This Isn’t a Vacation… It’s Her Life

Ep47: Belencia Wallace - Full Time Cruise Content CreatorIn this episode of Deck Tales, Sammy Catling chats with Belencia — better known as Ladybug Travel — a full-time content creator who has spent the past eight months living entirely on cruise ships. Broadcasting live from various corners of a Royal Caribbean ship (including a chapel for peace and quiet), Belencia shares what it’s really like to be a “constant cruiser,” hopping between nearly 30 ships while building a social media career at sea.From managing Wi-Fi, mail, and logistics to navigating ports independently, saving money through loyalty status, and balancing nonstop travel with content creation, Valencia offers a behind-the-scenes look at a lifestyle that sounds glamorous—but requires serious planning and stamina. Along the way, she reflects on favorite destinations, least-favorite ports, cultural lessons learned abroad, and how going all-in on herself has already paid off with viral growth and major media features.Key TakeawaysLiving full-time on cruise ships is possible—but only with extreme organization and planningCruise loyalty status can dramatically reduce daily living costs (Wi-Fi, laundry, drinks)Being a digital nomad doesn’t mean slowing down—burnout is real, even in paradiseIndependent travel in port offers deeper cultural experiences and major cost savingsBetting on yourself can pay off, but momentum brings new challenges and overwhelmCruise ships can be a powerful platform for storytelling, connection, and global reach00:00 – She Lives on Cruise ShipsHow Belencia ended up living full-time at sea06:12 – How This Lifestyle Even StartedThe moment cruising turned into a life choice13:45 – What Full-Time Cruise Life Is Really LikeDaily routines, cabins, food, and onboard reality20:58 – How She Affords Living at SeaCosts, budgeting, and whether this is cheaper than rent28:31 – The Biggest Myths About Cruise LifeWhat people get completely wrong about living on ships35:44 – The Hardest Parts of Living on Cruise ShipsLoneliness, logistics, and things no one talks about42:57 – Friendships, Dating & Social Life at SeaWhat relationships look like when you never stay still50:03 – Health, Safety & Long-Term SustainabilityBurnout, routines, and how long this lifestyle can last56:41 – Is This Lifestyle Actually Worth It?Trade-offs, regrets, and unexpected rewards01:03:28 – Advice for Anyone Who Wants to Do ThisWhat to know before trying full-time cruising01:08:20 – Final Thoughts & What’s NextReflections on freedom, travel, and what comes afterTo see clips of all our guests you can follow us on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/decktalesofficialInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/decktalespodcast.TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@decktalesFor all links you can head to the official website: https://www.decktales.co.ukIf you wish to support the page you can leave a welcome donation at: https://ko-fi.com/decktalesAnd if you wish to read or listen to my first book, you can buy a copy here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Seems-Like-Smooth-Sailing-Catling/dp/1912964244Get Your Copy Of 'Seems Like Smooth Sailing' here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.