If you find yourself dreaming about tapware and tiles, you know it’s time for a drop-and-flop holiday. But booking hotels, dealing with delayed flights and organising your restaurant itinerary can add to your stress, not to mention expenses. Well, here’s a clever hack – book a long, long weekend aboard Carnival Splendor for a value-packed carefree vacay. Once you embark, there’s no more planning – the captain and crew have got it.
1. A world of tastes
A Carnival Splendor cruise lets you broaden your culinary horizons – all in one place. In the mood for a slice of Italy? Pizzeria del Capitano’s hand-tossed pizza gets the seal of approval from the ship’s Italian captain – and that says something. Head to Masala Tiger if you’re craving smoky tandoori skewers, or design your own stir-fry at Mongolian Wok. And as you tuck into these global flavours, know that much of the fresh produce is sourced from local growers. Now for the best part – meals at these venues are included in your package, so you can feast on these treats for free.
2. Handheld delights
Everyone loves a fresh-off-the grill burg and the poolside Guy’s Burger Joint knows how to do them the right way – two butter-soaked buns decked with heaven. Also in the vicinity is Carnival Deli, serving up Reubens so good, they could recreate that famous When Harry Met Sally scene! This artisan-style eatery also offers a range of fresh, made-to-order wraps and sangers – hand-carved roast turkey breast on a country roll, anyone? For an additional charge, enjoy a lip-smacking Maine-style lobster BLT, fish ’n’ chips, oysters or a bucket of mussels at the Seafood Shack.
3. Fussy foodies sorted
Carnival Splendor understands finicky eaters, so your minis won’t feel left out. The Gold Pearl and The Black Pearl restaurants consider kids as equals, offering dedicated menus. If you have special dietary requirements, you can make your request when booking. And, every night, there’s a no-added- sugar dessert on the menu! From the whimsical décor to the attentive and friendly waitstaff, who break out into song and dance right about dessert time, fun is built into every meal.
4. For the sweeties
So you’re a self-confessed sweetaholic? Help yourself to the marble chocolate cheesecake, cherry crumble and more at the Lido Marketplace dessert buffet. Meanwhile, brain-freeze fans can enjoy soft-serve ice-cream and frozen yoghurt from 11am to midnight (subject to bedtime, kiddos!). Need one more sugar hit? The dazzling lolly shop Cherry On Top lives up to its name.
5. Fine dining time
For an extra fee, Fahrenheit 555 is great value when you consider the high-end menu, polished service and stylish top-deck design. Hit video when your waitstaff brings out the iced oysters, dramatically smoked under a glass cloche, for a post that’s sure to go viral. And that’s just the entrée! Then tuck into the finest cut of New York-style filet mignon, before concluding with an unforgettable indulgent dessert.
6. Raise your glass
You can purchase a drinks package, or opt for drinks à la carte. If you’re a grape buff, ask about the Cruise the Vineyards of Australia offer. There’s also a raft of open bars throughout the ship, serving cocktails, beers and more, while you can get your blended fruit and espresso fixes at Juice & Java.
7. Let’s stay in
Starting your day with brekkie on your private balcony where you can take in the ocean air and scenery is one of the best reasons to holiday at sea. Order from the tasty room-service menu delivered direct to your door. And because the crew understands that cravings can strike at any time, you can order from an all-day menu, 24/7. All this can be enjoyed in between an array of exciting activities, non-stop entertainment and spa experiences. Food, fun and relaxation – just the right ingredients for a fab foodie holiday.
