Lauren Simone Blogs — summer travel

After traveling through St. Vincent and the Grenadines, I stayed at three very different hotels: Beachcombers Hotel in St. Vincent, Tetam at Chatham Bay on Union Island, and Bequia Plantation Hotel in Bequia. Each one had its own personality, strengths, flaws, and moments that made me either smile deeply or question my life choices.

I’ve been on five cruises so far, each offering its own unique vibe and experience. My first cruise was a couples trip with Princess Cruises, which truly stood out for its exceptional food—gourmet meals that felt like dining at a five-star restaurant every night. Then I took two cruises with Carnival as a family, the undeniable “party cruise” brand. And most recently, we sailed with Royal Caribbean, which I found offered the best customer service by far. Here’s my honest take: Carnival was the most fun, no doubt, but as someone who isn’t a party girl, it sometimes felt a...

Block Island offers a bustling beach escape just 12 miles off Rhode Island’s coast. From a rocky ferry ride to soft sand, international staff, and powerful waves, the experience blends cultural richness with natural beauty.