As I'm writing this, I am anxiously awaiting waking up at 5:30 a.m. to go on a cruise next week. Cruises have always been one of my family's favorite vacations, and sometimes it can be hard to convince someone who has never cruised to take one. My hope by writing this article is that I can convince those out there who have never cruised to consider taking one some day.

1. The Dining Room

Not only is the food out of this world, it's also endless. You can order whatever you want and however many you want. One of our favorite things about the dining room besides the food is getting to know your waiter or waitress. After having the same one all week, you get close to them and get to learn about their interesting lives and develop another friend on the ship. We also love the fact that you get to dress up every night for dinner.

2. The Promenade

Every ship has their own version of this, but The Promenade is Royal Carribean's take on it. It's a long strip of shops, ice cream, cafes, and more lining the hall of the ship. We love to walk down The Promenade at night and get some (free) cookies from the cafe and stroll through the shops and fun activities.

3. The Pool

The pool is probably one of the most festive parts of the ship. The pool is there to relax and swim while drinking drinks out of pineapples, but it's also for some of the most fun activities on the ship. The "belly flop contest" and the "Mr. Sexy Legs" competition are some of our favorites.

4. The Buffet

The buffet is available all day and every day for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Whenever you're craving anything at all, it's there.

5. The Game Room

Although it's unlikely, you may have a rainy day on the ship. Worry not though, because there's a room with tons of board games and cards, an arcade, a casino and many other fun activities.

6. The Classes

Have you ever wanted to be in a flash mob? Or learn how to decorate a cupcake? Well there are classes for that and so many other things daily.

7. The Shows

Each night, there is a show in the theater. Whether it be a musical, a comedian, a singer, or a magician, they never fail to entertain.

8. The Games

One of our favorites is called "Name That Tune" where you play in teams and hear a small bit of a song and have to name what that song is. Not to brag, but my family wins the key chain every time.

9. The Excursions

The ship will take you to many locations, and they offer excursions for you to do when you get off. Hikes, swimming with dolphins, Jeep tours, ziplines and more.

10. The Pictures

There are endless picture opportunities on the ship, and there are even professional photographers on the ship to take fun pictures you normally wouldn't capture.

I could seriously go on and on with this list. I didn't even include some of the other amenities like the rock wall, the ice skating rink, the mini golf, the basketball court, shuffleboard, and more. Cruises are the best possible vacation to take, and I strongly suggest that everyone be open to taking one in their lifetime. They're all inclusive, unique, festive, fun and so much more. Happy Sailing!