I don't think there are dedicated karaoke bars - they are multipurpose venues. It is impossible to eradicate the smell of smoke in a short period of time for a cigar venue to be used for anything else.
If you are going to be parking a car, last month there was no parking available at the terminal for our cruise. They were handing people a map to somewhere and to take a shuttle back, although you could drop luggage off.
Other than Queen Mary, not sure how close anything else would be for food.
Layers are your friend. and windproof. a waterproof shell. Gloves. Forget cotton - when wet it provides no insulation. Wool and synthetics are preferred. A ski mask/balaclava is useful. You can get electronic, rechargeable hand warmers to keep in pockets for use.
I didn't have special shoes, but did have heavy wool socks.
All cruise lines sell illusions. But to belabor a little more - the FAS is "optional", but it is still built into the price many pay. You can get a better price.
^^^ This. So much is subjective. Don't pick or avoid a cruise line because of an opinion that is not yours. People can cherry pick what they like or dislike and paint a biased picture.
With Princess, you also get bottled water, room service, unlimited internet, and more. I do like that on Princess you can get edible food without having to go to a specialty restaurant.
but not insignificant. It could be a one off for Glory, or a mistake, or?
The Valor FT were from February and the Glory were from August. Both ships home port in New Orleans.