Going on a cruise for your next vacation might just be the perfect escape according to Leslie Diaz, a 25-year-old adventurer from Miami, Florida, who has explored the open seas since she was a child.
As a young girl in Miami, she would often gaze at the shimmering waves and dream of distant lands—her family had always yearned to travel the world when they were in Cuba. For them, cruising represented an uncomplicated gateway to various destinations in little time.
Leslie’s passion for exploration transformed into a full-time career as a food and travel content creator, weaving her experiences into a vibrant tapestry of stories. She captures the essence of cruising and shares it with an ever-growing online audience, igniting a spark of curiosity in others.
(Leslie Diaz)
“Since launching my food and travel page five years ago, it has opened countless doors for me, allowing me to explore more of the world and inspire others to consider cruising for themselves,” she reflects.
For Diaz, what enchants her most about cruising is how seamless and tranquil the experience can be, especially since she resides in a popular cruise port city. She smiles when she describes her routine: “Most cruises depart from Miami, so it’s a short drive to the port, a swift passport check, they handle your luggage, and just like that…I’m on vacation.”
(Leslie Diaz)
“I also appreciate traditional travel,” she adds with a hint of nostalgia, “but the logistics can feel overwhelming at times. There are the endless flights, car rides, hotel check-ins, and the ever-present worry about luggage.” In this way, cruising becomes an enticing and convenient alternative.
Yet, as much as she cherishes the voyage, she acknowledges that the choice to cruise can be deeply personal. “Most people either fall head over heels for cruises or they can’t stand them, and it all comes down to what kind of traveler you are,” she muses thoughtfully.
(Leslie Diaz)
When weighing options, Diaz often finds herself gravitating toward cruise vacations. “They offer a unique blend—whether someone craves relaxation or an adrenaline rush,” she elaborates. “Take Royal Caribbean, which is perfect for families with something for everyone, while a line like Virgin Voyages caters exclusively to adults who cherish a kid-free retreat.”
Financially, the choice between cruising and traditional travel often favors the former. “The cost of a cruise varies widely—from the cruise line and type of cabin to the itinerary—yet it can range from as little as $600 to upwards of $1,500 for an entire week,” she shares, highlighting the financial advantages cruising can provide.
(Leslie Diaz)
“If you do your homework and book a few months in advance,” she suggests, “you’ll discover plenty of options that fit within your budget.” Looking out at the horizon, Leslie embodies the spirit of wanderlust, encouraging others to embark on a journey that intertwines relaxation and discovery. After all, with 55 countries under her belt and countless stories to tell, she knows that the world remains vast and full of wonder, just waiting to be explored.