet adapter to make using the European outlet easier.

Cruise packing tips from someone who’s been on more than 50 cruises

Make sure to bring a shore excursion bag, that you can bring on beach shore excursions or other tours. While many cruise lines offer complimentary shampoo and conditioner in stateroom bathrooms, they aren’t likely to be the products you use at home. I always bring my own shampoo, conditioner and of course, my hair care products. While you’re cruising to a Caribbean island, you might not think you will get chilly, but it can get downright cold on the open water at night. Restaurants and the casino can also be a bit chilly, and you’ll want a lightweight sweater or pashmina to keep you warm. Most cruise lines do not allow passengers to bring homemade, pre-cooked, or perishable foods on board.

Things to Consider When Making Your Cruise Packing List

This might be a cocktail dress, a skirt, slacks, designer jeans with a blazer, or an elegant top. Getting to the terminal is the most difficult part of going on a cruise. Being prepared with a few essentials will make the check-in process and the first few hours on the ship more pleasant. There is a detailed list of prohibited items on Royal Caribbean's website, and among many are items that heat up, which can cause a fire hazard on the ship. Anything that could interfere with the safe operation of the ship or the safe and secure environment of guests and crew are prohibited. Although there is plenty of food and drinks on the cruise, there are times when it is helpful to have a pre-packaged snack on hand.

But if you’re the type of person who wants your suitcase full of clothes to work hard for you, I highly recommend this midi  dress from Open Edit. Create your easy-to-pack bag for all your cruising port visits with the G4Free daypack that costs less than $20 and comes in plenty of eye-catching colors and patterns. It's also made with water- and tear-resistant polyester fabric, which means that this backpack is durable enough to withstand a Dunn’s Falls climb in Jamaica. Despite having zero sugar, I didn’t notice an aftertaste from the artificial sweetener, and I really liked the fruit punch flavor. I also love the Stur mixes because they keep me hydrated walking around Barcelona or the Bahamas and cost about half the price of the leading electrolyte packets. Even if you do opt for a drink package, you’ll still be reaching for these babies the morning after a bit of alcoholic overindulgence.

Whether you are hanging out around the ship or heading into a port of call, it’s always nice to have a refillable bottle with you. This way you can always have some water nearby instead of having to find a restaurant to get a drink. We have used this one from Hydro Flask and loved it for our cruise as it kept things cool for a long time (though it is a bit pricey).

Travel packing: What you can and can't bring on a cruise - USA TODAY

Travel packing: What you can and can't bring on a cruise.

Posted: Tue, 19 Sep 2023 07:00:00 GMT [source]

Clothing Women Should Pack for a Cruise

A small, portable sound machine is helpful for blocking out hallway noise if your cabin is in a noisy area of the ship, such as close to the elevator banks. Just be sure that your power strip doesn't include a surge protector; those are banned from most cruise ships, as are extension cords. If you like to walk about with your morning coffee or tea, you can't get a to-go cup at the buffet unless you're paying extra for a latte or espresso.

Carry-on luggage

Allow yourself enough time to get all the things to bring on a cruise ordered online, out of storage and packed up ready to go. Finally, don’t forget to tuck away your house and car keys somewhere safe—you won’t need them until the end of your trip, but you’ll want to be able to find them in a snap when the time comes. Other things to pack for a cruise include sunscreen (and aloe vera for relief, just in case you miss a spot), as well as insect repellent if you’re sailing somewhere tropical.

In general, the same rules apply to men and women when it comes to packing for a cruise. Keep shorts, jeans and pants to a minimum and devote space to fresh shirts, tank tops, polos and what not. On nearly every mainstream cruise line, you can forgo a suit or tuxedo.

From ocean liners sailing the Mediterranean to river boats traversing European waterways, I’ve been on dozens of cruises. Yet, I still find packing for a cruise one of the most difficult things to do before setting sail. Fortunately, I have honed a few top tips for packing for a cruise. Radio frequency identification, commonly known as RFID, is a high-tech way to steal credit card information. To protect yourself on excursions, carry cards in an RFID-blocking wallet. This one is slim, easily fits into a fanny pack or purse, and has room for a handful of cards.

For cruises on those ships, you'll need to add some nicer outfits to your cruise packing list. Don't let dirty laundry accumulate on the floor of your cabin's closet or around your room. Pack a lightweight bag you can fill as you go, then pack it with its contents intact at the end of the trip.

Disney Mediterranean Cruise Reviews 2023 UPDATED: Ratings of Disney Cruises to Mediterranean

Table Of Content

• Kids Pasta
• Night Mediterranean Cruise with Greek Isles to Civitavecchia
• Disney Cruise Staterooms
• Villefranche (Monaco & Monte Carlo / Nice), France
• Primary menu
• Day One on the Disney Dream Cruise Ship

Of course, as we have sailed for months on a Disney cruise there have been some dishes that are not as great as others. However, in general, we think the standard of the food on Disney cruises is very good. We think that one of the best experiences on all of the Disney cruise is the dining experiences. Imagine the great experience of showing your children some of the great sights of Europe. You can do it in such a manageable way, no matter how old your kids are if you sail on a Disney cruise. This is one of our very favorite places to just escape the stresses of every day when you are sailing on the Disney Wonder.

Kids Pasta

My post on every one of our Disney cruise port stops, what we did and what we would recommend, is HERE. If you do choose to do Naples & Pompeii on your own, it is easily doable. It is about a 10-minute walk from the cruise port into Naples. Many people book a Barcelona Cruise excursion ahead of time, but if you don’t, you won’t have a hard time finding things to do on your own.

10 Best Mediterranean Cruise Lines Our Readers Love - TravelAwaits

10 Best Mediterranean Cruise Lines Our Readers Love.

Posted: Wed, 24 May 2023 07:00:00 GMT [source]

Night Mediterranean Cruise with Greek Isles to Civitavecchia

They created Rapunzel’s Royal Table which has a Tangled theme. The Disney Magic has three very different restaurants. You will experience them all on your Disney Mediterranean Cruise. In our experience the older that they get the more time they want to spend in the Disney Kids Clubs. Getting them out of there has been a problem as they enjoy it so much.

Disney Cruise Staterooms

A Disney cruise is not for you if you loathe the Mouse, but it really can be for everyone who is just open to a great cruise experience. We really think that no one can rival Disney cruise lines when it comes to entertainment. You will be treated to Broadway-quality shows which would cost you a fortune on land. Our preference is always for a Disney Cruise Verandah Stateroom. There is something so special about sitting on your own balcony watching your port arrival or just watching the ocean sail by.

Villefranche (Monaco & Monte Carlo / Nice), France

This is a popular thing to do, so expect that you might have to wait for more than once bus. If you choose to take the bus from Villefranche to Nice, it will take about 15 minutes. We began our day trip to Florence in the heart of Florence. On our Disney Mediterranean Cruise to Livorno, we chose to spend the day in Florence on our own. There are guided tour options, but since everything is centrally located and we didn’t want to be on someone else’s schedule, we did it alone.

While you will port in Naples and can spend time there, we chose to do an excursion through Disney Cruise Line that allowed us to visit both Pompeii and Sorrento. In Chania, we ended up exploring on our own, which was ideal. We followed a tour guide group into Old Town, which was lined with small shops, kiosks, restaurants, and a gorgeous view of the bay. Super Paradise Beach is a private beach club, with relaxing loungers, umbrellas, a full menu, and a peaceful beach with bright, turquoise waters. It’s also partially blocked from the intense winds that can affect Mykonos.

The Woody Show's European Cruise Sweepstakes ALT 98.7 - iHeart

The Woody Show's European Cruise Sweepstakes ALT 98.7.

Posted: Mon, 11 Mar 2024 07:00:00 GMT [source]

If you are thinking about booking a Disney Cruise, check out my favorite travel agency, Get Away Today. They can get you a quote and help you throughout the entire process. One of our favorite things to do on a Disney Cruise is to walk around the ship on the jogging track on Deck 4.

Explore the Sights of Europe With Magical Cruises

After selecting his outfit, one of the Fairy Godmothers got to work on his hair. This is what the bunkbeds in a verandah suite look like. After our tour, it was time for the Sail Away Party up on deck 9! The Sail-Away Party is so much fun because you get to dance with Cast Members and many of the Disney Characters make an appearance as well.

We booked a two-room Concierge suite on the first of our Mediterranean Disney cruises. It came with a personal attendant who would do things like bring us DVDs and popcorn, and surprise the kids with stuffed animals. The setup of the room on our Disney cruise was nice, with a larger bathroom and a dining table, but it wasn’t worth the money. We didn’t really need the option to dine in our room, and we didn’t watch too many DVDs or eat too much popcorn. If you don’t feel like the pool on your Disney cruise, there’s shuffleboard. There are movies always showing, including new Disney releases.

I’m so excited to be giving you a tour of our Deluxe Family Verandah Suite on the Disney Dream cruise ship. Our suite was absolutely beautiful and perfect for families. It has plenty of space for all of us to relax and enjoy our vacation. The tour did not include going inside the Uffizzi museum, so we had planned to visit ourselves and meet up with the group later. Unfortunately, the tickets we purchased tickets online before the cruise to see the David, were the wrong time and were not able to change them. Everyone was tired from our excursions so we ended up relaxing in the hot tub while the kids watched a movie on the Funnel Vision for the rest of the night.

A British native and now a United States resident she splits her time between California, Florida and the UK. And spends a serious amount of time sailing the seven seas. She helps over 200,000 people per month follow their Disney travel dreams. My wife by the end of the cruise very tired of the Disney theme and forced cheerfulness of all employees/cast members, feeling like she had been trapped in a theme park for 12 days.

We booked an excursion through Disney Cruise Line, called “Pompeii Half Day” excursion. We met our group in the Walt Disney Theater at the appointed time, then headed on a tour bus to Pompeii. I highly recommend using a travel agent when booking or planning to book a Disney Cruise. A good travel agent is there to take care of all of the leg work, like making reservations, booking excursions, etc. so you can just enjoy your vacation.

She may be more than 20 years old now, but she is looking brand new. We think that Disney is the very best, but first, you need to consider if the ship will be sailing to the places you want to see. All of the Disney Dream Mediterranean cruises in 2023 are at least 7 nights.

And even when you get off of the boat it’s not over – on the bus to the airport in Barcelona they were showing yet more Disney videos. Two weeks in Paris post-cruise worked nicely to remove us from a Disney mindset. And no, we didn’t go to Disneyland Paris or into the Disney store on the Champs-Elysees.

All Disney Mediterranean cruise prices are correct on 14 February 2023. The cost is shown for 2 guests and includes port fees and taxes. Sorry, but to create your cruise package you'll need to speak to our Disney Experts.

Take a dip in the bright blue waters of the Aegean Sea or tour the romantic cliff-top town of Messina before taking in the architectural marvels of Rome where you will disembark. If you plan on visiting houses of worship or other religious locations, you should make sure that your knees and shoulders are covered. Disney Cruise Line excursions seem to get priority in leaving the ship. On the return trip, the bus is even more full and can take quite some time to make the journey back. This is because you don’t really get enough time in Florence and you don’t get to go inside the Uffizi which I think is an important museum to see.

Disney Cruise Galveston Cruise Guide What You Need to Know Updated 2023

Table Of Content

• Disney Cruise Galveston : Your Ultimate Guide to Fun on the Disney Magic
• MSC Cruises and Galveston Port signed terminal agreement for homeporting Seascape ship
• Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Galveston ending in San Juan
• I always stop to see the Disney characters in their cute beachwear
• Disney Magic, Western Caribbean cruise from Galveston, January 19, 2025

These lots are conveniently located near the cruise terminals, making it easy for you to drop off your luggage and board the ship without any hassle. Galveston cruise port is approx 40 mi / 70 km from Hobby Airport (~60 min drive distance) and approx 70 mi / 110 km from Houston Airport (~90 min drive distance). For fly-cruisers is recommended to use rideshare (larger group travel) services. Lyft is Galveston terminal's exclusive rideshare company (pricing per vehicle /not per person) so Uber is not an option.

Disney Cruise Galveston : Your Ultimate Guide to Fun on the Disney Magic

Notably, the 3,600-passenger Regal Princess lacks nearly all the gee-whiz attractions for families found on the other ships that sail out of Galveston. You won't find big waterslides, kiddie splash zones, zip lines or go-kart tracks on this ship. Hands down, the 3,215-passenger ship offers the best Galveston cruises for luxury lovers.

MSC Cruises and Galveston Port signed terminal agreement for homeporting Seascape ship

From inside staterooms to luxurious suites, there’s something for everyone on this ship. The staterooms are designed with families in mind, with plenty of space and storage for all your belongings. Booking your Disney Cruise from Galveston is easy – simply visit the Disney Cruise Line website or give them a call to speak with a representative. And once you arrive at the port, parking is a breeze with plenty of options available.

Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Galveston ending in San Juan

Today, Port Galveston is one of the most successful Caribbean USA homeports. If you’re flying in for your cruise, the closest airports are William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) and George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), both located in Houston. From either airport, you can rent a car or take a shuttle to Galveston, which is about an hour’s drive away. If you need some time to yourself, Disney Magic offers babysitting services for an additional fee.

The best cruises from Galveston for every type of traveler - The Points Guy

The best cruises from Galveston for every type of traveler.

Posted: Thu, 04 May 2023 07:00:00 GMT [source]

Ceres currently provides for RCG similar services at Port Canaveral, Tampa, Port NOLA/New Orleans and Baltimore. The construction works on "Terminal 3" were planned to start in April 2020, with scheduled completion in November 2021. However, due to the COVID crisis, in early-March RCG requested a 1-year extension for the construction's start (rescheduled for April 1, 2021). The initial plans included in 2021 here to be homeported Allure OTS (starting November 10th), but the ship's homeporting was rescheduled for Nov 2022. The new passenger terminal has a modern building (height 68 ft/ 21 m) and docking capacity to accommodate even Oasis-class liners (the world's largest). On December 4, 2019, Port Galveston welcomed its 1-millionth cruiser - Mark Martin (from Mission Viejo CA).

This charming port town is known for its beautiful beaches, rich history, and delicious cuisine. One of the destinations you’ll visit on your Disney Magic cruise from Galveston is Progreso, Mexico. You can take a shore excursion to explore Mayan ruins, a local Ghost Town or relax on the beach and soak up the sun. The Disney Magic is a beautiful ship that offers a wide range of stateroom options to suit every budget and preference.

Disney Magic, Western Caribbean cruise from Galveston, January 19, 2025

Check directly with your travel agent or hotel to determine if this option is available and how much it will cost. The largest indoor parking facility in Galveston is operated by Port Parking. It’s located about about a mile from the Disney Cruise Line terminal and provides customers with a complimentary shuttle. Their indoor parking facility is completely enclosed; all access doors are locked at the end of the day, while motion detector alarms, laser beams, and surveillance system ensure your vehicle remains safe.

The only Disney cruise ship that currently sails from Galveston is the Disney Magic. It’s still a great ship though and offers a variety of amenities and activities that will delight guests of all ages. Set sail on a magical journey with Disney Cruise Line from the charming port of Galveston, Texas. Aboard the enchanting Disney Magic, families and Disney fans alike can choose from approximately 20 departures, heading towards the Western Caribbean’s most captivating destinations.

There are countless opportunities for travelers to explore beach clubs and duty-free shops or book an official excursion within the port area. A Disney cruise from Galveston to Cozumel, Mexico, is an unforgettable experience for everyone. That'll depend on your personal interests and travel style, as there are cruises from Galveston that appeal to everyone, including family travelers, budget travelers and retirees. The shortest sailings that the 10-year-old Princess Cruises ship operates out of Galveston are seven nights in length.

My wife Morag has tried a lot of Spa services on Cruise ships and she is really impressed everytime we sail with Disney. For those new to the cruising experience, a four-day trip may be the most suitable for getting acclimated. Those more experienced with cruises may opt for the longer six and seven-day journeys, offering extended time in the ports of call and enjoying the magical experiences at sea. The George Town Grand Cayman cruise port is a popular disembarkation point for Disney Cruises originating at Galveston, Texas. While ashore, passengers can enjoy shopping, beach and water activities, or visit attractions such as Stingray City, where they can interact with stingrays in their natural habitat.

One of the highlights of a Disney cruise from Galveston is the exciting array of excursions and port stops that await you. Whether you're an adventure seeker or someone who prefers to relax on the beach, there's something for everyone. There are several sailing dates available for a 4 or 5-night adventure to Mexico. Whether you're a die-hard Disney fan or just looking for a magical vacation experience, cruising with Disney is an unforgettable adventure. Here are some of the benefits that make it worth considering for your next trip.

The 11 Best Cruise Lines and Ships for Families and Kids in 2024

Table Of Content

• Family Cruises Activities: Don't Miss Out on the Best Onboard Activities for Families
• Celebrity Cruises
• Of The Best Cruise Lines For Families
• Adventures by Disney River Cruises

Other cruise lines for families just don’t compare to any of the Disney cruises. If you’re looking for an unforgettable family vacation, look no further than Allure of the Seas. This cruise line offers something for everyone, with a variety of activities and amenities that will keep your family entertained from start to finish. Let’s take a look at some of the best cruises for families done in no particular order. We will go into detail about these cruise line companies and some of their individual cruise ships.

Family Cruises Activities: Don't Miss Out on the Best Onboard Activities for Families

There are plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained onboard the Disney Dream, from the interactive Aquaduck water coaster to the adults-only restaurants and lounges. And, of course, there are plenty of opportunities to meet your favorite Disney characters! There is also an imaginative youth club, different dining options, and nightclubs for adults only.

Celebrity Cruises

One of the great things about Royal Caribbean is that there is a nursery (on select ships) for children between the ages of 6 months to 36 months. When it comes to the best cruises for families, it’s hard to beat what Royal Caribbean has to offer. Royal Caribbean cruises are known for being the largest ships and sea. These ships are filled with amazing attractions, large hot tubs and delicious places to eat at. With that being said, here are the 7 best cruise lines for families.

After 17 Royal Caribbean cruises, my family and I tried MSC Cruises for the first time and here's what we liked and didn ... - Royal Caribbean Blog

After 17 Royal Caribbean cruises, my family and I tried MSC Cruises for the first time and here's what we liked and didn ....

Posted: Tue, 03 Oct 2023 07:00:00 GMT [source]

Of The Best Cruise Lines For Families

Teens might roll their eyes at the ever-present Mickeys, but Disney Cruise Line does not ignore its older kid guests. Tweens and teens get their own cool hangouts, Edge and Vibe, with video games, foosball and hip seating areas. No one will be surprised that entertainment juggernaut Disney offers an amazing family cruise experience. If parents want some late-night fun, group babysitting is available for a fee for kids ages 3 to 12. Once the kids are on board, there are a variety of activities for them in Disney's Youth Clubs. These feature several distinct physical spaces and activities that are based on the child’s age and vary by ship.

It hasn't even launched yet, and we're already confident that Royal Caribbean's new Icon of the Seas, soon to be the largest ship afloat, will be one of the top cruise ships for kids. Beyond kids' clubs and pools, the most family-friendly cruise lines offer attractions and programs that kids and even parents can enjoy. A favorite activity for family cruising is swimming and splashing. All family-friendly cruises feature pools, but some dedicate more space to water fun than others. Newer ships tend to have more water-based "wow" features than their older fleetmates.

The kids and teen programs include Camp at Sea for kids between 3 and 12. Participants have themed parties, play sports, do arts and crafts, and engage in treasure hunts. Take a dip in a pool, chill out in a hot tub, play every sport imaginable (from shuffleboard to mini golf), and catch a tan at the Reef Family Splash Zone, a mini water park with games, pools, and water features.

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About 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

We understand that time is the greatest luxury, which is why Condé Nast Traveler mines its network of experts and influencers so that you never waste a meal, a drink, or a hotel stay wherever you are in the world. Impact on your credit may vary, as credit scores are independently determined by credit bureaus based on a number of factors including the financial decisions you make with other financial services organizations. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has 19 ships divided among nine classes. The ships bring a lot of the Disney experience on board with character interactions, immersive experiences and themes. Here’s a starting point to help you decide the best cruises for your family. Taking a cruise as a family is a great way to allow everyone to have a bit of freedom while maintaining togetherness, since everyone doesn’t need to be together 100% of the time.

Kids get to enter the club by slide — and once inside, can explore the club's spaces themed to "Star Wars," fairy tales, Marvel and Disney Imagineers. MSC Cruises has really stepped their game up and is quickly becoming one of the best cruise lines for families. MSC’s newest ships (MSC Seascape & MSC Euribia) have a gorgeous design with plenty of activities to do onboard. Norwegian is great for younger parents because the entertainment and activities are fun for adults as well.

A huge virtual reality playground features rides and games that blow the standard cruise ship arcade out of the water. Onboard an MSC cruise ship, you’ll find water slides, a sports court, a really fun kid’s club and teen club. The kid’s club area is a great place to leave your children so they can meet new people, do fun activities and play video games.

Sun Princess will be the first Princess cruise ship to feature an expansive upper-deck activity zone that kids will love. Named Park19, it will feature nine fun-in-the-sun activities spanning three decks. The attractions include the Sea Breeze Rollglider (imagine a safer version of hang-gliding from an elevated track), a climbing structure with obstacles and a slide, a ropes course, a splash zone and a sports court. If you're looking for the best cruises for kids, Carnival Celebration and its near-identical twin fleet mate, Mardi Gras, are the only cruise ships boasting a top-deck roller coaster called Bolt. (That is until a third sister, Carnival Jubilee, debuts in late 2023.) A ride here is Instagram gold and the ultimate bragging rights for kids on vacation.

There are plenty of dining options to choose from across the fleet with cuisines including Italian, Creole, burgers, and teppanyaki. The cruise line features the world’s largest ships and the tallest water slide at sea. From arcades to roller coasters, there is never any shortage of thrill-seeking activities to find on board any Royal Caribbean cruise.

With its “Fun Ship” atmosphere, kids can enjoy plenty of activities both onboard and off while parents can relax knowing their little ones are well cared for. John Shallo is the founder and editor of Cruise Addicts, a premier online community for cruise travelers.His love for cruising began after his first cruise in 1989. You can find him on the web and social media, sharing his latest cruise ship review, video, travel tips, and port guides. He hopes to continue sharing his experiences and inspiring others to enjoy cruise travel to its fullest. Carnival Panorama sails from Long Beach, California with tons of things to do for every member of the family. The first-ever Sky Zone at sea comprises an indoor trampoline park for all ages, while the water park features two huge waterslides.

She has four restaurants, three pools (one being a Mickey-shaped pool), a spa and fitness center, and several kid-friendly areas, including an entire deck devoted to children’s activities. The entire family can enjoy the ship’s many restaurants, shows, and live music. Carnival Mardi Gras also offers a variety of shore excursions for all ages.

Best Cruises For Kids 2024: Kid-Friendly Cruise Lines

Table Of Content

• Family cruise celebration vacations
• Cruises
• Best for Teens

Expedited service for kids allows them to be picked up by staff so parents can enjoy a leisurely dinner. The whole family will delight in hit Broadway shows including “Grease” and “Mamma Mia! ” plus aqua shows, ice-skating shows, parades and parties on the Royal Promenade. Other activities include a surf simulator, a rock climbing wall, mini golf, a skydiving simulator and multilevel waterslides. Kids clubs and adults-only sun decks allow for age-appropriate fun time apart, but Norwegian wants families to have fun together.

Family cruise celebration vacations

Princess does the cooking and cleaning so you can spend more time focusing on what matters most. Its National Geographic Global Explorers program offers exclusive and family-friendly programming for kids and teens. Traverse the world on the Norwegian Encore, traveling from Alaska to Seattle or from the Caribbean to Miami. Adventure calls on the Encore, including many of the fun activities for families featured on other Norwegian cruise ships.

Cruises

Rest assured, whether you've planned a day of exploring or a romantic night out, the group kidsitting at our Youth Centers offers your children between the ages of 3 and 12 plenty to look forward to. A Princess family cruise is a perfect chance to celebrate together while enjoying the hundreds of amazing activities taking place on Princess ships from morning to night. Easy embarkation and customizing dining preferences, including pace, means fewer meltdowns.

Best for Teens

Trained naturalists lead excursions, hands-on projects, and tours, making the adventures engaging and educational for all ages. An onboard photographer shares tips so that everyone comes home with memorable photos. Entertaining kids on any vacation is usually top of mind when planning a trip.

YOUTH FACILITIES & AMENITIES

Features like split bathrooms allow for a seamless morning routine, while extra space ensures kids have room to play and parents have an oasis to relax. I’ve discovered that Disney Cruise Line truly stands out when it comes to crafting a magical family voyage. With ships like the Disney Wish, Disney Dream, and Disney Fantasy, these floating palaces are bursting with kid-friendly activities, theaters that host Broadway-quality shows, and themed dining adventures. It’s an experience that caters to the younger audience while also providing sophisticated touches that adults will appreciate. Family-friendly vacation destinations are always on the itinerary when you sail with Royal Caribbean®. From thrill-topping island hopping to exploring the Last Frontier, max memories like never before onboard the best family cruise ships in the world.

These Are the Best Cruise Lines for Adults in 2024 Condé Nast Traveler - Condé Nast Traveler

These Are the Best Cruise Lines for Adults in 2024 Condé Nast Traveler.

Posted: Wed, 28 Feb 2024 08:00:00 GMT [source]

Best Cruise Lines for Families

Royal Caribbean follows closely with its impressive array of activities and entertainment options for the entire family. Both cruise lines prioritize creating unforgettable experiences by catering to families with children through distinctive activities, amenities, and dining options. Splash Academy entertains kids ages 3 to 12 with age-appropriate arts and crafts and other activities, while teens ages 13 to 17 can relax in the Entourage club, complete with video games and a teens-only nightclub in the evening. Carnival Cruise Line is on our list of kid-friendly cruises for their youth programs, offered for kids ages 2 to 17. Small-ship adventure line Lindblad Expeditions—in partnership with National Geographic—excels at inspiring a love of the wild with a portfolio of wilderness-focused cruise vacations designed to entice young minds.

What activities are available for the whole family on a kid-friendly cruise?

Assessed by nutritionists, the menu features fun dishes for all ages, including babies from 6 to 12 months. The buffets each have a Kids’ Corner and all the specialty restaurants have a menu, so your kiddo can find a meal that they’ll like. As mentioned, I’ve been going on cruises since 2018 and will be heading on my sixth cruise this year. I’ve been on Carnival, Royal Caribbean and Norwegian, so I have first-hand experience on how each cruise line’s amenities, activities, entertainment, food and more.

Paul Gauguin Cruises

These singular experiences present an opportunity to be part of some of the most iconic universes ever created. With immersive activities and character encounters, guests of all ages can become part of their favorite intergalactic saga or superhero story—truly a highlight for any family entertainment seeker. The Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy maintain Disney Cruise Line’s legacy with an array of family cruise packages. Family rooms on these ships are spacious retreats crafted for comfort and convenience, providing a harmonious balance between adventure and relaxation.

Carnival’s Bolt: High-Speed Fun for the Brave

See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Make your next family vacation something truly special on the Celebrity Equinox through the Celebrity Cruise Line. Royal Caribbean International invites families to sail away on the Allure of the Seas, an award-winning ship for family entertainment. The Disney Cruise Line collection has recently expanded, adding Disney Wish to the ever-growing fleet. This ship has some claims to fame you’ll only find here, such as theatrical Frozen or Avengers-themed dining experiences.

The warm, opulent common areas add extravagance to your vacation, while kid-friendly activities and amenities will keep the young ones entertained. The youth programs feature an Imagination Studio for kids to explore and express their creative sides. Older kids can become junior scientists at the Adventure Science Lab, while the Teen Lounge keeps similarly-aged kids entertained. The ThrillPlex offers activities that will make your kids smile from ear to ear.

Among the Norwegian Cruise Line fleet there are 8 different classes of ships of varying capacities and offerings. The class of ship that tends to be most popular with families is the Breakaway Class. The 2 ships in this class, Norwegian Getaway and Norwegian Breakaway, each have a capacity of about 4,000 passengers.

Your family might be happy anywhere there's a beach or pool, but if you want an at-sea family vacation you'll always remember, book a sailing on one of our top five cruise lines for families. Ships come filled with family-friendly accommodation options, including connecting staterooms, family suites (sleeping up to six), or budget-friendly balcony cabins where regular promos let third and fourth passengers sail free. Apart from rock-climbing, bowling alleys, mini-golf, and sports courts, the line one-ups the competition with a bevy of over-the-top ship attractions that teens can’t get enough of. On Norwegian’s Breakaway Plus-class ships, look out for teen-pleasers like go-karting along 1,100-foot-long race tracks that cantilever the ship’s side, reaching speeds of up to 30 mph.

Cruise-goers can also look forward to Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island, and the upcoming Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, set to open in 2024, providing even more exciting destinations for families to explore. In addition to these Youth Clubs, Disney Cruise Line offers sports and recreation activities that cater to different age groups. Each ship features Disney-themed shows, character meet-and-greets, and Disney movies throughout the day and evening, ensuring a captivating experience for the whole family.

Kids eat free at most restaurants in the lounge, and you can take advantage of entertainment like board games and movies. The nautical-themed staterooms are cozy and spacious for families, and split bathrooms, portholes, and private verandas also set the mood. Some staterooms overlook the majesty of the sea, and others have a virtual balcony. Activities like story time, theater, art, and science will enchant the young’uns, who you will definitely want to bring, as kids sail free. Norwegian Cruise Lines visit Asia, New England, Florida, Alaska, the Bahamas, Canada, the Caribbean, the Panama Canal, Europe, and Hawaii. When you choose to apply (and are approved) for a new credit card through our site, we may receive compensation from our partners, and this may impact how or where these products appear.

Dedicated stateroom attendants ensure a comfortable stay, making it easy for families to feel at home while on their cruise adventure. Carnival Cruise Line offers a variety of family-friendly stateroom options, including Interior, Ocean View, Balcony, Suite, and specialty rooms like Family Harbor. To embark on an unforgettable family vacation with Norwegian Cruise Line, contact The Vacationeer for expert advice and assistance. Their team can help you choose the perfect itinerary, find the best deals, and make all necessary travel arrangements.