We’re setting sail aboard the Brilliance of the Seas on Apr 19-may 18
Sailing from Puerto Rico cruise port to Ravenna offers a breathtaking journey across the Atlantic.
Capturing Memories with Thumbs Up Buttercup Photography
Denny's 1300 N PONCE DE LEON BLVD RESTAURANT
Hampton Inn St. Augustine Downtown Historic District
Hampton Inn St. Augustine Downtown Historic District
Thumbs Up Buttercup had us back on the road once again, this time to the beautiful city of St. Augustine for another baseball weekend filled afternoon games and plenty of family moments.
As parents, there’s something special about those afternoon matchups. The day builds up to them—the anticipation, the preparation, and then finally settling into the stands as the sun shines down and the game begins. It’s a different pace than early mornings, giving us time to enjoy the surroundings and really take in the experience.
Watching our kids step onto the field in the afternoon light, giving it their all, supporting their teammates, and growing with every inning—that’s what makes these weekends so meaningful. The energy, the smiles, and even the challenges are all part of memories we’ll carry with us for years.
A Go-To Spot at Denny’s 🍳
In between those afternoon games, we found comfort and consistency at Denny's, where we ended up enjoying all four of our meals during the trip.
Having a reliable place to go before heading to the field or after a long day in the sun made all the difference. The food was always just what we needed—filling, familiar, and served with care. It became part of our routine, and honestly, part of what made the weekend run so smoothly.
Service That Stood Out ⭐
What really made this experience special was the staff. From the friendly waitresses to the hardworking cooks and the attentive manager, every single person played a role in making us feel welcome.
After long afternoons at the ballpark, it meant a lot to walk into a place where people were genuinely happy to see you. Their positive attitudes and dedication didn’t go unnoticed—they truly were rock stars.
Soaking It All In
Afternoon games and time together as a family—that’s what this trip was all about. St. Augustine once again gave us the perfect setting, and the memories made both on and off the field made it a weekend to remember.
Another Thumbs Up Buttercup adventure in the books—and this one was a sunny, afternoon home run. 👍🌼⚾
Hampton Inn St. Augustine Downtown Historic District
Hampton Inn St. Augustine Downtown Historic District
Hampton Inn St. Augustine Downtown Historic District
Thumbs Up Buttercup – Hampton Stay in St. Augustine
Thumbs up buttercup back at it again for another baseball weekend, this time enjoying a long stay at the Hampton Inn St. Augustine in the beautiful city of St. Augustine.
From the moment we arrived, this place checked all the boxes for a perfect travel weekend. The location was a huge win—close enough to easily explore the historic part of town, making it simple to mix a little sightseeing in between all the baseball action.
The hotel itself did not disappoint. The rooms were clean, comfortable, and exactly what you need after long days at the field. Whether it was getting some much-needed rest or just relaxing for a bit, it felt like a home away from home.
What really stood out, though, was the staff. From check-in to check-out, everyone was friendly, helpful, and made sure we had everything we needed. That kind of service always makes a trip even better.
Another great weekend of baseball, good vibes, and a solid stay—Thumbs up buttercup gives this one a big 👍!
TEXAS ROADHOUSE, LECANTO
Hampton Inn St. Augustine Downtown Historic District
TEXAS ROADHOUSE, LECANTO
Thumbs Up Buttercup – Home Sweet Home Stop
After a long weekend of baseball, there’s nothing better than getting close to home and winding down with a great meal and this time, we made our usual favorite stop at Texas Roadhouse. From the moment we walked in, the energy was just what we needed—upbeat, welcoming, and full of that signature Roadhouse vibe.
Our waitress and the entire crew were outstanding, making sure everything was spot-on from start to finish. The service was friendly, fast, and full of smiles, which really capped off the weekend on a high note. Between the great food and the lively atmosphere, it was the perfect way to wrap up our baseball trip.
Thumbs up, buttercup another great stop in the books!
A Great Weekend Trip to Daytona !!
Tequila Garden Flavors Of Mexico
Hilton Garden Inn Daytona Beach Airport
Hilton Garden Inn Daytona Beach Airport
A fresh burst of flavor has arrived in Citrus County with the opening of Tequila Garden Flavors Of Mexico—and it’s already turning heads.
Tucked in the heart of Inverness, this vibrant new spot delivers more than just a meal—it’s an experience. From the moment you walk in, you’re greeted by a lively atmosphere that feels both festive and welcoming, making it the perfect stop whether you’re traveling through or looking for your next favorite local hangout.
The menu celebrates authentic Mexican flavors with dishes that are as bold as they are satisfying. Every bite reflects a commitment to quality and tradition, bringing a true taste of Mexico right to Florida’s west coast.
What really sets Tequila Garden apart, though, is the people. The staff goes above and beyond to make guests feel at home, offering friendly, attentive service that elevates the entire dining experience.
For Thumbs Up Buttercup, this one’s an easy recommendation: if you’re anywhere near Inverness, make the stop. Great food, great vibes, and even better hospitality—Tequila Garden Flavors of Mexico is already a standout. 🌮✨
Hilton Garden Inn Daytona Beach Airport
Hilton Garden Inn Daytona Beach Airport
Hilton Garden Inn Daytona Beach Airport
For Thumbs Up Buttercup, finding a stay that feels just right can make all the difference—and Hilton Garden Inn Daytona Beach Airport delivers exactly that.
Perfectly located for both convenience and comfort, this hotel makes traveling through Daytona Beach effortless. Whether you're in town for a quick getaway or passing through, its proximity to key spots around the area makes it an ideal home base.
From the moment you check in, it’s clear this isn’t just another hotel stay. The entire experience is elevated by a team that genuinely cares. The staff consistently goes above and beyond, not only meeting expectations but anticipating the needs of every guest with warmth and professionalism.
The accommodations themselves strike that perfect balance—comfortable, clean, and thoughtfully designed with everything you need to relax and recharge after a day out.
For Thumbs Up Buttercup, this stay earns high marks across the board. When a place combines great location, exceptional service, and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s an easy decision: next time Daytona calls, this is where we’ll be staying again. 🌴✨
Houligan's Speedway
Hilton Garden Inn Daytona Beach Airport
Houligan's Speedway
After a long, sun-soaked day at the ball field, there’s no better way to unwind than a stop at Houligan's—and for Thumbs Up Buttercup, it was exactly the cool-down we needed.
From the moment you walk in, Houligan’s delivers that perfect blend of laid-back comfort and energetic sports-bar vibe. It’s the kind of place where you can kick back, catch a game, and instantly feel at ease.
The menu hits all the right notes. Whether you're diving into flavorful appetizers, hearty sandwiches, or their crowd-pleasing wings, every dish brings satisfying, no-fuss goodness that really hits the spot after a long day.
And let’s not forget the drinks—cold, refreshing, and just what you need to recharge. Pair that with a lively atmosphere filled with fellow sports fans, and you’ve got a winning combination.
For Thumbs Up Buttercup, Houligan’s is a home run. Great food, great drinks, and a welcoming vibe that keeps you coming back for more. 🍻⚾
Outback Steakhouse
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store
Houligan's Speedway
After a long evening cheering on college baseball at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Thumbs Up Buttercup found the perfect way to close out the night—with a hearty, satisfying meal at Outback Steakhouse.
Arriving late in the evening, we were among the last guests in the restaurant—but you’d never know it from the service. The staff didn’t slow down one bit, continuing to deliver attentive, friendly care that made us feel just as valued as the first customers of the day. That kind of consistency says a lot.
And then there’s the food. Exactly what you want after a full day and night out—warm, filling, and above-and-beyond delicious. From the first bite to the last, everything hit the mark and left us completely satisfied.
The relaxed, welcoming atmosphere made it easy to unwind, reflect on a great day at the ballpark, and enjoy one last highlight before heading in.
For Thumbs Up Buttercup, this stop was the perfect ending to a packed day—great food, outstanding service, and a reminder that even late nights can come with exceptional experiences. 🥩✨
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store
After a long day of travel making our way to Daytona, Thumbs Up Buttercup was more than ready for a comforting, satisfying meal—and there was no better place to stop than Cracker Barrel. Known for its home-style cooking and welcoming atmosphere, it’s always a go-to for us, no matter where the road takes us.
From the moment we walked in, we were reminded why we love Cracker Barrel so much. The menu is packed with choices for every craving, whether you're in the mood for breakfast at any time of day or a hearty country dinner. After a long trip, having so many comforting options made it easy to find exactly what we needed.
Our meal did not disappoint. The portions were generous—so much so that we had plenty left over to take back to the hotel, which is always a bonus after a long travel day. Every bite hit the spot and gave us that warm, home-cooked feeling that Cracker Barrel is known for.
What truly made the experience stand out, though, was the service. Our waitress was absolutely incredible—attentive, friendly, and genuinely caring. She went above and beyond to make sure everything was perfect, and that level of service made our stop even more memorable.
Sometimes it’s those simple, last-minute decisions that turn into the best parts of a trip. For Thumbs Up Buttercup, this Cracker Barrel stop was exactly what we needed—great food, amazing service, and the perfect way to wind down before heading to the hotel and getting some well-deserved rest.
Utopia of the Seas
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store
Thumbs Up Buttercup would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the incredible staff at Port Canaveral and the amazing crew aboard Utopia of the Seas for an unforgettable experience.
From the very moment we arrived at Port Canaveral, the professionalism and efficiency of the staff stood out. The transition from car to ship was seamless, organized, and stress-free. Every team member we encountered was friendly, helpful, and welcoming—setting the tone for what would become an outstanding journey.
Once aboard Utopia of the Seas, that same level of excellence continued. The crew truly made us feel like part of a family. Their attention to detail, positive energy, and commitment to guest satisfaction did not go unnoticed. Whether it was dining, entertainment, or simply navigating the ship, every interaction reflected pride and passion in what they do.
The service throughout the entire trip was nothing short of exceptional. From the dining staff who delivered amazing meals with a smile, to the housekeeping team who kept everything spotless, to the entertainment crew who made every day exciting—each person played a part in creating lasting memories for Thumbs Up Buttercup.
Travel is about experiences, and this one will not be forgotten. The teamwork between the port staff and the ship’s crew created a smooth, enjoyable, and truly special adventure from start to finish.
Thank you again to everyone at Port Canaveral and aboard Utopia of the Seas. Thumbs Up Buttercup is grateful for the hospitality, the memories, and the first-class treatment. We look forward to sailing with you again soon! 🚢👏
Thumbs Up Buttercup Day 4
Thumbs Up Buttercup Day 4
Thumbs Up Buttercup Day 4 was all about good eats and great vibes at The Mason Jar! 🤠🍴 We enjoyed some amazing country-style comfort food that truly hit the spot. From the rich flavors to the hearty portions, every bite felt like a taste of home. The country atmosphere made it even better, with that warm, down-home feel that makes you want to sit back and stay awhile. And let’s not forget the hand-crafted drinks — perfectly mixed and full of flavor! It was a night full of great food, great drinks, and great memories.
Thumbs Up Buttercup Day 3
Thumbs Up Buttercup Day 4
Thumbs Up Buttercup Day 3 was one for the books as we enjoyed an unforgettable evening dining at 150 Central Park! From the moment we sat down, the service was absolutely amazing—attentive, welcoming, and top-notch all the way around. The handmade drinks were crafted to perfection and paired beautifully with every course. Each dish that came out was presented with care and bursting with flavor, making every bite better than the last. It was truly a five-star experience and another reminder of why cruise dining is always something special!
Thumbs Up Buttercup – Day2 Dinning Recap:
Thumbs Up Buttercup – Day2 Dinning Recap:
Today wrapped up with an amazing dinner at the Hook Restaurant on the ship, and wow—what a treat! The seafood dishes were absolutely to die for, perfectly prepared and full of flavor. From the first bite to the last, it was a dining experience that truly stood out and made our day even more memorable. Another delicious thumbs up from Buttercup! 👍🌊🍽️
Thumbs Up Buttercup – Day 1
Thumbs Up Buttercup – Day2 Dinning Recap:
Day 1 dinner at the Royal Railway — Utopia Station was absolutely fantastic! The experience was very unique and unlike anything we’ve done before. The staff was amazing—friendly, attentive, and made the whole evening even more special. On top of that, the food was very good and beautifully done. A perfect way to kick off our cruise adventure 🚆✨🍽️
💙 From Thumbs Up Buttercup 💙
To our Explorer of the Seas Family — thank you for an amazing, positive, and unforgettable cruise. From the crew who made us feel like family to the fellow guests who shared smiles, laughs, and great vibes, this voyage was truly special. The memories made onboard will stay with us long after we’ve sailed home. Until we meet again… thumbs up and smooth seas always! 🚢👍
La Cantina in Port Canaveral
We had a fantastic experience at La Cantina in Port Canaveral—the food was absolutely delicious and full of fresh, bold flavors. Even better was the staff, who were friendly, attentive, and made us feel welcome from the moment we arrived. It’s the perfect spot to relax, enjoy a great meal, and kick off a cruise or a day by the port. 🌮🍹