Raft and beach ball suggestion

[farjar]

Before a cruise we buy some cheap, inflatable rafts and beach balls but leave them in their packages and pack them in our suitcases. Wal-Mart sells the rafts for less than $2 and the beach balls for $1. On a day we're getting off the ship and going to a beach, we take them with us. We blow them up when we get there, use them, then give them to local kids before we return to the ship. We're able to enjoy using them, but not have to try to bring them back aboard. It's inexpensive, easy, brings smiles to the local kids and makes us feel good. A win/win suggestion.

[Azure Moon]

That's a wonderful idea and a very cool thing to do with them when you're done!

Thanks for mentioning it.

[Cotton]

Excellent idea! First time I've heard of anyone doing that, and what a great gift to the island children.:)

[pboedeker]

We've used 72" Inflatable Doodles and they work terrific. They are inflatable "funnoodles" and pack ultra flat in your suitcase. Saves us lots of money buy not renting the floating mats at beaches!

 

Google: 72 Inflatable Doodles for sellers

[jimswims]

Before a cruise we buy some cheap, inflatable rafts and beach balls but leave them in their packages and pack them in our suitcases. Wal-Mart sells the rafts for less than $2 and the beach balls for $1. On a day we're getting off the ship and going to a beach, we take them with us. We blow them up when we get there, use them, then give them to local kids before we return to the ship. We're able to enjoy using them, but not have to try to bring them back aboard. It's inexpensive, easy, brings smiles to the local kids and makes us feel good. A win/win suggestion.

 

We were with friends who had this idea and did this. It worked out great for everyone and our kids met some new friends who lived on the island.

[sdirector77]

We have done this many times and also purchase some small items at the dollar store and when approached by the island children selling items (which I usually buy) we also give them one of the items. They are so thrilled....