at sea, we saw wildlife like elephant seals and penguins and saw glaciers and even the snow-capped peaks of the Andean Mountains.

Five years ago, we took our first holiday cruise. We decided that we would take the Norwegian Cruise Line trip to the Mexican Riviera. We sailed roundtrip from Los Angeles and explored the Gold Coast of Mexico. That trip was 8 days long and we sailed on the Norwegian Star. We danced all night in Acapulco and explored the fishing villages of Zihuatanejo. I was even able to swim with the dolphins in Ixtapa. My husband toured a tequila factory in Puerto Vallarta.

The year after we went to the Mexican Riviera, we took a holiday cruise to Hawaii. The eight day trip had been great, but we wanted a little bit more vacation, so we opted for the eleven day Norwegian Cruise Line trip to Honolulu. We ended up cruising Hawaii’s four main islands and spent a lot of time sightseeing.

Several people have asked us throughout the years why we choose to travel and take Norwegian Cruise Line trips instead of staying home for Christmas. My answer is simple. I love Christmas, but since my husband and I never had children, it seemed a little less magical at home.

The magic of a Norwegian Cruise Line trip for Christmas is in the details. They offer a fully decorated ship replete with ribbons, wreaths and sparkling trees. The menu is traditional and delicious and there is lot of caroling. I don’t sit on his knee, but I get to see Santa every year and if our cruise extends to New Year’s Eve, there is always a great party.

I like Norwegian Cruise Line trips so much that I have made it a promise to myself to take one every year. I plan for and save for it all year long. These cruises have helped my husband and I maintain our close, loving relationship and have added much needed magic into our Christmases.