My family and I (me, hubs, 16 & 14yo sons) are going on our first cruise EVER. I know to go into an MSC cruise with no expectations as reviews are all over the map. We have an Aurea Balcony room (10135) I have some questions, that in my OCD research/planning, I have been unable to get an answer to. I appreciate any insight and thank you for assuaging my anxiety LOL.
1) I read somewhere that with Aurea you automatically get a cruise card AND a bracelet-is this true? I don't like things hanging around my neck so was going to get those telephone cord looking things from Amazon that you wear on your wrist-Can I do this or will I need to use a lanyard?
2) I am Gluten Free (I have submitted the special needs form but gotten no response) should I be concerned or will it not be an issue and I should just talk to someone the first day?
3) I also can't eat cow's milk dairy-I have read there is only Soy available as an option? Can I bring my own sealed container of Oat Milk? I did ask this in the special needs email I sent, but again-no answer. Maybe someone knows?
4) can I order gluten free items via room service for breakfast? Does anyone know if they have gluten free pizza crust?
5) I have read in multiple places that the MSC app messenger feature is only for 16 and over?!? Does this mean I can't keep in touch with my 14yo?? Granted he will be with his brother most times, but really? Will I have to buy him the wi-fi package? I have read also that iphone to iphone messaging still works anyway-regardless of whether you have a wifi package or not? Is this true?
6) I have seen many posts about the rooms being hot because your key card has to be in the room slot for the AC to work? I have seen on Etsy room "key" cards to leave in the slot? Any insight on this?
7) Are nice men's shorts allowed in the MDR? My husband usually wears linen shorts/button downs but I've read shorts aren't allowed...
Hiding/finding ducks: is this a thing on MSC? is it worth doing or don't spend the money buying ducks?
9) What is the quietest/nicest morning view (if I can't get my coffee via roomservice) for my hubs and I to have coffee together-we aren't SUPER early risers but def. around 7-8. Can you get breakfast only via roomservice or the buffet?
10) What Restaurant are you assigned to with Aurea (anytime dining) or does that change daily? I have also read that with the anytime dining you still need to make a "reservation" and not just "show up" in the 6-9 timeframe?
11) how does the Photo package work? I'm used to Disney memory maker where you take a picture anywhere there's a photographer & you scan your card and go? Is this photo package similar? Not sure if it's worth purchasing or not?
12) I know that you can't bring your own water or alcohol onboard. Can I bring candy & snacks? If I want water do I have to go to a bar or the buffet or are there water stations around? Sorry this may sound stupid, but I"m the person that carries a cup/water bottle everywhere and just want to know what to expect. Ice machines?
13) On Nassau-it makes me anxious to read all the reviews about walking off the ship and ppl coming at you-is it safe to do our own "walking tour" any must do's or recommendations from previous visitors?
I think that's all (and quite enough 😅 lol)-I so very much appreciate any insight/tips/tricks/hacks that anyone can offer! Cheers Stacy