Roupa2

An excellent show! Book dinner early and plan to go to the late show. Easy.

First time on HAL (Volendam) now. No complaints about main dr( 2 nights so far). Pinnacle Grill tonight was a disappointment to us. Lobster bisque was just “ok”, but not very hot. Scallops were mild tasting, not hot and on a bed of very “watery”, bland risotto. Rib eye steak was cooked as ordered, but thin and a bit tough. Key lime pie was ok. Imitation baked Alaska reminded me of a Twinkie with a bit of ice cream inside and covered with a thick layer of soft meringue. Service was pleasant but mediocre. Tho this thread started out re: Pinnacle Grill, just noting extra while I’m at it…. Entertainment tonight was Breton Thunder. Wonderful voices, high energy, with touching melodies mixed in. Looking forward to another performance. Very clean ship and pleasant crew!

With HIA… It is my understanding that gratuities are included in beverages ( the “ house” offerings)of $11 or less. Are gratuities also included at the specialty restaurants?

Is there any outdoor seating adjacent to the Windjammer on Explorer of the Seas?

We are booked for a lanai cabin on the Volendam… balconies unavailable when I booked. I actually like the idea of direct access to the promenade deck from my room for a number of reasons, and so.different from our normal balcony choices on past cruises. So just wondering how others may have liked/disliked that location… advantages/disadvantages ( other than it being a small cabin 😉)

To limit the chance of “missing the boat”, I prefer to plan to arrive at a departure port 2-3 nights ahead. It’s worth it in order to adjust to time zones if needed, and also experience the port city in a little depth. It all figures into the total cost of a trip when budgeting. Hopefully Barcelona will be a good experience!

Protesters in Barcelona attempting to limit tourism are giving me cause to wonder about a future cruise stop there. While I am sympathetic to their cause, hopefully we won’t need to make a change/cancel !! I wonder about possible policy changes similar to those made in Venice and Amsterdam etc.regarding over tourism.

After 20+ cruises I have now downsized my packing list and worry very little about dressing to impress! What was once considered “formal” is smart casual for us…as going to any decent restaurant at home. Alaska or elsewhere, a cruise is vaca, so my wardrobe is relaxed too. That doesn’t mean beachwear or hiking wear at dinner of course. I find that cruise line sites usually say “suggested” wear for theme nights…not “required “ wear. My food tastes the same, and service is the same no matter my outfit. I have never been turned away from dining when I show up without my glitter. 😉 Due note that being on a cruise is a special time, so make it special in your own way. Dress to the 9s to celebrate if that’s your preference, and feel comfortable about it! The photographers will LOVE to capture you at many points during a cruise, most especially pre-dinner and embarkation day! This could be a chance to get that special shot you have for too long put off. Enjoy the adventure!