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My Stay at Mama Shelter Paris (with Dis-Loyalty Discount)

Heading to Paris and looking for a hotel recommendation? I stayed at Mama Shelter Paris La Défense for two nights in June 2025, and here are my thoughts...

Mein Schiff Relax: A Daring Choice for an English-Only Cruiser?

Ignoring my tragic Duolingo streak (day 3 of 365… again), I only speak English. So why did I book a week aboard Mein Schiff Relax, a cruise where German is the main language, and English barely gets a look in? No, I haven’t lost a bet. And no, this isn’t part of some extreme language immersion challenge. I booked it on purpose. Here’s why.
Independence of the Seas | Royal Caribbean | Owen Places @owenplaces

Should you book Independence of the Seas in 2025?

Independence of the Seas was the first ship I ever sailed on! All the way back in 2019. But 6 years later, should you still consider her for your 2025 holiday?
Paradisus la Perla

Should You Consider Paradisus La Perla for Your 2025/2026 Luxury Holiday?

It's been over a year since I stayed at Paradisus La Perla resort in Playa del Carmen, Mexico. And every day I find myself wishing I was back there! But is it right for you? Well, read on to find out.
Icon of the Seas Royal Caribbean @owenplaces Owen Places

Is Royal Caribbean LGBTQ+ Friendly? A Full Breakdown

Is Royal Caribbean LGBTQ+ friendly? We cover all aspects in this blog post today! Come found out.
Dis-loyalty Rewards programme | Owen Places @owenplaces

Introducing Dis-loyalty – The Secret Travel Membership That Changes Everything

Have you signed up to Dis-loyalty yet? The new hotel discount membership that influencers are loving.
Royal Caribbean @owenplaces Owen Places

Is Royal Caribbean Still an Exciting Escape for Older Travellers?

For context, I am 30 years old, child-less, and I never cruise with larger parties. It's usually myself and my partner. Now that we're getting older (i know 30 isn't actually old), we're starting to wonder if Royal Caribbean is still right for us...
Royal Caribbean Icon of the Seas @owenplaces Owen Places

5 of the Best Royal Caribbean Ships

Are you new to cruising and maybe want to give one of Royal Caribbean Cruise Ships a try?! You'll be making an amazing choice.
Costa Smeralda | Costa Cruises | Costa Toscana @owenplaces Owen Places

7 Night Dubai Costa Smeralda Cruise: Complete Price Breakdown

One of the biggest draws of my Costa Smeralda cruise was the price – it seemed incredibly affordable. But once you factor in flights, drinks, and tips… is it still such a bargain?
Costa Smeralda | Costa Cruises | Costa Toscana @owenplaces Owen Places

My Middle East Cruise on Costa Smeralda: A Full, Honest Review

I just disembarked from a 7-night Middle Eastern cruise aboard the Costa Smeralda. One Cruise Critic reviewer described it as their 'worst vacation ever,' but was it really that bad? Let’s take a closer look.
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