In this video, we’re giving our honest, start-to-finish review of cruising NCL Bliss to the Mexican Riviera over Thanksgiving week (Nov 23–30, 2025) out of Los Angeles. We break down why we chose this itinerary (West Coast convenience, no flights or hotel, great last-minute savings, and a perfect mix of three sea days + three port days), plus our first impressions of Bliss after the 2025 refurbishment. We also share what it was like sailing a holiday week with nearly 5,000 guests onboard—because yes, it was packed—and who we think this cruise is actually best for. We also tested an inside cabin for the first time and talk through the real pros and cons: the best sleep we’ve ever had, easy temperature control, and a familiar bathroom layout—but a tighter space, a frustrating closet setup, and no real place to sit besides the bed. Onboard, we loved using the Waterfront as our “extended balcony,” escaping the crowds in Spice H2O, cooling off in the Observation Lounge, and doing a Mandara Spa thermal suite day pass (the perfect balance for us). Then we go port-by-port—DIY Puerto Vallarta (Malecon, public art, Birdman ritual), an NCL excursion in Mazatlán (topless bus + cliff divers), and a tender day in Cabo (Land’s End boat tour + vendor tips). We wrap with dining (Le Bistro, Cagney’s, La Cucina, and The Local), entertainment (Icons + Jersey Boys), and our biggest hits, misses, and tips for cruising Mexico—especially during a holiday sailing.