Meet Your Empty Nest Cruise Experts
Crafting Unforgettable Adventures for Empty Nesters
Are you ready to trade the carpool lane for crystal-clear Caribbean waters or embark on a multigenerational adventure with the whole crew?
As empty-nest cruise experts, Gallivanting Souls was founded by a passionate GenXer who understands the unique desires of exploring the world after the kids have grown up. We specialize in helping empty nesters and multigenerational families create unforgettable memories aboard incredible cruises.
Together, we’ll embark on journeys that:
- Rediscover your shared passion for travel and adventure.
- Explore new cultures and create lasting memories.
- Savor the freedom and flexibility that comes with traveling as a couple or family.
- Prioritize experiences over possessions, seeking out unique destinations and activities that cater to your shared interests.
- Trade the fast lane for crystal-clear Caribbean waters or embark on a multigenerational adventure with the whole crew.
Join us as we set sail on a voyage of discovery!
Gallivanting Souls
Projects and counting
hooked on travel
Kristina and her soul dog, Bitsy.
About Me
Hi, I’m Kristina—just your average Jane with a suitcase full of stories, a love for local food, and a deep belief that travel doesn’t have to be expensive, intimidating, or out of reach.
For as long as I can remember, I’ve been the friend who shares travel tales over dinner, sending pins, itineraries, and restaurant recs to anyone who asks. And somewhere along the way, I realized: if my stories could help my friends travel smarter, maybe they could help you too.
I started Gallivanting Souls to make food and travel feel real and doable, not picture-perfect or influencer-polished, but accessible. I’ve made mistakes, learned lessons the hard way, and figured out how to travel well on a budget without missing a place’s soul. I share the wins and the hiccups so you don’t have to reinvent the wheel every time you pack a bag.
Whether I’m hunting down the best fish tacos in a beach town or hopping on a transatlantic cruise, my goal is simple: to guide you like a friend would. No gatekeeping. No fluff. Just honest tips, real stories, and a few hard-earned lessons to make your journey smoother.
I don’t seek the spotlight. I just want to be the voice you hear when you’re planning your next adventure and think,
“What would Kristina do?”
Welcome to the journey. I’m glad you’re here.
Adventures
“Cruises and off-the-beaten-path adventures – with a sprinkle of unexpected fun! That’s my travel recipe.”
My Travel Philosophy
Ever since I was young, curiosity and a love for adventure have fueled my travels. From budget cruises to unexpected detours on dusty roads, I crave experiences that weave vibrant threads into the tapestry of my life.
These aren’t just vacations; they’re immersive journeys – feeling the spray of a whale breach, the wind in my hair while dancing with strangers, or the soft fur of a sloth.
Yes, I’m a budget traveler who prioritizes freedom and spontaneity. It’s about embracing the unexpected, like bartering for a local liquor or having a donkey try to join my tour!
While cruising offers convenience, my heart belongs to the hidden gems off the beaten path.
These are the souvenirs I treasure most – the memories of holding a sloth, dancing under the stars, or simply connecting with new people.
Through Gallivanting Souls, I share budget tips, cruise reviews, and the magic of unexpected adventures.
This photo shows Mike sitting at the helm of our chartered 12-passenger sailboat, Navegante, with the wind in his hair and a big smile on his face.
We all agreed that booking our own tour in Puerto Vallarta was the best choice!
Mike: My Partner in Adventures
Mike, the mastermind behind our meticulously planned itineraries, might surprise you.
Beneath his calm, organized exterior lies a surprising sense of adventure – a quality that’s become even more prominent in our empty nest adventures.
Remember the Panama Canal cruise? I was lost in the planner when a red circle on the first sea day stopped me cold – the Hairy Chest Contest.
This was the same Mike who blushed at compliments and avoided the spotlight. Yet, there he was, circled up for the competition!
He entered the contest, and let’s just say, he embraced the absurd with gusto.
He didn’t win, but the laughter, cheers, and surprised recognition he received became his true trophies.
It was a reminder that travel isn’t just about the itinerary, but about embracing the unexpected and collecting memories that sparkle brighter than any first-place medal.
Mike reminds me that travel isn’t just about itineraries; it’s about embracing unexpected adventures, big or small. Who knows, maybe our next empty nest adventure will bring a hidden gem or a long-lost Lego set, thanks to Mike’s insatiable curiosity.
Empty Nest Adventures: our next chapter
Now that we’re in this exciting empty nest chapter, Kristina and Mike, a husband-wife duo, thrive on exploring the world together.
We navigate bustling streets and ancient ruins, seeking local gems and cultural encounters.
From savoring street food to forging lifelong friendships, our adventures brim with authenticity and shared laughter.
But our wanderlust takes on a different form at sea.
As seasoned cruisers with over 20 voyages under our belts, we’ve sailed the Caribbean, Mexico, and even conquered the Panama Canal.
We love the convenience and endless possibilities each cruise offers, always chasing new discoveries and unforgettable moments.
What we share
Travel Tips
Cruise Tips
Vacation planning
Port Information
Destinations
Home Port info
New Cruiser info
Tours
Budget Travel
Travel Stories
Packing
Travel Advise
Gallivanting Souls
What can we do for you?
Mike Sullins
Support, Gallivanting Souls
Follow our empty nest adventures
Ready to dive into the Western Caribbean with us? Join us as we explore the vibrant streets and hidden gems of Grand Cayman, and explore the jungles of Jamaica where we plan on visiting the Blue Hole 🐬🌴
Follow me on [your favorite social media platform] for live updates, breathtaking photos, and maybe even a surprise sea lion selfie (if they’re cooperative, of course!). 😉