Shannon Phelps

In July 2024, I had the joy of taking my middle daughter on her graduation trip—a Mediterranean cruise that combined her dream of visiting both Italy and Spain. We chose Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Seas, sailing from Rome, and it turned into a trip full of unforgettable moments, incredible food, and a few unexpected adventures along the way.

We began our journey with a few extra days in Venice, Florence, and Rome before embarking on the cruise. Venice felt like stepping into a painting—the quiet lapping of the canals, the colorful facades of centuries-old buildings, and the smell of fresh espresso drifting from tiny cafés. Florence dazzled us with Renaissance treasures and the unforgettable taste of gelato in the summer heat. Rome was a whirlwind of history—the Colosseum, Vatican City, and tossing coins into the Trevi Fountain—all with the lively hum of scooters zipping by.

Once onboard, our itinerary was a dream come true. We explored Naples, where we indulged in authentic Neapolitan pizza right in the city that created it. In Barcelona, the artistry of Gaudí came alive in the whimsical architecture of Park Güell and the awe-inspiring Sagrada Família. Palma de Mallorca offered sparkling beaches and winding old-town streets, while Provence (Marseille) gave us a taste of French charm with bustling markets and the scent of lavender in the air. Finally, Florence and Pisa (from La Spezia) gave us another chance to soak up Tuscany’s beauty and snap that classic photo with the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

To make the trip even more special, two of my daughter's high school friends and their parents joined us to celebrate the graduates at sea. Each night we’d gather over multi-course dinners, sharing laughter and stories while recounting the highlights of the day. Not everything went according to plan—Delta’s system crash left us stranded in Rome for a few extra nights after the cruise. But thanks to travel insurance, we were able to turn it into bonus time in the Eternal City without worrying about the unexpected costs. Looking back, it was a great reminder of why having protection for your trip matters just as much as planning the itinerary. This journey was more than a graduation gift—it was a chance to share culture, history, and adventure with family and friends. From the first taste of Italian pasta in Venice to the last sunset over the Mediterranean, every moment was worth savoring.