There’s something about Vegas…
What would you say that is? The feeling of forgetting reality for a few days. The indulgence as you partake in buffets of tummy-filling, belt-loosening food. The dancing at night in clubs. The lounging of the days by the pools. The ornate architecture. The ability to gamble with a few bucks or your yearly savings.
Vegas is all those things. An adult wonderland where the overall vibe is just, simply, letting go.
Pat and I got that vibe again a week ago when we ventured for 3 nights on the Carnival Spirit from Sydney to Melbourne. Yes, it was exactly 3 nights of letting go — with plenty of cocktails on-hand to smooth the transition along.
Carnival Spirit in Sydney Harbour
Pat and Brooke on our morning tour of the Carnival Spirit cruise ship.
Although on a much smaller scale (but not “small” by any means), a cruise ship will not ever equate to the grandeur of Las Vegas. I just found myself saying, “Wow, this is kind of like Vegas,” on countless occasions.
Such as when we indulged in buffet-like meals at Fat Jimmy’s or La Playa Grille. Spicy cornbread. Spicy cornbread! A little slice of America for my American heart.
Fat Jimmy’s C-Side BBQ
And when we started off our afternoons with a beautiful cocktail (or 3).
Having some drinky drinks on the cruise ship.
And when we walked through the casino, and lost Pat in the process.
Vegas on the Boat. Warning: You will lose Pat here.
And when exploring themed rooms, such as the Pharaoh’s Palace (where we played Bingo).
We played bingo in Pharaoh’s Palace.
Bingo on the Carnival Spirit — off-the-charts popular!
And when we just felt miles away from ordinary.
Perfect blue water.
Islands in the distance.
Someone said the water looks like paper; I agree.
Watching the sun set from the edge of the ship.
Welcome to Melbourne
That was our Vegas at sea. For 3 nights, we forgot we were in Australia, especially when Captain Binacchi and his strong (and humorous) Italian accent hit the intercoms. The Captain was everything and more you’d want to see in a cruise ship captain.
I know this article barely begins to scratch the surface on the actual cruise — what’s on offer regarding food, activities, and then some. But, I guess you’ll just have to wait until next post to find out more.
Or, you can leave a comment with a question below and I’ll do my best to address these in future Carnival Spirit posts. Thanks for reading!
*I was a guest on the Carnival Spirit free-of-charge, but the thoughts and opinions expressed in this article are my own.
American girl left to travel the world in 2007. Studied languages, slept in a yurt, taught English, met Aussie guy and fell in love. Moved to Australia. Calls Sydney home. Wants a puppy. Still loves to travel. Read more 
Looks like so much fun!
Ooh I’m thinking of taking a cruise around the pacific islands and I was weighing up both royal Caribbean and carnival. Can’t wait to hear more!
I’ve never thought much about doing a cruise, but this looks a lot of fun – and the water looks sooo beautiful! Interesting post
Cruising is very exciting, I love wind that touches face and the panoramic view of the sea.