Francine Cochrane
Owner & Travel Advisor
I’m the co-owner of 71 Travels, and I’m all about finding the perfect relaxing getaway for you. While some travelers chase endless activities and sightseeing, I’ve mastered the fine art of true vacation relaxation.
Cruising is a favourite vacation. For me, the ship isn’t just transportation—it’s the destination! You might find me lounging by the pool with a cool drink while everyone else rushes to shore excursions. (Sometimes I don’t even step off at ports… and I have zero regrets about it!)
I’ve swayed in a hammock on my Virgin Cruise balcony, indulged in Disney Cruise Line’s magical service (multiple times!), and explored the offerings of MSC, Carnival and Norwegian. Each ship brings its own unique flavor to the floating paradise experience.
Over the years I have spent weeks unwinding at all-inclusives across Aruba, Dominican Republic, Cuba, or Mexico. Lounging at a resort in Hawaii just can’t be beat!
Whether you’re looking for the perfect ship experience, the best onboard dining, or simply how to master the art of doing absolutely nothing on vacation, I’m your guide to stress-free travel planning. Let’s find your perfect escape together!
Embracing freedom, mastering relaxation: that's my travel style
The true magic of my travel isn’t found in busy itineraries or perfect photos—it’s in those quiet moments of pure freedom and relaxation. Whether I’m sailing solo across open waters, swaying in a hammock with nothing but ocean views, or indulging in a five-course dinner with no schedule to keep, I’ve discovered that the art of doing absolutely nothing is sometimes the greatest adventure of all.
Explore some of my favourite destinations through my travels:
Virgin Voyages
I sailed solo in my cabin on Virgin, which I felt totally comfortable doing. While I had my own space to retreat to (that hammock on my balcony became my personal sanctuary!), I also had friends onboard who were traveling separately—giving me the perfect balance of independence and connection.
What makes Virgin stand out is their approach to cruising: no buffets, just quality restaurants included in your fare. There is a cheesecake on board that I still dream about! The entertainment was fantastic and I had the option to party all night long or grab a pizza and head back to my fabulous room to relax and stream a movie.
Norwegian Cruise
Ok, so I posed for the picture but was too chicken to drive them around the top deck of the ship!
Norwegian was a fun, relaxing cruise. The stateroom was comfortable and the food was delicious. Yes, I would absolutely do it again!
MSC Cruise
Sunsets and good caffeine, MSC cruising was fantastic! This was really a “do nothing” cruise for me. I sailed for 8 nights and ONLY got off the ship on the private island to wander around. The spa was glorious and empty on port days and I made the most of it! The pizza in the buffet was a perfect snack and the cheese? YUMMY.
The casino was actually very lively and I enjoyed my time at the slots and watching roulette (I don’t know how to play it!). It was the perfect trip to “do nothing”‘
Disney Cruise Line
With or without kids, this is by far my most ‘cruised’ line. The adult only spaces are my favorite and the night time events are too fun! The ships have Disney level service – but at sea. Castaway Cay (the private island) is everything you could imagine. I warn you though – don’t rent a private cabana or you’ll want one EVERY time!