Mary229

The current argument is because the OP and a few others want to “teach the cruise management a lesson” by removing tips. The logic has been very convoluted. I agree they should quote prices in total - fare, taxes and tips.

It looks like you found your new cruise line! They are expanding and there should be lots of options.

Just back from the 22 day Antarctica cruise and there were no deviations in the Antarctic itinerary

Here is the website https://www.westmarkhotels.com/denali-food/ I ate exclusively at Karstens and their meals were generously portioned and not unreasonably priced. The meal plans were only suitable for those who eat three full meals a day. There are also some pizza and burger joints across the street for other options.

Tubing, swimming, hiking

If I were to return to Jamaica I would only take a large bus ship excursion. I took my nieces and they wanted to go to the falls, I took them on a ship excursion. After driving through the city and countryside I thought better of recreating in the river or any body of water. I know we are talking criminal safety but I would also be concerned about hygiene

That is interesting that you have never been to the MDR. Just interesting 🤔. I find MDR is if nothing else “portion control” for me. Enjoy.

They will find something to get that tax deduction

Those runs are to keep the ships from being idle and to capture the vacation market. I have learned that even if I want to go to those locales to book 14 days minimum and not back to back. From guidance given on the forum I do look at other lines especially the ones @Hlitner and @cruisemom42 suggest but I don’t find the itineraries I am looking for. I will be giving Princess another try in 2025 since they are now doing Transatlantic cruises to and from Texas . I liked Princess before they went all in on mega ships, ditto NCL.

I somewhat agree. Some of us what so much from a cruise line and really don’t want to pay for the other stuff, we like the menu of options, we like the customization. The mode of travel is key, sailing is so much better than flying. I think both @Hiltner and I agree that HAL has historically had some great itineraries and that emphasis is their strength. And that is why he continues to participate in this forum. If they build more ships I would like to see more ships designed for the long haul, distinctive itineraries. Those ships are generally smaller so they can access more ports

The crepe and ice cream lady. I don’t know how she keeps her smile all day.

They don’t allow the upgrade prior to boarding.

Thanks, I am training for a new career and need the premium .

Yes. You can have them apply all of them if you think you are going to spend them. I hand them my phone opened to my digital wallet where they are stored OR you can buy OBC in advance

Does anyone know the cost to upgrade HIA surf to premium? I will be doing 35 days but I can extrapolate 😉

You and I have had very different conversations with crew. I know crew members who have been with HAL for over 20 years and I mean bartenders, stewards and waiters and they all seemed intelligent and sane, I don’t think they would be there for that long of service if they were being abused.

You can arrive as you described understanding you may have to wait until the ship is fully cleared. Have fun

Yes there is a difference and there is a difference between ports. Since you indicate you have priority it is pretty much as you describe. Check your boarding pass of check in time.

I do think they will be raising the minimum price covered by the HIA but may also be lowering the number of drinks or perhaps excluding things like coffee. The coffee bars are proving very popular. As a recent 4 star and now getting 1/2 price on wine packages, 1/2 price on coffee and 1/2 price on dining the HIA has lost its allure. I am sure that is the same for many and they are going to have to change things.

I think the formula is complex. Regardless the casino discount has paid us back many times before. Our discount is generally equivalent to HIA and DH likes HIA so usually chooses that instead of the cost savings. As a recent 4 star I am trying to convince him otherwise🙄

In January I noticed they were rotating various happy hour pricing schemes. I assumed they were testing which actually produces the most revenue.

The customers only choice is to buy the product or not. Pay the toll or not.

Guests are responsible to pay for everything, absolutely everything. That is how profitable businesses operate. No profits, no business

Perfect time of year to scour the online clearance bins for lightweight cashmere “sweaters”. Those $40 thin cashmere sweaters are perfect for wearing as thermals.

With packing only carry on craze you can now almost guarantee a free courtesy carryon check at the airport. Yes, the carry on thing is officially a craze now - I am calling it😂. If I am traveling for 6 to 8 weeks I want some variety and comforts.