Mum2Mercury

I've had the cod. Your table mate chose wrong -- and I like most everything the MDR serves. Shrimp sized? Hyperbole. Why is it uncomfortable to ask someone to share something they aren't going to use /can't use later?

We boarded in Miami in September ... boarding times were enforced. We boarded in Orlando in December ... boarding times were enforced.

Let's all make a pact: Complain about this silly rule in your post-cruise survey. Gravy /sauce /dressing on the side is hardly an outrageous request! I definitely had pre-mixed Caesar Salad out of a bag on Independence in December. I eat that at home, but I expect a bit more when it's served in a restaurant. Two cookies on a plate is what I expect to pick up at Cafe Promenade ... not what I expect to be served as a dinner dessert in the MDR.

Yep, and no luggage is going to stand up to that treatment for too long ... which is why I don't see any point in paying $$$ for luggage, unless you always manage it yourself. Consider, too, that stores like Marshall's and TJ Maxx don't necessarily carry poor quality stuff; rather, they have last year's colors and styles and mis-matched stuff that top-dollar stores don't want to offer. Some luggage is just $$$ because someone's name is on it. Agree. We need to buy some new luggage ... as our children moved out, somehow the selection in our attic has dwindled! As such, I took a sneaky look at other people's luggage in the cruise ship hallway (hope no one thought I was choosing one to steal), and I definitely noticed that the hard-sided suitcases looked more beat-up. Yeah, we only own rolling carry-ons, and our rule is that + a backpack is all we'll bring. Period. I'd be FINE with not checking luggage, but my husband doesn't like that idea ... and since I don't feel strongly about it, I let him have his way.

Most of that looks pretty good! A couple comments and questions: - Why are they skimping on the veg? I thought budget-minded places filled the plate with veg. - I am so going to eat that spaghetti next time I cruise. - What is that dark dessert with two scoops of ice cream? - What is that thing that looks like something in a pastry? I don't have a problem with smaller portions; after all, we're having an appetizer, bread, an entree and dessert. And we can't take any of it home for tomorrow's lunch. AS LONG AS big eaters like my son-in-law are allowed a second whatever without additional cost. Disagree ... I'd rather have them at the same time. If it's offered, I'm ALWAYS getting the shrimp cocktail, and it doesn't take me long to eat four shrimp; I'd rather not wait for the second item. I figured out quickly that the key is to SPECIFY YOUR PREFERENCE. I have a problem with all of this. I can understand limiting outrageous requests (I want what you served yesterday or a dessert that I think is up in the Windjammer), but even little mom and pop restaurantas can manage substitutions and changes. I expect more from a cruise ship. As for the veg, if these plates are a realistic indication, it's not going to be hard to finish your vegetables. Seriously, I eat 4Xs that much veg for dinner at home every evening.

That's a lot of ships from which to choose. When I was last onboard a Royal ship (December), I checked into the kids' clubs for my daughter. They take kids at 6 months in the youngest group.

Private vendors are superior to the ship's shore excursions. That they're generally cheaper is nice, but the real benefits include: - You're with a smaller group. Think 15-passenger van instead of a bus (or three). When we went to Dunn's River Falls in Jamaica, we were the second group to climb, and we had the place to ourselves ... as we were leaving, the ship's busses were just arriving. Our table mates told us later that the place was beyond packed. They were hurried through and didn't really enjoy the experience. - You get more choices. For example, once on an excursion in Cozumel, our tour leader told us he would take us to our excursion ... and afterward he'd either drop us at a beach (and we'd have to taxi back to the ship later), drop us at a shopping area, or return us to the pier. A few people in our group chose the beach; we opted to go back to the ship ... but who doesn't like to have options? The ship's excursion would have made us hurry by a cute little bar (with bathrooms!) then spend an hour in a straw market that doesn't interest us. - Your group leaders know they're working for tips, so they try harder to make you happy. This is a fear created by /boosted by the cruise line so they can sell their expensive trips. Reading this board will give you the idea that people are left behind on a regular basis -- it's just not true. Does it happen? Sure, any time you're talking about large numbers of people, someone's going to do something stupid and emergencies will happen, but being left behind is a very uncommon thing -- it doesn't even happen even once on every cruise. When it is happening, you'll know: as the time for sailing departs, the ship will announce, "Passenger John Doe from Deck 6, report to Guest Services immediately". They're hoping he somehow "wasn't counted" as he re-boarded the ship. Having all said that, you should choose carefully: - Don't go too far from the port. You're only on the island for a few hours. - Know your ship and your dock (some large ports like Cozumel have multiple docks). Recently I was re-boarding, and a woman ahead of me was told, "I'm sorry, M'am, but you're trying to board Explorer. You are a passenger on Independence, which is docked over there." - Always have a back-up plan to return to the ship. This probably means enough cash money to get a taxi (in case someone twists an ankle or something). - Don't allow your group to break up. It's too easy to lose someone in a straw market or even a bathroom with multiple exits. If your group is large, have a plan in case you lose someone. - Know ship's time vs. island time, use a watch or be sure of what time your phone is telling you, and return to your ship two hours before all-aboard time -- if something goes wrong, you'll have a buffer of time to get back to the ship. Consider what makes sense for the experience you want: - If you just want a beach day, don't pay anyone for a guided tour. Choose your beach based upon advice from this board (and similar boards), then take a taxi on your own. In Aruba, we even took the city bus to Eagle Beach -- cost about $5 round-trip for the two of us. - Accept that some excursions don't make sense to do on your own -- or maybe not during a cruise. The prime example is the very popular Tulum Ruins experience in Cozumel. This excursion requires that you get across the island to the ferry, then take a bus on the mainland to Tulum. This is a long day that requires multiple forms of transportation (in a Spanish-speaking country); this means multiple opportunities for trouble to pop up. If you want something like this, it's better to use the ship's excursions. Yes, most dock-runners have been hanging around in the shadow of the ship -- drinking or shopping -- not paying attention to the time. And still, the vast, vast majority of them make it back to the ship. Yes, I have zero interest in any "city tour" in the Caribbean. I'd be much more interested in the rainforest. A private excursion gives you the option to choose what interests you. I just emailed a private vendor and asked, "We're a group of 12 and don't want the city tour portion of the tour -- would you drop us at ___ restaurant instead?" They said yes; admittedly, they might not have said yes for a couple or a small family -- we are bringing a van-ful. Yes, I could've said this. I fully support doing your homework and reading multiple sources. Only thing with which I'd argue: the prices. They've increased (like everything else) recently.

Admittedly, my experience is all Caribbean, but here are my random thoughts: - My biggest thought: You may never return to Alaska in your whole life. If your kids are old enough to "suck it up" for a couple hours, I'd suggest you bring ample warm clothes and boots and GO even if the weather is bad -- then come back to the ship for hot-hot showers and warm drinks. My husband and I are okay with being out in the rain (again, we're talking Caribbean, and I fully admit that's different) as long as we have a hat to keep the rain off our faces. I see it like this: I'd rather regret being cold/wet a few hours rather than being close to a glacier and staying on the ship. - It's better to reserve excursions ahead of time. They will probably be cheaper (and when you're paying for four, face it, that matters -- plus Alaskan excursions are particularly expensive), and the most popular excursions may sell out. - Before you reserve, read each vendor's policies carefully -- most of them have a clause about what they do if the weather is bad or if your ship can't make port. And a whole lot of private vendors don't require payment until "day of". - Yes, you can find excursions "day of" -- when you exit the ship, you'll see people with signs offering this or that experience. Personally, I'm a whole lot more comfortable making these choices ahead of time /verifying the quality of the vendors online. - Do not limit yourself to ship's excursions. Other vendors offer superior experiences in smaller groups. That they're cheaper is just a bonus.

You're not wrong, but - I'm 56 years old and not overly susceptible to such messages. - As the mother of two daughters, I was never against them seeing movies with such negative messages -- but we talked about the message and used them as "teachable moments". It didn't take long for my girls to become quite discerning of media. After talking about Ariel's choices in Disney's Little Mermaid, they were quite appalled at giving up such an important thing for a man she'd never even spoken to. They became quick to pick up on positive female characters -- big Hermione Granger fans in this house. - I'd add two points to your comment: First, it's not nearly such a big deal, but Danny changed for Sandy too -- he joined the track team (a wholesome high school activity) and earned a letterman's jacket. Second, Danny doesn't seem to be all that great a prize.

I feel for you too! I have the impression your PF is worse than mine. I've had the walking boot and the injection. I too had a job that required standing all day on hard tile (teaching); I really think that more than anything else hurt my feet and CAUSED my PF -- except for a 26 minute lunch, I literally stood for the whole 7 1/2 hours that students were with me, and I did that job for 30 years. When I was still learning how to manage my condition, I noted that my feet were "better" in the summer weeks when I wasn't teaching. Through trial and error I have developed a set of "rules" for footwear, and I refuse to buy any shoe (no matter how cute, no matter how cheap) that doesn't meet 100% of my requirements -- experience tells me such shoes will just end up going to GoodWill sooner rather than later. Honestly, it's been YEARS since I had a flare-up, and it's because I obey my self-imposed rules religiously. For a cruise, I pack 3-4 pairs of shoes, and I feel it's "just enough". I always wear the tennis shoes to board (best for walking), so I have 2-3 pair in my suitcase: - For daytime wear, white tennis shoes - For daytime wear, basic brown walking sandals -- okay, technically I could do with just one pair of daytime shoes, but switching them up is good for my feet, and I really want both pairs. - One pair of dinner shoes -- usually the aforementioned wedges - If our island stops or shore excursions demand it, water shoes. Mine don't have good arch support, so I tend to wear the tennis shoes TO the beach (or other venue), then change into the water shoes. Okay, I'm realizing I've lied: my water shoes do not meet ALL my rules, but they are something I wear only occasionally and for a very specific purpose /short period of time.

I don't know Morton's, but I struggle with Plantar Fasciitis and understand the importance of the right shoes. I'd say lay out the clothes you're planning to take. Bring out shoes in the colors you're considering, and ask yourself, "Which pair fits most everything I want to bring?" You might discard a favorite outfit /bring a different outfit that fits the shoes ... that's just practical. I tend to bring two pair of "day shoes" ... a pair of comfortable brown sandals and a pair of white slip-on sneakers. I know you said you don't want white, but I'm telling you that these two shoes work great for me for vacation ... you can certainly alter the colors. In addition to my day shoes, I usually bring a pair of brown wedge-sandals with brown and bronze straps. These tend to match everything I bring for dinner, and the wedge is more comfortable than a heel. Have you ever tried Vans tennis shoes? I love them, and they come in so many colors and prints. I wear them with shorts, jeans or school dresses/cardigans. What about Chaco walking sandals? Soooo comfortable and plenty of support. I like Sketchers too, and they are more affordable than Chacos. I refuse to give up cute! I have few shoes -- like maybe 20 pairs total ... but they ALL work with my specific foot problems, and they're ALL both functional and cute. I will not buy a pair of shoes unless they are PERFECT. Not all were expensive ... my favorite hiking boots cost $2 (yes, really!). I think I love this idea!

A black dress will achieve invisibility; seriously, of the women who really "dress up" more than 90% will be wearing black, which is why I avoid the color! Too dull and drab. You can "dress up" or "dress down" any other color as well. I'm saying gently, and I'm saying this as a person who has to work at staying an appropriate weight -- don't think for a moment I'm saying it in a mean way: If your weight is stressing you and you're not happy with your clothes any more, change it! I know, it's hard-hard-hard, but if it's stressing you out enough to talk about it on a message board, would not six months of hard work take care of the problem? You're smart and successful enough to be involved in an international business women's group -- you're capable. How good would it feel to go in and feel good trying on new clothes? Also, you don't have to go skimpy to be dressy. I just bought a great two-piece swimsuit that I cannot wait to wear -- it has a chunky, high-neck top that covers my upper chest, which always burns, and a swim skirt. I don't know Threadup, but many of my clothes come from Ebay. I tend to stick to a couple favorite brands that I know will fit me well. Do they still make dye-to-match shoes? I'll disagree about the color but agree about the style.

Random thoughts: - Choose a ship that includes a water splash play area for toddlers. I doubt a crawling baby would differentiate between a splash area and a pool. - I'd keep the baby away from the pool ... it's mean to let her see the pool and deny her entry into it. You can easily avoid walking by it. - Plan on island beach days, where the baby can swim. Pack some small sand toys. - No, do not bring a wading pool or a Pack-n-Play to the pool deck -- no space for such a thing. - If you and your husband want time by the pool (and why wouldn't you?) consider putting the baby into the Kids' Club for a couple hours ... then take her to the kids' play area.

This may not be a popular opinion, but -- if you're thinking of cruises -- I wouldn't spend big on luggage. I'd suggest buying from a place like Marshall's or Home Goods, where you can find mismatched low-level luggage for low prices. Why I feel this way: On a cruise years ago, Day 1, we were walking down the long hallway to our room, and we heard THUMP, THUMP, THUMP! A crew-only room was standing open, and we could see into a staircase room ... someone at the top was literally THROWING suitcases down the stairs into a big heap. I saw one of our suitcases, and I popped in and grabbed it. Anyway, if you're thinking of car trips, in which you'll manage your own luggage, go ahead and spend on something nice -- but if other people will be handling your luggage, I'd be stingy. I'd even use the luggage with one wonky wheel until it falls apart. If you want it to LOOK GOOD, consider ordering luggage covers from Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=luggage+cover&crid=35EXEF08VEI59&sprefix=luggage%20cover%2Caps%2C194&ref=nb_sb_noss

Thing is, "the worst balcony" is open to interpretation. For example, I just reserved a balcony for us on Wonder, and we chose 6th floor, which is usually considered inferior to the upper floors. We chose it because it gives my husband (who has a bit of a mobility issue) close access to Playmakers, his favorite spot. And since we're sharing a room with our adult daughter, we purposefully chose a room near a public ladies' room. We also like the idea of being "as close as possible" to the water on our balcony. The point: Those aren't most people's criteria. No, I don't think they set aside any specific group of balconies to use as guarantees; rather, I'm quite sure they wait until the last 30 days or so ... and assign balconies that no one chose. We've done two inside guarantees recently, and both times we received prime mid-ship rooms ... a standard inside once, a promenade view once.

I can't make a guess about the timing, but you could choose to skip the appetizer -- just have the entree -- and go to the Windjammer after the show for your dessert.

Independence had Grease in early December.

Random thoughts: - Yes, Royal plowed a ton of money into Coco Cay, and now they're hyping it to recoup that investment. - People seem to be fairly universal in their love for Coco Cay, so I'm not surprised Royal's trying to use it as much as possible. As such, I don't think they're over-selling it; rather, I think they're giving people what they want. - If you call Royal and are put on hold, you'll get sick of hearing about Perfect Day. - I wish they'd build up Labadee in a similar way. - It really is a "perfect" beach day: no need to arrange transportation to the beach, and if one member of your party wants to go back earlier, no problem. Chairs, meals, drinks, towels are waiting for you -- no need to bring money or decide where you want to eat lunch. Between the beaches and pool, they have a variety of options for the type of beach day you want. You could allow your teens to wander without fear. I really wonder who's spending on those $$$ cabanas, etc. I dunno. I've heard people say, "This will be my 10th or 12th visit", and they didn't look disappointed. Yeah, those islands bring in cruisers, but Royal doesn't get to keep ALL the profits from the day. I'm very cheap too -- I'm nowhere close to poor, but I demand top value for every dollar that I allow to leave my hand. I love Coco Cay, but I don't see any value in the private cabanas, etc. Looks like a status thing to me.

I remember when I first cruised in 2003 I was surprised at the small servings -- then I realized that I almost always take half a typical restaurant meal home (for the next day's lunch), and I realized the portions were fine. I don't think they're trying to do away with the MDR; dinner is one of a cruise's signature events, and most people simply aren't going to pay-pay-pay for "extra". Now that's true: You can have two dinners, one in the Windjammer, but does it save Royal anything?

You're probably right about pre-plating, but hours before sounds unrealistic. It's let us down with its vaulting prices. Do they want to dissuade people form ordering ALL second entrees, or is it just a lobster thing? I don't think people are defecting en masse, nor do I think the MDR food is the rubbish people seem to suggest. This all makes sense. Agree, for the most part. At home I don't eat bread, appetizers, an entree and dessert ... at lunch and then again at dinner. BUT I am a very small person; my son-in-law could absolutely eat two entrees every meal without "pigging". I believe that. Email special_needs@rccl.com and rcldining@rccl.com and let them know about your needs. Bringing a plate into the MDR, while certainly not against any rules, would be a bit of a dick move. If you really want to do this, I'd have your party begin their dinner in the Windjammer, then move on to the MDR /skip the appetizer. In my experience, the MDR isn't a "sad state of affairs". Certainly I had some things that were better than others, but much of the whining on this board is hyperbole.

Yes, they have two bedroom staterooms, but they are quite expensive, and -- yes -- they are all suites. The cheapest /most choices way to get two bedrooms is to reserve two connecting rooms; this means you could have two insides, two balconies, whatever. It'd give you two bedrooms and two bathrooms for a much lower price. If you get two balconies, you can ask the cabin steward to open the balcony divider, giving you one large balcony. RCCL doesn't usually do single pricing. I think they offered a deal some time back, but you shouldn't count on it. You're not asking if they'll put you in with a stranger, are you? That wouldn't happen. I don't know about the two bedroom suites, but here's how two connecting rooms would shake out to hold eight people: - If you were to get two insides, you would split the beds apart, allowing a walking aisle down the middle ... and the cabin steward would pull two bunks out of the ceiling. Essentially you'd have two sets of bunk beds in a single cabin. - If you were to get two balconies, you'd have a king bed (or two twins) and a pull-out sofa. Before you choose your rooms, I suggest you take a look at You Tube -- you'll find LOADS of walk-throughs of various rooms.

And bare feet. I once tried to go from the pool to the Windjammer just for a glass of water, and I was turned away -- but the Windjammer greeter brought me a glass of water. I haven't been so careless since. I don't doubt this picture is real, but it's not a realistic depiction of average cruisers on Formal Night. Reading this board, you could get the idea that everyone's wearing shorts, athleti-leisure and ball caps on Formal Night; the reality is that I was kinda surprised that about 1/3 of the people still really dress up.

Eh, I don't entirely agree: - They know their plates are relatively small; that's fine for small people like me, but plenty of people genuinely want /expect more -- and that's where the second entree comes in. - As long as they throw out rules that're more work than they're worth /rules that are blatantly against the cruiser's best interests, they're going to find people trying "to figure out a work around". - The second lobster fee came from Royal trying to cut food costs. Looking specifically at lobsters is an off-shoot of that concern.

Echoing what others have said: I've checked in before I knew my room number. Changing the subject a bit, does your friend know the barcode trick? Use your phone to scan the barcode on your Set Sail Pass ... once your room is assigned, you'll see your room number in the scan. Twice I've learned my room number before it was officially assigned.

Yeah, who wins in that situation? No one. Why would one be lukewarm? Wouldn't all the food in the kitchen be warm? How can they stop me from sharing my plate with my husband? Sure, they can monitor what goes out of the kitchen ... but the waiter's the one who sees what is eaten, and he can't "win" by denying food to the table (assuming they've followed the rules).