Royal Holiday members not only enjoy nearly 200 vacation destinations in 52 countries across the globe, but they can also use credits to take advantage of partnerships with premiere cruise lines in order to enjoy the convenience of all-inclusive travel. For those interested in a jaunt around the Eastern Caribbean, including ports of call like San Juan and Grand Turk, the Carnival Glory offers the perfect escape.

With spacious state rooms, multiple pools (and a waterslide), movies, concerts, sports, games, a spa, dance clubs, a casino, gourmet dining, and even a kid-free zone, everyone is sure to have an enjoyable and relaxing vacation aboard the Glory. Before you embark, though, here are a few tips to ensure you get the most out of your Eastern Caribbean cruise with Royal Holiday and Carnival.

1. Timing
Prices fluctuate throughout the year, so many travelers avoid the best season when planning Caribbean cruises. As a Royal Holiday member, you won’t have this problem, since you’ll simply use your credits to pay for the trip.

As a result, you can enjoy the balmy weather of the Eastern Caribbean between December and April. While envious friends and family are bundling up and shoveling snow, you can catch some rays and frolic in the warm Caribbean waters.

2. Packing
You won’t have to pack much in the way of clothing when you cruise the Eastern Caribbean since you’ll spend most of your time in a bathing suit, but it is imperative to bring along plenty of sunblock to ward off the intense rays near the equator. The last thing you want is for a sunburn to ruin your dream vacation.

3. Scuba diving
You can hardly visit the Caribbean without dipping your toes in the water, and the pristine, white sand beaches of Grand Turk are the perfect place to take a dip, whether you’re a seasoned scuba diver or you’re more comfortable snorkeling. Make sure to set up shore excursions like scuba diving or catamaran trips in advance, whether you choose those offered through Carnival or you select local vendors.

4. Duty-free shopping
If you’re interested in a shopping excursion during your trip, St. Thomas boasts hundreds of duty-free shops lining the streets and populating local malls. It’s been cited as some of the best shopping in the Caribbean, and certainly in the U.S. Virgin Islands, and is world renowned for products ranging from jewelry and clothing to cameras and liquor. Bargains galore await, and for those with a hankering to haggle, opportunities to strike a deal abound.

5. Sightseeing
There is no shortage of beautiful beaches, quaint towns, and historical architecture to see when you stop at different Eastern Caribbean ports, but if you’re interested in stretching your legs, San Juan beckons with historic monuments like El Morro and a U.S. National Forest, El Yunque, that features rainforest flora and fauna, along with several waterfalls. Old San Juan is particularly charming, with rows of colorful houses and walking tours that impart the history of this beautiful city.