🚢 From Cruise Chaos to Creole Cool: Our Final Days at Sea & Back in New Orleans

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After a week of tropical ports, unexpected downpours, and non-stop exploring, our final day on the cruise didn’t go quite as planned. One of us came down with a classic case of post-port blues—or more specifically, a stomach bug that hit hard after walking around the less-than-hygienic streets of Costa Maya.

🤒 Sick on a Ship… But Still Dancing?

Let’s just say… it wasn’t pretty. The combo of diarrhea, shivers, and likely a fever made us super cautious. We’d heard that medical visits on cruise ships can be expensive—with some claiming motion sickness pills cost $20 a pop—so we decided to wait it out.

As long as no food was involved, everything felt okay. But the moment even a little was eaten? Bathroom. Now.

Despite feeling rough, we made the best of it:

  • Stayed hydrated (thank you, water and ginger tea!).

  • Skipped heavy meals and stuck to comforting foods—shout out to the congee/porridge station with ginger that absolutely saved the day.

  • Still managed to enjoy the Broadway-style shows, music acts, and even hit the dance floor (thank goodness for restrooms all over the ship!).

And again, the cruise staff truly amazed us. The way they keep the ship running, food coming, and everyone smiling around the clock—it really takes an army.

(Disclaimer: Some of the links on here are affiliate links and I may earn if you click or buy on them, AT NO EXTRA cost to you. Hope you find the information here useful! Thanks.) 


🎷 Back on Land: A Farewell Day in New Orleans

The next day, we arrived back in New Orleans, and thankfully, the illness started to ease up. We had 24 hours before our flight, and we were glad we planned ahead.

We returned to our hotel, the Old No. 77 Hotel & Chandlery, where we’d stayed before the cruise. The staff kindly held our luggage, which gave us the freedom to roam the city one last time.

And wow—what a send-off.

We:

  • Explored historic neighborhoods with iconic homes straight out of American Horror Story and classic witchy films.

  • Listened to jazz in public parks, soaking in that only-in-NOLA atmosphere.

  • Were reminded that this city is a melting pot of French, Creole, and American history, where every street corner sings.

New Orleans is not just a city, it’s a living, breathing story. A blend of Mardi Gras magic, rich cultural roots, vibrant music, and deep history. We highly recommend everyone experience it at least once. It’s unforgettable.

🚌 Pro Tip: Easy Ride to the Airport

And here's a little local tip to finish off: instead of grabbing a taxi or ride share, we took the public bus from downtown New Orleans to the airport—just $1.75 per person! It was easy, affordable, and efficient. A great way to end the trip without breaking the bank.


🌍 Until Next Time…

This trip reminded us that travel isn’t always smooth. It’s unpredictable, messy, thrilling, and occasionally gross (hello, open sewers). But the memories, laughs, mishaps, and unexpected moments? That’s the magic.

To the Caribbean, the Getaway cruise, and especially New Orleans—thank you. We’ll be back. Maybe sooner than later.

Until the next adventure,
The Trekking Pawns


 

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