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Stories from the Field — Outdoor Taste & Tour Blog
Stories from the Field
Trails, backroads, shorelines, culinary finds, and gear worth carrying — dispatches from the places we explore.
177 posts
Best Time to Book a Cruise: When Prices Are Lowest and Deals Are Best
Cruise pricing is not random. Knowing when to book -- and when to wait -- can save you hundreds of dollars on the exact same cabin. Here is how cruise pricing works and when to pull the trigger.
Caribbean Fishing Charters: The Best Ports for Deep Sea and Sport Fishing
The Caribbean offers some of the finest sport fishing in the world -- blue marlin, mahi-mahi, wahoo, yellowfin tuna, and bonefish in waters that are warm, clear, and productive year-round. Here is how to find the right charter at the right port.
Charleston Cruise Port Guide: History, Food, and the Antebellum South
Charleston is one of America's most beautiful cities -- a preserved antebellum streetscape, extraordinary food, and a history that is both magnificent and deeply complicated. Here is how to make the most of a port day in the Holy City.
Cozumel Diving and Snorkeling: The Complete Guide for Cruise Travelers
Cozumel sits on top of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef — the second-largest coral reef system on Earth. For divers and snorkelers, it is one of the best cruise ports in the world. Here is how to make the most of it.
Cruise Drink Packages Explained: Are They Worth the Cost?
Cruise drink packages promise unlimited beverages for a flat daily rate. Whether that math works in your favor depends on how much you drink, which line you sail, and what the package actually covers. Here is how to decide.
Cruise Gratuities Explained: What You'll Pay and Why
Cruise gratuities are one of the most misunderstood costs in travel. Here is exactly what you will pay, who receives it, how it is distributed, and whether you can adjust or remove it.
Cruise Internet and WiFi Guide: Staying Connected at Sea
Cruise ship WiFi has improved dramatically, but it is still not cheap and not always fast. Here is what to expect, how to manage costs, and when it is worth paying for connectivity at sea.
Cruise Packing List for Outdoor Adventurers: What to Bring for Active Shore Excursions
Packing for a cruise when you plan to hike, kayak, snorkel, and fish requires a different approach than packing for a beach vacation. Here is the complete list for active cruisers who want to make the most of every port day.
Cruise Travel Insurance Guide: What Cruise Travelers Need to Know
A cruise represents a significant financial commitment. Travel insurance protects that investment -- but only if you understand what you are buying. Here is what cruise travelers need to know before they purchase a policy.