bjbear

Just got back from a California coastal cruise and forgot to bring my binoculars. :eek::eek: I tried the ones in my cabin and no matter what I did, adjusted, etc., I could see nothing out of them. I won't forget mine again.

Sue

My wife & I are veteran cruisers (37). Have been on Century before.

For the first time we booked Concierge (9243). What can we expect ?

Thanks,

Travel1

What a coincidence, I have the same cabin booked for the 3/21/14 California Coastal Cruise. Unfortunately, I can't answer your question because I've never cruised on Century but will be curious as to what responses you receive. I have been in a CC Aft on Millennium an loved the experience.

Sue

Thank you so much Robert. After following your folks on their magnificent cruises for the past 4years its nice to see their handsome faces along with the blog.

 

Sent from Gail's Galaxy S3

I too, thank you Robert. I've also followed them faithfully every year and love their reports.

Sue

I love cruises, particularly Celebrity. I was on the Reflection last January and this January and the Norwegian Breakaway in September (only because it was an large family cruise and I didn't pick the ship). Been on 10 cruises but first time 3 in a year. I usually only go on these boards after i book and am getting excited. Had a little time tonight so signed on even though I don't have a cruise booked. It Kicked up my addiction!!!! Can't go to sleep tonight until I book a cruise!!! All because I went on the message boards!! I meet people who only cruised once, had some minor negative events and now hate cruises. How is this possible. To all leaving soon, have a great time. Gotta go, have a cruise to book!!!!

I know what you mean, I've been trapped in Chicago weather for over 2 months and just went crazy and booked a Celebrity coastal cruise last minute, today!! It leaves in 27 days, and yes, reading the boards kicked up my addiction also!!:D

I love the message boards and the fact that people are so very generous in sharing tips with me. And I hope those first timers that hate cruises for all the wrong reasons are never on a cruise with me. :eek: I mean, get a life people!!:rolleyes:

Enjoy your cruise, Sue

I recently purchased (from Magellan's) a neon yellow strap that wraps aroun my luggage and is printed with "This is Sue's Bag".

Sue

The Solstice class was a step down for Celebrity and resulted in a more mass marketed ship that seems much more like RCL ships. The one improvement they did make that was great was the larger cabins. The Atrium is now a Zoo area with loud music blaring at all hours of the day. It self defeats the other areas above the Atrium that bear the brunt of the noise that emanates from below. Why have a library or relaxation area if all you hear is the booming of the music below.My recommendations:

 

Smaller ships perhaps 100,000 holding about 2200 passengers at most.

Get rid of the Atrium and go back to the open space that existed for the Millenium class

A large entertainment room for dancing and live music with a real dance floor.

An observation room that can be utilized for special events (50s,60s or 70s nights)

A wrap around promenade that can really be utilized and one that is not blocked by lifeboats.

The ships are getting too modern and most of the sitting areas other than the theater are really uncomfortable.

The interior of the ship should harken back to another period like the golden age of the Ocean liners that sailed in the 1930s thru 50s-We should see more wood and brass.

Get rid of the modern art and give us some paintings that we can really admire.

I would pay more if all of this were possible and Celebrity instead of being the best? of a poor bunch in the mega class started setting herself apart.

These new liners would be in a class all their own-not at the level of a Crystal which is the class of mid size ships (50-75 tons) but a truly premium line that will turn heads with a bit of luxury here and there.

It would be a gamble but I think it would pay off. Those that want a party type ship with a mall in the middle would be directed to RCl. These new ships would command a higher price (10-20% more than at present) but it would be worth it and many I believe would sail.

Ok I've already posted but I just read this and it is spot on!! Not all of want a floating city, I too, would pay extra for a Celebrity product as described above.

Sue

OP, I am in the minority here but I want smaller ships, not larger. Hate those huge behemoths - my ideal is 1800 passengers or less, don't care about 12 restaurants. Like I said I know I'm not the norm - to me the joy of cruising is all about being on the sea.

Sue

I can't help how I feel. I have gone on 1 other solo cruise and had a lot more fun. I'm not a solitary person. I guess solo cruising isn't really for me, because although I wasn't looking for friends I was looking for fun and the cruise line did nothing to encourage people to get together. I understand their job is not to entertain (according to all of you). I don't completely agree. My next cruise is with 3 friends. I originally cruised alone because my DH had passed away and we had this cruise booked. After reading posts on this forum, I went ahead and took it alone. I think maybe I had a good time because I thought it would be horrible and it wasn't. But the difference was I found people I clicked with. This cruise I wasn't so lucky. And as I said before the cruiseline did nothing to encourage people to mingle, couples, singles or solos.

I am also a loyal fan of solo cruising on Celebrity. You seem to feel that they should plan activities, make sure you have fun, etc. I'm not sure that is the job of a cruise line such as Celebrity.

That being said, maybe you should consider not cruising solo, it's not for everyone - you might need a different fit since it seems you like to have others to plan and socialize with. I'm not being critical here, I think a lot of people aren't comfortable with solo cruising. If you really want to cruise solo, you would probably be better off on a RCCL or Carnival cruise which (as I understand, I've never sailed them) place more emphasis on group activities. You also might want to check into land based tours with a group or cruising with several friends.

Again, I'm not being judgmental it's different for each individual. Only you know what makes you happy. I am one who loves solo cruising, dislikes trivia and group activities and, for me, Celebrity is the perfect fit. Only you know what is the perfect fit for you.

Sue

I've experienced a few broken bones since I turned 65. 2 of them on vacation by myself in a foreign country, as well as a bout of e-coli.

 

Last year I fell and broke my hip on vacation, but fortunately I was with my family though away from home. Ended up having surgery and spending 3 weeks in a rehab home away from home..it sucked.

 

As a result, I have decided to no longer go on extended vacations by myself. No more 10 day hiking trips in the rain forest and maybe no more zip-line excursions.

 

I also turned 70 this year and wonder if that is the point where the broken hip, broken wrist and broken ankle have gotten together to change my life.

 

However I do more volunteer work now, spend more time with the grand kids and my sister and brother and drive the 3 hours to see my nieces new baby by myself. I'm also active in a retiree association for my company that works as volunteers for music festivals here in town. It's fun to see the people I used to work with now and again.

 

Elle (aka plantcrone)

First Crusie coming up in December-Caribbean

I'm also 70 and have been traveling solo and actively for years but...... it's time to face reality. I can't do what I used to do. So I'll still take short solo land vacations (but with no hiking, daredevil stuff) and I intend to do a lot of cruising. It's simple, non-life threatening and fun. I too, am spending more time with family.

Sue

I'm not trying to solicit information about how bad the sun is..at 70 I know all about it and frankly, quit tanning for the sake of getting tan 25 years ago.

 

As a very fair woman, I'm really afraid of burning my 2nd day out and having a miserable vacation. I used to surf and water ski and remember every Memorial Day weekend I'd get burned being on skis in a new bathing suit for the whole day and having to slather myself with Aloe for the next 4 vacation days...I don't want to do this on my first cruise in December, to the Caribbean.

 

Do any of you seniors who cruise a lot consider tanning prior to leaving? I live in Oregon now and we don't get a great deal of sun so I'm pretty much pasty white all year.

 

What is your experience with tanning beds-assumingyou have pre-tanned. I've never used one.

 

On my trips to Costa Rica, I was usually there long enough to get a natural tan, but I have burned badly a couple of times, especially on my scalp when I wore a shade hat with no top to it-just to shade my eyes. That was a miserable experience, as was the time I went surfing on the Pacific Coast and spent 3 days in the sun..by Wednesday I was looking for aloe vera. In fact I'm wondering if I can get an aloe vera plant aboard ship or if that would be counter to the taking foreign vegetation into another country.

 

Any helpful opinions or personal experiences welcome. Lectures on the sins of tanning NOT welcome. ok?

 

Thanks

Plantcrone (Elle)

I'm also 70 and always tan in a tanning salon before I take a "sunny destination" cruise or vacation. That being said, I still use sunscreen because the tanning bed tan is different from the sun but I think it helps to have a little base tan built up before you go. Just keep in mind that the real sun in tropical climates can burn easily, use sunscreen and you should be OK.

I got a big laugh from your "any helpful opinions....lectures on the sins of tanning NOT welcome". I hate when people do that. I tan every summer because I don't like my white legs and will probably go to that big tanning bed in the sky with a little tan!! :D

Sue

Hi, I didn't think the original poster was trying make anyone justify

why they cruise solo. I think it was more of a "general question" about

the topic of "cruising solo" and not sure why you thought she meant

anyone is a loser or a 2nd class citizen:confused:...I did not get that from

the post at all.

 

I have been cruising solo for 10 years and I love it:) I certainly

don't consider myself a loser:eek:.

 

I travel on my own for various reasons.....mostly because I love it:D

but also, I have nobody else to travel with and that is ok with me.

I like my own company;) and I meet people very easily anyway.

Cruising is a piece of cake....(for me anyway). I love doing what

I want, when I want, or don't want.....I have lived on my own for

many, many years and I have no desire to ever share a cabin.

 

Solo cruising is AWESOME:D

Ditto!! I love solo cruising and don't feel I have to justify it to anyone.

Sue

I just finished reading the articles posted about solo cruising. I thought they were informative. We all have different reasons for cruising solo so I thought I would offer my reason for solo cruising in the hope of encouraging others who have similar circumstances.

 

The main reason for cruising solo is that I am widowed. My husband died 4 years ago in August. We owned our own 34' Mainship Trawler, and had hoped to cruise the inside passage to Alaska. After he died I had to sell the boat as I couldn't run it on my own and I couldn't afford it. Since I didn't want to give up my love of the sea, I decided to start cruising on my own.

 

I absolutely love it. I have sailed exclusively with Princess. I am now an elite member of the captain's circle. They have treated me very well. I am always warmly welcomed aboard by various crew members. I am usually treated like, well, a princess.

 

It's true I have to pay the entire "double occupancy" price, but I don't let that deter me. I determine my vacation budget yearly and my options and then I book accordingly. I prefer not having a cabin mate. And, I always book a balcony room so I can get away from the crowds whenever I desire.

 

Cruising is a safe way for a solo traveler to enjoy a vacation--especially a senior woman. If you choose to go on excursions and book through the cruise line, you are more than likely to be safe. You can meet many fellow passengers this way as well. Don't do anything on board that might bring about a grief burst, however. For me, that would be going to a lounge and watching couples dancing. I avoid it and then I don't have to spend time upset about my circumstances.

 

I vary my dining from traditional to any time dining. As time goes on, I am leaning more to any time dining. This past cruise to Alaska, in May, was the first time I shared a table during any time dining. It was delightful as I met many new people. There was only one night I asked for a table by myself because I wasn't up to conversing. On my next cruise in November, I have chosen any time dining and I will choose to share a table nightly.

 

Especially if you are a woman and want to enjoy a great vacation, I recommend solo cruising. You can be as involved as you choose to be. Book your excursions and enjoy your ports of call. Mingle with other guests at dinner time and meet some new, interesting people. Attend the lectures by the naturalist on board and learn some interesting facts about the area you are visiting. Enjoy a wine tasting and meet new people. Book a time in the spa or have some salon services performed. Enjoy reading on your balcony. Whatever you do, enjoy your solo cruise. It can be done. Plan your budget accordingly and don't complain about the pricing. Life is really too short to do nothing, if you find yourself without you life's partner. I know my husband would be thankful I am living and have found a way to enjoy being on the sea again.

 

Bon Voyage!!!

My reasons are much the same as yours and I love solo cruising now. I also pay the double occupancy price (don't want a roommate) and book a balcony because half the fun is sitting and watching the sea go by. I mostly cruise Celebrity or HAL because of the size of the ships, the smaller the better. Enjoy your solo cruises everyone, life really is short. :)

Sue

We travel more often and take more time to see the sights. We entertain ourselves rather than our children (which we did when they were young and life focused on them). We eat when and what we want to eat. We do not complain about the food, nor cut up anyone else's food. We think late night is 10 pm. We know the value of elastic waist pants, especially at the end of the cruise. We are not sure why anyone would listen to rap. We need quieter dining areas because DH cannot hear as well as he used to. We put a night light in the bathroom for those late night trips.

 

We take ourselves less seriously because we have lost loved ones and realize what really is important in life. We have patience for those with limited mobility and envy those with grandchildren. We like seeing others enjoy themselves and move away from people who irritate us so they can enjoy themselves and we don't have to get irritated or complain.

 

We do not travel during spring break time because we don't have to. We can go whenever we want. We drink an occasional drink because drinking to excess was so 40 years ago. We hate the next morning headache and grogginess because getting going in the morning is tough enough without the hangover.

 

I actually love being this age. I hold onto every minute and wish I could slow life down.

I love it too, it really says it all!!

Sue

Luggage with wheels that turn 360 degrees .you can push, pull or I walk with it at my side with my carry-on on top ...just do not let go of it on a slope ;)

 

They are called spinners as well.... I have the Heys brand

http://shop.heys.ca/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=PortalSmartLuggage26

Well Duhhh! All wheel drive, should have figured that out! :D I checked out the Heys website and will be ordering one, have to figure out which one. They look very practical and the price is right. Thanks so much for the tip. :)

Has anyone ever tried the service (not sure what it's called - FedEx or someone like that- that picks up your luggage from your home and delivers it to your hotel? If so, how did you like it? Since I travel solo, I'm thinking that might be the way to go on a longer cruise.

Sue

We no longer need to "see it all"

We still book private tours but we try for shorter tours

We have the AWD luggage, which really helps

We upgrade to the larger seats on flights when we can, hang the expense;)

We do not book early morning flights anymore ..I am not a morning person & getting to the airport at 4-6am is not my idea of a good time

If I cannot get a mid day or later flight ..I am not going

Some ports we just wander around the town or stay on the ship

 

Seems as I age some things are just not as important as they use to be :)

Love these tips, I too am doing the same thing now that I am a Senior. I travel alone and pay the double fare for my own cabin - don't want to share - figured I've earned it by now! :) I also avoid early morning at all costs - have always been a night owl. I am curious - what is AWD luggage? I tip the porters now but it is a real hassle wrestling luggage and I've cut back to the basics.

Sue

I am a 65 year old female and I did a voyage from Auckland New Zealand to CA last year alone. There were 2 other male passengers on board.

Crew were Russian and I had no problems. About 25 days but I took many books to read. Had the owners suite so accomodation great but food was rather poor. Do not be concerned just book and enjoy.

Thank you so much, I think that sounds perfect and will look into it! Love to read and could take my tablet and do some writing.

Thanks, Sue

Pat, what a great idea, count me in. :) He's such a wonderful man. I'll be stocking up on cards to send.

Sue

Pat, have a wonderful, relaxing cruise, you are overdue!! :D

Sue

Good for you, Pat, a short cruise is great after all you've been through lately! :D

And I agree, I don't care where I go as long as I'm on a ship! :p Have a wonderful cruise.

Sue

Prayin' as hard and fast as I can!! God Bless.

Sue

I would love to have a prayer chain for my cousin who was involved in a serious biking accident in Florida on Wednesday. He was training for an upcoming triathalon. He is in a medical-induced coma, has serious cracks of the spine, a collapsed lung, laceration to the neck, fractured ribs and is in critical condition. A dump truck pulled out in front of him and he collided head-on into the truck. He is 32 years old. Thank you all.

Pat

You got it, my friend! What a horrible thing to happen. I will add him to my prayers.

Sue

Aww, how heartwarming to hear how well he's progressing!! Sheesh, what a man! Thanks so much for passing that along, Pat, that made my day.

Me too, thanks Pat! Egon you are a wonderful man, I admire you so much! We are all thinking of you and wish you the best. :)

Sue

I'd love for you (and any/everyone else!!) to join me on the NCL Star cruise we've got booked for February out of New Orleans! We've got a majorly fun group gathering up (people we've met on former cruises for the most part) and it's going to be a hoot. Just keep it in mind. :D

 

Glad that Sunshine is going well, and hope Sugar and any other pups I may not be remembering are doing okay too! My three shelties (and two porch dogs, two foster dogs and two neighbor's dogs that hang out with me) are all ready for summer to come to an end. We've had record breaking heat this year and we've all been miserable. (And the ticks and fleas have been from h:eek:ll!)

 

Oh how cute, I looked up the website of the cottages, they have webcams! I'll have to pull this up from time to time and see if I can spot Egon in the garden! I couldn't make it up that far to visit, but if I hit the lottery between now and October, I'll be sure to join you Pat! (And if I do hit the lottery, I'd bring all 9 dogs with me lol) If it does look like you can go Pat, maybe we can all mail you some cards or letters or something (small) to take to Egon to surprise him and let him know the Egon Fan Club is thinking about him.

 

Ahhh...it's almost Friday...

3Dogs, I would love to join you but I am sailing to Hawaii in Feb. and can't do both. ;)

Pat, that's wonderful new about Egon, he'll be talking more soon I'm sure.

I looked up the cottage website also and they are nice. October is kind of an "iffy" month for me but if some of you go, I will try to make it too.

Sue

I would love to make the trip. I went on Poesia the time he had to get off the ship in Cozumel for recuperation and was so upset by not meeting him. I guess this would be a sure thing.

 

Sunshine is doing much better thank you. She is still slow, but her eating has doubled since she had the teeth out and uterus out. It was full of infection. I never knew the consequences of not having them spayed and never intended on breeding them so didn't do it. Our male, Budha, was neutered so I didn't worry about puppies. Should have worried about the latter problem possibilities. Both my yorkies had the operation.

 

I was supposed to have teeth pulled today, but the dentist called and cancelled because he's sick. I have been in pain for the past week with that and two weeks prior with the bronchitis. I got to start feeling better soon. What better way than to make a trip to Canada to see our friend, right? Wouldn't he be happy if we all came and rented the cottages completely?

So, so happy that Sunshine is doing well! :) And so sorry that your dentist is sick, there is nothing worse than being in pain, pyschying yourself up - and then - nothing!! :(

I think you and hubby should go to Canada and meet this wonderful man. How many cottages and when and where??! ;) I, too, think it would be terrific if as many as could came to visit, I'm game. :D

Sue

Pat - About the best I can do is post a link to the slideshow here, but at least for me there's no sound.

I didn't get sound either, Doug, but that is so beautiful I didn't miss the sound. Thank you for posting it!

Pat, you and Sunshine will be in my thoughts and prayers tomorrow. :)

Sue