43mpd902

5 hours ago, Biker19 said:

New class of ship for RCI coming out in '22.

Thanks for the info. Had not heard about the new class yet.

Following.... On Harmony in January. Can someone explain what ICON is?

Thanks for the information. It sounds like it may currently be a timing issue and rates may change. I am a planner and a cheapskate so I am always watching and looking for deals and lower rates.

So I have booked a Jan 2020 cruise on HOS for a father/daughter vacation. I have been looking though the cruise planner and noticed that all prices for drink packages, dining, and excursions seem to be standard price with no discounts. Last year my wife and I sailed on the FOS and we had discounted excursion in the cruise planner right away. Is this something strictly with the Oasis class ships, is it simply to early to look at the planner for any deals? Not sure why things are different. My sister is sailing LOS later this year and her cruise planner currently shows discounts. Looking for any advice and assistance in this matter.

Thanks 

On 12/17/2018 at 10:19 AM, EeyoreRN said:

Thank you so much for taking the time to write this review!  We are sailing on Freedom in May with the opposite itinerary and are looking forward to it, but a little hesitantly because of all the reviews like this. My thought is that since we have 5 ports and only 1 sea day...how bad could it be?  I guess we will find out! I purchased signature lunch on embarkation day and 3 night specialty package but now I am wondering if we should have done the ultimate dining package when it was deeply discounted. This would be another way to avoid pushy crowds...

 

Can you please tell us what time you arrived at the Pan Am Pier? My plan was to get there between 10:30 and 11 to arrive ahead of the chaos.

 

Thanks again for your time and thoughts.

 

Eeyore

 

 

Having just got off the 12/2 sailing on Freedom, I have no complaints.  If you arrive around 1100 am you should be able to get on quickly. We were on deck 9 and checked our luggage quickly. Took less then 30 minutes to check luggage and be on the ship.

As far as the other passengers, I will reiterate what I did on my trip review. You are on vacation on a ship with a population of a small town. If you are more focused on what others are doing versus having a good time on vacation, you should never go on a cruise. Like many small towns, there will be people you bump into that you will not like. Ignore them and have a fun vacation. Your frustration with them is not going to affect them, it will just affect you. Worry about yourself and enjoy YOUR vacation. While I only observed a few instances described before, I would rather be with people trying to have fun in their own way verses the belligerent falling down drunk who pushed everyone around, which we observed nd was not a "local". 

Cruises are great and you will decide whether you enjoy it our not.

Sorry for it being upside down. I tried to fix it but it did not want to cooperate.

As promised, here are the cruise compasses from our sailing along with the port shopping guides.

Freedom Cruise Compass 12-2-18.pdf

Freedom Port Shopping Guide.pdf

St. Thomas

Woke up to another wonderful day in the Caribbean. Had a little rain over night and coming into port but cleared up by the time we went into port. When we got to Windjammer a new town emerged. Was pretty cool.

Today was a make your own adventure day. And based on this trip so far, who knows what will happen. We had a 1030 Snuba Excursion scheduled at Coral World. Upon arriving in St. Thomas, we hopped a cab to go get our rental car for the day.

Today's rental- Avis near the Seaborn terminal at 3400 Veterans Dr. Despite our cab driver dropping us four blocks in the wrong direction, getting there was not to bad. Getting the car was a different story. Check in went really fast, getting the car went really slow. I reserved a Jeep for the day only to be told that the Jeep was not returned. So we were being upgraded in our reservation. Upgraded awesome. Maybe a nice SUV, a convertible. Or even a Mercedes. Nope a minivan. Upgraded to a minivan. I have driven minivans for almost 20 yrs. This was not an upgrade. But at least we were getting our car quickly. So I thought. Apparently the vehicle and the keys were at the airport and had to be delivered to us. 30 minutes later. We had our car. 

Up next was a twisting and turning journey on the wrong side of the road up and down mountains on very narrow streets. Needless to say there were lots of gasps and oh my gosh and slow down coming from the vehicle. But we made it safely with no accidents. And like any good traveler. I learned and brought a spare battery to charge my phone for GPS.

Once at Coral World, we met with our dive master Sonny. Not sure if that is his title but we are going to call him that. He advised the currents and the weather were not exactly conducive for Snuba today. He advised that they had another adventure we could take part in call Sea Trek. He advised you wore what looked like a divers helmet and simply took a walk along the sea floor. No swimming necessary. After some extreme hesitation from some in the group, we were a go. The only catch was the tour started at 11 am. Not a problem, we could do that. It gave use time to explore the park before our trek. So off the the aquariums and bird cage. For some reason the birds thought it would be a good idea to jump on me and then poop on me.

What a joy. So after shacking those little buggers off it was time to change for our trek along the sea floor. Unfortunately no pictures of that right now, but it was quite the experience. The Trek cost about $75 each and was worth it for the experience.

After the trek, we headed to do something more normal for us folks from Minnesota. Time to head to the beach and burn like a pot roast. And burn I did. Really bad idea to not use sunscreen. Spend sometime at Magens Bay Beach. Cost $22 for four of us and parking. Not to bad. Saw some fish, swam alittle, and met a really nice old guy from NY who liked to talk. Also just about dive bombed by some pelicans. What is with the birds on this island? After about 2 hrs at the beach it was off to Drakes Deat and Mountain Top Store. Got some great shots of the island and neighboring islands. Would have been nice to have more time but had a ship to catch. So off we went back down the twisting and turning roads back to Avis. Let me tell. GPS is nice, but someone needs to tell it to pick the neighborhoods you travel through better. Was a little iffy on some of the streets we traveled down. But again we made it no problem. Dropped off the car and made it to port with 1/2 hr to spare. 

Once we got back on the ship, it was time to show the stupid rock climbing wall who was boss. So took my Bro up with me and went for my second attempt on the wall. I dropped back one level and scaled that sucker like any good fat man- slow and steady. But in the end, I made it. So if I can do it anyone can do it.

After conquering the wall it was off to our last meal in the MDR. We said goodbye to our waitstaff one last time and had one last quality meal. I opted for the Coconut Shrimp and Turkey Dinner. I made sure Royston stopped bringing me the junior portions of the shrimp and gave me a portion fitting of a "rock climber."

Dinner was again delightful and I the only complaint was it was over.😢

We headed back to our room to pack and get ready for the Farewell show, Once upon a Time. The production was well done and ranked right up there for best production of the week. After the show, back to packing and to turn in for an early morning. Interestingly enough we seemed to have more room in our bags with less weight. Not sure the same can be said about me after this week. Oh well. New years is coming and I need a resolution. Off to bed and the most dreaded day of the vacation. THE END OF IT!

FAREWELL FREEDOM-

Woke this morning with what can only be described as a chest cold, the chills, and extreme sunburn. Going to be a fun ride home. We did the Self Assist departure. If you can, you must do this. We were off the ship in no time and off to get our rental car since our flight did not leave until 415 pm. As we left the pier by cab, the Freedom just go smaller and smaller. Almost shed a tear. Got to the airport by 830 and were on our way. Rented a car from Alamo and finally had a good experience at the car rental place.

Once we got the rental car, we were off the the forts in Old San Juan. After touring around Old San Juan trying to get to the forts, we finally made it.  The fort was much bigger the I expected and had plenty of steps to go up and down. Because it's not like I already get my steps in for the week. But exploring the area and the history was fun. So I put up with the steps.

After the fort we traveled past the Carnival Fascination and their pier. And then off to lunch. After search for a while we found a location establishment to eat call Olive Garden. Okay not local but food was good and plentiful. I headed our waitress my sea pass card and said one Pina Colada please.  She said no. I don't get it,  it worked all week.  Seriously though had a relaxing meal and then off to the airport for the 10 hr journey home.

Once at the airport, I found Southwest to be great again. I was already set for the extra seat and with the expectation of having sunscreen we forgot about in our carry on had no issues. 

Final thoughts:

First- THANK YOU to everyone who has followed. I hope I might have given you a little glimpse Into our vacation. But more importantly the wonderful ports we visited, the tour companies we traveled with, and RCCL Freedom of the Sea.

Second- We stayed in room 9308. I found the room to be more the accomadating for our needs. With the exception of limited outlets and a tiny bathroom which were really not problem, the condition of the room was good.

The overall condition if the ship was decent. I know it is slated to head to dry dock for a major upgrade soon and look forward to seeing it refurbished someday. The biggest area of issue was the elevators. Several buttons were missing, buttons did not work and I found one button hanging. Some of the lights did not work as well. But overall minor issues.

Pop machines- the chipped cup was nice but there were only 4 spots on the ship where you could get it. Two were in Windjammer and could not be accessed when closed. One by Sorrentos and one in the arcade. Most of the time the ones outside of Windjammer were missing drink choices. This was a little disappointing.

MDR service was fantastic.  Like I mentioned earlier if you have MTD request Dennis and tell him the fat guy for Minnesota says hi. You will not be disappointed with him and his staff.

Royal Caribbean as a whole was great. Having sailed on Carnival multiples, I found that Carnival is not even in the same league as RCCL.

Questions were raised about the rudeness and diversity of the passengers on the ship. I heard people grumble about the rudeness and diversity of the passengers and how it was awful.  Having lived in a predominantly Hispanic community before one needs to understand there are cultural differences between us all. I witness maybe two or three instances of what I would term inappropriate behavior. The incidents I witnessed were across the board on ethnicity, from a Hispanic female snapping her fingers at the waiter to a highly intoxicated white gentleman shoving his way into an already full elevator almost knocking a lady over. At the end of the day, I am and was on vacation and while their behavior was inappropriate it was only going to effect me if it allowed it too. Cruise ships are mini cities and like our own towns we live in, has people we do not like staying on them. If focus on you having a good vacation you will. If you focus on what others do, it might be a long week.

FINAL DRINK COUNT:

20 PINA COLADAS 

3 LAVA FLOWS

3 STRAWBERRY DAIQUIRIS

1 MANGO DAIQUIRI 

1 SHAKE

LOTS OF POP

7 OR 8 POWERADES- LOST COUNT

On 12/1/2018 at 11:55 PM, Wilson said:

Have a great cruise! We board Freedom on the 9th so take great care of her.

 

I was on Freedom with my son a couple months ago after getting an incredible law enforcement discount that was combinable with my Crown & Anchor discount. We got a balcony on deck 8 for $313 per person! Looking forward to returning in a week and have surprised my wife by upgrading to a Suite. 

 

Were they offering a LEO discount for your sailing? Look forward to your live review. 

If you run across Dennis in the MDR tell him the big fat guy from Minnesota says hi.

4 hours ago, Wilson said:

Welcome back to San Juan. Hard to believe it’s already over. Thank you for taking us along this week. You did a great job on the review. Hopefully you guys don’t have any issues getting off the ship. Don’t know if you heard or not but it was a complete mess yesterday because the dock workers were striking. No baggage handlers and they had picket lines setup so that taxi drivers could not get to the ship. Many people missed flights. Please report back and let us know if the strike continues. Safe travels!

No issues getting off the Freedom. We did self assist and were off and to the airport with a half an hour. Also first place with no issues getting a rental car. Enjoy your vacation.

Will also post about St. Thomas later. 

5 hours ago, starrcards said:

43mpd902  I read that most nights in the MDR you ordered 2 entrees.  My understanding that multiple starters and desserts were OK but were only allowed 1 entrée.  Any problems/hassles getting 2 entrees?

No issues at all. The night of the Beef Tenderloin I actually got thirds on my entree.

St. Kitts and Nevis-

Good morning from the island of St. Kitts. Once again we woke up to a beautiful day. Plan of attack for the day is a tour with Greg's Safari that will include the "Valley of the Giants Rainforest Hike and tour of Romney Manor and the Batik Factory."

Once we arrived in port, we were met outside the gates by our tour guide Racine. Before we met with Racine, my DW for alittle time to monkey around. Be aware if you take photos with the monkeys it will run you about $10. They are also particular about you taking photos of the monkeys with out paying.

Once Racine arrive, he was a little late, we were set to go. It was a small group, just the four of us, which was unique as the usually require 5 people for the tour. We agreed to pay for the 5th person so we could go on the tour and did not mind the small group. We found this to be well worth it.

We traveled along the coast to Romney Manor. During the drive Racine gave us a brief history of the island and some of the culture. Glad I did not rent a car on this island. I am not sure which island was worse St. Kitts or Curacao for street markings. They also drive on the left side of the road. Once we arrived at Romney Manor,  we were provided with walking sticks, which definately came in handy later and of we went. Through out the course of the hike, Racine stopped to explain the plants, fruits, and general characteristics of the Rainforest. The trees in the rainforest were enormous.

The best part was no bugs to speak if or snakes. Not a single snake on the island. Although the monkeys are projected to out number the people 3 to 1. As we got toward the end of the hike we were given the option to forge ahead or turn aro into nd for some tasty treats. Well like any uninformed person of course forge ahead. Well it turned out to be more forge up not ahead. Oops. Was quite the little climb to the top, but we all made it in one piece.

Once the hike was done, it was back to our jeep where Racine made quite the snack of local foods and fresh fruit. There was Soursop Fruit, sugar cane, rock bread, grapefruit, some kind of fudge, guava cheese, and another sweet bar/ candy. Just don't remember what it was called.

We then traveled up to the Batik Factory for a short demonstration and some shopping. Very cool process and products that they produce. Picked up some Hot plate holders while there, also spoke with one of the workers who discussed her first experience in the US with us. Let's just say she was left with a lasting impression as two squad cars full of Boston police stopped her on the street after she talked to a local.

Once done at the Batik Factory, we headed back to port. We picked up a few stragglers on the way. Two other couples from Minnesota and Wisconsin who were looking for Rum. We gave them a ride to the store and away we went back to the port. The ride back was pretty smooth until a bee decided to tangle with my arm. While he might have one the battle I won the war.

Once back at the port, we spent sometime shopping through the local stores. Found some really nice hand painted Christmas ornaments. We did not buy one as our cat is a jerk and would most likely break it but my brother got one.

After wondering the market for bit, it was back to the ship to clean up for the second formal night. Upon arriving back at the room, I learned our cabin steward deserves everything he gets. I found my shorts and underwear folded nicely in bathroom. My group said he deserves more then too. Not sure what that means but oh well.

Dinner as usual was fantastic. I can not say enough about these guys- Dennis, Royston and Placid. They have been great. If you have My Time Dining they to get into their section. We sat at table 319. Took photos with the wait staff while dressed all nice and pretty. As we looked at the photos, my group asked where Royston was. He was busy getting dessert and missed the group photo. Then finally someone asks, wheres Paul. Apparently I got cut out of one of the photos.🤔 Not sure what that means.

Tonight was also lobster night. So what do you order on lobster night. PASTA. I ordered the Cheese Tortilloni and the lobster. Both were excellent. Finally ordered a dessert as well Baked Alaska. Was very good.

After supper we headed off for a mean game of mini golf, couples style. We lost. No more needs to be said. Then it was off to a comedy show and pizza on the balcony. We watched as we met two other ships on our journey. Then off to bed before our last day of the cruise😭😭😭.

14 minutes ago, Wrunkles said:

Can you just order a milkshake at JR without eating?  I've read some ships allow that.  

I don't see why not. But we asked about the beverage package and were finally told.you had to eat there to get it. Otherwise it was $5.

4 hours ago, starrcards said:

I'll never understand why RCCL serves an Italian dish like chicken parm over MASHED POTATOES!  Why not pasta?  Would make much more sense.

Chicken Parm was actually served over ratatouille. But it did include the Mash. Was actually pretty good. 

3 hours ago, Wilson said:

Doing a great job on your live review and it's getting us really excited about our cruise. We fly to San Juan tomorrow. Glad you enjoyed the Lava Flow.

Safe travels and enjoy your cruise. Weather has been perfect.

Sea Day 2-

Time to relax. After a very busy and bone jarring day in Aruba it is time to rest and relax. While I totally recommend the Island Ultimate tour, this morning was rough, everything hurt. After a dose of Advil, I set to go.

So after sleeping in until almost 10 am, I got up and took my time getting ready for the day. DW and I sat on our balcony with my brother and his wife, we have rooms next to each other and had the balconys opened up to one another, and simply relax. We discussed a plan of attack for the day and decided lunch would be at Johnny Rockets.

So off we went to lunch. Upon arriving we learned what the restaurant offered. For those wondering, if you eat at Johnny Rockets the milk shake is included if you have the refreshment package. We also learned you only pay a cover charge and can have whatever you want and how ever much you want of items in the menu. They started us out with a large plate of fries and onion rings. I ordered the Smokehouse Burger and the Chicken Bacon Melt as well as the Cheesy Bacon Fries. Don't worry I shared. I found both of the sandwiches to be very tasty but the fries were a little bland. Which is hard when you add bacon to it. In the end cost the DW and I $28 with an extra tip but more the worth it. Initial cover charge with tip was around $11.74. 

After lunch it was off to the belly flop competition. I decided it would be a bad idea to to flop on a very full stomach. There were only 6 contenders. Some were great, some were a flop. The competition only last 30 min or so so then it was off the change in the rooms. My DW, brother, and sister in law were heading to the deck to sunbath and I was heading to explore.

I decided to try my hand at rock climbing. So I suited up and gave it a shot. As someone who really hates heights, this was probably a bad idea. Off I went up the wall, I made it to the bell on the first attempt. Grant it, it was the lower bell but I got there and moved beyond. Got a ways up and then got stuck and down I came. Once back at the bottom, the worked advised when you go down don't pull on the rope first just fall back and that I was climbing the hardest wall. Oh yippie, first time ever and I get the hardest wall and break the cardinal rule and pull on the chord. Well I didn't completely fall, I didn't get hurt, and I am going to make it up the entire stupid wall yet.

After that I figured a deserved a treat. So I got a Lava Flow at the recommendation of Wilson. Definately enjoyed that ad had a few more throughout the day. After watching some dodgeball and Flowrider surfers, it was time for supper.

 We ate in the MDR again. The food as usual was good and the service was excellent. Dennis, Royston, and Placid really make eating here fun and enjoyable. I order the Asian Style Pork Taco, Garlic Tiger Shrip and Chicken Parmigiana. All of them we excellent.

After supper we enjoyed the last half of the Avengers Infinity War on the big screen before taking in the main show in the Arcadia Theater The Great Debois. It was interesting to learn their history and that they performed on the Greatest Showman. After the show, I retired to my stateroom and my DW and the others hit the hit tube. 

Next stop St. Kutts and Nevis.

Beverage count:

19- Pina Coladas 

3 - Lava Flows

1- Strawberry Daiquiri

1- Mango Daiquiri 

1- Milk Shake

44 minutes ago, kayehall said:

Maybe this is where the headache came from...LOL

 

I wish that were the case. There would be an easy solution but all the drink are non alcoholic.

Missed the Pina Colada count

Curacao- 15 Pina Coladas, 1 mango and 1 strawberry daiquiri 

Aruba- 18 Pina Coladas, 1 mango and 1 strawberry Daiquiri

Aruba

Good morning from Aruba. On tap for today the Island Ultimate tour through ABC tours. Booked this ahead of time for around $115 a person. We were met at the pier by a representative from ABC Tours. We some how managed to beat him out of the port area and miss him.

Headed out to ABC tours main office once we connected to start the advanture. I will tell you right now, this tour is not for the faint of heart. It will move you, it will shack you and it with thoroughly entertain you. But you may need a steady dose of Advil and a Chircopractor the next day. This tour was worth every penny and then some. Our guides Andrew, Abraham, and Hugo were great.

We started out heading north towards the lighthouse. We traveled the coast stopping at various sites along the way. First stop was the Ayo Rock formation. Had a great time climbing in and out of the rocks, sliding down then and jumping on them. Well trying to jump on them had a little mishap the first stop. But I got it cleaned up and away we went.

This is the shot from the rock I tango with. Worth it.

Then it was off to the Gold Mill Ruins. Very interesting place. The story behind the ruins was amazing.

After the ruins we stopped at the Baby Natural Bridge for a photo op and then continued up the coast. I should have mentioned we were traveling in an open aired Range Rover over very sketchy ground. Definately needed a 4 wheel off road vehicle.

The tour then took us to the Alto Vista Chapel and the Lighthouse. After that our driver, Abraham, advised what we had experienced was just a warm up. Not sure what that meant, but we were ready to see. 

We headed back to their home base for lunch before heading back out in the trail. Lunch was goo. BBQ chicken, rice, beans, and coleslaw. You could upgrade for an additional price.

Our next stop was the Natural Pool. After the heat and the drive, the Natural Pool hit the spot. Took a dip in the pool and did some rock jumping into the pool before we headed to Baby Beach.

Once at Baby Beach did some snorkeling and had a great time. Plenty of fish to see and things to experience. Spent about an hour or so there before we headed out. Then it was back to the port for some shopping.

The tour lasted over 8 1/2 hours. Was well worth it. Spent sometime shopping around the port before we headed back to the ship. Once back on the boat I headed to our balcony for a view of the sunset.

We ate in the MDR again tonight for Caribbean Night. Food was good, but not quite like it had been. I ordered the crab cakes and New York Strip. 

We then headed to Studio B for the Freedom-ice.com show. Show was decent but I was way to tired to enjoy it. I have realized I am clearly not a young as I used to be.

Curacao- Part 3

The journey to Shete Boka was pretty easy. Not a lot of traffic and very few roads. But also not a lot of signs either. Had my brother google speed limits since signs for them were pretty scarce. Then just travel with the flow of the few cars that were there.

Arrived at Shete Boka and up to the entrance gate. It cost $10 to get in person and we purchased the map for a $1. Although that was quite the adventure. So as my brother attempted to speak with the lady about the park. She told him the map cost a coin and held up the coin and asked if he had one. He said no. She said it would be $1 then. He tried to confirm that he could by the coin for $1, but wanted to know where to get the map. After a minute or so, we finally got him to realize he was holding the map and needed to give her a dollar. We paid and were finally in the park.

We visited 3 of the four locations in the park. Words cannot describe the views so here are some photos.

ALso found this sign rather funny:

So after leaving Shete Boka it was off to the beach. The plan was to go to Playa Knip. As we got into the car, my brother and I both realized we had less the 20% battery on our phone and GPS was eating a lot of it. Lesson #2- bring a battery pack or car charger so you don't run out of battery life on your phone. So off we went to find the beach. If I haven't mentioned, the street signs are not very good. So after a few wrong turns, a dying GPS, I started to get lots of laughter and do you know where you are going and stop for directions from the back seat. I assured everyone it was under control. A short time later, there it was Playa Knip or was it. The sign said Playa Kenepa Grandi beach. Well who cares, it was a beach. Beggars cant be chosers.

Spend the next hour or so swimming, relaxing and snorkeling. Realized everything at the beach cost money including the bathroom. But it was worth it. Grabbed a bite to eat from the snack shack there. Had a burger and fries with two waters that the wife and I share for $10. Not bad at all.

After the beach it was off to find the Flamingos. By this time GPS was almost completely nonexistent so I had to use my keen sense of direction to get there and after a few more wrong turns there we were the flamingos. Everybody say Ohhhh Ahhhhh.

Then it was time to head back into Otrabanda for some shopping and to return the car by 5 pm. I had already got into the car and everyone else tried to pile in. Not once, not twice, but three times they set the alarm off. To make matters worse the local police were sitting just up the road. After finally getting the alarm to shut off, a local walks by and says "Ahh the sounds of Curacao."

So after everyone loaded back up, we took off for Otrabanda. A few minor navagational errors again and some traffic got us back into Otrabanda before 430. So after dropping the car off at Budget we were off to do some shopping. Thus is where some frustration comes in with RCCL. Prior to the sailing we booked the Mystery Dinner. Rather then putting it on a night or at a time allowed you full opportunity to enjoy the island, it was on this night at 615. We had 1hr and 45 minutes to shop, get ready, and get to the On Air Lounge. While we could have skipped some of the stuff to give our self more, it would have been nice to have the extra 1hr in the port area versus having to rush.

So we walked the port are to Queen Emma's Bridge, saw it open up and Coast Guard ship come through and then headed back to the ship. The area was nicely decorated for Christmas, I just wish we had been able to see the other side of the port.

So after quickly getting back on the ship and cleaning up we made it to the Mystery Dinner. So the dinner started in the On Air Lounge with the introduction of the characters. We were then whisked away for supper at Giovanni's Table. Menu options were limited but did not disappoint. Was worth the money just for the food. Had the Filet and the soup of the day.

So as the evening went on, the characters tried to rationalize what happened to their classmate or should I say our classmate. We listened, took mental notes, and enjoyed the company of the people around us. But by the end of supper, I had an excruciatingly pain headache and just wanted it over. After all it had been 4 hrs by the time it was all said and done. So as the night went on our table asked the waiter who he thought did it. He gave his opinion on the killer, which turned out to be correct. Made some at the table upset when the killer was revealed. For those wondering, I did get it correct so at least I can save some face there. I also told our group why before the revealed it which was also correct. Enough bragging. 

Biggest disappointment with this dinner was it was way to long. It did not need to last 4 hrs and would be nice to be on a different night beside one when were are in port until 8 pm.

Due to the headache, it was straight to bed to prepare for Aruba.

Lessons learned from Curacao

#1- Make sure GPS is working

#2- Drive the correct way through the gas pumps

#3- Don't get lost

#4- Bring an extra battery pack with or charger

#5- Avoid renting from Budget. They operate on island time and live slow.

Curacao- Part 2

So after having to deal with super slow service at Budget Rental Car. I would not recommend them if you have limited time on the island. This was the beginning of a whole lot of learning experiences and what were we thinking moments. This was also the beginning of the first disappointing moment with RCCL that we have had, but I will explain that later.

So we headed out on our journey. I had upgraded my cellphone to an international data plan for work. But it also came in handy to have GPS, if I had turned it on. It only took until the Hato Caves for me to realize this. But we made it there no problem. We paid for our tickets $18 for two and were provided a guided tour of the caves. This was definalety worth it. Had about a 45 minute tour of the caves and learned a little on the way. Like the keep components to stalagmites and stalagtights are water, limestone, CO2 and time. If you go there remember this there is a quiz. Had a great time going through the caves and seeing the wildlife around there.

After the caves, it was off to the Northshore and Shete Boka. If you noticed, I never mentioned getting gas. Well that was because I missed the gas station.......twice. So now that GPS worked thanks to turning on the data. I could find a gas station. Problem was...I already was heading to Shete Boka and the closest gas station was behind us. So backwards we go. After a 15 minute detour we found the gas station and low and behold there was an open spot. Woohoo an open spot. Lots of other cars lined up though. So like any smart American driver, I pulled up to the pumps, got out and stood there with a dumb look on my face trying to figure the pump out. So after pushing some random buttons, I realized I needed to prepay. So I dropped a $20 and away I went. So as I pumped the gas, my brother stood by and watched. Apparently my big bro didn't think I was capable of fueling my car without him. So as the pump quickly went past 20 he stops the pump and points out we went over the amount. I start it back up and explain the pump will automatically stop and the pump is in Curacao's currency, the Antillian Guilder. So once the pump stopped. We were set. Go back into the car and got heckled by my DW and sister in law for pulling into the pumps backwards. Apparently there is a right and wrong way to fuel a car. Who knew. So off the Shete Boka. 

Time for supper back later.

Curacao- Part 1

Good morning from Curacao! Was such a peaceful morning pulling into port in Curacao this morning. Spent sometime on deck watching the sunrise and the ship pull into port before I headed for some breakfast.

Headed to Windjammer around 730ish. Selection of food was about the same as yesterday. Windammer was not that busy. Seems like lots of late risers on this ship.

Got into port around 730-745 and by 815 or so it was time to get off the ship. The plan for today- Explorer. I had a reservation at Budget rental car for 830. The location was at the Renaissance Hotel right by port. After the many photo ops in front of the Freedom we made our way to the hotel.

Got there on time to find no attendant only another couple waiting to rent a car. After some discussion with the couple about where the attendant was, I realized that only one attendant was responsible for checking people in, checking the car out, and getting us on our way. After an hour we were finally on our way. 1 hr down of time on the island and had not even got out of the port yet.Then once we got into the car I realized we had less then a quarter tank of gas. YIPPIE!!!!

1st stop after getting the car- Hato Caves.

More to come later. 

Curacao- Part 1

I realized today I forgot the Pina Colada count so far. So here it is:

Pina Colada- 12

Mango Daiquiri- 1

Strawberry Daiquiri- 1

Good morning from Curacao! Was such a peaceful morning pulling into port in Curacao this morning. Spent sometime on deck watching the sunrise and the ship pull into port before I headed for some breakfast.

Headed to Windjammer around 730ish. Selection of food was about the same as yesterday. Windammer was not that busy. Seems like lots of late risers on this ship.

Got into port around 730-745 and by 815 or so it was time to get off the ship. The plan for today- Explorer. I had a reservation at Budget rental car for 830. The location was at the Renaissance Hotel right by port. After the many photo ops in front of the Freedom we made our way to the hotel.

Got there on time to find no attendant only another couple waiting to rent a car. While waiting and after speaking with the couple that was there, I realized there was on attendant to do everything. Sign you in, check out the car and get you on the way. So after wasting an hour trying to get our car rented. We were finally off. Only to discover the car was left with less then a quarter of a tank if gas. Yippie!

19 hours ago, SeeingTheWorldBySea said:

Following along as we will be on Freedon Jan 6th. We too are staying at the Marriott Isla Verde. These bug bites you speak of, were they sand fleas? That's concerning as I have 2 sand loving toddlers. 

You will definately want to spray them down with something or keep them in the pool. I believe they are sand fleas but not sure. But it could make for a long vacation if you dont.

Sea Day- Formal Night

Well after a busy yet relaxing embarkment day, Day 2 saw us sailing the beautiful Caribbean Sea with depths over 14,000 feet. While I wish I could say that it was time to sleep in, no way, I can do that when I get back to work. I made it up by 7 and enjoyed a relaxing hour on our balcony writing my update. Then it was off to more adventures.

Headed down to the Promenade alittle after 8 and found it very peaceful. Crowd was light and had no problem getting the DW a Hot Chocolate from the Cafe Espresso. After delivering room service for my DW it was up to Windjammer for breakfast around 9ish. Windjammer was busy, but I took my food back the stateroom so no big deal. The selection of food was fantastic. There was something for everyone waffles, pancakes, eggs, and all sorts of stuff that do not look like breakfast to me. But if you cant find something you like with the selection then you are most likely against breakfast.

After breakfast we go together with my brother and his wife and discussed the game plan.we decided to wonder up to the flowrider to witness some wicked wideouts. While many did well some certainly should have stayed in bed. I know my limits, for now, and like staying in the stands. After some time baking in the sun there it was off to the sun deck to bake some more. Being from Minnesota this was not going to take long. From bright white to bright red in no time. So while the other burnt, I took a stroll around the ship. 

I found the interior of the ship was mostly quiet and most of the people were on deck at the pools. After watching part of the sexiest man in the world competition (which my DW said I did not need to watch as I already owned the title. I think she was being sarcastic), we headed for lunch at Sorrentos. Got there around 130 and the line was pretty long. Took 10 to 15 min to get a few slices. Little disappointed with the coke machine in this area. One did not work and the other had a very limited selection. Oh well.

We went back to the rooms for a little rest before the ladies got ready for formal night. My brother and I went the Schooner bar for the week long Scavenger Hunt but no one showed🤔. Was this the Scavenger Hunt?

So it was off to a cutthroat game of mini golf. I clearly had the advantage. Putt with the ships roll. I hit a hole in one on the first two holes and that was it. He never had a chance. We the scurried back to the stateroom and got ready ourselves.

We had dinner in the MDR for formal night. As has been the case so far, Dennis has been a character. He made animal noise towards my food this evening. And since I ordered the Beef Tenderloin and Duck it was quite comical. Had the Seafood Vol-au-vent for an appetizer, Beef Tenderlion and Duck A l Orange for main course. I did not order dessert as I am still watching my figure. If you like steak and don't try the Tenderloin you will regret it. It was fantastic. This was my first go around with duck. For the first time around, not too bad.

After supper, we stoped for a few photo ops and then to the Arcadia Theater for Marquee. The production was well performed and entertaining. But by the end, I was ready for bed. So back to the room to turn in early before a big day in Curacao.

Upon arriving at the room, this guy way waiting for us.

Also side note. Hotel in San Juan was great. Still paying for the bug bites days later. Not sure what the deal is but no fun.