How I spent my spring vacation

By Rochelle Rucker
I'm back from enjoying the blue waters of the Western Caribbean and I am happy to say I survived my first cruise. I almost didn't though, because the day me, my niece Audra, and my cousin Stephanie from Ontario, Calif., embarked from Galveston making our way through the rough waters of the Gulf of Mexico, I got sea sick. But a few Meclizine's (sea sick pills) later, I was good as new and was ready to enjoy all the Carnival Ecstasy ship had to offer.

Swimming and whirl pools, shops, lounges, disco, bingo, golf, hairy chest contest, karaoke, elaborate song-and-dance shows in the theater, and comedians were just a few of the attractions offering plenty of things to do on this ship.

Visiting ancient Mayan ruins, shopping, beautiful beaches and water sports were all part of the fun on this five-day Western Caribbean cruise.

There were also plenty of excursions to take once we visited each port. Our first stop was Progresso, Yucatan, Mexico, where we explored the highlights of the spectacular Mayan City of Merida. Next it was on to beautiful Cozumel for the Segway Adventure and Snorkel Tour. This was our opportunity to ride the most exciting human transport vehicle around today--the Segway.

After an orientation with operating instructions, a safety briefing by our tour guide and a practice session with the Segway, we followed the tour guide on a scenic bike trek that paralleled the native jungle to the natural Cenote called “Aerolito.”

There our tour guide explained all about the underground rivers and how it was formed. Then we headed to the butterfly sanctuary of Dzul-Ha.

Upon arrival, the tour guide provided an orientation to this relaxing spot where some of us snorkeled and the rest stayed and enjoyed the swimming pool and Jacuzzi.

Once back on board we relaxed and prepared for "Fun" Day At Sea. Have I been bitten by the cruise bug? Oh yeah! We're already set to cruise next year to the Eastern Caribbean. Bon voyage!