My First Princess Cruise Adventure on the Sky Princess: A Spectacular Voyage
Embarking on my first Princess cruise aboard the magnificent Sky Princess ship was such a great experience! From the moment I stepped foot on board, I knew we would love it! The ship’s sleek design and elegant décor set the stage for an unforgettable journey on our 7-day western Caribbean cruise. Since I suffer from motion sickness in the car and amusement rides, I was concerned about how I would feel on the cruise. To my delight, I had no issues whatsoever with motion on the ship. I didn’t even realize the ship was moving when leaving the port in Fort Lauderdale until I went on the deck. The occasional motion I felt was slight and relaxing.
One of the highlights of my cruise on the Sky Princess was the array of dining options available. From gourmet restaurants serving delectable cuisine to casual eateries offering mouthwatering treats, there was something to satisfy every craving. Whether indulging in a fine dining experience at the Cielo Restaurant or grabbing a slice of delicious pizza at Alfredo’s Pizzeria, every meal was a culinary delight. Relaxing at the pool you can enjoy fresh pizza or burgers and hot dogs at the Salty Dog Grill. We enjoyed breakfast and dinner in the Marketplace where they had so many delicious choices. It was hard to pick just a few!
Another feature that captured my attention was the variety of entertainment options on board. From Broadway-style shows to live music performances, there was never a dull moment. I found myself captivated by the talent showcased in the Princess Theater and dancing the night away on the dancefloor in the beautiful Piazza. The Sky Princess truly entertained every taste and preference.
As a travel advisor specializing in accessible travel, I was thrilled to see the many accessible features throughout the ship. From the automatic doors, threshold ramps in doorways and accessible staterooms on the ship, the Sky Princess makes accessible cruising a wonderful experience. The innovative Princess Medallion App allows you to find various locations and other members of your traveling party on the ship giving you accessible routes to get to your destination. Additionally, the crew members were trained to assist guests with disabilities, ensuring that everyone could enjoy their cruise comfortably and without barriers.
One aspect of the cruise that pleasantly surprised me was the abundance of recreational activities available. From swimming in the sparkling pools to participating in thrilling shore excursions, there was never a shortage of things to do. We chose to spend most of our pool time on the 17th deck at the Retreat, adults-only pool. Then we spent a couple of evenings on the main pool deck watching movies under the stars where the staff placed comfy cushions on the lounge chairs and provided cozy blankets. You can also experience the ultimate luxury and relaxation in the Lotus Spa and take in the stunning ocean views from the Skywalkers Nightclub.
Throughout my journey on the Sky Princess, I was impressed by the exceptional service provided by the staff. From the friendly cabin stewards to the attentive waitstaff, everyone went above and beyond to ensure a memorable experience. Their warm hospitality truly enhanced my cruise experience and made me feel like royalty.
In conclusion, my first Princess cruise on the Sky Princess was an extraordinary adventure filled with luxury, excitement, and unforgettable memories. From the exquisite dining options to the thrilling entertainment and impeccable service, every moment was a testament to the excellence of Princess Cruises. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or embark on your first cruise, the Sky Princess is sure to exceed your expectations and leave you longing for more adventures on the high seas.
Cindy Caldwell OTR/L, ECHM
Traveling with Confidence: Skin Protection Tips for Wheelchair Users
Traveling is a wonderful way to explore new places, meet different people, and create lasting memories. For wheelchair users, traveling can be just as enjoyable and accessible, but it also requires special attention to skin protection and planning. Prolonged periods of sitting in a wheelchair can increase the risk of pressure sores, which can be painful and lead to serious health complications. However, with the right precautions and some planning, you can embark on your adventures with confidence. In this blog, we’ll provide essential skin protection tips for wheelchair users while traveling.
- Choose the Right Wheelchair Cushion
The first and most crucial step in ensuring skin protection while traveling is to invest in a high-quality wheelchair cushion. If you already have your own custom cushion, make sure you bring it with you while traveling, especially on your flight. Look for cushions specifically designed to reduce pressure and distribute weight evenly. Gel, foam, and air-filled cushions are popular choices. Make sure the cushion fits your wheelchair properly, is comfortable, and provides the necessary support. If you need guidance on choosing the proper cushion, consult with a wheelchair seating specialist such as an occupational or physical therapist.
- Frequent Position Changes
When traveling long distances, it’s essential to make regular position changes to relieve pressure on your skin. Set a timer to remind yourself to shift your weight, move, or adjust your sitting position every 15-30 minutes. This will help prevent pressure sores from developing during your journey.
- Use Pressure-Relief Techniques
Learn and practice pressure-relief techniques that are effective for you. Techniques like leaning forward, tilting your wheelchair back, or shifting your weight from side to side can help reduce pressure on sensitive areas of your skin. Consult with a wheelchair seating specialist, or occupational or physical therapist to learn and implement pressure-relieving techniques and tools.
- Hydration and Nutrition
Proper hydration and nutrition are critical to maintaining healthy skin for wheelchair travelers. Staying hydrated and consuming a balanced diet can improve the overall health of your skin, making it more resilient to potential damage. Remember to drink enough water and consider carrying healthy snacks while traveling. Sometimes wheelchair users will purposely dehydrate themselves just prior to long-distance travel which can compromise skin integrity. The reasons for doing this practice are understood if they have limited toileting options. However, dehydrating too far ahead can compromise your health. The day before travel hydrate well and avoid foods that will stimulate toileting the next day (day of travel).
- Dress Appropriately
Choose clothing made from breathable, moisture-wicking materials that reduce friction and minimize sweat buildup. Dressing appropriately can prevent skin irritation and reduce the risk of developing pressure sores. Dress the upper body in layers so if warm you have the option of removing the top layer and replacing if chilled.
- Regular Skin Inspections
Perform regular skin inspections to check for any signs of redness, discomfort, or irritation. Using a telescoping mirror for hard-to-see areas is essential. Practice skin inspections in your daily life so you know when the skin looks pink or reddened as a preventative measure. Even if you don’t feel pain, these early warning signs should not be ignored. Catching issues early can prevent them from developing into more severe problems.
- Pack Essential Skin Care Supplies
When packing for your trip, be sure to include a skincare kit. This kit should contain items like antibacterial wipes, a barrier cream or ointment, a telescoping mirror, and extra clothing. These supplies will help you maintain proper hygiene and provide added protection in case of unexpected situations.
- Plan Your Rest Stops
When planning your travel itinerary, factor in regular rest stops. These stops will give you the opportunity to relieve pressure and perform pressure-relief techniques. Plan your route so that you can take breaks at accessible locations with proper facilities.
- Accommodation Considerations
When booking accommodations, communicate your specific needs to your travel advisor, the hotel, or the rental property. Request an accessible room with an adapted bathroom and bed. You and/or your travel advisor need to ask if the shower is step-in, roll-in, or an accessible tub, if are there grab bars at the toilet and shower, if the bed height is appropriate, and if is there room open under the bed for use of a Hoyer lift? Knowing all these details specific to your needs will make it easier to take care of your skin while away from home.
Conclusion
Traveling is a remarkable experience that should be accessible and enjoyable for everyone, including wheelchair users. By taking these skin protection tips into account and making them an integral part of your travel routine, you can embark on your adventures with confidence and peace of mind. Proper skin care is an essential aspect of your overall health and well-being, ensuring that you can explore new destinations while minimizing the risk of pressure sores. So, go out and explore the world, and remember to prioritize your skin protection along the way!
