By this point each year, as the insane anticipation builds, there are endless discussion forums, tweets, Facebook posts, and blogs about what to pack, where to stay, how to stalk your favourite new kid, and how to be normal. I'll be the first to admit that before my first cruise, I bombarded my travel mates with questions, concerns, and endless banter about what was about to happen. At this point, I seem to have developed an apathetic attitude towards the entire event. Its not that I'm not keen ... I'm just more, um ... relaxed.
The first year, I started packing in January. That will NOT be happening this time. So, here's my silly list of cruise-related items, just so I don't feel left out:
- Pack some stuff. Once you've packed this stuff ... take out half of it. You won't need it.
- Sleep. Take care of yourself before you head to the port. Its a weekend full of insanity, and sleep will be hard to find.
- Sunscreen. Wear it. A lot. I'm a self-professed 'I don't burn' sort of girl ... but on that boat, in the middle of the ocean, it happens.
- Be nice. There are thousands of great people on the boat. Say hello. Strike up conversations. Make friends. If you're shy ... drink a Bahama Mama and see how things progress.
- Get your moment. All FIVE New Kids are on that boat. Some are easier to find (i.e. Jon) than others. So, if you find yourself near to one, mosey yourself over and say hi.
- Relax. Its a big ship with tons to do. Enjoy some of it. Try out one of those hammocks, jump on the water-slide, visit the wine bar.
- Research. If you want to save some time on the boat, check out the deck plans in advance. If you want to do an excursion, think about it now. There is no time or energy for thinking when there are New Kids present!
- Now if we could just figure out how to get those themes earlier ...
