Sailing away at sea on a cruise ship is one of the most sought-after ways to unwind. Many cruisers treat themselves to a luxury suite with a private balcony hot tub, offering peace, privacy, and a break from the crowded (and supposedly dirtier) tubs on deck. But think again. Private balcony hot tubs may look like the ultimate indulgence, but according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), they’re among the dirtiest spots on cruise ships.

Forget the communal bathrooms or buffet tongs—your personal spa might be teeming with bacteria. These small, loosely regulated tubs create a perfect storm for germs, leaving unsuspecting passengers vulnerable to serious infections. Earlier this year, Royal Caribbean even emailed guests on Symphony of the Seas with a warning about poss

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