Create an Animated Travel Map Using Keynote

In this post, I’ll show you how to make an animated travel map like the one below using Apple Keynote.

1. Get an image of a map

I usually just go to Google Maps, zoom in/out to the area I want to show, then take a screenshot. In this example, I took a screenshot of the USA because I want to show an animated flight path from San Francisco to Miami.

2. Crop map and optionally add labels

Open the screenshot in an image editor (I use Photoshop) and crop to your target video resolution. My target resolution is 1920 x 1080 (standard HD). I also added some red dots where the start and end points will be as well as some city labels.

3. Get a transparent image of a plane, car, train, boat, etc

Since I want to show an airplane animate along a path, I looked for an image of one in Google Images. The background should be transparent. In Google Images, you can choose Tools > Color > Transparent to find images on a transparent background.

I chose this image.

4. Create a blank Keynote presentation

Open Apple Keynote and choose the basic white theme.

You will get a single slide. Select and delete everything in the slide.

5. Insert background map

Go to Media > Choose and select the background map.

6. Draw a path

Go to Insert > Line > Draw With Pen and draw your travel path.

Click on the start point then click on the end point. You will get a straight line.

In the middle of the line, there will be a point. Click and drag it up if you want to create a curve. Repeat with other midpoints as necessary.

When you’re done, hit the ESC key. We now have our travel path. Let’s change the style of the path. I’m going to make it red and thick. In the right pane, under Format > Style, you can edit the style of the element (curve). I choose a red color that is 7 pt thick.

7. Animate the path

In the top right corner, choose the Animate tab and then “Add an Effect” > “Line Draw”.

You can then change the default animation from 2 seconds. I changed the duration to 10 seconds so that in my video editor, I can slow it down without it appearing jumpy. I also changed the acceleration to “None”.

Click the “Preview” button to preview the path animation.

8. Add the airplane image

As in step 5, go to Media > Choose and select the airplane image.

Scale the airplane by dragging one of the corners. Drag the airplane to position it at the start point.

Rotate the airplane. In the top right choose Format > Arrange and adjust the rotation value such that the nose of the plane is aligned with the flight path.

9. Animate the airplane

In the top right, click Animate > Action > Add an Effect > Move.

Drag the airplane to the end point. Set the duration and acceleration to match that of the flight path (10 sec, None).

Click Preview to preview the animation. The airplane doesn’t yet follow the flight path. Check the “Align to path” checkbox. A point will appear along the line between the airplane’s start and end points. Drag that middle point to where the flight path is.

Click Preview again. You will see the airplane animate along the flight path.

10. Animate the flight path and airplane at the same time

In the top right, click Animate > Build Out > Build Order.

You will see a list of all animation effects. The first animation is the line (flight path). The second is the plane. Choose te second animation and then under “Start”, select “With Build 1”.

11. Export the animation

Choose File > Export To > Movie.

Since there’s only 1 slide, you can leave “Slides” to “All. The resolution should match that of the background image (1080p).

Various Action Camera Mounts & Accessories

Here’s a collection of mounts for action cameras like the Insta360 X3 that I’ve found useful. These accessories can mostly be used with other cameras as well.

Flat C Clamp

This particular clamp has a 2.36″ max width opening and many 1/4″ screws around it. It’s useful for clamping to a flat surface.

Example Use Cases

  • Clamp to a table
  • Clamp to railing

Buy on Amazon

Curved Clamp

This clamp is lightweight. Since it’s curved, it’s ideal for clamping to cylindrical objects like bike handlebars. You can connect it to a long selfie stick or a 1/4″ rod that accepts a 1/4″ screw.

Example Use Cases

  • Clamp to a bike handlebar with or without a short selfie stick or rod

Buy on Amazon (clamp, rod)

Adjustable-Angle Selfie Stick Clamp

This clamp is designed for fishing poles, but it can be used for selfie sticks because selfie sticks are like fishing poles. You can adjust the angle of the stick.

Example Use Cases

  • Secure to cruise ship railing and insert 10′ selfie stick to get drone-like footage.

Buy on Amazon

Flexible Rod

This flexible rod is 20″ long. One end has a female 1/4″ screw opening and the other has a male 1/4″ screw.

Example Use Cases

  • Wrap around a large or irregular shape like a tree branch, hand rail, or large cylindrical object.

Buy on Amazon

Short (6-8″) Selfie Stick

This short selfie stick is great because it’s small enough to completely fit in some pockets.

Example Use Cases

  • Sliding down waterslides
  • Playing in a swimming pool

Buy on Amazon

Alternative: Insta360 Mini 2-in-1 Tripod for X3 GO 3 ONE RS and ONE R

Medium (3.4′) Invisible Selfie Stick With Tripod and Invisible Quick Release Adapter

This selfie stick is invisible when used with the Insta360 X3 camera. To quickly attach and remove an Insta360 X3 camera, use the invisible quick release adapter designed specifically for the Insta360 X3.

Example Use Cases

  • Walking around
  • Placing it on the floor / ground using the tripod while you perform an activity, e.g. painting a room

When walking, I find it best to keep the camera at face level, unless you want to create some interesting perspectives like positioning the camera near your feet.

Buy on Amazon

Long (10′) Invisible Selfie Stick

This incredibly long selfie stick will make it seem like you’re photos and videos were taken using a drone.

Example Use Cases

  • Whenever you want to simulate taking photos and videos using a drone, e.g.
    • extending it our from the balcony of a cruise ship
    • walking along the beach to get bird’s eye views
    • holding it while being in the water at a beach
    • holding it against your shoulder with it extended behind you

Buy on Amazon

1/4″ camera screw

If you’re worried about dropping your selfie stick and losing it, you can attach a 1/4″ camera screw to the bottom of it and a wrist lanyard to the screw.

Buy on Amazon (1/4″ camera screw, lanyard)

Invisible Quick Release Adapter

To quickly attach and remove an Insta360 X3 camera, use the invisible quick release adapter designed specifically for the Insta360 X3.

Buy on Amazon

Tripod Stand 1/4” Mounting Screw

If you can’t mount the Insta360 camera to something, then you can stand it on the ground by attaching a tripod to a selfie stick.

Buy on Amazon

Forearm Mount

Having a selfie stick extended away from you allows you to get shots that look as if someone is filming you. You can also get more of yourself in the shot. In certain situations, however, you may not be able to hold the stick in your hand. That’s when having a forearm mount comes in handy. Since no one makes these, I had to engineer one myself using a forearm brace and an adjustable clamp.

Materials

The brace comes with a thin aluminum bar that is inserted in a pocket at the top of the brace. Using a utility knife, I had to make minor incisions to be able to insert the clamp into and underneath the aluminum bar.

At the front of the brace, I wasn’t able to slide the clamp underneath the bar, so I trimmed the bar to make it a bit narrower.

Like this.

This is the finished product.

The metal bar and clamp can cause discomfort on the top of your hand, especially when the selfie stick is extended and is shaking up and down. To address this, you can simply slide a dishwashing sponge above your hand as shown below to act as a cushion.

Example Use Cases

  • Any time you want to extend the selfie stick and you can’t mount it on something else and you need your hands free, e.g.
    • when you are driving a jet ski

Wrist Mount

If the forearm mount is unavailable or can’t be used, then you can use a wrist mount. This is not as good as the forearm mount because the distance from the camera to your face is just the length of your arm extended.

Example Use Cases

  • when ziplining
  • when you are driving a jet ski
  • sliding down water slides

Buy on Amazon

Chest Mount

This mount is great because it’s hands-free, but you can’t film yourself with it.

If you are afraid of the camera falling despite the strong magnet, you can loop an adjustable neck lanyard to the GoPro mount screw as follows.

Example Use Cases

  • when walking around and you don’t want to make it obvious that you are filming people and/or you want your hands free
  • when boarding an airplane and walking down the aisle

Buy on Amazon

Bicycle / Motorcycle Mount

This mount is very sturdy, but the handlebar clamp opening may be too big for some handlebars. In that situation, you can wrap some rubber around the handlebar, which will also protect it from damage. This mount includes the selfie stick.

Example Use Cases

  • when riding a bicycle or motorcycle

Buy on Amazon (handlebar mount, 2″-wide rubber strip)

Note: when mounting to a bike, I find it better to position the mount such that the camera is at face level.

Glass or Window Mount

This mount can stick to a glass very firmly. You can also rotate the mount in many directions.

Example Use Cases

  • mount to a car windshield or window
  • mount to a bathroom mirror

Buy on Amazon

Magnetic Mount + Rigid 1/4″ Rods

This mount has a small footprint and includes a very strong magnet. You can add one or more 1/4″ rods to it. I find this setup particularly useful when eating at a restaurant. The mount doesn’t take a lot of space and it positions the camera high enough that you can film everyone’s food and their faces.

This mount can also stick to any metal surface like the side of a refrigerator.

Example Use Cases

  • on a table at a restaurant
  • on any magnetic surface

Buy on Amazon (magnetic base, 1/4″ rods)

Straps

If you’re out and about and want to stand your selfie stick on the ground, you can easily do that with the 3.4′ stick with built-in tripod. But, if you try that with 10′-long selfie stick extended at max length, then there’s the risk of it falling and destroying your camera. In this case, one thing you can do is strap the stick against an object like a rail. You can also try to use a c-clamp to clamp onto something flat and then strap the selfie stick to the clamp.

There are many adjustable and removable straps you can use, including

MicroSD Card

According to the Insta360 ONE X2 manual, you must use a UHS-I Micro SD card with a V30 or above speed class and exFAT format. UHS-II and UHS-III Micro SD/TF cards are not compatible with ONE X2. You can find V30 cards on Amazon. Note that the U3 symbol in the image below doesn’t mean UHS-III but rather U3. According to Wikipedia, U3 has to do with software rather than speed.

The cards below have been tested to work well with ONE X2 and X3.

SD CardModel NumberCapacitySpeed Class
Sandisk Extreme V30 A1SDSQXVF-032G-GN6MA32GV30
Sandisk Extreme Pro V30 A1SDSQXCG-032G-GN6MA32GV30
Sandisk Extreme Pro V30 A1SDSQXCG-064G-GN6MA64GV30
Sandisk Extreme V30 A1SDSQXAF-128G-GN6MA128GV30
Sandisk Extreme V30 A2SDSQXAF-128G-GN6MA64GV30
Sandisk Extreme V30 A2SDSQXA1-256G-ZN6MA256GV30
Sandisk Extreme Pro V30 A2SDSQXCZ-1T00-ZN6MA1TBV30

The first character of the 3rd part of the model number may differ, e.g. “G” in GN6MA vs “Z” in ZN6MA. According to this forum, that just identifies a different manufacturer.

The last character of the 3rd part of the model number may differ, e.g. “A” in GN6MA vs “N” in GN6MN. “A” means it comes with an adapter and “N” means it doesn’t.

SanDisk MobileMate USB 3.0 microSD Card Reader

Transferring video files from the Insta360 ONE X2 to your computer can be really slow. To speed this up, use a USB 3 card reader. I use this one: SanDisk MobileMate USB 3.0 microSD Card Reader- SDDR-B531-GN6NN. It supports transfer speeds of up to 170 MB/s. With USB 3.0, move content up to 10x faster than USB 2.0 readers.

Extra Batteries + External Charger

The battery that comes with the Insta360 ONE X2 is good for 80 minutes. It may be a good idea to buy additional batteries just in case. I bought a pack of 2 batteries on Amazon. It comes with a charger and the batteries work.

Mount Adapter

For the adapters, this one is better because you can tighten it with the camera facing any direction you want.

Waterproof Pouches

When you’re swimming, having a waterproof pouch to keep your camera dry can give you peace of mind. Though the pouches pictured below are for phones, they fit the Insta360 X2/3 cameras as well.

Buy on Amazon

Itinerary for the Ultimate Miami & Caribbean Cruise Vacay

4-night Royal Caribbean cruise aboard the Freedom of the Seas (Deck Plan) plus a few days in Miami before and after the cruise

February 2024

SUNMONTUEWEDTHUFRISAT
10
11121314151617

Packing List

Travel and Health Docs

  • Passport / Green Card
  • ID Card
  • COVID Card
  • Royal Caribbean SetSail Pass

Saturday, February 10, 2024

9:30 AM – 10:00 AMDrive to SF Int’l Airport (SFO)
  • Driving Time: 30 min
10:00 AMCheck in
  • Flight: AA 2045
  • Airline: American
  • Confirmation #: IICJZE
  • Seats: 36E, 36F
  1. Scan boarding pass at the kiosk
  2. Attach Express Bag Tags to bags
  3. Tag bags to Bag Drop
11:00 AMLunch at Airport

There’s no free food on the plane. Eat at the airport. Bring trail mix.

12:00 PMTake off
8:19 PMLand at Miami Int’l Airport (MIA)
  • American Airlines is in the north terminal (D)
8:45 PMGo to rental car center
  1. Use the 3rd-Level Skyride (moving walks) to access the MIA Mover station.
  2. Use the MIA Mover located on the 3rd level between the Dolphin and Flamingo garages to go to the MIA Rental Car Center.
9:00 PMPick up rental car
  • Company: Thrifty
  • Confirmation #: K7583417634
  • Reservation Website: expedia.com
  • Vehicle: Chevy Malibu
  • Total Cost For 2 Days: $96.46
  • Collision Damage Waiver: Extra (get at counter)
9:30 PMLate Dinner
  • Panda Express is nearby and is open till 1 AM.
  • Driving time: 6 min
10:30 PMDrive to Hotel & Check In
  • Regency Miami Airport by Sonesta
  • Driving time: 8 min
10:00 PMAttach Luggage Tags to Luggage

Sunday, February 11, 2024

8:00 AM – 9:00 AMBreakfast at IHOP
  • 285 NW 42nd Ave, Miami, FL 33126
  • Open 24 hours
  • Drive Time: 5 min
Steak Omelette with Pancakes
9:15 AM – 10:15 AMDrive to Everglades Holiday Park
  • Driving time: 40 mins
10:30 AM – 12:00 PMEverglades Airboat Tour
  • Official website
  • Open: 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
  • $39
  • AIRBOAT TOUR: 60 mins
  • LIVE ALLIGATOR SHOW: 20 mins
  • Airboat tour tickets are first-come, first-served – no reservations necessary! Tours leave the dock every 20-minutes or less.
12:00 PM – 1:00 PMDrive to Bayside Marketplace
1:00 PM – 2:00 PMWalk to Rolly’s Bistro for Lunch
  • Menu
  • Hours: 10 AM – 10 PM
  • Order:
    • Beef panini
    • Pina Colada
2:00 PM – 4:30 PMWalk to Big Bus Tours and Go on Red Tour
  • Website
  • Hours: 9 am – 4 pm
  • Cheaper to buy online
  • Frequency: Every 30 minutes
  • Duration: 2 hrs 10 min
  • Cost: $86
4:30 PM – 5:30 PMDrive Along Miami Beach
6:00 PMSunset
6:00 PMDrive to Miami Beach Parking Garage
6:00 PM – 8:00 PMWalk Around Espanola Way and Lincoln Shopping District

Española Way

Website

Española Way is a historic street in Miami Beach, Florida. It’s located between 14th and 15th Streets, between Washington Avenue and Pennsylvania Avenue. It’s a pedestrian-only street with shops, galleries, restaurants, and bars. 

Lincoln Road Shopping District

Website

Miami Beach’s Lincoln Road is one of the most unique shopping districts in the world,  full of stunning architecture, world-class culture and destination retail stores spanning 8 blocks.

8:00 PMHave Dinner at The Lincoln Eatery or CGK Miami
  • The Lincoln Eatery
  • Hours: 8 AM – 10 PM
  • CGK (Crazy Good Kitchen) Miami
  • Hours: 11 AM to 10 PM
  • Menu
9:00 PMDrive Back to Hotel
  • Driving Time: 22 min

Monday, February 12, 2024

8:15 AMBreakfast at IHOP
  • Drive Time: 5 min
Spicy Poblano Eggs Benedict
9:15 AMCheck Out of Hotel

9:30 AMDrive Back to Bayside Parking
  • Driving time: 15 mins
10:30 AMWalk to and Check in at Thriller Miami Speedboat Sightseeing Tour
  • 4-minute walk from parking garage
  • Website
  • Open: 11 am – sunset
  • Tours are every 1.5 hours on weekdays
  • Duration: 45 minutes
  • Cost: $45
  • MUST CHECK IN 30 MINUTES PRIOR TO DEPARTURE
  • BRING HAT NECK LANYARD
  • SIT AT BACK OF BOAT
11:00 AM – 11:45 AMTake Thriller Miami Speedboat Sightseeing Tour
12:00 PMRide Skyviews Miami Observation Wheel
  • Walking time: 3 min
  • Website
  • Open: 12 – 10 pm
  • Duration: 12 min
  • Cost: $20
12:30 PMWalk Around Bayside Marketplace
12:30 PM – 1:00 PMWalk Around Bayside Marketplace
1:00 PM – 1:30 PMDrive to Return Rental Car
1:30 PM – 2:00 PMTake Uber to Cruise Terminal
2:30 PMCheck In For Cruise
  • Cruise Terminal A
  • Check-in time is between 2:30 and 3 PM
  • Must check in no later than 3 PM to board the cruise
3:30 PMBoard Cruise and Go to Stateroom (with Balcony)

Stateroom # 6236

4:30 PMCruise Departs to CocoCay, Bahamas
4:30 PMSailaway Spots

Go to the bow (front) of the ship where the helipad is.

There are 2 ways there:

  1. Go outside on deck 4, walk forward, climb up a set of stairs and continue walking forward until you reach the helicopter pad.
  2. Walk all the way forward on Deck 5, enter the Star Lounge, take an immediate right just past the DJ booth. There’s a set of unmarked doors to the helipad.  
5:00 PMExplore the Ship

Deck 2

  • Middle (Midship): Studio B Ice Rink
  • Rooms: Ocean-View Rooms, Interior Rooms

Deck 3

  • Front (Forward): Royal Theater
  • Middle (Midship): Studio B Ice Rink, Photo Studio, Art Gallery
  • Back (Aft): Main Dining Hall
  • Rooms: Ocean-View Rooms, Interior Rooms

Deck 4

  • Front (Forward): Royal Theater
  • Middle (Midship): Izumi Hibachi & Sushi, Schooner Bar, Casino Royale, Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade, Boleros, Centrum
  • Back (Aft): Main Dining Hall

Deck 5

  • Front (Forward): Outdoor Deck
  • Middle (Midship): Star Lounge, Library Card Room, Sorrento’s, Bull& Bear Pub, Promenade Shops, Royal Promenade, Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream, Cafe Promenade, Next Cruise, Shore Excursions, Guest Services, R Bar
  • Back (Aft): Main Dining Hall

Deck 6

  • Rooms: Suites, Balcony Rooms, Ocean-View Rooms, Promenade-View Rooms, Interior Rooms

Deck 7

  • Rooms: Suites, Balcony Rooms, Ocean-View Rooms, Promenade-View Rooms, Interior Rooms

Deck 8

  • Rooms: Suites, Balcony Rooms, Ocean-View Rooms, Promenade-View Rooms, Interior Rooms

Deck 9

  • Rooms: Suites, Balcony Rooms, Ocean-View Rooms, Interior Rooms

Deck 10

  • Rooms: Suites, Balcony Rooms, Ocean-View Rooms, Interior Rooms

Deck 11

  • Front (Forward): Fitness Center
  • Middle (Midship): Solarium, Whirlpool, The Lime & Coconut, Main Pool, Sports Pool, Splashaway Bay, El Loco Fresh, PADI, Chops Grille, Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen
  • Back (Aft): The Plaza Bar, Windjammer Cafe

Deck 12

  • Front (Forward): Spa
  • Middle (Midship): The Lime & Coconut, Running Track, Movie Screen
  • Back (Aft): Nursery, Adventure Ocean, Arcade, Johnny Rockets

Deck 13

  • Front (Forward): Freedom Dunes
  • Back (Aft): Rock Climbing Wall, Sports Court, The Perfect Storm Waterslides, Flowrider

Deck 14

  • Front (Forward): Lounges

Deck 15

5:45 PMDinner at Main Dining Hall [RESERVED]
  • Traditional Dining: 5:45 PM
  • My Time Dining: 7 – 9:30 PM
  • Bottom level = Deck 3
  • Middle level = Deck 4
  • Top level = Deck 5
  • Cruise Dining Options
  • Main Dining Room (Galileo, Isaac & Leonardo) at back of ship. Enter on deck 3.
  • Reservations are required. RSVP through the Royal Caribbean app or call extension 7000.
6:00 PMSunset
7:30 or 9:30 PMWatch a Show
  • Shows are nightly at 7:30 PM and 9:30 PM
  • Arrive 15 mins before the show
  • Royal Theater
  • Decks 3 and 4
10:30 PMPack for Next Day at Cococay
  • Dry bag
  • Snorkel mask
  • Inflatable lounges
  • Sunscreen
  • Cameras and equipment (selfie stick, etc)
  • SeaPass card
  • Cash: Tipping cabana attendants requires cash
  • Beach towels. You can get these from the ship. 
  • Sunglasses
  • Hats

Tuesday, February 13, 2024

6:42 AMSunrise in the Bahamas
7:00 AMArrive at Cococay
RRestroom
9:00 AMLLocker
9:15 – 9:30 AMTTram
10:30 – 11:15 AMZ1Zipline Start – Tower 1
Z2, Z3Zipline Middle – Towers 2 & 3
Z4Zipline Landing
11:30 AMF1Food – Chill Grill
F2Food – Snack Shack
F3Food – Skipper’s Grill
12:30 – 1:45 PMAJet Skis
2:30 PM – 2:45 PMBBalloon
3:00 – 4:00 PMO1Chill Island
O2Harbor Beach
O3Oasis Lagoon
SSnorkel Rental
7:30 AM – 8:30 AMBreakfast at Windjammer Buffet
  • Hours: 7:00 – 11:00 AM

9:00 AMPut stuff in a locker

There are free lockers to use around Perfect Day at CocoCay. Lockers are first come, first serve. Get a locker near the zipline starting area.

9:00 – 9:15 AMTake Tram Around Island
10:30 AM – 11:15 AMZipline
  • Appointment Time: 10:30 AM
  • Hours: 8:00 AM – 3:30 PM
  • Duration: 45 min
  • Cost: $50 pp
11:30 AM – 12:00 PMLunch

Have lunch at Chill Grill (or other places).

Captain Jack’s Bar ($)8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Oasis Lagoon Bar ($)8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
South Beach Bar ($)8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Coco Beach Club8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Chill Grill11:30 AM – 3:00 PM
Skipper’s Grill 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM
Snack Shack Oasis11:00 AM – 3:30 PM
Snack Shack Water Park11:00 AM – 3:30 PM
South Beach Snack Shack11:00 AM – 3:30 PM
12:30 PM – 1:45 PMJet Ski Tour
  • Appointment Time: 12:30 PM
  • Hours: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
  • Cost: $65 driver, $25 passenger
  • Duration: 1 hr 15 min
2:30 PM – 2:45 PMHelium Balloon Ride
  • Appointment Time: 2:30 PM
  • Hours: 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM
  • Duration: 10 min
  • Cost: $43 pp
3:00 PM – 4:00 PMBeaches, Pools & Exploration
4:00 PMReturn to Ship
5:00 PMDepart Cococay to Nassau
5:45 PMDinner at Main Dining Hall [RESERVED]
6:00 PMSunset
7:30 or 9:30 PMWatch a Show
  • Shows are nightly at 7:30 PM and 9:30 PM
  • Arrive 15 mins before the show
  • Royal Theater
  • Decks 3 and 4
10:30 PMWatch a Movie Outside

Wednesday, February 14, 2024

8:00 AMBreakfast on Balcony (Room Service)
9:30 AM – 11:30 AMShip Tour
  • Appointment Time: 9:30 AM
  • Duration: 2 hours
  • Cost: $89
11:30 AM – 12:00 PMFitness
  • Hours: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM
12:00 – 12:30 PMRelax
12:30 – 1:30 PMLunch at Windjammer Buffet
  • Hours:
    • 7:00 – 11:00 AM
    • 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
    • 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
1:30 PM – 3:30 PMWaterslides
  • Open: Noon to 6 PM
3:30 PM – 4:30 PMRock Climbing Wall
  • Open: 3:30 – 7:00 PM
  • Deck 13
5:45 PMDinner at Main Dining Hall [RESERVED]
6:00 PMSunset
7:30 or 9:30 PMWatch a Show
  • Shows are nightly at 7:30 PM and 9:30 PM
  • Arrive 15 mins before the show
  • Royal Theater
  • Decks 3 and 4

Dining on Board

Main Dining Room

  • No extra cost
  • Deck 3, 4, 5
  • Ext 7000
  • Breakfast: 8 AM – 9:30 AM
  • Dinner: 7 PM – 9:30 PM

Windjammer Marketplace

  • No extra cost
  • Deck 11
  • Breakfast: 7 AM – 11 AM
  • Lunch: Noon – 3:30 PM
  • Dinner: 6 PM – 9 PM

Cafe Promenade Coffee Station

  • No extra cost
  • Deck 5
  • 24 hours

El Loco Fresh

  • No extra cost
  • Deck 11
  • 3 PM – 6 PM

Sorrento’s Pizza

  • Extra cost $
  • Deck 5
  • 1:30 PM – 3 AM

Cupcake Cupboard

  • No extra cost
  • Deck 11
  • 11 AM – 8 PM

Chef’s Table

  • RSVP required
  • Extra cost $$$$
  • Ext 7000
  • Deck 5
  • 6:30 PM

Chops Grille

  • RSVP required
  • Extra cost $$$
  • Ext 7000
  • Deck 11
  • 5:30 PM – 9:30 PM

Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen

  • RSVP required
  • Extra cost $$$
  • Ext 7000
  • Deck 11
  • 5:30 PM – 9:30 PM

Izumi Hibachi & Sushi

  • RSVP required
  • Extra cost $$
  • Ext 7000
  • Deck 4
  • 5:30 PM – 9:30 PM

Johnny Rockets

  • Extra cost $$
  • Deck 12
  • 2:00 PM – 10:30 PM

Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream

  • Extra cost $
  • Deck 5
  • 2:00 PM – 11:00 PM

Cafe Promenade Coffee Station

  • No extra cost
  • Deck 5
  • 6:30 AM – 11:00 PM

Room Service

  • Extra cost
  • Ext 7000
  • Deck 5
  • 6:30 AM – 11:00 PM

Thursday, February 15, 2024

6:42 AMSunrise in the Bahamas
7:00 AM – 8:00 AMBreakfast at Windjammer Buffet
  • Hours: 7:00 – 11:00 AM
8:00 AMArrive at Nassau, Bahamas
9:00 AMTake Shuttle to Atlantis
  • Appointment time: 9:00 AM
  • Bring dry bag and camera accessories
9:30 AM – 1:30 PMPlay at Atlantis Waterpark
  • Atlantis Resort Map
  • Atlantis Aquaventure Map
  • Wristbands are required and can be obtained at any towel hut
  • Aquaventure is cashless. Pay by credit card.
  • Lockers are available and subject to availability
  • Towers are provided for day use
  • Complimentary life jackets are provided for day use
  • Wear sandals or water shoes because the pathways can get very hot
  • Shortest wait times for the water slides and the rapids river are when the rides open at 10 AM
  • The center of the action is the Mayan Temple Pool

Action Plan

  1. Get a locker
  2. Go on Mayan Temple water slides (bring short and 3.4″selfie stick)
  3. Go on Power Tower water slides (bring short and 3.4″selfie stick)
  4. Go on river rides (bring short and 3.4″selfie stick)
  5. Have lunch
  6. Go to pools (bring 3.4′ and 10′ selfie stick)
  7. Go to the beaches (bring 3.4′ and 10′ selfie stick)
  8. Take photos at vista points (bring dry bag)
  9. Explore the Royal Towers (bring dry bag)
  10. Visit the Dig

Mayan Temple Water Slides

Leap of Faith: a near 60-foot near-vertical drop propels you through a clear acrylic tunnel into a shark-filled lagoon [video]

Serpent Slide: travel 5-stories down in complete darkness, then emerge and float through an acrylic tunnel in a shark-filled lagoon [video]

Challenger Slide: race down twin high-speed slides with friends, then check your speeds on the time clocks at the bottom to see who won [video]

Jungle Slide: take a thrilling safari slide through the exotic jungle-scape and caves built right into the heart of the Mayan temple [video]

Power Tower Water Slides

The Abyss: Drop into complete darkness with twists and turns and end in an underground cave with alligator gar and tropical fish. [video]

The Surge: Brave a camel back drop into a cavern with quick downward twists and turns into white-water rapids. [video]

The Drop: Drop through darkness, then enjoy open-air twists and turns before splashing down into the Rapids River [video]

The Falls: This slide shoots you 58 feet to ground level, then propels you through a water roller coaster of twisting tubes. [video]

River Rides

The Rapids River: A mile-long river ride with extreme rapid, rolling waves, water escalators and surprises. [video]

Lazy River: A relaxing, scenic, quarter-mile loop guided by a gentle current. [video]

Pools

Royal Baths: This low key pool features two sunburst mosaics and soothing music with the iconic Royal Towers as a backdrop.

Mayan Temple Pool: One of the most popular pools at Atlantis, adjacent the slides of the Mayan Temple. A live DJ spins hot beats.

Baths Colonnade Pool: Large columns with hieroglyphs and rockwork structures adorn this free-form pool.

Grotto Pool: A zero-entry pool framed by two cascading waterfalls. Preferred seating with lockable safe and electronics charging station available for a fee.

River Pool: A relaxing zero-entry pool just steps away from Atlantis Beach and removed from the main activity of Aquaventure.

Blu Pool: This pool offers a cool vibe with music from the 80s, 90s, and today’s billboard hits.

Beaches

Atlantis Beach: An action-packed beach located closest to Beach, Coral and Royal Towers.

Cove Beach: This beach offers a protective cove, good for snorkeling and just soaking up the sun.

Paradise Beach: A tranquil stretch of sand, perfect for relaxing closest to the Reef.

Paradise Lagoon Beaches: Paradise Lagoon offer two beaches for snorkeling, paddle boats, and other water sports, in a protected environment – great for families.

Other

The Dig: Polished marine life & aquarium exhibits in a series of tunnels at the posh Atlantis resort.

2:00 PMTake Shuttle Back to Ship
2:30 PMExplore Downtown – Straw Market
3:00 PMExplore Downtown – Queen’s Staircase
4:00 PMGo Back to Ship
5:00 PMDepart Nassau Back to Miami
5:30 PMPack Bags

Cruise staff will pick up luggage at night. Keep a foldable overnight / duffle bag to store night clothes and toiletries.

5:45 PMDinner at Main Dining Hall [RESERVED]
6:00 PMSunset
7:30 or 9:30 PMWatch a Show
  • Studio B – Ice Rink
  • Deck 3

Friday, February 16, 2024

6:00 AMArrive in Miami
7:30 AMTake Uber From Cruise Terminal to Airport
  • Driving time: 20 min
8:00 AMPick Up Rental Car
CompanyThrifty
Confirmation #K7581590277
Reservation Websiteexpedia.com
SizeChevy Malibu
Total Price For 2 Days$62.08
Collision Damage Waiverextra
9:30 AM – 9:45 AMDrive to Frost Museum of Science
  • Driving Time: 15 min
10:00 AMBuy Planetarium Show Tickets
  • Must buy tickets on site
  • Website
  • Hours: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
  • Cost: $30
10:20 AMWatch Planetarium Show
11:00 AMWatch Planetarium Show
  • Dynamic Earth
  • Duration: 24 min
  • Showtimes: 11:00 a.m. | 12:20 p.m. | 1:40 p.m. | 3:00 p.m. | 4:20 p.m. | 5:40 p.m.
11:30 AM – 11:45 AMDrive to Wynwood Walls
  • Driving time: 10 min
12:00 PM – 1:00 PMExplore Wynwood Walls
  • Website
  • Hours: 11 am – 7 pm
  • Cost: $12
1:00 PM – 1:15 PMDrive to Lock n Load Museum
  • Driving Time: 10 min
1:15 PM – 2:30 PMVisit Lock n Load Museum
  • Website
  • Hours: 12 – 6 pm
  • Cost: Museum: Free, Shooting Training: $175
2:30 PM – 2:45 PMDrive to Superblue Miami Immersive Art Experience
  • Driving Time: 5 min
2:45 PM – 3:45 PMVisit Superblue Miami Immersive Art Experience
  • Website
  • Hours: 11 am – 7 pm
  • Cost: $39
3:45 PM – 4:45 PMDrive to Hotel & Check In
  • Garden Hotel Miami International Airport
  • Driving time: 30 min
  • Check-in time: 3 PM
4:45 PM – 5:15 PMDrive to ARTECHOUSE Miami
  • Driving Time: 30 min
5:15 PM – 6:00 PMVisit ARTECHOUSE Miami
  • Website
  • Hours: 1 – 8 pm
  • Cost: ?
6:00 PMSunset
6:00 PM – 6:10 PMDrive to Museum Of Illusions
  • Driving Time: 10 min
6:10 PM – 7:00 PMVisit Museum Of Illusions
  • Website
  • Hours: 11 AM to 9 PM
  • Cost: $30
7:00 PM – 7:15 PMDrive to Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse
  • Driving Time: 10 min
7:30 PM – 8:30 PMDinner at Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse
  • Website
  • Hours: 12 PM – 10:30 PM
  • SEASONAL CUT
  • MASHED POTATOES
  • CARAMELIZED BANANAS

PICANHA – Prime part of the Top Sirloin

FILET MIGNON – Tenderloin

ALCATRA – Top Sirloin

FRALDINHA – Bottom Sirloin

BONE-IN BEEF ANCHO – Bone-in Ribeye

COSTELA – Beef Ribs

CORDEIRO – CLamb Picanha, ChopsZ

FRANGO – Chicken

WARM PÃO de QUEIJO – Cheese Bread

CRISPY POLENTA

9:00 PMRSVP Online for Segway Tour
  • Website
  • RSVP for 10 AM tour the following day
  • Tours are at 10 AM and 2 PM

Saturday, February 17, 2024

8:00 AM – 9:00 AMBreakfast at IHOP
9:00 AMCheck Out of Hotel
9:00 AM – 9:20 AMDrive to Bike n Roll Miami
  • 210 10th St, Miami Beach, FL 33139
  • Driving Time: 20 min
10:00 AM – 12:00 PMGo on Segway Tour
  • Website
  • RSVP
  • Hours: 9 AM – 6 PM
  • Duration: 2 hours
  • Cost: $75
12:00 PM – 12:15 PMDrive to Bayside Parking
  • Driving Time: 15 min
12:15 PM – 12:20 PMWalk to Millionaire’s Row Tour
  • Walking time: 5 min
1:00 PM – 2:30 PMGo on Millionaire’s Row Tour
  • Website
  • After purchase, you will receive a voucher via email.
  • You must EXCHANGE this voucher at least 45 minutes prior to scheduled departure time at one of our ticket booths at Bayside Marketplace (NOT in the line where you will board) for a physical boarding pass.
  • Duration: 90 min
  • Hours: 11 am – 6 pm
  • Cost: $30
  • Departure Times: 10:30AM, 11AM, 12PM, 1PM, 2PM, 3PM, 4PM, 5PM, 6PM
2:30 PM – 2:45 PMDrive to Bike n Roll Miami

Duration: 15 mins

2:45 PM – 4:30 PMRent e-bike and Ride Along Miami Beach
  • Website
  • Cost: $25 / hour, $85 / day
4:30 PM – 5:30 PMDrive to Airport Rental Car Center & Return Car
  • Driving Time: 30 min
6:30 PMDinner at Airport

There’s no free food on the plane. Eat at the airport. Bring trail mix. American Airlines is in the north terminal (concourse D, 2nd Level Departures).

8:11 PMFly Back to San Francisco
  • Flight: AA 2426
  • Airline: American Airlines
  • Confirmation #: IICJZE
  • Seats: 26E, 26F
11:51 PMLand at SFO

Best Caribbean Beaches & Travel Considerations

The Caribbean is a subregion of the Americas that includes the Caribbean Sea and its islands.

Best Beaches

If your idea of the best beach is like mine, which are beaches that have

  • shallow turquoise or clear water,
  • fine white sand,
  • no garbage, seaweed, rocks and corral

like this

then, looking at the Google satellite image above, it should be evident that one spot stands out: The Bahamas! Actually, if we zoom in on that area, we’ll find that the Turks and Caicos Islands also have that same turquoise color.

Both of these countries have many beaches, and some are better than others. According to the World Travel Awards, Turks and Caicos Islands has the best beaches, and the country has held that rank since 2012.

According to the award history for 2012, 2013 and 2014, and according to the “Visit Turks & Caicos Islands‘” website, the best beach is Grace Bay Beach on Providenciales island. Learn more about Grace Bay Beach.

Grace Bay Beach

Grace Bay Beach is located on the west side of Providenciales island. As you can see in the picture above, it looks amazing. But, the beach and water on the eastern side looks even better according to the zoomed-out photo below.

So, what about the Bahamas? According to Lonely Planet, two beaches that meet the criteria above are

  1. Junkanoo beach
    Located in the city of Nassau on the island of New Providence and near the cruise port, this beach gets really crowded.
  2. Tropic of Cancer Beach
    This beach is located in a small town far from Nassau. You may feel lonely at this beach.
Junkanoo Beach
Tropic of Cancer Beach

Another popular beach is Cabbage beach on Paradise Island where the Atlantis resort is in Nassau, Bahamas.

Best Luxury Island Destination

Though the Bahamas may not have won the record for having the best beach, it did consistently win for being the best luxury island destination in the Caribbean.

Probably the most notable luxury spot in the Bahamas is the Atlantis resort on Paradise island.

Other Islands

I’m sure there are many other islands with very nice beaches. Some may even be better than the ones mentioned above, but they may be so remote that they would be difficult to get to. You may think that the U.S. and British Virgin Islands (U.S.V.I and B.V.I.) have nice beaches, but from my personal experience visiting them, they are nowhere as nice as the ones mentioned above. There is one beach on Sint Maarten however that is nice and very unique and attractive among tourists. It’s the Sint Maarten Airport Beach or Maho Beach, where the airport landing strip is literally right next to the beach.

The airport runway is half the length of typical runways, so airplanes have to land close to the start of it to avoid overrunning the landing strip.

Tourists love taking photos of themselves standing right below a plane coming in for a landing.

Weather

The best time to go to the Caribbean is during the winter months when the temperature isn’t too high and rainfall is low. Below are average temperatures and rainfall by month for the Bahamas, Turks & Caicos, and Sint Maarten.

The Bahamas

Turks & Caicos

Sint Maarten

And since many cruises depart from Miami, it may be worth it to spend a few days in Miami before or after the cruise. The weather is Miami similar to that in the Caribbean.

Miami

Based on the graphs above, it would appear that February is the best time to go.

Humidity and Heat Index

Note that the Caribbean has a humid climate, and high humidity actually makes you feel hotter than in low humidity climates. The heat index is a measure of how hot you feel when taking into both temperature and humidity into consideration. Learn more.

In Nassau, Bahamas,

  • On average, September is the most humid month, at 81.0%.
  • On average, April is the least humid month, at 74.0%.
  • The average annual percentage of humidity is: 78%

According to this heat index calculator, if the temperature is 79 degrees and the humidity is 78%, then the heat index is 82 degrees Fahrenheit.

Flights

You can easily find flights from Miami to the Bahamas, Turks and Caicos, and Sint Maarten. Below are non-stop flights to each country, flight time, and cost for travel in February 2024.

DestinationTravel TimeCost
Nassau, Bahamas1 hr 10 min$262
Sint Maarten3 hr$400
Turks and Caicos2 hr$200

Cruises

The Caribbean is a popular region for cruises. Many cruise lines go to all 3 countries mentioned above. But, cruise ships don’t necessarily dock at the specific islands mentioned above. Here are the cruise ship ports of call for each country.

CountryPort of Call
The BahamasNassau City, New Providence Island
The BahamasPrincess Cays
Turks & CaicosGrand Turk
Sint MaartenSint Maarten

In particular, note that Grand Turk is an island in Turks & Caicos that is very far from Providenciales island where the best beach (Grace Bay Beach) is. You’d have to fly from Grand Turk to Grace Bay Beach.

If you are looking for a cruise ship that goes to these islands, you can do a search from sites like Cruiseweb.com where you can specify search criteria like

  • month (January, February)
  • ports of call (Nassau and Grand Turk)
  • etc

The cruise line that primarily goes to Grand Turk is Carnival. Following are some cruise itineraries that meet the criteria above.

Ship: Carnival Magic – 6-Night Cruise

Sun Feb 18, 2024 – Sat Feb 24, 2024

DatePortArrivalDeparture
Feb 18, 2024Miami3:30 PM
Feb 19, 2024Fun Day At Sea
Feb 20, 2024Grand Turk, Turks & Caicos8:00 AM5:00 PM
Feb 21, 2024Amber Cove, Dominican Republic8:00 AM5:00 PM
Feb 22, 2024Fun Day At Sea
Feb 23, 2024Nassau8:00 AM4:00 PM
Feb 24, 2024Miami8:00 AM

Ship: Princess Cruises – 14-Night Cruise

DatePortArrivalDeparture
Feb 11, 2024Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida3:00 PM
Feb 12, 2024Princess Cays, Bahamas9:00 AM4:00 PM
Feb 13, 2024Cruising
Feb 14, 2024Ocho Rios, Jamaica8:00 AM4:00 PM
Feb 15, 2024Georgetown, Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands7:00 AM4:00 PM
Feb 16, 2024Cozumel, Mexico10:00 AM7:00 PM
Feb 17, 2024Cruising
Feb 18, 2024Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida7:00 AM3:00 PM
Feb 19, 2024Princess Cays, Bahamas9:00 AM4:00 PM
Feb 20, 2024Cruising
Feb 21, 2024San Juan, Puerto Rico9:00 AM10:00 PM
Feb 22, 2024St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands8:00 AM5:00 PM
Feb 23, 2024Cruising
Feb 24, 2024Cruising
Feb 25, 2024Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida7:00 AM

Cruise Line Private Islands

Some cruise lines bought or made islands just for their passengers. Since the islands were custom-made for tourists, they have many tourist benefits that you may not find on other islands. Following are some notable islands.

Ocean Cay, The Bahamas: MSC Cruises

This island is located on a former sand extraction site. MSC Cruises owns it. It’s located pretty close to Miami.

Google Maps’ satellite view shows a lot of beaches with turquoise water.

There’s a beach right by the port where the cruise ship docks. If you want calm water and are afraid of accidentally being pulled out to sea, you can swim between the two beaches at the lagoon.

View hi-res version of this photo

Perfect Day at CocoCay, Bahamas: Royal Caribbean

This island is owned by Royal Caribbean and is exclusively for Royal Caribbean guests. The Google Maps satellite view may make you think the water isn’t turquoise, but it’s deceiving. Many photos show that the water is actually very turquoise. Note that the pier can accommodate two ships, so if you want to avoid crowds, try to find a trip when only your ship will dock there.

With so many activities and attractions, CocoCay looks more like an amusement park. Some activities and amenities include

  • waterpark with slides and a wave pool
  • private over-water cabanas
  • freshwater lagoon
  • 1600-foot-long zipline
  • helium balloon ride

Learn more

View Map (PDF)

Castaway Cay, Bahamas: Disney Cruise Line

Castaway Cay is owned by Disney. Most of the island appears undeveloped. The water by the pier seems to be pretty turquoise.

According to the Disney map, the only developed area is by the pier. It’s nice how they have a breakwater barrier to keep the water calm and to block you from accidentally getting pulled out to sea.

Half Moon Cay, Bahamas: Holland America Line

Below is a satellite view of Half Moon Cay, also called Little San Salvador. Only 3% of the island has been developed for cruise passengers. The color of the water looks pretty good. You will find a 2-mile-long powdery white sand beach and a rugged coastline beyond. There is a natural lagoon called Bone Fish Lagoon that is a breeding ground for sharks, turtles and bonefish.

One interesting activity you can do there is ride a horse in the water.

Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas: Norwegian Cruise Line

Great Stirrup Cay is located next to Perfect Day CocoCay.

Labadee, Haiti: Royal Caribbean

This destination offers some interesting activities. You can go to the mountaintop for a ride on the alpine Dragon’s Tail Coaster. The thrilling descent begins with panoramic views of Labadee from 680 feet above the coastline atop Santa Maria’s lookout mountain. On the way down you’ll reach speeds of 30 miles per hour and zip through 360-degree twists and turns.

There is also a zip line and Superman-style flight line that both let you soar a half mile over the water.

Superman-style

Activities

There are many activities you can do when visiting Caribbean islands, including

Snorkeling

When snorkeling, it would seem better to wear a full-face snorkel mask and a snorkel vest. The mask will give you better visibility and you don’t have to keep your mouth closed. The snorkel vest will easily keep you afloat while allowing your face to be submerged in the water. A life jacket, unlike a snorkel vest, will keep your head above the water, which is not what you want for snorkeling.

Full-face snorkel mask
Snorkel vest

Power snorkeling

Lounging in the water

Whether in a swimming pool or at the beach, these inflatable hammocks are great as they keep your head above the water but your body in it.

Jet ski tour

Explore the island by scooter

Catamaran tour

Parasailing

Ride a banana boat

Cruise around in a seabob

Mini Personal SUB

Other activities include

  • Snuba (with an “n”) diving
  • Scuba diving
  • Fishing
  • Horseback riding in the water
  • Dune buggy tour
  • Swimming
  • Playing at a water park with slides and wave pool
  • Exploring the island by foot, bike, scooter
  • Ziplining
  • Kayaking

Sint Maarten/Saint Martin

This island of Sint Maarten/Saint Martin is shared by 2 nations. Sint Maarten is Dutch and Saint Martin is French. It is the smallest inhabited island in the world. The entire island is just 37 square miles.

Some things to do there include

Planespotting

At Maho beach, you can watch commercial jet planes fly really low over your head as they come in for a landing.

The Royal Islander Club Resort La Plage is located next to the airport landing strip and has access to the beach where planes directly fly over.

Soualiga  Sky Explorer

The Sky Explorer is a chairlift attraction in St. Maarten. The ride is approximately 25 minutes long and takes riders to the top of Sentry Hill, the highest elevation in St. Maarten. The ride spans 2,997 feet and includes two lifts.

Flying Dutchman

The Flying Dutchman is the world’s steepest zip line! You’ll be attached to a flight line in a secure harnessed chair, launching you on the 1050-foot drop in elevation over 2800 feet to experience the ride of a lifetime.

Sentry Hill Zip Line

Schooner Ride

Melange Grill

This restaurant is similar to Brazilian BBQ and Korean BBQ.

  1. Select your Appetizer
  2. Choose your Salad
  3. Enjoy a continuous flow of grilled meats and Seafood right at your table with an assortment of sauces and sides !!

Horseback Riding (1-hour tour)

Lucky Stables at Seaside Nature Park offers a wide variety of tours and trail rides. Ride horses peacefully along one of the many trails that span this beautiful island. Or, ride into the sea with your horse and treat the animals to a cooling swim in the ocean!

Hiking Tour

The many trails at Seaside Nature Park can be explored easily with some water and sturdy hiking shoes while sharing in the extensive knowledge of a professional guide about the flora, fauna and history of the park.

Price starting at $ 10 per person per hour.

https://seasidenaturepark.com/activities/hiking/

Guana Bay hiking tour: $39

https://www.trisportsxm.com/guana-bay-hiking-tour-tour-11.html

Explore the boardwalk

Segway Tour

Explore the boardwalk by segway. https://sxmcoolride.com/

Jet Ski Tour

https://www.wearesxm.com/watersports/jet-extreme/

https://www.wearesxm.com/watersports/bigfoot-watersports/

Jet Ski 30 min = $60
Jet Ski 60 min = $120
Jet Ski Tour 2 hours = $200

E-bike Tour

https://www.trisportsxm.com/tours.html

ATV Tour

Itinerary for Maximum Activities

People have different preferences when it comes to vacation. Some may want to just be a beach bum. Others may want to just do casual sightseeing. For me, I want maximum activity options and clean, turquoise beaches with fine white sand. I also want to go on a cruise because that in and of itself is an experience full of on-board fun activities. Since it’s not possible to cruise to the best beach in the world, Grace Bay Beach in Turks and Caicos, and since Perfect Day at CocoCay is the most developed cruise-owned island full of convenient vacation activities, I think my preferred itinerary would include Perfect Day at CocoCay. And since Nassau is nearby, is a common cruise port of call, and is a popular destination, it would also be on my itinerary. Sint Maarten is one particular island with a lot of fun activities as well, but it may not be possible to find a cruise that goes to all 3 locations. Plus, spending one day at Sint Maarten is likely not long enough. So, I think my preferred itinerary would be

  • Flight: Home > Miami (spend 0 to 3 nights)
  • Cruise:
    • Miami
    • Nassau (Atlantic AquaVenture, Cottage Beach, Downtown)
    • Perfect Day at CocoCay
    • Day at Sea
    • Miami
  • Flight: Miami > Sint Maarten (2 or 3 nights) > Miami
  • Flight: Miami > Home (spend 0 to 3 nights)

Here’s one actual itinerary.

4 Night Bahamas & Perfect Day Cruise

Ship: Royal Caribbean Freedom of the Seas

DatePortArrivalDeparture
Mon, Feb 12, 2024Miami4:30 PM
Tue, Feb 13, 2024Perfect Day at CocoCay7:00 AM5:00 PM
Wed, Feb 14, 2024Cruising Day at Sea
Thu, Feb 15, 2024Nassau, Bahamas8:00 AM5:00 PM
Fri, Feb 16, 2024Miami6:00 AM

Pricing by Room Category:

Interior$293
Outside View$422
Balcony$595
Suite$961

Note that the balcony is pretty small.

Atlantis Resort

  • Hotel room: Minimum 2-night stay: $270 – $359 / night.
  • Day Pass: $190 / person

There’s a hack to get access to Atlantis without spending 2 nights and paying a high price. If you stay at the Comfort Suites on Paradise Island, Bahamas, you’ll have full access to Atlantis, which is just a 3-minute drive away. As an example, the cheapest cost to stay at Atlantis on February 19. 2024 is $363 / night with a minimum 4-night stay. The cost to stay at Comfort Suites on the same dates is just $246 with no 4-night-minimum restriction.

Cruise Ports

Some cruise ports can accommodate multiple ships at the same time. The more ships there are, the more crowded the place will be. Therefore, it’s preferable to choose a trip with the fewest ships at your scheduled ports of call.

Nassau

As you can see, the port at Nassau can accommodate up to 5 ships.

For the itinerary above, the ship “Freedom of the Seas” is scheduled to dock on Feb 14, 2024. The Nassau, Bahamas cruise terminal website shows the schedule by month. Here’s the schedule for February 2024. Unfortunately, it looks like the terminal will be full of ships that day.

Perfect Day at CocoCay

Perfect Day at CocoCay is owned by Royal Caribbean, so only their ships can dock there. The port is smaller. It can accommodate a maximum of 2 ships. For the itinerary above, the ship “Freedom of the Seas” is scheduled to dock on February 13, 2024. According to CruiseMapper.com, there will be 2 ships that day.

Miami

Since many cruises depart from Miami and Miami itself is an interesting destination, it makes sense to spend some time there before or after going on a cruise.

Following are some things to do when visiting Miami.

Miami Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus

Go on a double-decker, open-air hop-on-hop-off bus and be taken around many of the tourist spots. This is an easy way to see a lot and get a sense of the area. Afterwards, you can spend time at individual spots you are interested in. There are many tour bus operators. BigBus, shown below, is just one of them.

Day Tour (Red Loop): $43

https://www.bigbustours.com/en/miami/miami-routes-and-tour-maps

Stop #Location
1Bayside Marketplace
Island Queen Millionaire’s Row Cruise
Skyviews Miami
Miami Beach Boardwalk
2South Beach
Big Pink (restaurant)
ARTECHOUSE Miami
Miami Beach Boardwalk
3Soundscape Park
Espanola Way
Museum Of Illusions
Miami Beach Boardwalk
4Indian Creek
Miami Beach Boardwalk
5Mid Beach / RIU Hotel
Miami Beach Boardwalk
6North Beach / Fontainebleu & Lexington Hotels
Miami Beach Boardwalk
7Design District / Midtown
8Wynwood Walls
9Downtown / Holiday Inn
Bayside Marketplace
Thriller Miami Speedboat Experience
10Little Havana
Learn more

Wynwood Walls

Unique outdoor destination featuring huge, colorful street murals by artists from around the globe.

Bayside Marketplace

Enjoy a drink along the water (or on it), snagging a seat at one of Bayside Marketplace’s big-name restaurants or setting off on a sunset cruise touring Biscayne Bay’s islands.

Lock & Load Museum

Look at all sorts of guns and practice shooting some.

ARTECHOUSE MIAMI

Art + Technology Museum

Superblue Miami Immersive Art Experience

Explore a mirrored labyrinth, see digital worlds immersed in seasonal flowers and waterfalls, and watch your own heartbeat as it glows with 3,000 lights.

Airboat Everglades Tour

Thriller Miami Speedboat Experience

Learn more

Yellow path is Thriller Miami Speedboat Route

Jet Ski Tour

Wings Over Miami Air Museum

Skyviews Miami Observation Wheel

Miami Beach

Explore Miami Beach / South Beach by E-Bike or Segway

Fat tire e-bikes can ride on sand.

E-bikes are prohibited on all sidewalks in Miami Beach, including along the Beachwalk. They are also prohibited on South Pointe Park and Pier, Marina Baywalk, and Lincoln Road Mall.

However, Florida state law allows e-bikes to be operated in the same locations as regular bicycles. This means they can be ridden on: Roads, Bike lanes, Bike paths, Multi-use paths, Sidewalks.

If your e-bike is class 1 (or maybe 2) and limited to 20mph, you should be legally allowed on the beach.

Florida allows all classes of e-bikes, including Class 3 e-bikes — provided they don’t exceed speeds of 28 mph. The bike also can’t have an electric motor power with a wattage exceeding 750.

Miami Beach also has 11 miles of green bicycle lanes.

Free Miami Beach Trolley

From 8 a.m. to 11 p.m., 7 days a week at approximately 20-minute average service frequency along each route.

Lines:

  • North Beach Loop
  • Middle Beach Loop
  • South Beach Loop (A and B)
  • Collins Express

Millionaire’s Row™ Cruise

Explore Miami aboard a fully-narrated bilingual sightseeing cruise along scenic Biscayne Bay – a top-rated thing to do in Miami! Cruise around Biscayne Bay and see the spectacular coastal sites including the beautiful downtown Miami skyline, the Port of Miami, Fisher Island, Miami Beach and “Millionaire’s Row™” – the Homes of the Rich and Famous™.

Learn More

The Phillip & Patricia Frost Museum Of Science

This is a science museum, aquarium and planetarium. The cutting-edge 250-seat Frost Planetarium takes you on visual joyrides that both thrill and educate. Though it might seem like you’re really hurtling through space or weaving through a coral reef or DNA strand, that ultra-real immersive experience is the result of a 16-million-color 8K visual system using six 3D-capable projectors and surround sound. The dome is tilted forward at 23.5 degrees, allowing its 67-foot span to fill your field of vision as if you’re flying—imagery comes at you from above, below and the peripheral edges, creating a nearly 360-degree view of whatever world you’re in.

Learn More

Espanola Way

Española Way is a historic street in Miami Beach, Florida. It’s located between 14th and 15th Streets, between Washington Avenue and Pennsylvania Avenue. It’s a pedestrian-only street with shops, galleries, restaurants, and bars. 

Museum Of Illusions

Website

Experience stunning 3D illusions and art at the Museum of Illusions in Miami. Capture memorable, interactive photos and have fun with friends and family.

Lincoln Road Shopping District

Miami Beach’s Lincoln Road is one of the most unique shopping districts in the world,  full of stunning architecture, world-class culture and destination retail stores spanning 8 blocks.

Website

Create a Google Earth Movie/Tour That Flies Along a Path

In Google Earth Pro for Desktop, you can record a tour in real time by clicking the navigation controls or by clicking on saved placemarks. However, unless you are just moving from one point to another, the resulting tour may not be as smooth as you’d like. For example, if you have three placemarks, then as you click each placemark while recording the tour, the transition between placemarks will not be smooth.

To create a smooth tour that appears as if you are flying a plane or drone at a fixed altitude along a multipoint path, you need to create a path in Google Earth. Here’s an example. Let’s say we want to fly along the Las Vegas Strip.

Change Settings

Go to Tools > Options > Touring and change the settings as in this screenshot. Make sure to click the “Apply” button and the “OK” button to save your changes.

Now, click the “Navigation” tag and change the settings to match this screenshot.

Create Path

When adding a path, your mouse pointer will turn into a crosshair and you will need click to add points along your desired path. In this mode, you will not be able to zoom, change altitude, direction or pan by clicking on the screen because doing so would add path points. If you need to move around, you’ll need to use the navigation controls.

When creating a path, I find it easier to have your view facing straight down to the ground like this. In this example, my starting point will be just south of the south end of the Strip before the Mandalay Bay.

Click Add > Path

A dialog window will pop up. We’ll name the path “Las Vegas Strip”. Let’s also specify the altitude we want our flight path to be from the ground.

  1. Click the “Altitude” tab.
  2. Set Altitude to “400m” for 300 meters.
  3. Make sure “Relative to ground” is selected.

Click to add path points

In the screenshot below, you’ll see that I created 3 points. From bottom to top, there’s 2 red points and 1 blue point.

Since I need to pan to the north to add more points along the Strip, I will use the navigation control up arrow to do so.

After adding all the last point (just north of the STRAT), I zoomed out to check the entire path. As you can see, all but the last point are red and the path curves to the right as it goes north.

Now that my path is done, I’ll click the OK button in the path dialog window. That adds the path to My Places.

Since I don’t want to see the white path line / curve, I’ll uncheck the checkbox next to the path name.

To play the path tour, just click the path Play Tour button, as shown below.

If you’re happy with how the tour looks, you can record it by clicking the “Record a Tour” button and then click the Play Tour button.

Then click Tools > Movie Maker to export the video.

Here’s how the video tour came out.

Things To Do in Las Vegas

Personal Opinion

Shows

Awakening at Wynn5/5
Chris Angel Mindfreak4.5/5
Vegas! The Show3/5
America’s Got Talent Superstars3/5
“O” by Cirque du Soleil2.5/5
Ka by Cirque du Soleil1.5/5

Buffets

Buffet at Wynn5/5
Buffet at Caesars Palace4/5
Buffet at Palms3/5
Buffet at SouthPoint2/5

Water Parks

Vegas can get really hot in the summer, which may make you want to go to a water park.

Mandalay Bay Beach

  • Website
  • Mon-Sun 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
  • Personal opinion: the wave pool isn’t impressive. There’s only one wave every few minutes. The lazy river is small, but it has a strong current, which is nice.

Cowabunga Bay (Henderson)

  • Website
  • $50
  • Hours
  • 30 mins from the Strip by car
  • Directions
  • Personal Opinion: This is a relatively small waterpark compared to the ones I’ve tried in Orlando, FL. However, it wasn’t crowded, which meant lines were short. There was a decent variety of rides and they were all fun. The wave pool creates large waves every 5 minutes and they last for maybe 5 minutes. Definitely a lot of fun as the strong waves can push you towards the beach. The lazy river is of decent length, however, the current wasn’t very strong.

Wet ‘n Wild / Cowabunga Canyon (Summerlin)

Buffets: All-You-Can-Eat Food

This is just a small selection of unique buffets. Scroll further down for buffets at each hotel.

Garden Buffet – South Point Hotel & Casino

  • Website
  • Uniqueness: Cheap
  • Breakfast: M-F, 7-10 am, $17, Menu
  • Lunch: M-F, 11 am – 3 pm, $20, Menu
  • Prime Rib Dinner: 4-9 pm, $29, Menu

A.Y.C.E. Buffet – Palms Hotel and Casino

  • Website
  • Uniqueness: Small but high quality
  • Brunch – $32.99, Saturday & Sunday | 9am – 4pm
  • Dinner – $36.99
    • Monday & Tuesday | 4pm – 9pm
    • Saturday | 5pm – 10pm
    • Sunday | 5pm – 9pm

Bacchanal Buffet – Caesar’s Palace

  • Website
  • Uniqueness: High quality, largest buffet in Vegas
  • Regular Brunch, $60, Thursday – Monday | 9 AM – 1 PM
  • Dinner: $80, must RSVP, very crowded

The Buffet – Wynn

  • Website
  • Uniqueness: High quality
  • Dinner: $75, not as big and crowded as Bacchanal but still very good
  • Monday – Thursday
    • Early Riser Breakfast, 8 a.m. – 9 a.m. – $40
    • Brunch, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. – $47
  • Friday – Sunday
    • Early Riser Breakfast, 8 a.m. – 9 a.m. – $46
    • Gourmet Brunch, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Daily – $51

Attractions By Hotel

Note: This is not a complete list of hotels and attractions.

Mandalay Bay

  • Website
  • Opened in 1999
  • 3209 rooms

Michelob ULTRA Arena

(various shows)

Shark Reef Aquarium
Daily 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Last Admission 7:00 PM
$29

Cirque du Soleil Michael Jackson ONE
Daily, 7 pm, 9:30 pm, $70

Shopping

The Shoppes at Mandalay Bay

Mandalay Bay Beach

(wave pool, lazy river, etc)

Take free tram to Luxor and Excalibur or walk through the enclosed walkway

Luxor

  • Opened in 1993
  • 4400 rooms

Take pictures of Egyptian architectural theme

Titanic Artifact Exhibition
Apr 27 – Sep 4 | 11 AM – 8 PM; Last admission 7 PM
Sep 8 – Nov 12 | 11 AM – 6 PM; Last admission 5 PM
Nov 13 – Dec 31 | 11 AM – 8 PM; Last admission 7 PM
$32

Bodies… The Exhibition
Apr 27 – Sep 4 | 11 AM – 8 PM; Last admission 7 PM
Sep 8 – Nov 12 | 11 AM – 6 PM; Last admission 5 PM
Nov 13 – Dec 31 | 11 AM – 8 PM; Last admission 7 PM
$32

Discovering King Tut’s Tomb
10 AM – 8 PM | Last Arrival 7 PM
$20

Carrot Top Comedy Show
Mon – Sat 8:00 PM
From $40

Blue Man Group
Mon – Sun 5 PM & 8 PM
From $49

America’s Got Talent LIVE
Wed, Sat & Sun | 6 PM & 8:30 PM
Thu & Fri | 7 PM
From $49

Take free tram from Luxor to Mandalay Bay and Excalibur

The Buffet at Luxor
MON – TUE: Closed
WED – SUN: 8 AM – 3 PM
Price Range: $

Excalibur 

  • Opened in 1990
  • 3981 rooms

Ultimate 4-D Experience
Daily | 12 PM – 11 PM
Last Show | 20 min before close
From $12

The Australian Bee Gees show
Mon, Wed, Thu & Sun | 7 PM
Fri & Sat | 5 PM
From $40

The Buffet at Excalibur
MON – SUN: 7 AM – 2 PM
Price Range: $

New York New York

Ride the Big Apple Coaster
Mon – Thu | 11 AM – 11 PM
Fri – Sun | 11 AM – Midnight
From $25

Stroll through Greenwich Village
MON – THU, SUN: 7 AM – 2 AM
FRI – SAT: 7 AM – 3 AM
Price Range: $

See Terry Fator
Sun – Thu | 7:30 PM
From $35

Mad Apple by Cirque du Soleil
Fri – Tue | 7 PM & 9:30 PM
From $25

Park MGM (Formerly Monte Carlo)

Eataly (huge Italian-inspired dining destination)
MON – THU, SUN: 7 AM – 10 PM
FRI – SAT: 7 AM – 2 AM
Price Range: $


Take the free tram to Bellagio, Aria, Crystals, and Park MGM

Aria

  • opened in 2009
  • has 4,000 hotel rooms

Eat at Aria’s Proper Eats Food Hall

  • Laughing Buddha Ramen
  • Easy Donuts
  • Seoul Bird (Korean Street Food)
  • Shalom Y’all (Shawarma, Kebabs)
  • Pizzaoki
  • Wexler’s Deli
  • Egghead
  • Temaki Bar
  • Lola’s Burgers
  • Easy’s Cocktail Lounge
  • Proper Bar

Take the free tram to Bellagio, Aria, Crystals, and Park MGM

The Cosmopolitan

  • Opened in 2010

Eat at Wicked Spoon buffet
Breakfast: $38
Mon – Fri | 8 – 11AM
Lunch: $45
Mon – Fri | 11AM – 3PM
Brunch: $49
Sat & Sun | 9AM – 4PM
Wicked Spoon Menu (PDF)

Have breakfast at Eggslut
Mon – Thurs | 7AM – 2PM
Fri – Sun | 7AM – 3PM


Bellagio

  • Opened in 1998
  • Has 3,933 guestrooms

Walk Through the Bellagio Conservatory
Summer
5/27/2023 – 9/9/2023
Harvest
9/16/2023-11/4/2023
Holiday
11/11/2023- 1/6/2024

Gaze up at Dale Chihuly’s Fiori di Como (a glass floral sculpture)

Watch the Fountains of Bellagio
M-F: Every 30 min from 3 pm to 6:30 pm, every 15 min from 7 pm to midnight.

Sat, Sun, and Holidays: every 30 min from noon to 6:30 pm, every 15 min from 7 pm to midnight.

See Cirque du Soleil’s “O”
Wed – Sun | 7 PM & 9:30 PM
From $79

Eat at The Buffet at Bellagio
MON – SUN: 8 AM – 3 PM
WED – SUN: 5 PM – 9 PM
Price Range: $

Window shop at Bellagio’s high-end shops

Caesars Palace

  • Opened in 1966
  • Has 4,000 guest rooms

Walk the Forum Shops

50,000-gallon Atlantis aquarium

Fall of Atlantis show (free)

Eat at Bacchanal Buffet
Regular Brunch, $60, Thursday – Monday | 9 AM – 1 PM
Dinner: $80, must RSVP, very crowded


Take the free tram

Mirage

  • Opened in 1989
  • Has 3,044 guestrooms

See Cirque Du Soleil’s Beatles LOVE show
7:30 PM, 9 PM
From $69

Watch Shin Lim – Limitless (magic show)
Mon, Thu – Sun | 7:30 PM
From $50

See the atrium and the aquarium

See Mirage volcano show
Every evening at 7 pm, 8 pm, 9 pm, 10 pm, and 11 pm.

Resorts World

  • Opened in June 2021 on the land where Stardust used to be

Watch a show at Resorts World Theatre

Eat at Famous Foods (16 vendors)

Circus Circus

  • Opened in 1968
  • Has over 3,700 guestrooms
  • One of the cheapest hotels on the strip

Midway and Arcade (carnival games)
SUN – THU: 11 AM – 9 PM
FRI – SAT: 11 AM – 12 AM

Eat at THE Steakhouse
Mon – Fri, Sun: 4 PM – 9 PM
Sat: 4 PM – 10 PM
Price Range: $$$

STRAT

SkyPod observation deck
10am – 1am Daily, $20

Big Shot
Daily 2pm – 10pm, $31

Insanity
Daily 2pm – 10pm, $31

X-Scream
Daily 2pm – 10pm, $31

Eat at Top of the World Steakhouse (floor rotates)

Sahara

  • Opened in 1952

Take the Las Vegas Monorail to get to other hotels

Wynn/Encore

See Lake of Dreams (free show)

See “Awakening” show
Sun & Mon at 7 pm
Tue, Fri & Sat at 7 pm and 9:30 pm
From $99

Explore the Conservatory

Treasure Island

  • Opened in 1993

See Cirque du Soleil’s Mystere
FRIDAY – TUESDAY*
2 Shows | 7 p.m. & 9:30 p.m.
Arrive 30 mins early for pre-show entertainment
Actual performance time is approximately 90 mins
$64 – $135

Venetian/Palazzo

  • Venetian opened in 1999
  • Palazzo opened in 2007
  • Both hotels connected by the Grand Canal Shoppes

Walk the Grand Canal Shoppes

Take a gondola ride
$39

Visit Madame Tussauds Wax Museum
10 AM – 8 PM

Harrah’s

  • Opened in 1973
  • Has 2,530 guestrooms

LINQ

High Roller Observation Wheel
Daytime (Daily 12 PM to 7 PM)
Adult $23.50
Night (Daily 7 PM – 12 AM)
Adult $34.75

FlyLINQ Zipline
4 PM – 12 AM
$35

Mat Franco’s Magic Show
7 PM
$49 – $108

Eat at Hash House a Go Go (huge portions)
SUN-THU: 7:30 AM-3 PM
FRI & SAT 7:30 AM-10 PM

Walk the LINQ Promenade (food, shops, etc)

Flamingo

  • Opened in 1940s

See the Wildlife Habitat
7 AM – 8 PM

Check out Piff magic show
Mon, Thurs-Sun: 7pm
From $50

Cromwell

  • Formerly Barbary Coast

Grab a cheap snack at EatWell

Horseshoe (formerly Bally’s)

Check out “Real Bodies
Starting at $29.50

Check out Grand Bazaar Shops out front of Horseshoe

Istanbul Mediterranean in Grand Bazaar shops

Dirt Dog Bar at Grand Bazaar Shops

Happy Lemon

Paris

Take in a Great View from the Eiffel Tower Observation Deck

Planet Hollywood (Formerly Aladdin)

Eat and drink at the Miracle Mile Shops

See Criss Angel Mindfreak magic show
Wed-Sun: 7pm
$69 – $121

MGM Grand

  • Opened in 1993
  • Has over 5,000 hotel rooms

Check out Cirque du Soleil KA
Sat – Wed | 7 PM & 9:30 PM
From $69

See Jabbawockeez (dance show)
Mon, Wed – Sun | 7 PM & 9:30 PM
From $50

See David Copperfield magic show
Sun – Fri: 7:00 PM & 9:30 PMSat: 4 PM & 7 PM & 9:30 PM
From $72

Eat at the Buffet at MGM Grand
MON – SUN: 8 AM – 3 PM
Price Range: $

Tropicana

  • Opened in 1957

Other Attractions

Visit the Sphere
$69 – $129
Opens in Oct 2023

Take picture at the Las Vegas sign

The Grand Canyon
If driving, 4.5 hours from the Strip
Driving directions
Helicopter tours

Hoover Dam
9 AM – 4:15 PM Daily
Last tour departs at 3:45 p.m.
45 mins from the Strip by car
Directions


Watch Vegas: The Show
Nightly at 7 PM
75 mins
$100 – $160

Map of Strip

Customized Strip Hotel Google Map with My Personal Points of Interest

View Map

Hotel Property Maps

Maps on SmarterVegas.com

Weather

Santa Cruz, Monterey, Pebble Beach, Carmel-by-the-Sea, Hearst Castle

A collection of points of interest south of San Francisco

*San Jose – Santa Cruz Highway 17 (Scenic)
*Monterey / Fisherman’s Wharf / Cannery Row
Cannery Row
*El Torito (Mexican)

Google Maps

*Crepes on the Row

Google Maps

*Pebble Beach / 17-Mile Drive
*Carmel-by-the-Sea
*California Highway 1 Scenic Route / Pacific / Gold Coast

WARNING: Check for road closures

*Hearst Castle

San Francisco Sightseeing Itinerary

This itinerary assumes a starting point in Foster City, California near Qualys headquarters. It does not include every single tourist destination, but it does include many popular ones. This particular itinerary includes brunch and dinner at restaurants based on personal preference. The itinerary was designed to make a loop to avoid backtracking as much as possible.

*Twin Peaks
*Twin Peaks to Painted Ladies

Google Maps Directions

*Alamo Square / Painted Ladies
*Alamo Square / Painted Ladies to Haight-Ashbury

Google Maps Directions

*Haight-Ashbury: Former 1960s Hippie Neighborhood
Four Seasons houses1315 Waller Street
Victorian houses
1660 Haight Street
*1428 HAIGHT Patio Cafe & Crepery
Eggs Benedict: Grilled Canadian Bacon, Two Poached Eggs, Crispy English muffins & House-made Tomatillo Hollandaise Sauce. Served with Rosemary Garlic Potatoes or Fresh Fruit
Eggs Florentine: Sautéed Spinach, Roasted Tomatoes, Crispy English muffins, Two Poached Eggs, Topped With House-made Tomatillo Hollandaise Sauce. Served with Rosemary Garlic Potatoes or Fresh Fruit
Hash on Haight: Corned Beef brisket, sauteed peppers, onions, Rosemary Garlic Potatoes & 2 eggs any style topped with house-made tomatillo hollandaise sauce. Served with a side of Fresh Fruit
Philly Cheese Steak
Funky Monkey Crepe: Bananas, brown sugar, Nutella, ice cream
Berrylicious Crepe

Tiramisu Crepe

Basic Dessert Crepe
*Haight-Ashbury to Golden Gate Park

Google Maps Directions

*Golden Gate Park

The equivalent of Central Park in New York

Conservatory of Flowers
*Conservatory of Flowers to Murphy Windmill

Google Maps Directions

*Ocean Beach
*Ocean Beach / Murphy Windmill to Lands End Lookout

Google Maps Directions

*Lands End Lookout
*Lands End Lookout to Legion of Honor

Google Maps Directions

*Legion of Honor
*Legion of Honor to Golden Gate Bridge (South Viewpoint)

Google Maps Directions

*Golden Gate Bridge
*Golden Gate Bridge (South Viewpoint) to H. Dana Bowers Rest Area & Vista Point

Google Maps Directions

*H. Dana Bowers Rest Area & Vista Point to Golden Gate View Point

Google Maps Directions

*Golden Gate View Point to Palace of Fine Arts

Google Maps Directions

*Palace of Fine Arts
*Palace of Fine Arts to Lombard Street Along the Marina

Google Maps Directions

The Marina
The Marina
*Lombard Street

*Lombard Street to Fisherman’s Wharf

Google Maps Directions

*Fisherman’s Wharf
*Pier 39
*Pier 39 to the Ferry Building

Google Maps Directions

*Ferry Building
*Ferry Building to Chinatown

Google Maps Directions

*Chinatown
*Chinatown to Union Square (Drive by Transamerica Building)

Google Maps Directions

*Union Square
*Cable Cars
*Union Square to Shalimar Restaurant

Google Maps Directions

*Shalimar Restaurant
Tandoori Chicken
Garlic Naan
Chicken Tikka Masala
Daal Masala
*Shalimar Restaurant to City Hall

Google Maps Directions

*City Hall
*City Hall to Treasure Island via Bay Bridge

Google Maps Directions

*Treasure Island & Bay Bridge
*Treasure Island to El Torito

Google Maps Directions

*El Torito
*El Torito to Foster City

Google Maps Directions

*San Mateo-Hayward Bridge

Seoul, Korea

Thursday, May 11

9:15 AMFly to Seoul, Korea

Friday, May 12

7:00 PMLand in Incheon Airport, Korea
7:30 PMGo to Hotel

Clinic will arrange airport transfer to hotel.

Hotel Skypark Myeongdong 2
호텔 스카이파크 명동 2호점
22, Myeongdong 9-gil, Jung-gu, Jung-Gu, Seoul, 04538, South Korea
중구 명동9길 22, 중구 (서울특별시, 04538)

8:30 PMWalk around Myeongdong
9:30 PMDinner at Myeongdong fried chicken street

Korean fried chicken

Saturday, May 13

9:00 AMGo to Myeongdong Tourist Information Center
  • Buy 3-day mPASS and local SIM card
  • There is a $4.11 deposit. Get deposit refund (minus $0.41 for the cost of the card) at the Tourist Information Center at the airport before leaving Korea.
  • MPass can be used on subway lines, airport railroad all-stop train, Seoul city buses (mainline buses, branch buses, circulation buses, village buses, night buses)
  • The pass offers 20 rides a day for the duration of the pass. 
9:30 AMWalk from hotel to Namsan cable car
10:00 AMTake Namsan Cable Car to North Seoul Tower
10:30 AMVisit North Seoul Tower
11:45 AMHike down Namsan mountain
12:30 PMTake bus to Namdaemun Market
1:00 PMVisit Namdaemun Market
  • It is the oldest and largest market in Korea.
  • Website
  • Google Maps
  • Hours: varies by store. Closed on Sundays.
2:00 PMWalk to Seoullo 7017
3:00 PMWalk to Seoul Train Station / Shopping Mall

Have snack at Seoul Station

4:00 PMTake bus to Seoul City Hall
5:00 PMWalk to Cheonggyecheon
6:00 PMTake subway to Gwangjang Market Food Alley
  • A traditional street market in Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea. The market is one of the oldest and largest traditional markets in South Korea, with more than 5000 shops and 20,000 employees in an area of 42,000 square meters.
  • Website
  • Official Website
  • Google Maps
  • Hours: 10AM-11PM
6:30 PMEat 빈대떡 (Bindae-tteok: Mung bean pancake)
6:30 PMGo to Dongdaemun Design Plaza

Sunset is at 7:32 PM

7:30 PMTake night tour bus
9:00 PMDinner at Hong Bar Korean BBQ in Myeongdong
  • Closes at 10 PM
  • KRW 14,900 = $11.31
  • HONG BAR Myeongdong is an all-you-can-eat buffet-style restaurant located in the center of Myeongdong, a popular tourist destination. Samgyeopsal (three slices of pork), yangnyeom daegalbi (seasoned pork), yangnyeom dakgalbi (seasoned chicken), and other 7 types of meat that you cannot miss on your trip to Korea, along with side dishes such as tteokbokki and salad, will fill you up for 90 minutes. 
  • View menu

Sunday, May 14

10:00 PMBreakfast at Lottee Shopping Mall Food Court
  • 10 AM to 8:30 PM every day
  • Eat macarons
11:00 PMEat Patbingsu dessert at Sulbing
  • 팥빙수 (Patbingsu: Shaved Ice with Sweet Red Beans)
  • Hours: 10:30 AM to 11 PM

Video

11:30 PMTake subway to Jamsillaru station

Eat 찐빵 (Jjinppang: Fluffy steamed buns filled with sweet red beans)

12:30 PMTake subway to Jamsil station, visit Seoul Sky Observatory
  • The Seoul Sky Observatory is located at the top of the Lotte World Tower, the world’s fifth tallest building standing 123 stories and 555 meters high. As the tallest building in South Korea, it is the only place where you can take in a gorgeous 360-degree view of Seoul, the capital city of South Korea roaring with brilliant history and dynamic modern culture.
  • Google Maps
  • Website
  • Seoul Sky Hours: 10:30AM–10PM
1:30 PMHave drink at Seoul Sky Observatory restaurant
2:30 PMTake subway to Starfield COEX Mall
3:00 PMVisit Starfield Library
4:00 PMTake taxi to Costco
5:30 PMTake taxi to Itaewon

It’s where all the foreigners hang out at night.

5:30 PMEat Pizza at Gino’s NY Pizza

Food

*호떡 (Hotteok: Korean Sweet Pancakes)

Hottoek is a Korean-styled pancake. One of the most popular Korean street snacks, it is made from a simple flour batter and filled with sweet syrup made from cinnamon, brown sugar, and peanuts. It’s a great snack when you’re between meals.

*화전 (Hwajeon: Pan-fried Sweet Rice Cakes with Flower Petals)

Video

경단 (Gyeongdan: Sweet Rice Balls)

Video

황남빵 (Hwangnambbang: Hwangnam Bread)

Red beans are mixed with eggs and wheat dough by hand, then this artisan bread is shaped and baked without any artificial sweeteners or preservatives, keeping only the sweetness of its original natural ingredients.

Video

호두과자 (Hodu-gwaja: Walnut Cookies)

Hodu means walnut in Korean and they are cookies filled with red bean paste and walnuts.

허니 브래드 (Honey Bread)

Thick bread is divided into nine parts filled with whipped cream and then topped with honey, caramel syrup, and cinnamon powder. Its original name was Honey Butter Bread.

계란빵 (Gyeran-ppang: Egg Bread)

has a shape of rounded rectangle and contains whole egg inside of a bread. They are often sold by street vendors.

꽈배기 (Kkwabaegi: Twisted Korean Doughnuts)

It is made with glutinous rice flour and melted butter. The dough is deep-fried in oil and tossed in sugar and cinnamon powder. Like most fried breads, it tastes better when it’s hot. You can enjoy the original taste of twisted bread by eating when it just comes out of the oil, or by heating them up. 

뚱카롱 (Ddungcaron: Fat Macaron)

Rice Punch 식혜 (Korean Sweet Rice Drink)

Songpyeon half-moon rice cake (송편)

The fillings for these rice cakes vary, but the most common are sweetened sesame seeds and mung beans.

Video

Chapssaltteok (Korean style mochi)

Filled with sweet red beans

Korean dalgona coffee

Pat-sirutteok 팥시루떡 (Layered rice cake with red beans)

율란 Yul-lan – Chestnut cookies

Los Angeles Trip Itinerary

Saturday, April 29, 2023

4:00 AM – 4:30 AMDrive from home to SF Int’l airport (SFO)
4:30 AM – 5:00 AMCheck in
FlightUA1110
AirlineUnited 
ClassEconomy (N)
Confirmation NumberB3WC18
GateGate 3, Terminal 3, Concourse F
6:00 AMTake off
7:38 AMLand at Los Angeles Int’l Airport (LAX)
8:00 AMGet rental car
  1. Go to lower / arrivals level
  2. When exiting the airport, follow the signs to “ground transportation”
  3. Stand under the purple sign marked “car rental companies” to await shuttle pick-up
  4. Board the Hertz shuttle bus
CompanyHertz
Confirmation #K47340327E4
Reservation WebsiteHertz.com
SizeTesla Model Y
Total Price$97.17
Collision Damage Waiverextra $42

Install 360 camera on windshield.

8:30 AM – 9:30 AMBreakfast at IHOP near LAX
Address8600 S Sepulveda Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90045
Menu

Hania: Spicy Poblano Omelette

Iqlima: Chicken Fajita Omelette

David: Spicy Poblano Eggs Benedict

9:30 AM – 9:45 AMStarbucks

Get coffee at drive-thru. Order pistachio latte.

Starbucks, 4801 W Century Blvd, Inglewood, CA 90304

9:30 AM – 10:00 AMDrive to Griffith Observatory
10:00 AM – 10:15 AMBuy Planetarium Tickets
  • Planetarium show
  • $10 / ticket
  • Tickets must be purchased on site
  • Once you have your ticket, line up outside on the West Terrace at least 15 to 20 minutes before your show time. 

Weekend box office schedule

Show TimesShowTickets on Sale *
10:45 a.m.Water Is Life10:00 a.m. – 12:35 p.m.
11:45 a.m.Signs of Life
12:45 p.m.Centered in the Universe
2:15 p.m.Signs of Life1:30 p.m. – 3:05 p.m.
3:15 p.m.Centered in the Universe
4:15 p.m.Signs of Life3:30 p.m. – 5:05 p.m.
5:15 p.m.Centered in the Universe
6:45 p.m.Signs of Life6:00 p.m. – 8:35 p.m.
7:45 p.m.Centered in the Universe
8:45 p.m.Signs of Life
10:45 AM – 11:20 AMWatch Planetarium Show: Water is Life

Water is Life

11:45 AM – 12:20 PMWatch Planetarium Show: Signs of Life

Signs of Life

12:45 PM – 1:20 PMWatch Planetarium Show: Centered in the Universe

Centered in the Universe

1:30 PMTake Pictures
  • Take pictures of Hollywood sign
1:30 PM – 2:00 PMDrive to Universal Citywalk

Make a reservation for The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen

818-622-2222 or Make a Reservation

2:00 PM – 2:30 PM Have Lunch at Universal Citywalk

View map

The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen

  • Chocolate Almond Bread
  • Thrilla in vanilla milkshake
2:30 PM – 3:00 PMWalk Around & Take Pictures

3:00 PM – 3:30 PMDrive to Walk of Fame
3:30 PM – 4:00 PMTake Pictures at the Walk of Fame
4:00 PM – 4:30 PMDrive to Beverly Hills via Sunset Blvd
4:30 PM – 5:00 PMVisit Beverly Hills
  • Take pictures
  • Drive around
5:00 PM – 5:30 PMVisit Rodeo Drive
5:30 PM – 6:00 PMDrive to Santa Monica Pier
6:30 PM – 7:00 PMVisit Santa Monica Pier

Use this address for parking directions:
1550 Appian Way, Santa Monica, CA 90401

Ride the West Coaster. $12 / person / ride.

7:00 – 8:00 PMDinner at Red O Cantina

Menu

7:35 PMSunset
8:00 PM – 8:30 PMWalk Around Downtown Santa Monica
8:30 PM – 9:00 PMDrive to Return Car at LAX

Return car to Hertz at 9000 Airport BLVD, Los Angeles CA 90045

When returning your vehicle, allow at least 2 hours before your departure due to traffic being heavier than usual.

10:45 PMTake-off: Fly Back to SF
FlightUA1597
AirlineUnited 
ClassEconomy (N)
Confirmation NumberB3WC18
GateGate 70A, Terminal 7
12:14 AMLand at SFO