<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" version="2.0"><channel><title><![CDATA[Edwards Family Gathering]]></title><description><![CDATA[Edwards Family Gathe]]></description><link>https://www.edwardsfamilygathering.info/blog</link><generator>RSS for Node</generator><lastBuildDate>Tue, 21 Apr 2026 23:34:45 GMT</lastBuildDate><atom:link href="https://www.edwardsfamilygathering.info/blog-feed.xml" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml"/><item><title><![CDATA[Pre-Pay for a Worry-Free Experience]]></title><description><![CDATA[One opportunity that allows cruises to stand out is their offer for pre-payment which can make your cruise nearly without additional cost while you are onboard. Pre-payment can cover everything from onboard entertainments that are not already included in the complimentary activities of the ship itinerary to gratuities for all the helpful staff both on deck and behind the scenes. Another great benefit of pre-paid options is that you generally can pay in installments nearly to the day of your...]]></description><link>https://www.edwardsfamilygathering.info/post/pre-pay-for-a-worry-free-experience</link><guid isPermaLink="false">69cb35717d0bac1a947f357a</guid><pubDate>Tue, 31 Mar 2026 02:59:24 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/nsplsh_b05e31b7b4014c4691d85a7f373a1da9~mv2.jpg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Pittman Talley</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Child's Play]]></title><description><![CDATA[Do your children play video games? That was a silly question. Of course they do. Royal Caribbean Cruise Line (RCCL) requires that all on board payments are completed using your SeaPass Account, the on board account tied to your room key or wristband. This includes all the games at the arcade located on Deck 12. While the cost of games are not identified directly on the official RCCL website and app, it is reported across the internet that games range between $2.50 and $5 per game; most games...]]></description><link>https://www.edwardsfamilygathering.info/post/child-s-play</link><guid isPermaLink="false">69b35ddd7dab63102efb5a68</guid><pubDate>Sat, 28 Mar 2026 02:52:06 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/768f3d_0911929731484503a355368994973d04~mv2.jpg/v1/fit/w_550,h_367,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Pittman Talley</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Lil' Yachty... is Not on this Playlist]]></title><description><![CDATA[Cruising and partying go hand in hand. What makes a good party? Good music. Check out  this playlist  started specifically for the Edwards Family Gathering. Visit the Forum to contribute your own cruise music selections to the rotation. Can we find enough tunes to keep the party going all night?]]></description><link>https://www.edwardsfamilygathering.info/post/lil-yachty-is-not-on-this-playlist</link><guid isPermaLink="false">69a5229760298c02e5be6106</guid><pubDate>Tue, 24 Mar 2026 16:00:35 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/bb4df2f2e1a34e1d85a37ab87de91e09.jpg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Pittman Talley</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Walk It Out]]></title><description><![CDATA[Are you ready for the deliciousness that is cruise dining? It is important to eat frequently while on board the ship to avoid sea sickness. With a dozen or more places to find tasty tidbits and sweet treats, it is no wonder most cruise guests leave their sailing a few pounds heavier. Have no fear, there are ways to mitigate or eliminate the weight gain! Visit the fitness center on the ship. It is open and free to all guests for use of standard machines and free weights. Classes, including...]]></description><link>https://www.edwardsfamilygathering.info/post/walk-it-out</link><guid isPermaLink="false">69a4bc6e51b11cfaffffe6bf</guid><pubDate>Sun, 22 Mar 2026 16:00:20 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/11062b_0503c23f42574118b6f1e891acf04866~mv2.jpg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Pittman Talley</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Diners, Diners Everywhere Nor Any Space to Sit]]></title><description><![CDATA[Did you know that, after visiting the Cafe Promenade on Deck 5 (or any other of your favorite on board dining locations), you can take your plate (or plates. Nobody is judging) to nearly any place on the ship? Many diners find it can become nearly impossible to find an open table during peak dining times, but you are not obligated to stay near the cafe. There are many lounges and sofas that are strategically placed around the ship. You are not even obligated to stay on the deck. If you want...]]></description><link>https://www.edwardsfamilygathering.info/post/diners-diners-everywhere-nor-any-space-to-sit</link><guid isPermaLink="false">69a4f8c460298c02e5bdf840</guid><pubDate>Fri, 20 Mar 2026 16:00:16 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/768f3d_c382e1c57af444aa8746c86f0169cabf~mv2.jpg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Pittman Talley</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Keep Sea Sickness at Bay One Bite at a Time]]></title><description><![CDATA[Contemporary cruise ships employ large stabilizers to ensure the smoothest, most steady on board experience possible for even the most sensitive of passengers. It is believed that sensory mismatch is one of the primary causes of sea sickness while on water vessels. An empty stomach influences and can increase these symptoms of sensory mismatch. While food alone cannot prevent sea sickness, ensuring your stomach is full and settled, and staying well hydrated, can help to mitigate the risk of...]]></description><link>https://www.edwardsfamilygathering.info/post/keep-sea-sickness-at-bay-one-bite-at-a-time</link><guid isPermaLink="false">69a4b4b6fe8d2114a1739b1f</guid><pubDate>Tue, 17 Mar 2026 16:00:21 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/768f3d_3b8c712ecf824adca4817da71444763a~mv2.jpg/v1/fit/w_259,h_194,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Pittman Talley</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Early Check In on the App]]></title><description><![CDATA[Just like your airline, Royal Caribbean Cruise Line (RCCL) can help you get checked in and through security to start your vacation faster and easier than ever by uploading necessary administrative documents on the RCCL Royal app . Before embarkation day, you can visit your account to provide scans of your passport, complete health documents, and confirming your arrival window for security clearance. When compiling your documents, be certain all your materials are valid and up-to-date. While...]]></description><link>https://www.edwardsfamilygathering.info/post/early-check-in-on-the-app</link><guid isPermaLink="false">69a50a9360298c02e5be2638</guid><pubDate>Fri, 13 Mar 2026 16:00:19 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/768f3d_cdcd54c4c81d4b0aa12ed4e4261dc2cc~mv2.jpg/v1/fit/w_300,h_400,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Pittman Talley</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Planning On Board and On Shore]]></title><description><![CDATA[Cruises have robust activities each day of the sailing itinerary. Particularly on days at seas, you will find your cruise experience is anything but boring. Guests can find nearly anything to entertain them throughout the day and night. Use your Royal Caribbean Cruise Line (RCCL) Royal App to design your perfect experience! An excellent way to consider your cruise preparation and packing is to review the key activities. In broad strokes, you are able to begin viewing shore excursion...]]></description><link>https://www.edwardsfamilygathering.info/post/planning-on-board-and-on-shore</link><guid isPermaLink="false">69a4b1482b1318a248502316</guid><pubDate>Tue, 10 Mar 2026 16:00:46 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/768f3d_677b4756abf840dea02e5a6db9cd4b75~mv2.jpeg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Pittman Talley</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Banking Bulletins and Phone Waves]]></title><description><![CDATA[When making plans to travel anywhere for any reason, it is prudent to contact your banking institution and your phone service provider to make a note on your account. This can help prevent costly or embarrassing problems when your find yourself outside of your home turf. Some phone service providers even have special international and cruise travel plans. Do not think that simply because you will use your ship on board account for everything you need while cruising that you are covered for...]]></description><link>https://www.edwardsfamilygathering.info/post/banking-bulletins-and-phone-waves</link><guid isPermaLink="false">69a4ed5f60298c02e5bddc87</guid><pubDate>Sun, 08 Mar 2026 16:00:22 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/11062b_34a2c80d75c54e12b693a723e5ac5c34~mv2.jpg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Pittman Talley</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Eyes in the Skies]]></title><description><![CDATA[Cruises are very secure. From your passage through port security to plain clothes security officers on the ship, there is always someone watching and available to help when needed. Cameras, likewise, are everywhere; mounted in plain sight as well as strategically hidden that there are few if any blind spots in public spaces. Both you and your belongings are tracked closely throughout your time on the water.]]></description><link>https://www.edwardsfamilygathering.info/post/eyes-in-the-skies</link><guid isPermaLink="false">69a503c951b11cfaff0097f3</guid><pubDate>Thu, 05 Mar 2026 17:15:09 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/768f3d_3e9164ca7b084127a8aec3bcdf855213~mv2.jpg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_597,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Pittman Talley</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Security Briefing and Muster]]></title><description><![CDATA[Royal Caribbean Cruise Line (RCCL) offers an option to complete a part of your muster drill by viewing a security briefing video accessible on your RCCL Royal App . This drill is mandatory for all passengers; the ship will not embark until all passengers are accounted for as having completed the exercise. The video will be made available the morning of the sailing date, and runs less than five minutes. You will, next, be required to listen to the emergency horn to familiarize yourself with...]]></description><link>https://www.edwardsfamilygathering.info/post/security-briefing-and-muster</link><guid isPermaLink="false">69a5175860298c02e5be4630</guid><pubDate>Thu, 05 Mar 2026 17:00:44 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/768f3d_92d339cb41724fb582ac89e4cc75e2f5~mv2.png/v1/fit/w_600,h_588,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Pittman Talley</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Travel Insurance]]></title><description><![CDATA[We are always hopeful that only the best will happen when we set sail, however, life can still make things difficult or impossible to follow our plans through in the way we plan. Purchasing Travel Protection Insurance is a small expense for your peace of mind. Royal Caribbean Cruise Line (RCCL) offers insurance directly, but we should all be eligible for travel insurance through USAA. The USAA trusted vendor, Travel Insured , offers comprehensive travel insurance as low as $93 per person...]]></description><link>https://www.edwardsfamilygathering.info/post/travel-insurance</link><guid isPermaLink="false">69a3bc8b32a596f2a27f97fb</guid><pubDate>Sun, 01 Mar 2026 04:28:58 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/768f3d_5d9d7552a9a14138a3aee854d71285e8~mv2.jpg/v1/fit/w_275,h_183,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Pittman Talley</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Gadgets and Gizmos Aplenty]]></title><description><![CDATA[Cruise ships are big, but the cabins are small. The standard balcony staterooms on the Royal Caribbean Cruise Line (RCCL) Liberty of the Seas average 188 square feet of inside living space. Thankfully, people all over the internet who cruise regularly have provided tips, tricks, and tidy tactics to help ensure that you still feel like you are living large while you are on board. Visit any of the sites shared on our Links page to get helpful hints on almost everything from packing and room...]]></description><link>https://www.edwardsfamilygathering.info/post/gadgets-and-gizmos-aplenty</link><guid isPermaLink="false">69a35aca9d34acb7c437512e</guid><pubDate>Sun, 01 Mar 2026 04:10:07 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/42f2a316f347442bb23b293dc0396807.jpg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Pittman Talley</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Dress Code Fatigue]]></title><description><![CDATA[Cruise travel is an interesting mix of modern and conservative sensibilities. One consideration for the extensive list of rules and regulations for cruise travel is to allow passengers to feel as completely at ease on the water; modern cruise ships are veritable floating cities with individuals and families from all over the world coming together in one place. The Liberty of the Seas can host more than 5,000 people on board. That is nearly one fifth of the population of Edwardsville! That is...]]></description><link>https://www.edwardsfamilygathering.info/post/dress-code-fatigue</link><guid isPermaLink="false">69a3509f4882ec6a3ac59312</guid><pubDate>Sat, 28 Feb 2026 21:13:12 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/nsplsh_9455fe6a4acf48aebad3d9198695e447~mv2.jpg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Pittman Talley</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[The Liberty and Accessibility]]></title><description><![CDATA[Our family is amazing, but we are all entering more... mature... times in our lives. The elephant shark in the room is simply that some of us may require more assistance getting around while we are on the ship. Royal Caribbean works with companies that rent wheelchairs and electric scooters for your convenience during your sailing. By pre-booking these services, your mobility assistive device will be delivered directly to your stateroom, and ready for use as soon as you are granted access to...]]></description><link>https://www.edwardsfamilygathering.info/post/the-liberty-and-accessibility</link><guid isPermaLink="false">699624cf658df599f4fc448f</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 00:48:56 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/11062b_bcffa056924c44a98922679369eb8c9c~mv2.jpg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Pittman Talley</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum]]></title><description><![CDATA[We had a productive and informative meeting last night. One of the most important items to come from our discussions was... we need a space to have more discussions! Queue the Edwards Family Gathering Forum! This website is your central location for all family cruise related information; the forum is a space for exchange between everyone traveling to share ideas, recommendations, and questions amongst yourselves. Your conversations help keep the momentum going, and keep the excitement high...]]></description><link>https://www.edwardsfamilygathering.info/post/a-funny-thing-happened-on-the-way-to-the-forum</link><guid isPermaLink="false">69934fa96afbe985b7a399bf</guid><pubDate>Mon, 16 Feb 2026 18:00:16 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/768f3d_0fba0e68a0c546f9824b0583e0cb1961~mv2.jpg/v1/fit/w_275,h_183,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Pittman Talley</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[What's the 411?]]></title><description><![CDATA[There are any number of sites on the internet with suggestions, critiques, and promotions for cruises and associated provisions. Many articles and blogs are quite enjoyable to read. You can find everything from the best shore excursions to reserve to the favored flavors of cuisines served on board. You are always able to search for yourself, but we have included links to some of the sites more focused on the Royal Caribbean brand specifically. Peruse at your leisure, and know that we will...]]></description><link>https://www.edwardsfamilygathering.info/post/__411</link><guid isPermaLink="false">699130bbe585eb0b3c863e36</guid><pubDate>Sun, 15 Feb 2026 02:54:25 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/nsplsh_71a95ecea7b247af9c57b085ab639315~mv2.jpg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Pittman Talley</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Family Informational]]></title><description><![CDATA[Whether you are filled with anticipation or anxiety, we know you have questions and we are prepared to answer them all during our family informational call Sunday, February 15, 2026. We will cover the purpose of our initiative, the details we have of the cruise itself, considerations for associated travel, and navigating this website more efficiently. At the end, feel free to ask any inquire about anything we have not already addressed for you. This will be an exciting opportunity for our...]]></description><link>https://www.edwardsfamilygathering.info/post/family-informational</link><guid isPermaLink="false">698fabda9f4f0b75dffd0020</guid><pubDate>Fri, 13 Feb 2026 23:05:43 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/5944af2003334462b98363c8f94b1344.jpg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Pittman Talley</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[What I Found While Surfing...the Internet]]></title><description><![CDATA[Did you know Royal Caribbean has an official blog? It might definitely prove useful to follow that site for the next few months. Among its articles and message boards, it has a cruise packing guide with information specific to the Royal Caribbean Cruise Line (RCCL) fleet. While you technically should have all you need for your travel aboard the Liberty of the Seas on the ship or ready to pack already at home, it is best to think about what you will need early in case you do need to procure...]]></description><link>https://www.edwardsfamilygathering.info/post/what-i-found-while-surfing-the-internet</link><guid isPermaLink="false">698e4ff48879a928a5a8d146</guid><pubDate>Thu, 12 Feb 2026 22:37:59 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/cc7fa6e93a6a23df948dc0c65f01679e.jpg/v1/fit/w_640,h_400,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Pittman Talley</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Deposit Deadline]]></title><description><![CDATA[We know there is concern about making big decisions in a short amount of time. We do have limitations regarding how long Royal Caribbean will hold our Group Rate block, and 8 stateroom reservations are the minimum requirement to maintain group status. The deposit, however, is a nominal fee of $200 per room reservation. The deposit is non-refundable, but it does allow everyone who is interested in sailing with the Edwards Family Gathering  to take additional time to plan and save for their...]]></description><link>https://www.edwardsfamilygathering.info/post/deposit-deadline</link><guid isPermaLink="false">698d31b7d9c323c10df717c2</guid><pubDate>Thu, 12 Feb 2026 02:47:01 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0e77dd4649114310b2c743aea485e0f0.jpg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Pittman Talley</dc:creator></item></channel></rss>