We have exciting Updates for the Texas Pet Sitters Association Members: The Texas Pet Sitters 10th Annual Conference Cruise is Coming Soon! Following are important notes and reminders from our wonderful travel agent and party planner, Stormy Lothringer of the Gallavanting Guru and longtime member of the Texas Pet Sitters Association.

Setting Sail in 2025

Stormy and the Board of Directors are excited about our upcoming adventure aboard the Mariner of the Seas for the Texas Pet Sitters Association’s 10th Annual Conference Cruise. From February 27 to March 3,  2025, we’ll set sail from Galveston, Texas, and explore the beautiful island of Cozumel. Per Stormy, “this journey promises the perfect mix of professional growth, relaxation, and fun. I can’t wait to share  this fantastic experience with all of you!”

Book Now

There’s still time to reserve your cabin and join the excitement. Whether you’re traveling solo or bringing family, you’ll enjoy:

• Exclusive Conference Sessions: Workshops, networking opportunities, and professional  growth
• Cozumel Adventures: Stunning beaches, vibrant local culture, and unique excursions
• Onboard Fun: Rock climbing, surfing simulators, world-class dining, and thrilling  entertainment

Family and friends are more than welcome to join us. Feel free to invite your  loved ones to experience the fun alongside you!

Secure your spot! It is imperative to book with The Gallivanting Guru to be a part of the cruise group and be included in the conference activities. 

Prepare for the Cruise

If you’ve already booked, it’s time to start planning for an amazing cruise and co-working/co-learning experience. Following is everything you need to know to make your trip enjoyable and hassle-free. 

Final Payments Due by December

Final payment is due by Dec 10th – please add to not wait til the last minute as there could be issues that arise and delay the process! Be sure to contact The Gallivanting Guru to complete your payment by the deadline to secure your spot.

Cruise Registration

To ensure a smooth experience, complete your registration and make any special requests as follows: 

• Visit the Royal Caribbean website and create an account

• Use your reservation number (provided by Stormy) to log in under the “Already Booked” section

• Add Special Needs or Dietary Requests: If you have any special requirements, such as  mobility assistance or specific dietary needs, please add these details to your Royal  Caribbean account during check-in. This ensures that the cruise line can accommodate your needs

Getting to Galveston by Air

For those flying in, plan your travel to Galveston by choosing either of these airports: 

• George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) – about 1.5 hours from Galveston

• William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) – about 1 hour from Galveston

We recommend arriving in Galveston the day before the cruise to avoid any last-minute issues.  You can use shuttle services like Galveston Express or ride share options to get from Houston to Galveston. 

Lodging in Galveston 

We’ve reserved a hotel block at the Holiday Inn On The Beach in Galveston for the night before our cruise. If you wish to stay at  this hotel and get the group rate with additional perks, please click here.

The group room rate is $169 +tax.  If that rate is not showing, it means the block is full. Please contact Stormy to see if she can get rooms added to the group rate. Rates may go up after block is full so lets get the requests in asap.

Onboard Activities and Themed Parties 

There’s plenty to do aboard the Mariner of the Seas, some of which includes:

• FlowRider® Surf Simulator: Try surfing on the ship 

• Ice Skating: Enjoy skating in the middle of the ocean

• Themed Parties: Participate in deck parties like 70s Disco or Caribbean Nights

• Escape Room: Challenge yourself with the ship’s escape room experience

Don’t miss out on the exclusive conference events designed for networking and professional  development. 

Excursions in Cozumel 

When we dock in Cozumel, you’ll have various excursion options: 

• Snorkeling and Scuba Diving: Explore coral reefs and marine life. 
• Mayan Ruins Tour: Visit the ancient Mayan ruins of San Gervasio. 
• Local Food Tours: Experience authentic Mexican cuisine. 

Book your excursions in advance through the Royal Caribbean website or app to secure your spot.

A number of attendees are planning to take it easy at Nachi Cocom All-Inclusive Beach Break. If you’re interested, check it out and reserve your spot here. While this is not a Royal Caribbean or TXPSA-connected activity, many attendees are planning to reserve here and, because it fills up quickly, you may want to check it out sooner rather than later.

Tipping

While many amenities are included, please keep in mind that prepaid gratuities have already been added to your cruise booking – unless otherwise requested to have it removed from your booking.

Cruise gratuities are a set amount added to your bill to cover standard tipping for the ship’s service staff, including your dining room waiters, cabin stewards, and other team  members who make your cruise experience enjoyable. This ensures that all staff are fairly  compensated for their hard work.

If you receive exceptional service, feel free to tip extra to show your appreciation. Additional tips can be given directly to the staff who went above and beyond to enhance your cruise experience. 

Additional Costs

While cruises include many amenities, there are some additional, optional costs involved in cruising. Some of these include the following:

• Specialty Dining and Drinks: Some dining options and drinks may incur additional charges. 
• Shore Excursions: Excursions while in a port city like Cozumel and Galveston
• Spa Treatments, Experiences & Lifesyle Packages: The spa menu, Chef’s Table, WiFi, and other packages can be found here. Log in and browse all the offerings that are currently on discount for Black Friday!

The Gallavanting Guru

If you haven’t booked yet, now is the time! Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned  traveler, this cruise is set to be a fantastic combination of professional growth and fun. Contact your fellow Pet Sitter and the Travel Agent for this cruise; Stormy Lothringer, The Gallivanting Guru, if you have any questions or need assistance with your booking. 

The Texas Pet Sitters Conference 2025 is Going To Be Unforgettable!

We look forward to sailing with you on the Mariner of the Seas for the 10th Annual Conference  Cruise. If you’re confirmed on the cruise, please join our cruise-specific Facebook group to connect to other pet sitters that will be attending.

Our 10th Annual Texas Pet Sitters Conference is going to be unforgettable. We are working on session schedules and will share those very soon. Check out the TXPSA Facebook page to stay connected.

Happy Prepping!