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Professor Melissa's Cruise Pod

Professor Melissa's Cruise Pod

Hosted by: Professor Melissa

Welcome to Professor Melissa's Cruise Pod, your go-to guide for everything cruising! Tune in for top tips, savvy hacks, advice, and stories from a cruise enthusiast who’s been there and done it all (well, not "all",...

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Episodes

Cruise Banned Items: What Not to Bring on Board (or Lose at Security!)

What happens if you pack the wrong thing for your cruise and it's on the banned list? Don’t make the same mistakes I did! In this episode, I break down the latest banned items and the surprising rules that could land...
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Are Cruises STILL Worth It?

Are cruises still a great vacation deal, or are they becoming overpriced with all the extra fees? The industry has bounced back in a big way since 2020, but with rising cruise fares and extra onboard costs, some...
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Haters Exposed: The Ugly Truth About Cruising!

There are quite a few cruise haters out there, and while I disagree with them completely, I want to try to understand them.
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The Worst Cruise Stateroom and the Awning from Hell

Is this the worst cruise stateroom ever? I recently sailed Carnival Mardi Gras and ended up with a less-than-desirable stateroom, and I want to ensure other cruisers are getting the best bang for their buck when it...
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Cruise News: Why Carnival’s Controversial Curfew is a Good Idea

Carnival cracks down on teens, Royal Caribbean flunks a CDC inspection, and a beloved Holland America pup gets a heartfelt farewell. Plus, Disney’s UK sailings, Carnival’s $600M private island, and a tax change that...
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Sick at Sea: The Truth About Cruise Medical Costs

What happens if you get sick on a cruise? Most people don’t think about it until they’re in the middle of the ocean, feeling awful and staring down a massive medical bill. In this episode, host Melissa shares her...
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Costa Maya: Overrated or Underrated?

Ever been to a cruise port that didn’t wow you at first? That was Costa Maya for many travelers—but there’s more to it than meets the eye. This episode explores the best ways to enjoy Costa Maya, from relaxing at...
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Cruise Pools Exposed: Clean or a Health Hazard?

In this episode, Melissa breaks down the difference between saltwater and freshwater pools, why it matters for sensitive skin, and how often the water is changed. Whether you're a pool lover or prefer to lounge on...
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Solo Cruise Secrets: Tips for Your Best Trip Yet

Curious about cruising solo and making it an unforgettable adventure? In this episode, Melissa shares practical tips for enjoying a safe, exciting, and fulfilling solo cruise. From selecting the best cruise line to...
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Why Does Everyone Hate Nassau? Unpacking the Controversy

Is Nassau REALLY that bad? 🤔 In this episode, we uncover the truth about the Nassau cruise port, tackling concerns like pushy vendors, safety, and transportation while sharing insider tips on the best beaches, private...
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Maximize Your Short Cruise: Expert Tips for Planning, Packing, and Enjoying Every Moment

How can you make short cruises worthwhile and rewarding? Tune in as Melissa shares tips like studying your ship's deck plan before boarding, packing versatile outfits, and arriving early on embarkation day to maximize...
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Cruise Ship Buffets: Secrets to Enjoying (and Surviving) the Ultimate Dining Experience

Are cruise ship buffets worth the hype or a recipe for disaster? Tune in as Melissa shares three strategies to make the most of your buffet experience: timing tips, etiquette essentials, and ways to enjoy the variety...
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