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Cruise Conference Planning For Your Association

Topics in Internal Medicine, Diabetes, and Neurology

7-Night Western Caribbean & CocoCay Cruise
Round-trip Miami, Florida
March 03 - 10, 2024
Royal Caribbean's <em>Oasis of the Seas</em>
Royal Caribbean's Oasis of the Seas
16 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™
16 ANCC Contact Hours
4 Hours of Pharmacology for Nurse Practitioners
Course Fees
$995.00 for Physicians
$795.00 for Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, Pharmacists
$595.00 for Nurses

Target Audience
Physicians, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, Pharmacists, Nurses
IMPORTANT NOTE: All conferees, their families, and guests must book their cruise within the University at Sea® meeting group through University at Sea® at 800-926-3775 or by registering online. This ensures our company can provide conference services and complimentary social amenities to all meeting participants and their guests. Thank you for your cooperation.
Faculty

Shakaib "Shak" Rehman, MD, SCH, FACP, FAACH

Shakaib "Shak" Rehman, MD, SCH, FACP, FAACH
Associate Chief of Staff for Education Phoenix VA Healthcare System Chair & Professor, Department of Biomedical Informatics Professor of Internal Medicine University of Arizona College of Medicine–Phoenix Phoenix, AZ Dr. Rehman is the Associate Chief of Staff for Education & Founding Director of Academic Primary Care Clinic at the Phoenix VA Healthcare Systems, where he is also the Chair of Continuing Professional Education (CPE), High Reliability Organization (HRO) and Schmitz Practitioner Awards Committees. He has founded the Biomedical Informatics Fellowship & currently serving as the Chair/Professor of Department of Biomedical Informatics (BMI), Professor of Internal Medicine & Professor of Humanism at the University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix (UACOM-P). He also Chairs the UACOM-P Graduate Medical Education Committee. He has served as the President of the Society of General Internal Medicine (SGIM)-Mountain Region; Vice- President of the Academy on Communications in Healthcare (ACH); Conference Chair, International Conference on Communication in Healthcare (ICCH); Chair of Practice & Policy committee of European & International Association on Communication in Healthcare (EACH), Chair of American College of Physicians (ACP) Arizona Chapter’s Health and Public Policy committee (HPPC); founding member of ACP Council of Young Physicians (CYP); & Chair of ACP-SC Chapter CYP & HPPC and Chair of CME committee of Arizona Medical Association (ArMA). Dr. Rehman is a national expert in “Healthcare Communication” and “Hypertension”. He has been invited to teach courses/workshops around the country as well as in many countries outside the USA. He was invited to give the Commencement Address on the Graduation Ceremony of Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) MD class of 2013. He has been awarded the Master of the American College of Physicians (MACP) (highest award), Fellow of Academy on Communication in Healthcare (FACH), Fellow of International Association on Communication in Healthcare (FIACH), American Medical Informatics Association (FAMIA), award-winning member of the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society and the Gold Humanism Honor Society. American Society of Hypertension designated him a Clinical Specialist in Hypertension. He is a certified Mentor for the Department of Veterans Affairs. He has received numerous awards including American Medical Women Association (AMWA) Exceptional Mentor Award, Medical University of South Carolina Best Mentor & Teacher Award, Best Doctors in America ® Award, David E. Rogers Teaching Award from Society of General Internal Medicine twice, Department of Veterans Affair Excellence in Medical Education Award, American College of Physicians (ACP) Young Physician Award, ACP James A. McFarland Award in Excellence in Teaching and Humanism, ACP Laureate Award, ACP Arizona Chapter Leader of the Year Award and Outstanding International Medical Graduate (IMG) award. He has been awarded the Best Faculty Award and inducted in the Alpha Omega Alpha (AOA) Medical Honor Society & Gold Humanism Honor Society. He has received the Phoenix VA Healthcare Systems Gerald Schmitz Award. Dr. Rehman has participated in many landmark research trials as the VA Principal Investigator; examples include ACCORD, SPRINT, ACCOMPLISH, ONTARGET, PROMINENT etc. He has published hundreds of articles and book chapters. He is reviewer for many scientific journals such as Annals of Internal Medicine, Journal of General Internal Medicine, and American Journal of Hypertension etc. He is the Associate Editor of Medical Encounter and was the editor of Journal Scan.

Benn E. Smith, MD, FAAN, FANA

Benn E. Smith, MD, FAAN, FANA
Mayo Clinic Emeritus Staff Director, American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN) Former Director EMG Laboratory, Sensory Laboratory, and Neuromuscular Fellowship Program at Mayo Clinic Arizona Scottsdale, AZ Benn E. Smith, MD, FAAN, FANA, is a member of the Mayo Clinic Emeritus Staff and serves on the Board of Directors for the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN). Dr. Smith served on the Mayo Clinic Arizona (MCA) Neurology Faculty for over three decades, having joined in 1990 following the completion of his fellowship training in EMG and Peripheral Nerve at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. During his tenure in the Neuromuscular Division, he held several leadership positions, including Director of the EMG Laboratory, Director of the Sensory Laboratory, and Director of the Neuromuscular Fellowship Program. In 2025, Dr. Smith transitioned to Emeritus Staff at Mayo Clinic. He continues to practice part-time, performing electromyography (EMG) consultations in the Arizona community.

Our staff can assist you with all your travel arrangements.

Questions? Call us at 800-525-9696.
We can assist you with all your travel arrangements. We'd be happy to help you plan your flights, hotels or tours before and/or after your cruise conference.

Cruise Itinerary

DATE PORT OF CALL ARRIVE DEPART
Sun Mar 03 Miami, Florida
- 4:30 pm
Mon Mar 04 Nassau, Bahamas
8:00 am 5:00 pm
Tue Mar 05 Coco Cay, Bahamas
7:00 am 5:00 pm
Wed Mar 06 *At Sea - Cruising
Meeting 8:30AM - 12:30PM, 1:30PM - 4:30PM
- -
Thu Mar 07 Labadee, Haiti
Meeting 3:30PM - 5:30PM
7:00 am 4:00 pm
Fri Mar 08 Falmouth, Jamaica
9:30 am 4:00 pm
Sat Mar 09 *At Sea - Cruising
Meeting 8:30AM - 12:30PM, 1:30PM - 4:30PM
- -
Sun Mar 10 Miami, Florida
6:00 am -
*Tentative course schedule, actual class times may differ.

Ports of Call

Miami, Florida

Miami is frequently misunderstood as merely a neon-lit transit hub for Caribbean voyages. However, to bypass this city is to miss one of the most culturally distinct and energetic metropolises in North America. Miami functions less like a standard American city and more like a capital of the Americas—a sophisticated, humid, and vibrant crossroads where the Global South meets the U.S. mainland. For the discerning traveler, we strongly advise arriving at least two days prior to embarkation. This buffer not only mitigates travel delays but allows you to acclimate to the tropical rhythm and explore a destination that offers far more than just cruise terminals and nightclubs.

The Neighborhoods: A Study in Contrasts - Miami is a collection of distinct enclaves, each with a unique personality. Understanding the geography is key to a successful visit, as traffic can be significant.
  • South Beach (The Art Deco District): This is the Miami of popular imagination. While Ocean Drive can be crowded and tourist-centric, its architectural significance is genuine. The Art Deco Historic District contains the world's largest concentration of 1930s resort architecture. Our honest advice: Visit in the early morning (before 10:00 AM). The light is perfect for photography, the streets are quiet, and you can appreciate the pastel geometry without the overwhelming crowds. For the beach itself, head to the "South of Fifth" area for a more refined, quieter experience, or north to Mid-Beach for wider sands.
  • Little Havana: Just west of downtown, this neighborhood is the emotional heart of the Cuban diaspora. While tour buses frequent Calle Ocho, the area retains an authentic soul. The experience here is sensory: the slap of dominoes at Máximo Gómez Park, the scent of tobacco, and the omnipresent music. Do not look for fine dining here; look for authenticity. Order a *cortadito* (sweetened espresso with steamed milk) from a *ventanita* (walk-up window) and watch the neighborhood wake up. It is a simple, inexpensive ritual that connects you to the local culture better than any guided tour.
  • Wynwood & The Design District: These adjacent neighborhoods represent Miami's rapid evolution. Wynwood, formerly a warehouse district, is now an open-air museum of street art. The Wynwood Walls are the curated center, but the surrounding streets offer blocks of stunning, large-scale murals. Just north lies the Design District, a sharp contrast of ultra-luxury retail and modern architecture. Even if you aren't shopping for high-end fashion, the area is worth a walk for its public art installations and some of the city's best chef-driven restaurants.
  • Coconut Grove & Coral Gables: For those seeking a break from the high energy, these southern neighborhoods offer lush canopies of banyan trees and historic charm. Coral Gables, built in the 1920s, feels like a Mediterranean dream with its plazas and fountains. The Venetian Pool, carved from a coral rock quarry, is a unique historic swimming hole worth seeing.
Cultural & Historic Highlights

If you visit only one paid attraction, make it the Vizcaya Museum & Gardens. Built by industrialist James Deering in 1916, this Italian Renaissance-style villa on Biscayne Bay is a stunning preservation of the Gilded Age. The interiors are opulent, but the formal gardens—fighting back the encroaching mangroves—are the true highlight. It provides a serene counter-narrative to the modern glass skyline.

For nature lovers, Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden in Coral Gables offers a world-class collection of rare tropical plants. It is a sprawling, peaceful expanse that feels miles away from the urban core.

The Culinary Landscape - Miami’s food scene has matured significantly, recently earning its first Michelin Guide.
  • Stone Crabs: If you are visiting between mid-October and mid-May, Florida Stone Crab is the regional delicacy. Joe’s Stone Crab in South Beach is the institution. It does not take reservations for the main dining room, and wait times can be excessive. Tip: Go for lunch to avoid the longest queues, or visit Joe’s Take Away next door for the same food in a casual setting (and take it to the beach).
  • Cuban & Latin: Beyond the famous Versailles (which is great for the atmosphere), try Sanguich de Miami on Calle Ocho for an elevated take on the classic Cuban sandwich. The city also boasts exceptional Peruvian cuisine; look for fresh ceviche and *lomo saltado* in the Brickell or Wynwood areas.
A Suggested Unhurried Itinerary (Pre-Cruise)

This two-day plan focuses on quality over quantity, minimizing cross-town traffic.
  • Day 1: The Mainland Mix (Culture & Art)
  • Morning: Start in Little Havana. Grab a coffee and a *pastelito* (guava pastry) at a walk-up window. Walk Calle Ocho to see the Domino Park and cigar rollers.
  • Late Morning/Lunch: Take a ride-share to Wynwood. Walk the mural-lined streets. Have a casual lunch at a taco spot or Asian food hall in the area.
  • Afternoon: Head north to the Design District. Browse the architecture and public art. If you enjoy museums, the Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA) is here and free to enter.
  • Evening: Dinner in Brickell or Downtown. Enjoy the skyline views by the Miami River.
  • Day 2: Coastal History & Elegance
  • Morning: Vizcaya Museum & Gardens. Arrive right at opening (9:30 AM) to beat the heat and crowds. Spend 2-3 hours exploring the house and grounds.
  • Lunch: Head to Coconut Grove for a relaxed lunch under the tree canopy. It’s a short drive from Vizcaya.
  • Afternoon: Transit to South Beach. Walk the Art Deco district. If you want beach time, rent a chair and umbrella South of Fifth.
  • Evening: Enjoy a seafood dinner in the South of Fifth neighborhood, which offers excellent dining without the chaotic noise of central Ocean Drive.
Practical Considerations for the Traveler
  • Transportation: Miami is a sprawling car city. Public transit (Metrorail/Metromover) is useful only within the downtown/Brickell core. For everywhere else, Uber or Lyft are essential. If you are staying in South Beach, you can walk locally, but you will need a car to reach the mainland.
  • Traffic: Traffic can be severe, particularly crossing the causeways between Miami Beach and the mainland during rush hour. Always pad your travel time by 20-30 minutes.
  • Weather: It is tropical. Sudden, intense rain showers are common, especially in summer and fall. They usually pass quickly. Pack breathable fabrics and a compact umbrella.
  • The Brightline: If you are combining your cruise with a stay in Orlando, West Palm Beach, or Fort Lauderdale, the Brightline high-speed train is a game-changer. It connects these cities directly to downtown Miami in comfort, avoiding the stress of I-95.
By treating Miami as a destination rather than a doorway, you add a rich, multi-cultural layer to your vacation before you even step aboard the ship.

Nassau, Bahamas

Nassau is a bustling, high-energy hub that requires a strategic approach to appreciate fully. The immediate port area is often congested and commercialized; your best experience lies in navigating beyond the souvenir stalls to find the island’s genuine character.

For a meaningful dose of history, a short walk leads to the Queen's Staircase, a remarkable 66-step passage carved from solid limestone by enslaved people in the 18th century. It ascends to Fort Fincastle, offering commanding views of the island and a quiet respite from the downtown noise. For a more refined local taste, the John Watling's Distillery on the historic Buena Vista Estate provides tours and tastings in a setting that feels worlds away from the cruise terminal.

If a classic beach day is your priority, we advise looking beyond the nearest options, which can be crowded and underwhelming. A taxi to the expansive sands of Cable Beach or, for a more curated experience, a day pass to one of the major resorts on Paradise Island will provide the tranquil, turquoise-water escape you envision. These passes often grant access to pristine private beaches and high-quality amenities, turning a potentially hectic port day into a truly relaxing one.

For the most authentic local flavor, take a taxi to Arawak Cay, known as 'The Fish Fry.' This is where Bahamians go for fresh conch salad, fried snapper, and a vibrant, casual atmosphere. It offers a true taste of the islands that the port-side buffets simply cannot match.

Coco Cay, Bahamas

Perfect Day at CocoCay is Royal Caribbean's private Bahamian island, engineered entirely for high-quality leisure. The destination is smartly zoned by energy level, allowing you to dial in exactly the type of beach day you want.

For adrenaline seekers, the upcharge Thrill Waterpark houses North America's tallest waterslide, Daredevil's Peak, alongside massive wave pools. If you want a lively, complimentary resort-pool atmosphere, head to Oasis Lagoon, the Caribbean's largest freshwater pool, complete with a swim-up bar and DJ.

If you prefer a traditional beach day without additional fees, Chill Island and South Beach provide ample loungers, umbrellas, and calm, clear waters. Complimentary dining is available throughout the island at venues like Skipper's Grill and the Chill Grill.

For a more sophisticated experience away from the crowds, two premium upcharge areas stand out. The Coco Beach Club offers an oceanfront infinity pool, elevated dining, and the Bahamas' first overwater cabanas. Alternatively, Hideaway Beach is an adults-only (18+) zone featuring a private cove, heated pool, and dedicated dining venues like Slice of Paradise.

The island features a deep-water pier, meaning no tender boats are required—you can walk right off the ship. Shipboard Wi-Fi and beverage packages seamlessly extend to the island, making logistics effortless.

At Sea - Cruising

Labadee, Haiti

Labadee is a private coastal peninsula offering a meticulously managed day of sun and adventure. The setting is undeniably beautiful, with lush, green hillsides meeting turquoise water. You can choose your pace: relax on the sands of Columbus Cove, or seek out the thrills of Adrenaline Beach. The main attractions are purpose-built, including the Dragon’s Breath Zipline, which offers spectacular views as you soar over the bay, and a unique alpine coaster that winds through the tropical vegetation. While there are artisan markets with local crafts, it's important to set expectations: this is a self-contained resort experience. It provides a secure and scenic beach day but does not offer access to or an authentic cultural immersion into the rest of Haiti.

Falmouth, Jamaica

Falmouth offers a tale of two distinct experiences. The purpose-built cruise port is a modern, clean, and secure village of shops and cafes—a comfortable and familiar starting point. Just beyond its gates lies the authentic, historic town of Falmouth, which boasts some of the Caribbean's best-preserved Georgian architecture. While historically significant, the town can feel intense for independent explorers; we find a guided walking tour is the best way to appreciate its rich past without feeling overwhelmed.

Frankly, Falmouth's greatest strength is its strategic location as a launchpad for Jamaica's iconic North Coast adventures. This is your best port for the classic bamboo raft trip down the gentle Martha Brae River—a truly serene experience just minutes away. It also provides excellent access to the lush Good Hope Estate for zip-lining and river tubing, or for the bucket-list climb up the world-famous Dunn's River Falls. Our advice is to view Falmouth not as the primary destination, but as your well-organized gateway to the quintessential Jamaican experiences you've been dreaming of.

Our staff can assist you with all your travel arrangements.

Questions? Call us at 800-525-9696.
We can assist you with all your travel arrangements. We'd be happy to help you plan your flights, hotels or tours before and/or after your cruise conference.
SHORE EXCURSIONS
Please note that our shore excursions are operated separately and
independently of those offered by the cruise line.
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